Collective Church Podcast

The story of the Messiah's arrival continues with a juxtaposition of two cities (Jerusalem and Bethlehem) and two kings (Herod and Jesus). King Herod desperately tries to hang on to his illegitimate authority as the news of the long-awaited Messianic King spreads through his city like wildfire. As his response to this revelation reveals his insecurity, a faithful response is ironically displayed by pagan astrologers from a Gentile nation, who follow a star to Bethlehem, where they worship the new King of the Jews.

Matthew tells the shocking story of a God who steps into human history through a scandal, not a spotlight, entering the world through a virgin’s womb and a confused, faithful carpenter. In Joseph’s obedience and the child’s name Emmanuel, we see the Christmas truth that God comes near when life feels most uncertain.

In this episode, guest preacher Pastor Troy Wong leads us through 1 Samuel 19. He explores the contrast between living under God’s judgment and under His protection, how this should apply to our faith, and the consequences of disobedience and failing to pursue God.

1 Samuel 18:10-30 An evil spirit torments Saul and drives him into a frenzy of jealousy, violence, and manipulation as he tries to take David out—yet God keeps lifting David higher. This episode unpacks how Saul weaponizes Michal’s marriage to trap David, and how God turns every dark scheme into another step toward David’s calling.

1 Samuel 18:1-9 David’s victory wins the people’s praise—but also exposes two hearts: Jonathan’s humility and Saul’s jealousy. This episode explores how true friendship celebrates God’s favor, while envy tries to compete with it.

1 Samuel 17:38-58 Saul’s armor can’t fit the boy who’s already clothed in faith. From a streambed and a sling, David shows that the victory of God never comes through human strength, but through trust that the battle belongs to the Lord.

1 Samuel 17:1-37 David arrives at the battlefield and sees what fear has done to God’s people. Before he ever fights Goliath, faith starts forming in the field—and now it’s time to speak up.

In this engaging discussion, Pastor Sam Gibson from Church of the City NYC shares his insights on navigating pain and suffering. He explores how pain serves as an inflection point, prompting believers to either draw closer to God or harden their hearts. Sam emphasizes the promise of God’s nearness during hardships and how suffering can deepen empathy and refine priorities. He also discusses the transformative power of repurposing personal struggles into purposeful intercession, urging listeners to embrace a renewed perspective on their relationship with God.

Pastor Lorenzo gives an update on his recent health situation and shares where we're at as a church and the hope for our future. 

Guest preacher Brian Broderson walks through 1 Kings 18, where Elijah’s bold faith calls God’s people to repentance and shows the power of prayer that restores and brings revival.