The Local Church Podcast

DateOctober 20, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, Talley Wells, chair of the Ministry Table (church council) continues our Potluck series, reflecting on Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 12:1–13 and 1 Corinthians 13:1–13, exploring how each of us brings unique gifts that contribute to the body of Christ. You’ll learn how to identify the specific gifts you have to offer your community and how practicing those gifts with love transforms not just the church, but your everyday life. This message helps us see that what we bring—whether service, leadership, or compassion—creates a deeper sense of belonging and purpose when rooted in love.ReferencesScripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1–13 and 1 Corinthians 13:1–13About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateOctober 13, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon from Duke Divinity intern Victoria Pannullo, we enter into the parable of the wedding banquet (Matthew 22:1–14) and explore what it means to be invited, welcomed, and clothed in compassion and kindness as we approach God’s table. This message invites those who feel excluded or out of place to see themselves as cherished guests in God’s kingdom, learning to clothe themselves in humility, love, and forgiveness. It will resonate with anyone grappling with belonging and identity, reminding us to release our judgments, embrace our welcome, and live into the generosity of God’s invitation.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 22:1–14About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateOctober 6, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, we launch the series Potluck: Finding Hope in What We Bring to the Table by asking, "Whose table is it?" and examining Acts 2:42-47 to understand how the early church's table fellowship reflects Jesus' ministry and offers a model for our lives today. We explore Robert Farrar Capon's meditative approach to cooking an onion as a metaphor for slowing down and encountering the divine in everyday acts, challenging listeners to resist the cultural trend of disappearing gathering spaces. This message will resonate with those feeling disconnected or rushed in modern life, offering practical ways to create meaningful community and find hope through intentional table fellowship, reminding us that Jesus often did his best work around tables.ReferencesScripture: Acts 2:42–47About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateSeptember 29, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore the fourth chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippians, focusing on cultivating a heart for blessing and the transformative power of living out God's future in the present. Those struggling with cynicism, seeking joy, or longing for a more meaningful spiritual practice will benefit from this message, learning how to "think about these things" (Philippians 4:8) and embody hope in their daily lives. By embracing this perspective, listeners will discover a path to joy and liberation, finding themselves in two places at once—present reality and God's promised future—thereby bringing glimpses of God's kingdom into their everyday experiences.ReferencesScripture: Philippians 4:4–13About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

Brent Levy, a speaker devoted to helping others cultivate trust through engaging with God, shares insights from Paul's letter to the Philippians. He emphasizes the importance of being a 'regular' in our spiritual practices to foster deeper intimacy with God. Listeners will discover how consistent, intentional engagement—even in small moments—can transform their faith. With practical suggestions for incorporating spiritual practices into daily life, Brent inspires a shift from transactional faith to a more joyful, resilient relationship with God.

DateSeptember 15, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, as we celebrate five years of weekly worship, we explore more from Paul's letter to the Philippians, focusing on cultivating a heart for humility as exemplified by Jesus in Philippians 2:1-18. We learn how embracing humility and prioritizing others' interests over our own can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling life. This message inspires listeners to find joy in selfless service and to be "on the ground" for the sake of others, reflecting on how they can be "a gift that keeps on giving" in their daily lives.ReferencesScripture: Philippians 2:1–18About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateSeptember 8, 2024SynopsisThis week, we launch our new "Take Heart" series and explore the theme "a heart for prayer" through Philippians 1:1-11. Pastor Brent discusses the importance of genuine, attentive communication and how holding others in our hearts can bring transformative joy. This message is perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their prayer life and foster meaningful connections.ReferencesScripture: Philippians 1:1-11 About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateSeptember 1, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore James 1:17-27, unpacking its call for Christians to be "doers of the word" and not just hearers. We learn about the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, as well as the true meaning of pure religion. This message will benefit anyone seeking to align their faith with action, offering practical wisdom on how to live out Christian values in daily life and reconnect with our purpose as followers of Jesus.ReferencesScripture: James 1:17–27About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateAugust 25, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore the concept of unity and reconciliation through the lens o the Bluey episode, “Flat Pack," drawing parallels to Ephesians 2:11–22 and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of the Beloved Community. Listeners will learn about the power of coming together, the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully, and how pursuing reconciliation can lead to a more joyful, harmonious life. This message will benefit anyone seeking to build stronger relationships, foster community, and live out their faith in practical ways.ReferencesScripture: Ephesians 2:11-22About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

DateAugust 18, 2024SynopsisIn this sermon, Pastor Brent explores the theme of comparison through the lens of the popular children's show "Bluey," specifically the episode "Baby Race." He delves into how comparison can corrode relationships and self-worth and even fuel larger conflicts. Listeners will learn about biblical examples of comparison-driven conflicts, from Cain and Abel to the disciples arguing over who is the greatest. Most importantly, the sermon offers a powerful antidote to comparison: Communion with God. Through exploring passages from Isaiah, Pastor Brent reminds us of God's unconditional love and presence, even in our struggles. This message will help listeners navigate feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and fear of not measuring up in their daily lives. By embracing the truth of God's love, listeners are encouraged to let go of harmful comparisons and move towards celebration of one another's gifts, beauty, and belonging in diversity.ReferencesScripture: Isaiah 43:1–7About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.