Convergence Church Podcast

Have you ever felt paralyzed by the "what-ifs" of life—waiting for the perfect conditions before you finally take a step of faith? In this message on Ecclesiastes 11:1–6, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s call to bold action in the face of uncertainty, showing that while we cannot control the future or predict disaster, we are still called to "cast our bread" and diversify our efforts. Yet, he reminds us that true security isn't found in a perfect plan, but in a sovereign God who governs the "wind and the clouds." This invites us to trade our paralysis for purposeful labor, trusting that God can bring success out of our risks even when we don't know which one will prosper.

Have you ever spent years building something—a reputation, a career, or a legacy—only to watch one small, foolish mistake spoil the whole "fragrance"? In this message on Ecclesiastes 10:1–20, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s observations of wisdom and folly in both the palace and the workplace, showing that wisdom is incredibly valuable yet remarkably vulnerable to the "dead flies" of sin and bad leadership. Yet, he reminds us that true stability is found in cultivating a heart that "inclines toward the right," training ourselves to lean into righteousness rather than the quick fix of folly. This invites us to navigate a disordered world with pragmatism, guarding our tongues in times of crisis and receiving every meal, every glass joy, and every day of work as a blessing from God’s hand.

Have you ever felt like a spectator in your own church, wondering if your presence actually makes a difference in the kingdom of God?In this message on Ephesians 4:7–16, Sam Storms unpacks the divine blueprint for a healthy church, showing that the "work of ministry" is not a job for a few professional clergy members, but a calling for every single believer. He explains that there is no such thing as a "non-gifted" Christian, as Christ has personally distributed grace to each person for the building up of the body.Yet, he reminds us that our ultimate goal is "mature manhood," a state of spiritual stability where we are no longer easily swayed by false doctrine. This invites us to move beyond spiritual infancy by speaking the truth in love and actively using our unique gifts to help the whole body grow into the likeness of Christ.

Have you ever felt like your prayer life was more of a duty than a delight—or simply found yourself too distracted to stay consistent?In this message on Colossians 4:2–4, Michael Rowntree unpacks Paul’s instructions for a resilient prayer life, showing that a lack of vigilance and gratitude often leaves our spiritual lives vulnerable to the "tests" of life.Yet, he reminds us that powerful prayer is found in being "watchful" and "thankful," inviting us to move beyond a wandering mind and into a focused, mission-minded conversation with God. This message calls us to persevere in prayer, not just for our own needs, but for the open doors and the clarity of the Gospel in the world around us.

Have you ever witnessed the wonder of God’s work in your life, only to let the moment slip away in the busyness of the season?In this message on Luke 2:18–19, Michael Rowntree unpacks Mary’s response to the miraculous birth of Christ, showing that while many are merely "amazed" by God for a moment, few take the time to build a history with Him.Yet, he reminds us that true spiritual depth is found in "treasuring and pondering"—gathering the fragments of God’s faithfulness and storing them deep in the soul. This invites us to move beyond temporary excitement and into a lifelong, intimate journey of remembering what God has spoken and done.

Have you ever struggled to feel "worthy" of God's love, or found it nearly impossible to maintain peace with difficult people? In this message on Ephesians 4:1–6, Sam Storms unpacks Paul’s plea to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling," showing that this command is not about working hard to earn God's favor, but rather about reflecting the immense honor of the high office to which we have already been elected.Yet, he reminds us that true humility, gentleness, and unity are found in the "therefore"—looking back at our adoption and forgiveness as the fuel for our obedience. This invites us to trade our pride for the "bond of peace," maintaining the unity of the Spirit by resting in the one hope, one Lord, and one Father who holds us all together.

Why is it that "under the sun," the race is not always to the swift, the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise?In this message on Ecclesiastes 9:11–18, Michael Rowntree explores the uncomfortable reality that life does not always reward merit. "Time and chance" disrupt our expectations of fairness, and wisdom often goes unnoticed.Michael unpacks the parable of the poor wise man who delivered a city yet was immediately forgotten, illustrating a hard truth: Wisdom is valuable, but it is also vulnerable. In a fallen world, wisdom builds, but "one sinner destroys much good."Yet, the call is to value wisdom not for the applause or success it brings, but for the objective good and beauty it brings into God’s world. Discover why "wisdom is better than weapons of war," even when it goes unrewarded.

Have you ever chased after success, pleasure, or hard work—only to feel empty in the end?In this powerful message on Ecclesiastes 8:16–9:10, Michael Rowntree tackles one of life's most uncomfortable truths: the uncertainty of God’s plan and the certainty of death.Solomon wrestled with the limits of human knowledge, admitting that no one "can find out the work that is done under the sun." The same final event awaits the righteous and the wicked, leading to the unsettling question: What's the point?Michael shows that this uncertainty is not a reason to despair, but rather the motivation for the book's "loudest imperative": "Go!" True joy is found in receiving life, work, and every good gift as blessings from the hand of God today.The shadow of death is not meant to paralyze but to prioritize. Learn why the certainty of Sheol compels us to seize life urgently, find joy in God's approved gifts, and do "whatever your hand finds to do... with your might."

Have you ever wished you could experience God’s love in a deeper, more tangible way? In this message on Ephesians 3:14–21, Sam Storms explores Paul’s breathtaking prayer that believers would be strengthened with power, rooted in love, and filled with all the fullness of God. Discover how the Holy Spirit expands your inner life, how Christ dwells more richly in your heart, and how God’s love surpasses knowledge—overflowing into a life shaped by His immeasurable glory.

Why does God let injustice go on so long? In this message on Ecclesiastes 8:1–15, Michael Rowntree explores the tension between wisdom and mystery—how we trust God when life doesn’t make sense. Solomon reminds us that even when evil seems to prosper, God’s justice is certain, His timing is perfect, and joy is still possible for those who fear Him and walk in humble faith.