Mosaic - Erwin McManus

The journey begins with a deep dive into why Jesus matters, contrasting belief in God with agnosticism and atheism. The speaker likens life to an escape room, exploring our quest for meaning in a chaotic world. We hear humorous reflections on early faith experiences and the pressures of expectations. Different belief systems, like Buddhism, are challenged, questioning their views on enlightenment. Ultimately, the message is clear: God invites us to choose faith and discover true freedom through His love.

Explore the transformative power of mastery and personal choice in this engaging discussion. Delve into the struggle between envy and ambition through a biblical lens, inviting listeners to embrace their unique paths. Laugh along with a humorous tennis journey that reveals unexpected potential. Discover the importance of community and mindset in personal growth, and experience the call to unconditional commitment to faith. This is a powerful reminder that becoming the best version of yourself takes dedication and intentional choices.

In this powerful episode from the archives, we journey through one of the most human and raw moments in Scripture—1 Kings 19—where the prophet Elijah, fresh off a mountaintop victory, finds himself in the depths of despair. We explore the tension between spiritual triumph and emotional exhaustion, between miraculous faith and crushing fear.As Elijah flees for his life, we witness a deeply personal encounter with God—not in fire, wind, or earthquake, but in a gentle whisper. The episode challenges us to reflect on a haunting and transformative question: “What are you doing here?”This message invites us to consider if we’re truly living where God is moving, or simply drifting on the momentum of past moments. It’s a call to slow down, care for our souls, and re-anchor our lives in the presence of God—so we can say with confidence and conviction: I am here.Whether you’re in a chapter 18 mountaintop or a chapter 19 wilderness, this episode is for anyone walking through seasons of doubt, fatigue, or longing for renewed purpose. Let’s make this a year where we walk when God walks, stay when He stays, and never settle for being anywhere He’s not.

This discussion centers on human fragility and the beauty found within our brokenness. Speakers share personal stories that highlight the struggles of mental health and the quest for deeper connections. The transformative power of love and faith is explored, illustrating how they can lead to renewal. Participants also reflect on the importance of community and active involvement, emphasizing that restoration comes from engaging with one another and acknowledging our shared vulnerabilities.

In our first Mosaic Calabasas gathering with Pastor Erwin Raphael McManus, we explore what it means to be human, diving into the deep connection between faith, self-discovery, and our intrinsic longings. While many seek to understand God, what we’re often searching for is an understanding of ourselves—why our lives unfold the way they do and how we navigate the tension between belief and experience. We unpack the idea that faith and human interaction are inseparable; our disconnection from others often mirrors our disconnection from God. At the core of our humanity is a search for meaning, a desire to make sense of our existence and our struggles.Beyond meaning, humans are driven by an insatiable need for progress—the belief that we must keep moving forward, evolving, and becoming better versions of ourselves. Without progress, we drift into despair, feeling stagnant and purposeless. This drive, often misunderstood as ambition for status or success, is actually a reflection of our divine design. We are wired to grow, create, and transform, yet when we measure progress by the wrong standards, we can feel empty despite our achievements. True fulfillment isn’t found in external success but in alignment with who we were created to be.At the heart of it all is our deepest craving—intimacy. We long to be fully seen, known, and loved, yet fear the vulnerability it requires. This paradox shapes much of our human experience, influencing our relationships, anxieties, and sense of belonging. Jesus' message isn’t about earning love but about receiving it freely, breaking the cycle of striving and shame. When we embrace faith, hope, and love as essential to our humanity, we step into the fullness of who we were created to be—designed not just to exist, but to be deeply connected, growing, and truly alive.

What does it truly mean to be human? This discussion dives into our unique ability to question existence and seek purpose, a journey woven with faith. The dialogue explores how self-perception impacts our lives and emphasizes the transformative power of embracing a higher calling. Creativity is highlighted as a divine attribute, empowering us to envision and shape our future. By breaking free from conformity, we can align with our true intentions and live fulfilling lives.

Welcome to Mosaic NYC! As we step into this new series, Humans: What Makes Us Us?, we’re diving into the fundamental question of identity—what it means to be human and why we so often struggle with who we are.The Bible is not just the story of God; it’s the story of us in relationship with Him. While we are made from dust, we are also filled with breath—divine, eternal breath. Yet, in a world where every other species instinctively knows how to be what they are, humans often find themselves in an identity crisis, searching for meaning, significance, and belonging.Through this series, we’ll explore what it means to be created in the image of God and how Jesus came to not only reveal who God is but also to restore who we are meant to be.If today’s message spoke to you, let us know in the comments. If you’re ready to step into faith and invite Jesus into your life, we’d love to connect with you.

Discover the profound insights Jesus offers on life's true meaning, challenging superficial pleasures. Explore the nature of love, which can be unpredictable, versus a constant, transformative love found in faith. Reflect on the emptiness of societal achievements and the impact of social media on genuine connections. Delve into the importance of inclusivity, personal growth, and the balance between forgiveness and justice in our spiritual journeys. Ultimately, learn to see life through a lens that fosters deeper fulfillment beyond worldly pursuits.

A pastor shares his unexpected path from skepticism to faith, detailing the emotional challenges of building an inclusive church in Los Angeles. He discusses urbanization's role in fostering connections and reflects on personal journeys of self-discovery through psychological assessments. The narrative inspires listeners to confront their own giants with unwavering faith, emphasizing love and service in community engagement. Ultimately, it's a rallying cry to shape a vibrant spiritual future, blending creativity and spirituality.

Listeners are engaged with the pursuit of happiness through altruism, emphasizing that true joy arises from selflessness and serving others. The transformative experiences in vibrant faith communities contrast with traditional religious practices, highlighting deeper connections to spirituality. Illustrations of inclusive compassion are brought to life through Jesus' interactions and local initiatives building homes foster community trust. Ultimately, the power of generosity shines as love for others manifests through meaningful acts of service.