ReCreate Church’s Podcast

When You Can't See It: Trusting God While He's Still Working Speaker: Nicholas Dowdy, ReCreate Church Scripture: Romans 8:28; John 11:6-22 Episode Summary Nicholas Dowdy, a member of ReCreate Church, shares his raw and honest testimony about walking through infertility, miscarriage, and the struggle to trust God when He feels absent. Through the story of Lazarus, Nick addresses those in seasons of waiting, loss, anger, or numbness - acknowledging that Romans 8:28 is easier to accept after the miracle than during the pain, and that God is still working even when we can't see it, feel it, or trust it. Key Points – Romans 8:28 says all things work together for good, but that doesn't mean all things are good - this verse needs to be a foundation and anchor, not a quick-fix bandage – Trials wound our identity, trust, and prayer life by pushing us to our melting point, yet we expect ourselves to remain strong and fix ourselves – Toxic positivity requires showing no weakness in faith and acting like nothing is wrong, but God doesn't demand this from us – Losing yourself in suffering does not mean losing your faith - God is not offended by fragile faith and doesn't abandon people who struggle to pray – Jesus intentionally delayed going to Lazarus because God's plan was outside everyone's expectations - delay is not absence, silence is not neglect – God's redemption doesn't always look how we expect, and His goodness is not limited to our original plan Main Takeaway God is still working - even when we can't see it, feel it, or trust it. Anchors keep you steady inside the storm; they don't teleport you out of it. The anchor of Romans 8:28 cannot fix problems through positive thinking - that's just closing your eyes and pretending it's a fair weather day. God doesn't need your certainty; He wants your honesty. Faith is sometimes simply not walking away. If you can't trust God with the future, trust Him with today. If you can't pray boldly, pray honestly. Memorable Quotes – "God is still working - even when we can't see it, feel it, or trust it." – "This verse is usually easier to accept after the miracle has happened, not during the pain." – "Anchors are meant to keep you steady inside of the storm. Anchors do not teleport you out of the storm." – "Losing yourself in suffering does not mean losing your faith." – "God does not abandon people who pull back or struggle to pray." – "Delay is not absence; silence is not neglect." – "God doesn't need your certainty - He wants your honesty." Reflection Question Are you in a season of waiting, loss, anger, or numbness? Can you be honest with God about where you really are instead of forcing toxic positivity, trusting that He's still working even when you can't see it? Tune in to hear Nick's vulnerable testimony about infertility and miscarriage, why Martha's bold words to Jesus reflect what many of us feel in trials, and the powerful reminder that faith is sometimes simply not walking away even when trusting God with your heart feels dangerous. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Self-Confidence vs. God Confidence Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:19-21 Episode Summary Pastor Michael shares an original Appalachian-style folk tale about a possum who tries to be clever like the fox, strong like the bear, and fast like the deer - only to discover he was made to trust God, not himself. Through 1 John's powerful message about assurance, we learn that the problem isn't our lack of abilities but where we put our confidence, and that when our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts.  Key Points – Spiritual assurance is the settled confidence that we belong to God, not a feeling we chase through emotional experiences – Our hearts often condemn us, but God sees the bigger picture - He knows how we got here, our repentance, and our future growth – The most faithful believers often have the loudest inner critic because they're sensitive to falling short of obedience – Assurance comes from how our lives are being shaped by Jesus, not from feelings or whether we "feel spiritual" today – Our identity is not tied to our biggest mistakes or victories - God sees us through Jesus, not through our performance – When we understand we're beloved children, prayer becomes conversation not negotiation, and obedience flows from joy not anxiety Main Takeaway Self-confidence rises and falls with our performance. God-confidence rests in Who we belong to. When we build confidence on ourselves - our intelligence, work ethic, reputation - life eventually knocks us flat. But God-confidence carries us through failure because it's rooted in Jesus's performance at the Cross, not ours. Your heart knows your failures; God knows your future. You don't have to be enough - Jesus is enough. Memorable Quotes – "Self-confidence rises and falls with our performance. God-confidence rests in Who we belong to." – "When our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart." – "Your heart knows your failures - God knows your future." – "I made you to trust Me and hold on." – "You don't have to perform. You're not auditioning. You're resting in Him." – "You don't have to be enough. Jesus is enough." Reflection Question Where have you been putting your confidence - in being clever, strong, or fast enough? What would change if you stopped trusting yourself and started trusting that God made you to hold on to Him? Tune in to hear the delightful original folk tale "Faith Like a Possum" featuring bobcats, bee stings, and cold creek water, Pastor Michael's vulnerability about picking apart his own Sunday performance, and why the most faithful believers often struggle most with self-condemnation. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Love Becomes Action Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:16-18 Episode Summary Pastor Michael shares the incredible story of Desmond Doss, the WWII medic from Lynchburg, VA who refused to carry a weapon but saved 75 men at Hacksaw Ridge. Through 1 John's challenging words about love, we discover that real love isn't about feelings or words - it's about action. If the Love of Jesus led Him to the Ultimate Sacrifice, how will His Love in us change the world? Key Points – Jesus introduced a new kind of love that culture doesn't understand - love that sacrifices, serves, and puts others first – Early Christians took the obscure Greek word "agape" and redefined it by The Cross - willing, sacrificial action for others' good – Laying down our lives usually means healthy self-denial and serving others, not just dying in a blaze of glory – Within God's Family, we see a need and meet a need - compassion without action isn't Christ-like love – Love must be grounded in Biblical truth, not just feelings - sometimes the most loving thing is a hard conversation – Throughout history, Christ's love in believers has changed the world through action, not just sentiment Main Takeaway Love Becomes Action. If it doesn't, it's not love. The culture says love exists to make us happy; Christ says love exists to seek the good of others. Real love isn't warm fuzzy feelings during sad puppy commercials - it's crawling through gunfire to save lives. Love that stays in your mouth never reaches anyone's life. The Love of Christ in us must move our hands, open our hearts, and cost us something, because that's what Jesus's love did for us. Memorable Quotes – "Love Becomes Action." – "If love doesn't cost something, it isn't love at all." – "Laying down our lives doesn't mean thinking less of yourself; it means thinking of yourself less." – "If love doesn't move your hands, it probably hasn't moved your heart." – "Say less, do more." – "The people who were dying didn't need somebody who cared enough to change their profile picture; they needed someone who would crawl through gunfire." – "Love that stays in your mouth never reaches anyone's life." Reflection Question Where has your love stayed stuck in words and feelings instead of becoming action? What need has God put in front of you that requires you to move - to open your home, calendar, wallet, or have that hard conversation you've been avoiding? Tune in to hear the powerful story of Desmond Doss praying "Lord, help me get one more" seventy-five times at Hacksaw Ridge, why early Christians had to practically invent a new word for Jesus's kind of love, and the challenge that if The Love of God abides in you, it will come out in compassion and generosity. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Overcoming Unforgiveness Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Luke 15:11-32; John 16:33 Episode Summary Pastor Michael tackles one of the hardest commands in Scripture: forgiveness. Using the famous parable of the Prodigal Son, he shifts our focus from the younger son who was forgiven to the older son who refused to forgive - and reveals that there are actually TWO lost sons in this story. The younger was found because he sought forgiveness; the older was lost because he refused to give it. Key Points – Forgiveness sounds beautiful as theory, but when the pain is real and we're bleeding, it doesn't come easy – The older brother was factually correct - the younger son was wrong - but being right didn't set him free – We don't forgive because we think holding the debt gives us power and protects us from being hurt again – Unforgiveness is like keeping a knife in you and twisting it even after the person who hurt you is gone – When hurt becomes our identity, we start seeing ourselves only through what's been done to us – Refusing to forgive blinds us to our own need for forgiveness and drives us into our own dark side – The price of forgiving is high, but the price of NOT forgiving is higher Main Takeaway Forgiveness brings freedom. The prisoner forgiveness sets free is not them - it's ME. Unforgiveness always damages your own soul, continuing to hurt you long after the offender is gone. While some offenses seem humanly impossible to forgive, the Cross of Jesus supernaturally empowers forgiveness. His Blood washes away not just their guilt, but YOUR pain. Don't wait for apologies that may never come - go to Jesus for the grace to forgive and be set free. Memorable Quotes – "Forgiveness brings freedom." – "The prisoner forgiveness sets free is ME." – "That sword has two edges. It cuts as we swing it forward, but it cuts US on the backswing." – "You are MORE than what you have done and what has been done to you!" – "The price you pay for forgiving somebody is high. But it is not as high as the price you pay for NOT forgiving." – "When you forgive, you set a prisoner free, only to realize the prisoner was YOU!" – "Forgiveness is not about setting violators free from what they have done. Forgiveness is about setting YOU free from what they have done." Reflection Question Who are "those people" whose names make you tense up? Are you willing to bring those names to the foot of the Cross and let Jesus's Blood wash away your pain, or will you keep twisting the knife they left in you? Tune in to hear the powerful visualization of names carved into the Cross being washed away by Jesus's Blood, why the older brother was actually the lost son at the end of the parable, and the life-changing truth that forgiveness isn't about them getting away with it - it's about you getting free from it. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Who Do I Have to Love? Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:10-15 Episode Summary Pastor Michael tackles one of the hardest questions in modern Christianity: Who do we have to love? Using hilarious stories about "little brother coded" behavior (including a three-hour car ride of relentless poking), he addresses how American culture has circled back to ancient tribalism - viewing everything through red or blue-tinted glasses. But Jesus tears down tribal walls and calls us to love even our enemies. Key Points – God's children show family resemblance through two patterns: practicing righteousness and loving their brothers and sisters in Christ – Loving people doesn't mean celebrating every decision or validating every desire - it means wanting their ultimate good – Modern tribalism makes us suspicious of other "tribes" while justifying our own, but Jesus erases tribal lines through the Cross – The Gospel, not culture or politics, must be our framework for understanding the world and treating people – If we're living by Biblical principles, opposition will come - but we can't take up the ways of Cain in response – Love is proof we've passed from death to life; where there's no love, there's no spiritual life Main Takeaway The Cross crosses the lines we draw around love. While the world divides into tribes, Jesus reconciles. At the Cross, we were the enemy, yet He redeemed us. The mark of God's children isn't loving people who deserve it - it's loving people who don't. We must refuse to dehumanize, mock, or treat anyone as disposable because Jesus didn't treat us that way. Our calling is to see other tribes not as enemies but as the mission field. Memorable Quotes – "The Cross crosses the lines we draw around love." – "Little brothers invented rage-bait long before social media trolls." – "Don't let fake Church people stop you from getting to know the real Jesus." – "If you call yourself a Christian, culture and politics are NOT your framework for understanding the world. THE GOSPEL is your framework." – "You can't stop seeing people on the other side as human beings created in the image of God." – "The mark of God's children isn't loving people who deserve it. It's loving people who don't." – "At the Cross, we were the enemy. We were the sinners. Jesus didn't cancel us. He redeemed us." Reflection Question Who are the people you struggle to love because they're in the "wrong tribe"? Can you pray for their salvation while actively hating them, or will you let the Cross cross the lines you've drawn around love? Tune in to hear why little brothers are proof humanity needs redemption, what "little brother coded" really means, and Pastor Michael's powerful challenge about viewing the world through the Gospel instead of red or blue-tinted glasses in our deeply divided culture. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Anchor Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Hebrews 6:17-19a Episode Summary During another snow-filled Sunday, Pastor Michael reflects on feeling unsteady - whether from ice-covered walkways or the storms of life. Using the powerful imagery of an anchor and a fascinating rat experiment about hope, he shows us that biblical hope isn't optimism or smooth sailing, but something solid to hold onto when the waves crash and the wind blows. Key Points – God's promises are immutable (unchanging) - He doesn't flip-flop, doesn't wake up moody, and never flakes on His commitments – God gives us double assurance: His Written Word (promises) and His Sworn Oath, confirmed by the Holy Spirit's seal – Biblical hope isn't the absence of trouble or positive thinking - it's being tied to something unchangeable when storms hit – Ships don't need anchors in calm water; anchors are for storms, which is why hope is called an anchor, not a sail – Our souls drift when prolonged trials make us lose sight of God's promises, leading to mechanical obedience without joy – Jesus is our City of Refuge - better than the Old Testament version because He offers inclusion, not exile, and forgiveness, not just protection Main Takeaway Hope in Jesus is our Anchor in the Storm. Most anchors go down, but ours goes up - into the Presence behind the veil, into Heaven itself. An anchor doesn't remove the storm; it keeps us steady through it. When waves crash, resources run out, and life breaks down, we need an anchor that holds. Jesus is that Anchor - unchanging, reliable, sealed by the Spirit. Hope isn't the storm ending; it's knowing Who sustains us through it. Memorable Quotes – "Hope in Jesus is our Anchor in the Storm." – "Once you are in God's Family, it's FOREVER!" – "He ain't the loving and leaving type! He doesn't do bait and switch." – "Your grip on Him might grow weak, but His Grip on you never will." – "An anchor doesn't change the weather. An anchor keeps the ship from being carried away by the storm." – "Hope isn't the storm ending. Hope is knowing Who can sustain us through the storm." – "Most anchors go downward. Our anchor goes up." Reflection Question When life feels stormy and your soul starts to drift, are you tied to the right anchor, or are you running to credit cards, social media, and opinions of people just as lost as you are? Tune in to hear about Pastor Michael's epic double wipeout on ice caught on doorbell camera, why the second rat swam for 24 hours while the first gave up after one, and the powerful story of a frozen church community that found hope again before the weather even changed. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Underground Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Luke 12:35-46 Episode Summary Recorded on a Saturday night before a predicted winter storm, Pastor Michael addresses a week in which church protestors made headlines. Using a creative allegory read by his 15-year-old son Elijah, he reminds us that the Jesus Movement has always been underground - not about hiding, but about unshakeable loyalty to a different Kingdom while living as infiltrators on a rescue mission in enemy territory. Key Points – The Church isn't the establishment - we're the resistance on a rescue mission, not another cog in a political machine – Jesus left behind faithful followers to spread His teachings until His return, knowing they'd face opposition from the world's power structures – The danger isn't persecution - it's forgetting our purpose and getting distracted by culture wars, preferences, and complacency – When churches stop being a movement and become a club for member comfort, they drift from their mission – Our weapons aren't political or violent but spiritual - we win people to Jesus, not just culture wars – Jesus will return unannounced, and we must be found faithful, watching, and actively sharing the Good News Main Takeaway We aren't the establishment - we are the resistance on a rescue mission. The Jesus Movement has always been underground, made up of people with courage to live by different values and refuse to be reshaped by the dominant culture. Our calling isn't to make unbelievers act like believers through politics, but to show them the transforming love of Jesus. We're not-so-secret agents planted by the True King, and we must stay faithful to that mission. Memorable Quotes – "We aren't the establishment - we are the resistance, and we're on a rescue mission." – "An underground movement isn't about hiding - it's about unshakeable loyalty." – "They were obsessed with how dark the world was, instead of sharing the light. They were so caught up in guarding doors, they forgot they were supposed to open them." – "Our ultimate purpose isn't to win culture wars - it's to win people to Jesus." – "We are not the ruling power - we never have been. We are The Underground." – "We need to do more than trying to get unbelievers to act like believers. We need to show them the love and peace and transformation of Jesus." Reflection Question Have you forgotten that you're part of an underground movement on a rescue mission, getting distracted instead by culture wars, preferences, or the comfort of Christian community rather than actively sharing Jesus with people who need Him? Tune in to hear the powerful allegory of The Great and Powerful King read by Pastor Michael's son Elijah, why his dog is wreaking havoc on his allergies, and what Jesus' shocking language about servants being cut in pieces really means for us today. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Family Resemblance Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:8-9 Episode Summary In Part 9 of the 1 John series, Pastor Michael returns from the holiday break to talk about family resemblance - not just physical traits, but spiritual patterns. Using hilarious stories about his wife's seven sisters and a bee-in-the-jorts incident, he tackles a challenging passage about whether our life patterns show we belong to God's family or the devil's family. This isn't about perfection - it's about patterns. Key Points – John isn't asking "Have you ever sinned?" but "What does the pattern of your life say about what spiritual family you belong to?" – Jesus came not only to save us from sin's penalty but also from sin's power - He's the Chainbreaker who disrupts destructive patterns – A saved person can fall into sin, but they can't remain comfortable there - being in sin will make a child of God deeply unhappy – The difference between the two families is stumbling into sin versus settling into sin – Some family patterns are destructive and need to be broken: "It may run in the family, but it runs out with me!" – Anyone can claim to be a Christian, but true believers show a family resemblance to Jesus in their life patterns Main Takeaway If God is your Papa, it changes your pattern. This passage isn't about perfection - it's about patterns. A fish can jump out of water, but it can't be happy on land for long. Similarly, a true follower of Jesus can fall into sin, but they can't remain there comfortably. When we mess up, we don't run away from God - we run TO Him. Spiritual family resemblance matters far more than whose nose you got, because eternity is at stake. Memorable Quotes – "If God is your Papa, it changes your pattern." – "It may run in the family, but it runs out with me!" – "God is not looking to bust you as soon as you mess up. It's the opposite - He wants to rescue you, so messing up doesn't become your pattern." – "Jesus doesn't just forgive your past; He disrupts your patterns." – "If you are one of God's kids, being in sin will make you VERY unhappy." – "It's the difference between stumbling into sin and settling into sin." – "Don't let fake Jesus people stop you from connecting with the real Jesus." Reflection Question What patterns in your life reveal your spiritual family resemblance? Are there destructive family patterns you need Jesus to help you break so they run out with you? Tune in to hear the unforgettable story of a bee flying up Michael's jorts during a phone call, why his wife's seven sisters were impossible to tell apart on a landline, and the powerful truth that struggle against sin is actually a sign of spiritual life. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Test Me Speaker: David Boudreaux, Elder at ReCreate Church Scripture: Malachi 3:7-10 Episode Summary Elder David Boudreaux shares a message about the one time God actually invites us to test Him - in the area of tithing. Using the Emergency Broadcast System as an illustration, he walks through Malachi's final Old Testament message where God challenges His people who have robbed Him through withheld tithes and offerings. This isn't about legalism or a prosperity gospel, but about trusting God as a good steward of all He's given us. Key Points – The concept of tithing began before the Mosaic Law with Cain, Abel, Abraham, and Jacob giving free-will offerings – God told Israel they were robbing Him by withholding tithes and offerings, resulting in a curse on the nation – In Malachi 3:10, God uniquely invites us to "test Me in this" - to see if He won't open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings – Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial Law, but tithing preceded and remains after the Law as a principle for God's people – God owns everything (100%), but allows us to manage 90% as stewards while the tithe belongs to His house – Giving should be done cheerfully as decided in our hearts, not reluctantly or under compulsion – The poor widow who gave her last two mites understood putting God's kingdom first, trusting Him to provide Main Takeaway God says "you can't afford not to" tithe. This isn't about legalism or a slot-machine prosperity gospel - it's about being good stewards of what God has already given us. When we give back even a portion of what He's blessed us with, we're testing God's faithfulness and participating in His kingdom work. It's not giving away our stuff; it's giving back from His provision. Memorable Quotes – "God is saying to them and us… You can't afford not to [tithe]." – "I'm not giving away any portion of my stuff - But I'm giving back a portion of what God has blessed me with." – "God does not normally command us to give everything that belongs to Him. He allows us to keep some 90% as managers or stewards, on his behalf." – "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." – "God called it robbery because they had unlawful possession of what belonged to God." – "If we can't give freely, but only reluctantly, perhaps the Lord would rather not have it." – "The important thing is that we see giving as a privilege and not a burden. It should not be out of a sense of duty, but rather out of love for the Lord and a desire to see His kingdom advanced." Reflection Question If you're not currently tithing, will you turn to God and talk to Him about starting somewhere - even if 10% doesn't feel possible right now - trusting that He will provide your basic needs while you support His church and kingdom work? Tune in to hear about the old Emergency Broadcast System that interrupted all three TV channels, why the poor widow's two mites were worth more than the rich people's gifts, and the one time in Scripture where God actually invites us to put Him to the test. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Numb is Not Normal Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Ephesians 4:19 Episode Summary In this New Year's 2026 message, Pastor Michael shares the story of Ashlyn Blocker, a girl who can't feel pain due to a rare condition, to illustrate spiritual numbness. Through Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we discover how constant exposure to sin desensitizes our conscience until we stop feeling conviction - and that's when we're in the most danger. The good news: God doesn't shame numb hearts, He heals them. Key Points - Like physical pain warns us of danger, spiritual discomfort alerts us when something is wrong - Ephesian culture normalized immorality through idol worship and occult practices until people were "past feeling" - Modern culture dulls our conscience through constant media exposure, distraction, and redefining moral boundaries - Being "given over to lewdness" means losing the ability to say no to ourselves, not freedom but brake lines cut - Spiritual numbness produces insatiable craving, not contentment Main Takeaway When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself. Spiritual numbness isn't a sign we're okay - it means our warning system has stopped working. When guilt disappears and conviction fades, that's when we're in the most danger. But God doesn't shame callused hearts; He softens them and gives us new, living hearts. Memorable Quotes - "When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself." - "The worst stage of sin isn't when it hurts - it's when it stops hurting." - "When God molds our hearts, it's like His Fingerprints are on us. But when our hearts resist God, those fingerprints wear off." - "What Paul called being given over to sensuality, our culture calls 'being true to yourself.'" - "Once you normalize one messed-up behavior, it becomes easier and faster to normalize the next thing." - "That pain is not the enemy. It's the message that you need to pay attention." - "When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself. When Jesus renews your heart, you start finding yourself." Reflection Question Has your conscience been trying to get your attention about something, and instead of listening, have you been trying to numb it through scrolling, consuming, or distraction? Tune in to hear the powerful story of Ashlyn Blocker, who can't feel pain, why everything has been weird since Harambe, and how ancient Ephesus eerily mirrors modern American culture. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Who Can You Trust? Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Daniel 7:13-14 Episode Summary In part 4 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael presents a hilarious father-daughter skit about a rigged board game to illustrate how humans abuse power. Through Daniel's prophetic vision, we see that earthly empires are like beasts, but Jesus is different - He's the King who earned our trust by arriving in a stable and going to the Cross. The baby in the manger is the cosmic King whose empire will never end. Key Points - Daniel's vision shows four great empires (Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome) as beasts representing human power - "Son of Man" is Jesus' most used title for Himself - it shows His humanity, humility, and deity - Jesus didn't seize power like earthly rulers - He gave it up, proving He can be trusted with authority - The Ancient of Days (God the Father) presents the entire universe as a kingdom to Jesus - Every earthly empire eventually fails, but Jesus' kingdom is everlasting and will never be destroyed Main Takeaway Jesus is The King We Can Trust. In a world where authority figures abuse power and let us down, Jesus came in weakness to show He could be trusted with power. He didn't demand trust - He earned it by laying down His life while we were still a mess. Memorable Quotes - "Jesus is The King We Can Trust." - "Rome ruled by force; Jesus rules by faith. Rome demanded loyalty; Jesus proved Himself worthy of trust." - "The only Person Who can be trusted with ultimate authority is The One Who Is Willing to Sacrifice Himself for others." - "People always think the answer to our problems is a bigger, better beast. In truth, there is only One King we can fully trust. And His Name Is Jesus." - "Jesus did not come armed for battle. He came as a baby. He came in weakness to show He could be trusted with power." - "Jesus doesn't demand your trust. He earns it. He arrived in a stable, and went to the Cross. That's a King you can trust." Reflection Question If you've been burned by authority figures who let you down, are you ready to trust the One King who came in weakness to prove He could be trusted with power? Tune in to hear the entertaining "Reindeer Games" skit about a daughter who keeps changing the rules, and discover why comparing Jesus to becoming a mosquito helps us understand the Incarnation. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Jesus Redeems Pain Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Isaiah 53:3-5 Episode Summary In part 3 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael shares the story of young Matthias witnessing a birth in a stable and discovering how pain can bring life. Through Isaiah 53's prophecy about the suffering Messiah, we see that Jesus came not just to be born, but to endure three kinds of pain on our behalf: rejection, responsibility, and redemption. Christmas celebrates that God stepped into our suffering to transform it. Key Points - Jesus endured the pain of rejection - despised and actively unwanted by those He came to save - Jesus bore the pain of responsibility - carrying our grief, sorrow, and burdens that weren't His own - Jesus suffered the pain of redemption - wounded for our sins as our Substitute on the Cross - The Shockley family places a long iron spike on their tree first to remember why Jesus came Main Takeaway Jesus redeems pain. He doesn't minimize it or shame us for it. He steps into our suffering, takes what was meant for us, and transforms it into forgiveness, freedom, hope, and new life. Our pain is not the end and doesn't have to define us - it can lead us to Jesus. Memorable Quotes - "Jesus redeems pain." - "Isaiah 53 is no Hallmark card. It's a promise written in blood." - "People are willing to tolerate the 'nice teacher' version of Jesus, but they reject King Jesus." - "Jesus didn't suffer for His own sins - He didn't have any. He suffered for the very people who rejected Him, and for all of us." - "The deepest wounds don't need stitches - they need grace. The worst pain doesn't need more explanation - it needs redemption." - "Jesus Is God Who Became Man. He took on our wounds, our grief, and our guilt. And He didn't flinch." - "God refuses to waste suffering. The same God Who brought Resurrection out of the pain of The Cross can bring life out of what you're going through." Reflection Question What pain are you carrying that you need to give to Jesus, trusting Him to redeem it rather than trying to carry it alone? Tune in to hear the moving story of Matthias witnessing Jesus' birth from outside the stable, and discover the powerful Shockley family tradition of placing a nail on their Christmas tree first. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Son Who Climbed The Mountain Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Genesis 22 Episode Summary In part 2 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael tells the story of Isaac - the original "Son Who Climbed The Mountain" - and reveals how it points directly to Jesus. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his promised son on Mount Moriah foreshadows God's sacrifice of His own Son on the same mountain centuries later. This isn't just an Old Testament story - it's a Christmas story about faith, provision, and the ultimate Substitute. Key Points - Abraham waited 25 years for the promised son Isaac, learning to trust God's timing - God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice Isaac, but was teaching that He provides the sacrifice - Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead to keep both the command and the promise - Mount Moriah, where Isaac was spared, is the same location where Jesus died centuries later - Isaac lived because a ram died in his place; we live forever because Jesus died in our place Main Takeaway Faith climbs the mountain before it sees the miracle. Abraham trusted God enough to take the first step up Mount Moriah, and God provided a substitute sacrifice. We trust Jesus before we understand every detail, and then we receive the miracle of forgiveness, freedom, and new life. Memorable Quotes - "Faith climbs the mountain before it sees the miracle." - "God will show up in your life. Often when you aren't looking for Him, and rarely when it's convenient." - "God doesn't want to take Abraham's son; He wants to give His Own Son." - "Abraham answered with a line that echoes through the centuries: 'My son, God Himself will provide the lamb.'" - "Before the Manger, there was the Mountain. Before the swaddling clothes, there was sacrificial wood on a son's back." - "God wasn't teaching Abraham to sacrifice his son; He was teaching that HE Provides The Sacrifice." - "Isaac lived because a ram died in his place. We can live forever because Jesus died in our place." Reflection Question What mountain is God asking you to climb in faith before you see the miracle? Tune in to hear the powerful parallel between Isaac and Jesus, why Die Hard is definitely a Christmas movie, and how a 99-year-old man's laughter became the name of the promised son. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The First Christmas Tree Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Genesis 3:1-15 In part 1 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael explores the surprising connection between Christmas trees and the Garden of Eden. Through historical research, he reveals that Christmas trees aren't pagan but originated from medieval "Paradise Trees" used in Adam and Eve plays. The real first Christmas tree was in Eden, where God made the first promise of a Savior who would crush the serpent's head. Key Points - Christmas trees originated from medieval Paradise Trees used in biblical plays, not pagan traditions - The serpent in Eden was Satan himself, whispering the same lies he still whispers today - Genesis 3:15 contains the first promise of Jesus - the "Protoevangelium" or "First Gospel" - Jesus would be wounded (crucified) but would crush Satan's head in permanent defeat - The deadly power of sin began with a tree in Eden and ended with the tree of the Cross Main Takeaway From the first sin, God promised a Savior. The Christmas story doesn't start in Bethlehem - it starts in Eden with God's original commitment to crush evil and redeem humanity. There is no John 3:16 without Genesis 3:15. Memorable Quotes - "From the first sin, God promised a Savior." - "The first Christmas Tree goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. And it wasn't decorated with a star. It was decorated with a snake." - "God's not interested in holding us back from good things; only from things that will ultimately be destructive." - "What Jesus offers is not a better kind of religion. Jesus does the work, because we can't save ourselves." - "Christmas isn't just a Baby in a manger. It's God declaring war on every lie that has ever strangled your heart." - "The deadly power of sin began with a tree and ended with a tree. It began with the Tree in the Garden, and ended with The Cross of Christ." Reflection Question What lies is the serpent still whispering to you, and will you choose to believe God's promise of a Savior instead? Tune in to hear the fascinating historical origins of Christmas trees, why aluminum foil stars and Bigfoot ornaments belong on trees, and how Genesis 3:15 is the first promise of Christmas ever given. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Habit of Happy People Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Episode Summary In this second Thanksgiving week message, Pastor Michael vulnerably shares his recent struggle with ingratitude and stress that led to chest pain and an ER visit. Through 1 Thessalonians 5:18, he discovers that the command to "give thanks in everything" isn't about pretending life is okay - it's about trusting God no matter what happens. Gratitude isn't just better than ingratitude; it's what transforms our hearts and lives. Key Points - "Give thanks IN everything" means being thankful no matter what happens, not FOR everything that happens - God doesn't cause painful things, but He can bring good out of anything that happens - Thankfulness is God's will for us because it's genuinely good for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health - The real question: Do we worship God, or do we worship the idea that God owes us an easy life? Main Takeaway It's not happy people who are thankful, but thankful people who are happy. Gratitude changes our perspective, strengthens our faith, improves our health, and transforms our lives. When we choose thankfulness even in difficulty, we tap into a greater truth than our circumstances. Memorable Quotes - "It's not happy people who are thankful, but thankful people who are happy." - "Blessings whisper and problems shout." - "With God, the bad stuff is more than just bad; it gets turned into a plot twist that ultimately works out to a greater ending." - "Thankfulness helps us frame everything we experience as being in The Hands of a God Who Loves Us." - "If you think God owes you an easy life, then you're always one traffic jam away from a ruined day." - "Do we really worship God, or do we worship the idea that God owes us an easy life?" - "Happiness is having Jesus and being thankful." Reflection Question Are you living like God owes you an easy life, or are you choosing gratitude even when circumstances are difficult? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's honest confession about his ER visit, why pumpkin pie counts as breakfast, and how the elders' prayer transformed his perspective on stress and gratitude. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Trust The Source Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Luke 17:11-19 Episode Summary In this Thanksgiving 2025 message, Pastor Michael takes us through the chaotic "Grocery Store Gauntlet" to illustrate how we scramble for resources while forgetting the Source behind them all. Through Jesus' healing of ten lepers, we discover that only one returned to thank Him - and he received not just physical healing but spiritual wholeness. This Thanksgiving, don't just enjoy the resources; return to the Source. Key Points - We get caught up in resources (things we use) and forget the Source (where they come from) - Jesus healed ten lepers as they walked in faith, showing that healing often comes as we move forward with God - Ten men received physical healing, but only one - a Samaritan outsider - returned to thank Jesus - The one who returned got healed on the inside, not just the outside Main Takeaway USE the Resource, TRUST the Source. Every good thing in our lives - money, jobs, health, family, material possessions - are resources to use wisely and be thankful for. But our true security doesn't come from resources that can run out; it comes from Jesus, the Source who will never run out on us. Memorable Quotes - "USE the RESOURCE, TRUST the SOURCE." - "Thankfulness doesn't start in your cart — it starts in your heart." - "If your gratitude depends on your resources, it's always at risk; but if your gratitude is based in THE Source, it doesn't matter how much or how little you have." - "So much of the time, healing comes AS WE GO. The Lord brings change to our lives AS WE WALK WITH HIM." - "They all recognized the RESOURCE, but only one recognized THE SOURCE. Ten men used the resource, but only one returned to The Source. They got healed on the outside. He got healed on the inside." - "Resources can run out. Jesus Is THE SOURCE of everything good, and He will never run out on you." Reflection Question Are you living like the nine who used the blessing and moved on, or like the one who returned to thank the Source of all blessings? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's hilarious "Grocery Store Gauntlet" story featuring grandmothers battling over cranberry sauce, a dad lost in the chaos, and the world's greatest uncle fighting for dinner rolls. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Not the Boss of Me Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:4-7 Episode Summary In part 8 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael tells the story of Timmy the Tiny, Terrible T-Rex to illustrate our resistance to authority - especially God's. We think refusing to listen to God proves our independence, but it actually proves we're enslaved to our own desires. Through 1 John's teaching, we discover that real freedom isn't doing whatever we want, but wanting what is right because Jesus has set our hearts free. Key Points - Sin isn't just breaking rules - it's living like God's authority doesn't apply to us - Jesus came to remove both the guilt of sin (through forgiveness) and the power of sin (through freedom) - Abiding in Christ means staying connected like a branch to a vine, dependent on Him for everything - Practicing righteousness means your overall life pattern shows you're being shaped by Jesus - Jesus is the standard of righteousness, not comparison with other people Main Takeaway Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent - it proves you are enslaved to your drives and desires. Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want; it's wanting what is right because your heart has been set free. Memorable Quotes - "Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent — it proves you are enslaved." - "Sin isn't just messing up. It's saying, 'God is not the boss of me.'" - "Jesus didn't show up just to teach about sin, or even just to expose sin. He came to REMOVE sin." - "Abiding in Jesus isn't really about trying harder. It's about being dependent on Him for everything." - "Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want — real freedom is wanting what is RIGHT because your heart has been set free." - "People reject God's standards of right and wrong because they think it puts them in chains. In truth, it enslaves you to something else." Reflection Question Instead of saying "You can't tell me what to do," do you have the guts and humility to say "God, change me" - and then receive what comes? Tune in to hear about Timmy the Terrible T-Rex, Pastor Michael's legendary childhood mud puddle adventure, and why practicing righteousness is like practicing a musical instrument. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Your Adoption Day Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:1-3 Episode Summary In part 7 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael shares the moving story of Roxie's adult adoption to illustrate what God does for us through Jesus. We're not just forgiven criminals - we're adopted heirs with a new identity, a new family, and a secure place in God's household forever. Through Roman adoption practices, we discover the full meaning of becoming children of God. Key Points - Roman adoption was permanent and gave full rights as heirs - adopted children could never be disinherited - When we trust in Jesus, God rewrites our birth certificate and makes us permanent family members - Joining God's family means leaving the world's toxic family system that rejects Him - If we trust Jesus, we are children of God NOW, though what we will become hasn't yet been fully revealed - Sanctification is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit Main Takeaway You're not just rescued from sin - you're adopted as a son. God doesn't merely forgive; He creates family. We don't seek purity to get into the family, but because we ARE in the family. Memorable Quotes - "You're not just rescued from sin — you're adopted as a son." - "When Jesus saved you, He didn't just spring you out of slavery or bail you out of death row; He rewrote your birth certificate." - "Better to be black sheep in The Family of God than the golden calf in a family that rejects God." - "A Gospel that does not require surrender of self is not The Gospel." - "God's Love does not merely forgive; it creates family." - "You're not just pardoned — you're adopted. You're not just forgiven — you're family." Reflection Question Do you see yourself as merely a forgiven sinner, or as a fully adopted child of God with permanent status in His family? Tune in to hear the touching story of Roxie's adult adoption and discover how Roman adoption practices reveal the permanent, transformative nature of becoming God's child. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

The Evidence Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 2:3-11 Episode Summary In part 6 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael presents an entertaining courtroom skit to ask a crucial question: If your claim to follow Jesus were put on trial, would the evidence of your life and love be convincing? True faith in Jesus isn't about cultural Christianity or religious activities - it's about a transformational relationship that changes how we live and love. Key Points - Knowing Jesus means more than knowing information - it means being changed by Him - If your life wouldn't be different without Jesus, you may not truly know Him - Love isn't just sentiment or agreement - it's caring for people like Jesus did, even enemies - Faith that doesn't change the way you live and love isn't real faith Main Takeaway Your life and your love are the evidence of faith - evidence that your faith is real and that Jesus truly transforms lives. We can't earn salvation through good works, but our obedience and love demonstrate the reality of our relationship with Jesus. Memorable Quotes - "Your life and your love are the evidence of faith." - "The proof of truly knowing Jesus is living a life that you could not live without Him." - "If knowing Jesus does not change your life, then you don't know Jesus." - "Jesus did not give His life to merely affirm flawed human nature; He came to give us supernatural freedom from the darkness inside us." - "We ruthlessly oppose evil, and we relentlessly love people." - "Faith that does not change the way you live and love is not real faith." Reflection Question If your claim to be a follower of Jesus were put on trial, and the only evidence was the way you live and the way you love, would it convince a judge? Tune in to hear the hilarious courtroom skit between a lawyer and a client who thinks honking at Jesus bumper stickers and eating at Chick-fil-A makes him a Christian. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Getting off the Merry-Go-Round of Guilt Speaker: Michael Shockley Scripture: 1 John 2:1-2 Episode Summary In part 5 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael uses the dangerous playground equipment of the 1980s - especially the merry-go-round - to illustrate how we get stuck in destructive cycles of sin, guilt, and distance from God. Through 1 John's teaching about Jesus as our Advocate, we discover how to break free from the concealment cycle and enter the life-giving confession cycle. Key Points - We get stuck repeating the same patterns: try not to sin, sin, hide, guilt, distance from God - Sin doesn't just break rules - it breaks hearts, lives, trust, families, and faith - Jesus steps in as our Advocate, offering a different cycle: confession, cleansing, confidence - As our propitiation, Jesus took what we deserved so we could receive what He deserved Main Takeaway Nobody can live perfectly, but because of Jesus, we can live peacefully. When we confess instead of conceal, we end up closer to God rather than farther away. Jesus breaks the merry-go-round of guilt and replaces it with grace. Memorable Quotes - "Jesus breaks the merry-go-round of guilt and replaces it with grace." - "Sin doesn't just break rules. It breaks hearts. It breaks lives. It breaks trust." - "Sin promises freedom, but also leaves you in chains." - "Jesus doesn't talk God into loving us; God sent Jesus to us out of His Love." - "Jesus took what we deserved so we could receive what He deserved." - "A big enough and strong enough person could grab the bars and make it stop almost at once. Do we know anybody big enough and strong enough to stop the destructive cycles in our lives? We sure do!" Reflection Question Which cycle are you living in - the concealment cycle (try, sin, hide, guilt, distance) or the confession cycle (try, sin, confession, cleansing, confidence)? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's hilarious stories about 1980s playground death traps, accidentally setting the woods on fire, and why fancy hand towels remain a mystery to him. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly