Creekside Community Church of Elizabeth

In this sermon based on Luke 9:18-62, we delve into the transformative message of following a crucified Lord and leading a cruciform life. Discover the profound meaning of surrender and obedience as we explore the challenges and rewards of living out our faith in a world that often values self-fulfillment over self-denial. Join us as we explore the rich teachings of Jesus and uncover practical applications for embracing the cruciform life in our daily walk with Him. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

A recent storm and flooding have made our church building inaccessible. This Sunday and next Sunday we will be online only. In the message today, we dive into Luke 9:1-17, uncovering the final clue that reveals Jesus as God's coming King, bringing His kingdom to earth. Join us as we explore the commissioning of the disciples, Herod's question, and the remarkable story of the feeding of the five thousand. Discover the significance of Jesus' apprenticeship of His disciples and how it applies to our own lives. Delve into the question raised by Herod and understand why seeking answers about Jesus' identity is essential. Through this exploration, we invite you to examine your beliefs and choose the story that shapes your life. Are you captivated by the world's narratives or embracing the kingdom story Jesus brings? Trust in His provision, seek the truth about His identity, and align your life with His kingdom's values. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Join us this week as we delve into the message "Tilling the Heart's Soil" based on Luke 7:36-8:18. In this powerful sermon, we explore the concept of grace and its perceived unfairness. Discover the profound truths behind sin, forgiveness, and the importance of a receptive heart. Prepare to be challenged and inspired as we discuss how our response to God's grace shapes our lives. Don't miss the practical applications from Jesus's teachings that will empower you to guard against deception, persevere through trials, prioritize your faith, and cultivate endurance. Together, let's learn how to shine brightly and make a lasting impact in the world. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

In Luke 7:1-35, we dive into the transformative miracles performed by Jesus and their significance for our faith today. In the first account, Jesus heals the centurion's servant, revealing the contrast between the humble faith of the centurion and the perspective of the Jewish elders. Next, we encounter the story of Jesus raising a widow's son from the dead. We uncover the profound comfort this miracle brings to the grieving mother and draw parallels between Jesus and the prophet Elijah. As we journey through these miraculous events, we are reminded of C.S. Lewis's words: "Miracles are a retelling in small letters of the very same story which is written across the whole world in letters too large for some of us to see." We understand that miracles are not mere displays of power, but rather signs of God's Kingdom breaking into our lives through Jesus. Examining the story from John's perspective, we discover that although he did not witness the miracles firsthand, Jesus trusted that the testimony of others would be enough. We explore the profound implications of this trust and its relevance for our own faith. Lastly, we delve into Jesus and John's ministries, highlighting their different approaches and the unified message they shared—the coming of the kingdom of God. We confront the reality that people rejected both Jesus and John, often due to their preconceived notions and conflicting expectations. We challenge ourselves to align with the true nature of Jesus, submitting to His authority and resisting the temptation to shape Him according to our preferences. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

In this message on Jesus's Sermon on the Plain, we dive into one of His toughest but most vital teachings: loving our enemies. It's not about mere feelings, but a whole-hearted disposition of doing good, blessing, and giving. Jesus drives home the significance of obeying His teachings through the analogy of building on solid ground. As followers of Christ, we're called to a radical, counter-cultural love, treating even those who despise us with kindness. It's all about having a transformed heart that reflects His love. And even though we may face rejection, we can find joy in knowing that our faithful discipleship leads to an incredible inheritance. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

In this message, we explore the longing for significance and purpose that resides within each of us. Discover how Levi found true meaning by becoming a disciple of Jesus and learn how you too can align yourself with a cause greater than your own happiness. Throughout the sermon, we delve into the three essential requirements for discipleship. First, we explore the importance of admitting our sickness, acknowledging our brokenness, and inviting the healing power of Jesus into our lives. Next, we discuss the significance of staying teachable, cultivating a humble attitude that recognizes the endless opportunities for growth and learning. Lastly, we emphasize the need for prompt obedience, not merely hearing the teachings of Jesus but embodying them in our daily actions. Through practical applications and relevant insights, we challenge you to examine your own discipleship journey. Are you living from a place of ongoing brokenness and repentance? Are you open to learning and being shaped by the teachings of Jesus? Are you quick to obey the voice of the Holy Spirit? Join us for this transformative sermon as we explore the depths of discipleship and the perpetual requirements it entails. Don't miss this opportunity to discover a life of true significance and purpose. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Join us as we explore the encounter between Jesus and Simon Peter, and the miraculous catch of fish. Uncover the invitation to step out, let go of fear, and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Be inspired by stories of healing, forgiveness, and restoration, and learn how embracing the call to put something on the line leads to a life of purpose and significance. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Join us as we explore the story of a woman's persistent faith that moved the heart of Jesus. In this message, we'll examine the encounter between Jesus and the Canaanite woman, and how her unwavering faith and persistence in seeking Jesus ultimately led to the healing of her daughter. Through this powerful story, we'll discover important lessons about faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of prayer. For more info, or to partner with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Join us as we explore Luke 4:14-44. As Jesus returns to his hometown of Nazareth, he is met with skepticism and unbelief from the people who knew him best. However, when he journeys to Capernaum, the people receive him with open arms and are amazed by his teachings and miracles. In this sermon, we will explore the reasons behind the different reactions of these two towns and what we can learn from them in our own lives. We will delve into the importance of having an open and receptive heart to Jesus, rather than being limited by our preconceived notions and biases. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Today, more than ever, people are walking away from Christianity. They often say that they have gone through a process of "deconstruction." But what does it look like to reconstruct on the other side of deconstruction? How do you go about doing this in a healthy, Jesus-centered way? For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Today, more than ever, people are walking away from Christianity. They often say that they have gone through a process of "deconstruction." What do they mean by that? What is good about this, and what is dangerous about it? And how can we be there for people who find themselves re-thinking their faith? For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

We live in a day and age where it is no longer normal to be a Christian. Many people have found themselves disillusioned by the church and walking away from organized religion. Increasingly so, many others have never been associated with Christianity to begin with. What you may not know is that this is actually nothing new. On the very day that Jesus rose from the dead, two disciples found themselves walking away from it all. Why did they leave? How did they find their way back? Join us as we explore their story, celebrate what the resurrection means, and are encouraged by the fact that Jesus walks faithfully besides us, even when we have our doubts. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

When it comes to comfort, we're all the same: We all love it. And, to be sure, comfort is not a bad thing. What is bad, however, is if everything is comfortable all the time. Because the truth is, you can have comfort, or you can have growth, but you can't have both. In this way, following Jesus will never be completely comfortable, because He is always inviting us to become more like Him. Join us as we explore how Jesus calls everyone who follows Him to get off the sidelines, and to join Him on His mission. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

When it comes to comfort, we're all the same: We all love it. And, to be sure, comfort is not a bad thing. What is bad, however, is if everything is comfortable all the time. Because the truth is, you can have comfort, or you can have growth, but you can't have both. In this way, following Jesus will never be completely comfortable, because He is always inviting us to become more like Him. Join us as we explore Paul's teaching about community in the letter of Ephesians, and how he challenges all of us to get "uncomfortably close." For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

When it comes to comfort, we're all the same: We all love it. And, to be sure, comfort is not a bad thing. What is bad, however, is if everything is comfortable all the time. Because the truth is, you can have comfort, or you can have growth, but you can't have both. In this way, following Jesus will never be completely comfortable, because He is always inviting us to become more like Him. Join us as we explore Romans 12:1-2 and why God wants more for us than comfort. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube.   For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Jesus was no stranger to stress and overwhelm. The social pressure was immense. He was constantly bombarded with questions. He had to be intentional about his words. Jesus lived in times of civil unrest. He carried a lot of weight on his shoulders. Understanding our needs, and the various pressures of daily life and world, Jesus has gone before us by confronting, enduring, and conquering the anxiety we face. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more about how He gets us, visit HeGetsUs.com   For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

In the first century, Jesus's radical acceptance and love for all was offensive. He rebelled against the cultural rules of His day, which taught that you shouldn't accept people until they change. But Jesus lived differently. He taught that He was the way to experience healing and new life. And just like any good doctor would not refuse to associate with sick people, so Jesus chose to associate with sinners. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more about how He gets us, visit HeGetsUs.com   For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

Jesus teaches that rather than being outraged when we are mistreated—like Jesus—we are to respond with grace and compassion. This doesn’t mean to allow abuse or neglect, but shows that in everyday relationships our compassion toward others—especially those who are unkind to us—shows a compassion unlike what people normally see.   Join us as we explore how Jesus not only gets our outrage, He also wants to teach us a better way. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. Here is the link to the outrage He Gets Us video. For more about how He gets us, visit HeGetsUs.com. For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

It has been said that great endings come from small beginnings. That was certainly true of Jesus. Join us as we explore Jesus's preparation for ministry as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. As we explore his small beginnings, it can bring encouragement and insight to us in our daily struggle to be faithful to His way. Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube.   For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message

It has been said that great endings come from small beginnings. That was certainly true of Jesus. Join us as we explore Jesus's preparation for ministry as recorded in the Gospel of Luke.  As we explore his small beginnings, it can bring encouragement and insight to us in our daily struggle to be faithful to His way.  Rather watch? You can view this entire church service on Youtube. For more info about our  church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creeksideelizabeth/message