CityChurch Podcast

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, a new series begins in the New Testament book of Ephesians with a powerful focus on identity, unity, and the mystery of the gospel revealed in Christ. Centered on Ephesians 3:1 to 13, the conversation unpacks Paul’s description of a mystery once hidden for ages, that through Jesus people from every background can become heirs together, members together, and sharers together in the promises of God. Listeners are reminded that before Christ there were barriers separating people from God, but through the finished work of Jesus those barriers were removed and believers now have direct access and oneness with Him. From Paul’s prison setting to the revival history of the church in Ephesus, the episode highlights that faith is not just personal but communal, and that the church plays a vital role in revealing the manifold wisdom of God to the world and even to the spiritual realm. This message encourages every listener to see themselves as included in God’s eternal story, to embrace community, and to live out their identity in Christ alongside others. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation centers on celebration, joy, and the feast of Purim as seen in the book of Esther, reflecting on how God brought deliverance, victory, and restoration to His people after a season of fear and uncertainty. The discussion highlights how mourning was turned into gladness, how God’s faithfulness deserves to be remembered, and how believers today are invited to live with gratitude and joyful obedience in response to His work in their lives. Listeners are encouraged to celebrate what God has done, share His goodness with others, and walk forward with renewed hope and confidence in His promises. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and how you can connect, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation continues in the book of Esther with a focus on courageous faith and the kind of courage that requires real risk. Using Esther’s decision to step forward before the king as the foundation, the discussion explores what it means to live beyond comfort, make difficult stands for integrity, and trust God in moments that feel costly or uncomfortable. The episode connects Esther’s courage to everyday life, including family decisions, workplace integrity, generosity, forgiveness, and faith conversations, while pointing to Jesus as the ultimate source of courage through His sacrifice and obedience. As the new year begins, listeners are encouraged to take faith-filled steps, keep their eyes on Jesus, and trust that God is with them as they live boldly in 2026. To learn more about City Church Charlotte or to join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation continues through the book of Esther with a focus on miracles and the powerful reversal found in Esther chapters 5 and 6, where God works behind the scenes to turn impending destruction into unexpected honor. The discussion highlights Esther’s courageous step of faith, the fasting and consecration of God’s people, and the ordinary yet miraculous moment of a king’s sleepless night that leads to Mordecai being remembered and honored instead of destroyed. Through the contrast between Haman’s pride and God’s providence, the episode invites listeners to recognize that God is still the God of miracles today, often moving in quiet and surprising ways, and calls believers to trust Him in situations that seem impossible. City Church Charlotte exists to help people encounter God and become the light of Christ, and you can learn more about the church, join a service, or connect further by visiting citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church podcast, Mark and Steve continue their journey through the book of Esther by exploring the theme of purpose and the powerful truth that God positions ordinary people for extraordinary moments. As Esther chapters 3 and 4 unfold, listeners are drawn into the tension of a real and present threat against God’s people and Esther’s defining call to move beyond comfort and convenience into courageous faith. Through the contrast between Haman’s pride and opposition and Mordecai’s challenge to Esther, the conversation reminds us that our influence, identity, and opportunities are not accidental but are given for such a time as this. Connecting Esther’s story with the wider biblical theme seen in Ruth, this episode encourages believers to trust God’s bigger plan, remain faithful in every season, and step confidently into the purpose God has prepared for them. Join City Church Charlotte as we seek to encounter God, grow in purpose, and become the light of Christ, and learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve begin a new series in the book of Esther by exploring what it means to trust God during seasons when He feels silent. They discuss how Esther’s story unfolds without obvious miracles, prophetic voices, or direct mentions of God, yet clearly reveals His guidance, preparation, and sovereign timing behind the scenes. Using the imagery of being in a hallway between rooms, they reflect on how believers often find themselves in in between seasons filled with uncertainty, waiting, and unanswered questions, and how faith is formed by trusting God’s heart when His hand is not easily seen. The conversation emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as comforter and guide, encouraging listeners to remain faithful, give thanks in all circumstances, and believe that God is working all things together for good even in the silence. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve conclude their series on Ruth by exploring how God is always working a bigger picture than we can see in the middle of our present circumstances. Using the imagery of stepping back from a painting, they reflect on Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz to show how ordinary faithfulness, daily obedience, and simple acts of kindness can shape extraordinary futures across generations. The conversation highlights how God redeems not only our pain and bitterness but also our small, unseen moments, weaving them into a story that impacts far more than we imagine, even when we feel overwhelmed or insignificant. Through biblical insight, personal reflection, and historical examples, listeners are encouraged to trust God’s perspective, stay faithful in the ordinary, and invest in people without knowing the full outcome, confident that God uses small steps of obedience for eternal purposes. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve reflect on the story of Ruth to reveal how God’s redemption is personal, public, and permanent, pointing clearly to Jesus as our ultimate redeemer. They explain how redemption in the book of Ruth required qualification, relationship, and a costly payment, and how Jesus fulfills all of these perfectly by becoming human, living without sin, and giving His life for us. The conversation highlights that God knows each of us by name, redeems us openly through the cross, and secures our future forever, reminding listeners that redemption is not just a theological concept but an invitation into restored relationship, freedom from shame, and lasting hope. Through biblical insight and powerful storytelling, the episode encourages listeners to trust that their past does not disqualify them and that God’s redeeming love is available to everyone who receives it by faith. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve explore the powerful theme of redemption through the story of Ruth and Boaz, revealing how this ancient narrative points directly to Jesus as our ultimate kinsman redeemer. They unpack what it means for Christ to be worthy, wealthy, and willing to save, and how His sacrifice provides everything needed to restore what we cannot fix on our own. Through Ruth’s journey of washing, anointing, and putting on a new garment, the hosts show how we position our lives to receive redemption by engaging with Scripture, welcoming the Holy Spirit, and embracing the new identity God gives us. They highlight the importance of stepping under the covering of Jesus for provision, protection, and purity, and they invite listeners to ask where they need Christ to redeem what feels broken or beyond repair. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series with a deep conversation about being “in the market for favor” and how God positions people for divine opportunities through simple faithfulness, humility, and attentiveness to His presence. Using the story of Ruth, they highlight how ordinary moments become sacred when we choose to say yes to God, serve with a willing heart, and stay present in the places He leads us. Ruth’s quiet obedience, her humility, and her willingness to enter everyday spaces opened the door to extraordinary redemption, showing that favor is received rather than achieved and flourishes where God is honored. The hosts emphasize that expecting God’s favor is not entitlement but the natural outflow of relationship, and that true favor is ultimately found in the presence of God that shapes our character and our decisions in the smallest moments. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series with a conversation titled “Faithful in the Small Things.” They unpack how simple, consistent acts of obedience, kindness, and devotion shape our spiritual lives far more than we often realize. Using Ruth’s story as a guide, they explore the hidden power of daily faithfulness, how God uses ordinary moments for eternal purposes, and why small decisions often unlock blessings we cannot yet see. Through practical examples and personal stories, they remind listeners that God is always working behind the scenes and that steady faithfulness positions us to experience His favor. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series by exploring the blessing of loyalty and how small faithfulness can unlock great futures. Using the story of Ruth and Naomi, they highlight how true loyalty is not just an action but a reflection of character, revealed most clearly when life becomes difficult. They discuss how crises of belief test our faith, how God invites rather than forces us into relationship, and how Ruth’s remarkable commitment points us toward a faithful God who empowers our own loyalty. Through personal stories, biblical insight, and practical application, the episode shows how small acts of faithfulness build bridges for others and shape destinies far beyond what we can see. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve continue their Bigger Than You Think series with a powerful conversation titled “Redeeming Identity.” They explore how easily we can lose sight of who we are when we let the world, painful experiences, or false voices define us instead of God’s truth. Drawing from the story of Naomi in the Book of Ruth, they show how she went from being “pleasant” to calling herself “bitter” after loss and hardship, and how God longs to restore our true identity in Him. The discussion unpacks how losing sight of God’s faithfulness can distort our self-view, but by returning to His promises and presence, we rediscover security, hope, and purpose. Through biblical insight and real-life reflection, this episode reminds listeners that our identity is redeemed and made new through Jesus Christ. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve begin a new series called Bigger Than You Think, exploring the powerful story of Ruth and what it teaches about trusting God through every season of life. They focus on the theme “From Famine to Fruitfulness,” looking at how God works even when life feels empty or barren. Through the story of Naomi, they unpack how times of spiritual famine can lead to isolation, discouragement, and loss, yet God’s redemptive power remains at work beneath the surface. The discussion highlights how God gently draws us back to Himself, inviting us to return to His presence, community, and purpose. Ultimately, Mark and Steve remind listeners that no matter how far we may feel from God, His invitation to return is always open and His faithfulness never changes. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve discuss the concept of the “trellis and the vine,” a powerful picture of how discipleship flourishes when organic spiritual growth is supported by intentional structure. They explain that just as a vine needs a trellis to hold up its branches and bear fruit, the church needs rhythms, systems, and spaces that sustain and nurture discipleship. The conversation highlights the importance of balancing life in the Spirit with healthy organizational frameworks that help people stay connected, grow in community, and bear lasting fruit. Through examples from Scripture, personal reflection, and City Church’s own journey, Mark and Steve show how structure should serve life, not replace it, and how both are vital for a thriving church family. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve explore the true meaning of discipleship and what it looks like to follow Jesus while helping others grow in their faith. They describe discipleship as an apprenticeship where believers intentionally and relationally learn from Christ to become more like Him. The conversation emphasizes that discipleship is not about completing a program but about sharing life together through Scripture, prayer, and authentic relationships. They discuss the importance of guidance, mutual growth, and creating a culture of discipleship through small groups and community. Every believer, they remind listeners, is called and equipped to disciple others regardless of experience or background. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this bonus episode of Worthy of the Call, we pause the regular series to reflect on a foundational truth: the power and purpose of walking closely with God. Drawing from Exodus 33, Psalm 16, and John 15, we explore what it means to linger in God’s presence and live with Him, not just for Him.Learn how God’s presence transforms our lives, overcomes idols, and leads us into deeper joy and lasting peace.City Church Charlotte gathers in-person and online Sundays at 10:30 AM. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.