Discovering Jesus with FirstNaz Zephyrhills

What does true leadership look like in God's eyes? In this message, Guest Preacher Rob Nemeth unpacks the cautionary tale of King Saul to reveal striking parallels between ancient Israel's desire for a commanding ruler and our modern tendency to choose charismatic but spiritually compromised leaders. Through careful examination of Samuel's warnings and Saul's tragic reign, Pastor Rob illuminates how Israel rejected God's model of servant leadership in Samuel for an impressive but ultimately disobedient king. The heart of the message centers on our own choices today - do we want a Savior who simply makes us comfortable, or are we willing to submit to Christ's complete lordship? Drawing from both Old Testament history and contemporary cultural examples, Pastor Rob challenges us to examine who truly rules our hearts. He powerfully concludes that while Jesus is widely embraced as Savior, He must also be Lord of our lives for genuine transformation to occur. The urgent call is clear: we must choose today between following cultural Christianity that affirms our desires or submitting to the biblical Christ who transforms them.

What if the most powerful weapon against oppression isn't a sword, but a reminder of God's faithfulness? In Pastor Nick's compelling exploration of Judges 3, we meet Ehud, a left-handed warrior who encounters a pivotal moment at the stones of Gilgal. These weren't just any stones – they were monuments of God's miraculous deliverance of Israel through the Jordan River. Seeing these stones rekindled Ehud's courage to free Israel from 18 years of oppressive tribute to King Eglon of Moab. Pastor Nick masterfully connects this ancient story to our modern struggles, reminding us that while we often pay "tribute" to things that enslave us – whether addictions, false ideologies, or worldly systems – our true battle isn't against people but spiritual forces. Just as the stones of Gilgal reminded Israel of God's faithfulness, communion serves as our monument of Christ's ultimate victory. The urgent call rings clear: Will we continue paying tribute to what destroys us, or will we, like Ehud, find courage in remembering God's faithfulness and stand firm in Christ's freedom?

What if the choices we make in secret could shape the destiny of an entire community? In this powerful message, Pastor Nick delves into the story of Achan from Joshua 7, revealing how one man's hidden sin brought devastating consequences to all of Israel. Through vivid storytelling and urgent pastoral care, he exposes how our "private" sins—from mishandled finances to hidden addictions—ripple outward to affect our families, our church, and even our nation's spiritual health. With compelling clarity, Pastor Nick challenges us to recognize that what we think we're burying under our tent is actually blocking God's blessings and hindering His work. The message culminates in a sobering reminder that our spiritual compromises don't just impact us—they can literally determine whether others encounter Christ or remain eternally separated from Him. Through biblical truth and compassionate conviction, Pastor Nick calls us to examine our hearts, confess our sins, and live as conduits of God's grace rather than hoarders of His blessings.

In an exploration of God's faithfulness and human frailty, Pastor Nick delves into Ezekiel 20 to reveal how Israel's wilderness journey mirrors our own spiritual walk. Drawing parallels between ancient Israel's struggles and modern Christian life, he illuminates God's patient work in shaping His people's identity and purpose. Through vivid examples of Israel's repeated failures and God's unwavering love, Pastor Nick demonstrates how Jesus perfectly fulfilled Israel's calling and extended God's covenant to all believers. He challenges us to embrace our role as "grafted branches" in God's family tree, while acknowledging our own wilderness seasons as opportunities for spiritual growth. With pastoral wisdom, he encourages believers to persist through spiritual dry spells, remain faithful to God's promises, and actively participate in His kingdom work. The message culminates in a stirring call to action, urging Christians to move beyond mere salvation to pursue holiness and fulfill their divine calling as witnesses of God's transformative power.

What does it take to strip away decades of cultural conditioning and emerge as the person God truly intended? In a powerful message, Pastor Nick delves into Moses' transformative journey from Egyptian prince to Hebrew deliverer, revealing how God spent 40 years dismantling the false beliefs and pagan ideologies that Egypt had instilled in Moses. Through vivid parallels between Moses and Jesus, Pastor Nick illuminates how both left positions of privilege to walk among their people, faced initial rejection, and ultimately offered liberation - Moses from physical bondage and Jesus from the enslaving power of sin. Just as Moses needed time in the wilderness to be cleansed of Egypt's influence, Pastor Nick challenges us to examine the modern "Egypt" in our own lives - the cultural programming, media manipulation, and false narratives that keep us from fully embracing God's truth. With urgent relevance, he calls the congregation to wake up to God's redemptive purpose, reminding us that we're never too old to begin God's work and that in the spiritual battle before us, there are no spectator stands - only active participants in God's mission of liberation.

What happens in a pit can prepare us for a palace. In this powerful message, Pastor Nick unpacks the remarkable story of Joseph, revealing how God works through seasons of adversity to accomplish His greater purposes. Through Joseph's journey from favored son to slave to prisoner to Egyptian ruler, we see a profound picture of how God can use our lowest moments to position us for His highest calling. Pastor Nick connects Joseph's story to Jesus, showing how Joseph's willingness to forgive those who wronged him and his recognition that "God sent me ahead of you to preserve life" foreshadows Christ's own mission. The sermon culminates in a stirring call to trust God in our own "pit moments," recognizing that He may be preparing us for something greater, while emphasizing that our ultimate hope lies not in our circumstances but in receiving Jesus as Savior and Lord. Through vivid storytelling and practical application, Pastor Nick demonstrates how this ancient narrative speaks powerfully to our modern struggles with rejection, false accusation, and seemingly hopeless situations. #christ #jesus #christisking #jesusisking #jesusislord #mouserat #pit #redemption #salvation #Joseph #egypt

Have you ever wrestled with God over a promise you made but never kept? Pastor Nick delves into Jacob's transformative encounter at the Jabbok River—where a night of wrestling with God changed not just his name, but his entire identity. Through vivid storytelling of Jacob's deceptive past and divine confrontation, this message reveals how God pursues us despite our attempts to run from past mistakes. Whether you're haunted by hidden sins or struggling to surrender control, discover how embracing God's call leads to a new walk—even if it comes with a limp. Don't miss this powerful exploration of authentic transformation through submission to God's purpose. Watch now to find freedom from what's chasing you.

The Akedah--The Binding of Isaac. Have you ever wondered what it truly means to sacrifice everything for God? Through the gripping story of Abraham and Isaac, Pastor Nick unveils how genuine faith transforms our choices. Drawing parallels between Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac and Christ's ultimate sacrifice, he challenges us to examine what we value most. From ancient mountaintops to modern phone screens, this message exposes how we often choose death over life in subtle ways. Whether you're wrestling with trust, questioning God's timing, or seeking deeper faith, this powerful exploration of sacrifice and salvation offers fresh hope. Watch now to discover how Jesus' sacrifice brings life where we keep choosing death.

Have you ever felt God calling you to leave behind the familiar and step into the unknown? Pastor Nick shares how Abraham's journey of faith speaks to our lives today. Through Abraham's story of leaving his homeland at age 75, we see how God often calls us to release what's comfortable to receive His greater blessing. Pastor Nick shows how Abraham's obedience, despite having no children or land, led to becoming the father of nations and ultimately to Jesus Christ. Ready to discover what God wants to do through your life? This message will challenge you to identify what you need to leave behind and inspire you to embrace God's promises with fresh faith. Watch now to learn how your faithful response today could impact generations to come! https://unit.link/first-nazarene #Abraham #Abram #Jew #Hebrew #Christian #Muslim #isalm #Jesus #christisking

Have you ever wondered how a devastating flood could reveal God's heart of redemption? Have you ever wondered who the Nephilim were or why we have rainbows? In this powerful message, Pastor Nick unveils how the story of Noah points directly to Jesus. Through vivid exploration of Genesis 6, he shows how mankind's growing wickedness broke God's heart—yet God still provided a way of salvation through Noah's faithfulness. Drawing compelling parallels between the ark and Christ's sacrifice, Pastor Nick demonstrates how God's rainbow wasn't just a promise to spare Earth from floods, but a warrior's bow hung in peace, foreshadowing Jesus taking our sins to the grave. Don't miss this fresh perspective on how an ancient flood story illuminates God's eternal plan to cleanse us from sin through Christ. #rainbow #nephilim #giants #flood #noah #judgement #judgementday #noahandtheark #christisking #jesusislord

What happens when the perfect image of God becomes tarnished by sin? In this powerful message, Pastor Nick takes us back to the Garden of Eden, exploring the profound moment when humanity's relationship with God was fractured through disobedience. Drawing from Genesis 3:8-15, he reveals how Adam and Eve's attempt to hide from God—and their subsequent blame-shifting—mirrors our own tendency to create personal solutions rather than embracing God's redemptive plan. Pastor Nick masterfully connects this ancient story to our modern struggle with the "sinful nature," explaining how we're all born with a lean toward evil that only Christ can correct. The sermon's unique perspective highlights how we often define our own "personal hells" and attempt self-salvation instead of submitting to God's perfect plan through Jesus. Most powerfully, Pastor Nick reminds us that though sin has obscured God's image in us—like dirt on a mirror—it hasn't destroyed it. Through Christ's sacrifice, God is continually at work restoring His image in those who believe, transforming us from the inside out. The urgent call is clear: stop trying to create your own salvation and submit to Christ's lordship, allowing Him to make you holy and whole again.

Have you ever pondered the profound truth that creation itself was spoken into existence by the very Word of God? In his latest sermon, Pastor Nick ushers us into a deeper understanding of this miraculous act, focusing on the crucial opening verses of John’s Gospel. Here, we discover that Jesus, the Word, predates creation and was integral to its very existence, shining light into darkness—a light that cannot be overcome. Pastor Nick compellingly illustrates how the entirety of Scripture points to Jesus, emphasizing that our lives are enriched by recognizing Him as the center of everything. As he shares heartfelt personal experiences, including moments of prayer for those struggling to embrace this truth, we are called to confront our own darkness and how it impacts our eternity. Ultimately, Pastor Nick inspires each of us to actively engage in sharing this life-giving light with the world around us. So today, let us reflect on our own responses to Jesus, allowing His Spirit to work within us, and commit to pursuing holiness while inviting others into the transformative light of Christ. Don’t wait; reach out and be a beacon of hope!

Have you ever felt like you're standing at a crossroads, faced with the profound question: "Do I truly recognize God's love for me?" In this inspiring sermon, Pastor Nick passionately explores this essential decision, drawing on the life of Moses and the powerful message of Deuteronomy. He unpacks how God's covenant love—illustrated through Moses' journey—calls us to recognize our identity as beloved children of God, navigating through life’s trials and the temptation of shiny idols that seek to distract us. Addressing those who may have yet to fully embrace this love, he emphasizes that acceptance isn’t just about belief but allowing this love to transform our lives. Pastor Nick connects this ancient story with our contemporary struggles, urging us to examine the "idols" we cling to and inviting us to a deeper relationship with Christ. Through heartfelt storytelling and engaging humor, he invites everyone to take a step of faith towards recognizing God's unwavering commitment to us. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the life-changing truth of God’s love—watch or listen to this powerful message today and make a decision that could redefine your spiritual journey!

Have you ever thought about how easy it can be to stray from God's path, even if we start with good intentions? In this sermon, Pastor Nick dives deep into the story of Balaam from the Biblical book called "Numbers", illustrating how a so-called prophet prioritizing profit led to significant consequences for God’s people. Balaam, caught between divine instruction and the lure of monetary gain, unwittingly became a stumbling block for the Israelites, leading them into idol worship and immorality. With a vivid retelling, Pastor Nick emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty and heeding His call to holiness. This message is a call to reflect on our own lives—are we, like Balaam, justifying compromises that lead us away from God’s will? The pastor passionately connects this ancient story to modern realities, urging the church to stand firm in holiness amidst societal pressures. Don't miss this powerful call to action—join us to explore how we can uphold the integrity of our faith to be beacons of light in a dark world. Watch or listen to the full sermon today and let your heart be changed!

Are you ready to uncover the truth about the spiritual battle raging around us? In today's powerful message, Pastor Nick delved into the steadfast faith of Daniel amidst his heavenly vision, emphasizing how this moment parallels our human struggles with unseen forces and distractions. He passionately illuminated the pre-incarnate Christ’s role in Daniel's revelation, urging believers to recognize the supremacy of Jesus over spiritual darkness. As he painted a vivid picture of the spiritual warfare that affects our lives today—the desires for power, pleasure, and status that often lead us astray—he encouraged the congregation to see that these battles go beyond the physical realm; they root themselves in a much larger cosmic conflict. Pastor Nick reminded us that, just as Daniel persisted in prayer for three weeks, we too must commit to seeking God earnestly in our lives. It’s time for each of us to gird our spirits, understand the authority we have in Christ, and actively combat the lies of the enemy. Don’t let complacency halt your walk with God; rise to the challenge, engage in the fight, and proclaim the truth of Christ's victory!

Have you ever stood beneath a starry sky and felt utterly small yet deeply significant at the same time? In Pastor Gail's inspiring sermon, she takes us back to the very beginnings of creation, revealing the wonder of God as the ultimate Creator. Through a captivating exploration of Genesis 1, Pastor Gail emphasizes how God's voice brought forth the cosmos from nothing, an act of divine artistry that still echoes in our lives today. She powerfully highlights our importance as humanity, made in God's image and entrusted with the stewardship of this beautiful world. As she personally reflects on moments from her own life, like the joy of playing under a vast blue sky or the thrill of confronting her fears, she reminds us that we, too, can experience God's presence in our everyday activities. This sermon is an invitation to recognize the Creator's handiwork in the details of our lives, urging us to worship wholeheartedly beyond just singing. So, come and immerse yourself in this transformative message, and rediscover the profound connection between your daily life and the magnificent God who made you. Don’t miss your chance to embrace this journey—watch or listen to the full sermon now!

Are you ready to answer the call that God has placed on your life? In a heartfelt message drawn from Acts 13, Pastor Dave highlights the pivotal moment when the church in Antioch listened to the Holy Spirit and sent Paul and Barnabas into the mission field. He shares his own journey from retiring as a pastor to dedicating his life to missions, underscoring that every believer is called to share the gospel. With poignant stories from his experiences in Cuba and Bolivia, Pastor Dave passionately urges the congregation to step beyond their comfort zones and take that first leap of faith, trusting that God will equip them. He emphasizes that while many churches focus on good deeds, the true mission of the church is to lead others to Christ. As he challenges everyone to consider their role in reaching the lost, he leaves them with an urgent call to action: don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to share your faith, but seize the day to be a light in a world yearning for hope. Will you take up the mantle and join the mission?

What if you could reignite a flame of faith that had slowly dimmed in your life? In this inspiring message, Timothy shares his personal journey of how God transformed his life from the darkness of despair to the light of purpose and hope. Drawing on biblical examples, particularly the story of Thomas, Timothy engages the audience in a conversation about the fear and distractions that often pull us away from our divine calling. He emphasizes that God meets us where we are, regardless of our past failures or doubts. With heartfelt stories of his own trials, including a miraculous encounter that saved him from suicide, Timothy encourages listeners to recognize their inherent worth and potential in the eyes of God. He reminds us that even in moments of deep distress, we have the power to reclaim our faith and keep Jesus at the center of our lives. This sermon resonates with anyone longing for connection and divine assurance. Join Timothy as he invites you to step back into your purpose and trust in God's plan for you. Don’t miss out on this hopeful and transformative message—watch the full sermon today!

Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of prayer in your life? In this compelling sermon, Pastor Kendall emphasizes the urgent call for genuine, heartfelt communication with God, inspired by the growing prayer focus within the church community. Drawing from personal stories of prayer warriors and the vivid example of a beloved prayer room, he illustrates how true prayer isn't about formality but a personal conversation with our Father. Kendall encourages everyone to engage in prayer initiatives like Bless Every Home and the recent 10 Days of Prayer and fasting, showcasing how these efforts can ignite spiritual revival in our lives and community. This message isn't just about the mechanics of prayer; it's about cultivating an unwavering faith that believes God hears and answers us. You'll discover the importance of persistence and specificity in your requests, inspired to not only pray for your loved ones but also to be a part of their healing and salvation journeys. Join us as we deeply delve into this essential aspect of our faith, and let Pastor Kendall's heartfelt guidance inspire you to pray with renewed passion and expectation. Don't miss out—engage with this transformative message today!

Pastor Nick emphasizes the importance of prayer, beginning with the Lord's Prayer from Luke, to teach us how to communicate with God as our loving Father. He highlights that prayer should be a continuous and heartfelt dialogue, reflecting our needs, requests for forgiveness, and the necessity of forgiving others. Nick also draws attention to the call for fathers to leave a godly legacy for their children, encouraging acknowledgment of past mistakes while moving forward with a commitment to faith and love. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that through Christ, we can approach God without fear, fostering a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father.