Ninth Avenue Church of Christ

In this week’s message, Matthew Balentine explores one of the most misunderstood passages in Scripture — Malachi 3:6–12 — and reveals a powerful truth about why God’s blessings sometimes stop flowing in our lives. Using the memorable illustration of a kinked garden hose, Matthew explains how believers can unintentionally “block” the spiritual abundance God desires for them. This sermon challenges us to examine our hearts, return to faithful living, and experience the overflow God promises when His people trust Him fully. You’ll learn: Why God never changes, even when we feel distant How spiritual “kinks” form in the life of a believer What it really means to “rob God” Why God invites us to test Him in Malachi 3 How obedience, generosity, and trust reopen the flow of blessing What it looks like to walk again in God’s daily provision and presence Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, disconnected, or simply hungry for deeper blessing, this message offers a clear path back into the flow of God’s goodness. Scripture: Malachi 3:6–12 Speaker: Matthew Balentine Church: Ninth Avenue Church of Christ, Haleyville, AL

In this message from our Blessed series, Matthew Ballentine explores the deeper meaning of Christian giving and why it is far more than a financial act. Rooted in 2 Corinthians 9, this sermon examines how true generosity flows from a heart shaped by gratitude and trust. Matthew walks through the biblical foundations of blessing, stewardship, and intentional giving—challenging us to evaluate whether our giving reflects honor, purpose, and faith. Rather than pressure or obligation, giving becomes a joyful response to the goodness of God. If you’ve ever wondered how much to give, why giving matters, or what God desires from your heart, this message will encourage and challenge you to grow spiritually in meaningful, practical ways.

In this week’s message, Matthew Balentine explores Jesus’ Parable of the Talents from Matthew 25:14–30, reminding us that everything we have—our time, our talents, and our treasures—belongs to God. Through this story, we learn that God entrusts each of us with different resources, not equally but intentionally. The question isn’t what we’ve been given—it’s what we’re doing with what we’ve been given. Matthew challenges us to examine whether we’re investing our blessings for God’s glory or burying them in fear and excuses. True faithfulness isn’t about quantity or comparison—it’s about obedience, gratitude, and action. 🔑 Key Themes: Everything we manage belongs to God. God values faithfulness more than results. Fear can cause us to bury our blessings. Stewardship means using God’s gifts for His glory. 📖 Scripture Reference: Matthew 25:14–30 🎙️ Speaker: Matthew Balentine 🏛️ Series: Blessed — Because He Gave, We Give 📍 Church: Ninth Avenue Church of Christ

In this heartfelt message, Matthew Balentine shares the powerful story of Peter’s journey from denying Jesus to being fully restored on the shores of Galilee. Through John 21, we see how Jesus meets us right where we are—broken, tired, and uncertain—and gently calls us back into fellowship and purpose. This sermon reminds us that grace doesn’t push us away; it draws us close. Jesus not only forgives us but invites us back to the table and sends us out again with renewed purpose. If you’ve ever felt like your failure disqualified you from God’s plan, this message will speak hope into your heart. 📖 Scripture: John 21:1–19 🎙️ Speaker: Matthew Balentine 🏠 Church: Ninth Avenue Church of Christ   #ChristianPodcast #Faith #Grace #Forgiveness #Restoration #Jesus #Peter #Sermon #BibleTeaching #Hope

When Peter swore he’d never deny Jesus, his confidence was sky-high—but within hours, it crumbled. In this message from Luke 22, Matthew Balentine walks through Peter’s valley of failure and Jesus’ look of restoration. Learn how disappointment can become denial, and how grace transforms regret into renewal. Key Takeaways: Why emotion without devotion leads to spiritual collapse The danger of “following at a distance” How Jesus’ compassion restores the fallen Finding strength when your confidence breaks Scripture: Luke 22 Speaker: Matthew Balentine Series: Peaks & Valleys — God in Every Season Location: Ninth Avenue Church of Christ Tags / Keywords faith, failure, restoration, Peter, Luke 22, Jesus, discipleship, redemption, Ninth Avenue Church of Christ, Matthew Balentine, Christian sermon, Peaks and Valleys, church podcast, spiritual growth, grace, hope, Bible teaching Show Notes Main Passage: Luke 22:31–62 Theme: Faith that collapses can rise again through grace. Quote: “It’s a short distance from confidence to collapse when our faith rests on emotion instead of devotion.” Action Step: Look toward Jesus—even through your tears—and let His gaze restore you.

Even in life’s lowest valleys, God’s purpose still stands. In this powerful message from our Peaks and Valleys series, Matthew Balentine reminds us that the presence of struggle does not mean the absence of God. Drawing from 1 Samuel 16, we see how Samuel, Jesse, and David each faced moments of uncertainty, pride, and obscurity—but God was working through it all. This sermon invites you to trust that even when you feel overlooked or misunderstood, God is shaping something far greater beneath the surface. When you walk with the King, your valley can become a place of transformation and purpose.   🔹 Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 16 🔹 Series: Peaks and Valleys 🔹 Speaker: Matthew Balentine 🔹 Theme: Purpose, Trust, Faith in Difficult Seasons

Have you ever felt lost, disconnected, or unsure of where you belong? In Luke 15, Jesus tells three unforgettable stories—the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son—that remind us of one life-changing truth: God is always with us. In this message, Matthew Balentine shares how each parable reveals the heart of God—searching for the lost, rejoicing in repentance, and welcoming His children home with open arms. Whether you’re wandering, unaware, or weary from the journey, take comfort in knowing: Jesus is always there.

Life often feels like a board game—filled with highs, lows, and unexpected setbacks. Just when everything seems to be going right, something happens that knocks us off course. But while setbacks are inevitable, they are not the end of the story. In this sermon, we explore how God gives us the opportunity to press reset through Jesus Christ. Discover how to: Face life’s setbacks with faith and endurance Lean on God’s promise of renewal and forgiveness Refocus on what truly matters—the eternal prize of heaven Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 10:13 · Matthew 7:7–8 · John 14:6 · Hebrews 12:1–2 Whether you’re weighed down by sin, overwhelmed by trials, or simply in need of encouragement, this message reminds us that in Christ, there is always a way to start again.

Loneliness is one of the greatest struggles of our time—even in a world more “connected” than ever before. In this message from our Reset series, Matthew Balentine takes us to John 13:34–35 and Acts 2:42–47 to show how Jesus’ command to “love one another as I have loved you” transforms the church into a community where no one walks alone.   From the disciples’ differences at the Last Supper to the diverse backgrounds of believers in Acts 2, we see that true fellowship is not about food or social events alone—it’s about love that unites us despite our differences.   In a culture where artificial relationships (through social media and even AI) leave people empty, Christ-centered fellowship offers the real connection our souls crave.   Whether you’re searching for belonging or looking to strengthen your church community, this sermon will encourage you to rediscover the power of fellowship as God designed it.

Are you spiritually nourished—or just getting by? Building from Acts 2:38–47, I share why the early church’s rhythm of devotion wasn’t optional; it was the engine of growth, unity, and mission. We explore Jesus’ call to feed on God’s Word (Matthew 4:4) and what it means to “live from the overflow,” where our words naturally reflect what fills our hearts (Matthew 12:34). You’ll hear a practical, grace-filled plan for moving from information to transformation, including a simple reading path you can start this week. In this episode: Why salvation launches a lifestyle, not a checkbox (Acts 2:38–39). “They devoted themselves…”—the four habits of Acts 2:42–47. Living in the overflow vs. spiritual starvation (Matthew 4:4; 12:34). The “Power of Four”: how engaging Scripture 4+ days a week reshapes witness, discipleship, and everyday choices. A scalable plan for every stage—one chapter, four days a week to start; or three chapters a day to finish the NT in <3 months.   Take the next step this week: Put time with God on your calendar. Read one chapter, four days this week. Note a question, then keep reading—let Scripture interpret Scripture.   Primary Texts: Acts 2:38–47; Matthew 4:4; Matthew 12:34; Romans 12:2   Keywords: devotion, discipleship, Bible reading, early church, Holy Spirit, spiritual habits, Acts 2   If this encouraged you, follow the podcast and share the episode with someone who needs a spiritual reset today.

In this compelling sermon, Matthew Balentine explores God’s greatest longing—for all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3–4). Through clear and passionate teaching, he walks us through key Scriptures—Mark 16, Acts 2, Ephesians 1, and 1 Peter 3—to show how faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Spirit work together in God’s plan of salvation. Discover the meaning of being sealed by the Spirit, the joy of forgiveness, and the unity God intends for His church. Whether you’re seeking answers about salvation or simply need a renewed perspective on God’s love, this message will guide you back to the heart of the gospel. Listen and be encouraged to take the next step in your walk with Christ.

As the new school year begins, what if you saw your classroom, your workplace, or your family routine not just as a schedule—but as a mission field? In this encouraging and practical message, Matthew Balentine speaks directly to students, teachers, and parents, offering a spiritual reset for the year ahead. Drawing from Matthew 5:16, he reminds us that our calling is to shine, not just pass through the year unnoticed. You’ll discover: Why your school or workplace is a God-ordained mission field How to be a light that’s not just noticeable—but effective How to help your children form lasting spiritual habits Encouragement for navigating chaos with calm and purpose Whether you’re heading back to school or just need a spiritual recharge, this message is for you. 🔔 Subscribe and share to help others start the year with purpose. 📖 “Let your light shine before others… that they may glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) #BackToSchool #ChristianParenting #YouthMinistry #LetYourLightShine #FaithInTheClassroom #MatthewBalentine #ChurchPodcast

Jesus didn’t stop for the crowd—He stopped for one man in a tree. In this episode, we explore the story of Zacchaeus and how real evangelism begins with seeing the people others overlook. Learn how relationship—not pressure—opens the door to repentance and restoration. 🎯 Challenge: Ask God to reveal one overlooked person in your life—and reach out.

What do you do when your plans—especially the good ones—fall apart? In this message from Acts 16, Matthew Balentine walks through Paul’s missionary journey and the surprising moment when the Holy Spirit redirects him away from familiar territory and toward something unexpected. When God shuts a door, it’s not rejection—it’s redirection. You’ll learn: Why God sometimes interrupts even our best intentions How to stay sensitive to the Spirit’s leading What one faithful step can mean for an entire community How to respond when ministry feels stalled ➡️ Whether you're a church leader, new believer, or seasoned disciple, this message invites you to stop, listen, and ask: What is God calling me to next? 🙌 Stay encouraged. The mission doesn’t end—it just shifts.

Episode Summary: Why do we run from what God clearly calls us to do? In this message, Matthew Balentine explores the story of Jonah and reveals the real reasons we resist the mission of God—fear, discomfort, pride, and inconvenience. You'll learn how God's grace patiently pursues us, how He uses storms to redirect us, and why He always offers a second chance. Whether you're struggling with obedience or afraid to take the next step, this message invites you to stop running and start trusting. Key Takeaways: The 3 reasons we avoid God’s call What Jonah’s storm teaches us about spiritual wake-up calls Why comfort can be more dangerous than cost The power of second chances How to simply and confidently share God's love Scripture: Jonah 1–3 Speaker: Matthew Balentine Series: The Mission Starts Here

In this week’s message, Matthew Balentine kicks off a powerful new series focused on evangelism and living out the Great Commission—starting right where we are. As Vacation Bible School approaches, we’re reminded that mission work doesn’t begin in a distant country—it begins with our neighbors, our friends, and the people we interact with every day. Drawing from Matthew 28, Matthew explores how even the disciples struggled with doubt, and yet Jesus still called them—and us—to go and make disciples. This message is a timely encouragement for anyone who has ever felt unqualified, afraid, or unsure about sharing their faith. Tune in to discover: Why your mission field starts at home How to overcome the fear of not knowing enough What it really means to “go” and live the gospel How VBS can be more than an event—it can be an eternal opportunity Whether you’re preparing to serve next week or just needing a renewed sense of purpose, this episode will reignite your passion for the mission of Christ. 👉 Subscribe and share to help others discover their calling in the mission. 🎧 Because the mission doesn’t start there—it starts here.

Have you ever faced a moment when everything you planned suddenly falls apart? In this inspiring message, Pastor Matthew Balentine shares how, even in our weakest and most painful times, God’s presence never fails. Using lessons from superheroes like Superman, Batman, and The Flash, along with powerful biblical stories, this sermon reminds us that God’s grace is made perfect in weakness, and that pain can lead to purpose.   If you’re dealing with disappointment, loss, or regret, this episode offers hope and encouragement to press forward in faith and trust God’s unfailing plan. Tune in and discover how God can turn your broken plans into a powerful testimony.   Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 12:9, Genesis 50:20, Psalm 34:18, Romans 8:28, Philippians 3:13-14, Proverbs 19:21

In this powerful conclusion to our sermon series on The Power of Prayer, Matthew Balentine invites us to step out of safe, predictable prayers and into bold, faith-filled conversations with God. Drawing from Ephesians 3:14–21, we explore: What it means to pray beyond our “faith hula hoop” How posture—both physical and spiritual—can shape our prayer life Why letting Christ dwell in our hearts leads to deeper transformation How our prayers today can impact generations to come What it looks like to be rooted in the unmeasurable love of Christ If you’ve ever wondered whether your prayers are too small—or whether God really hears your biggest ones—this message will challenge and encourage you to trust God for more than you ever imagined.   🙌 “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more…”   🎙️ Speaker: Matthew Balentine 📖 Scripture: Ephesians 3:14–21 📍 Ninth Avenue Church of Christ   #BoldPrayer #Ephesians3 #MatthewBalentine #FaithInAction #ChurchPodcast

In this week’s message from Matthew 26, Matthew Balentine leads us into the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus poured out His heart in prayer. With raw honesty and divine surrender, Jesus modeled how we, too, can wrestle with God’s will and come out transformed.   ⏳ Topics include: The meaning of the four Passover cups Jesus’ emotional and spiritual battle Why persistent prayer matters What it looks like to truly surrender to God   🎧 Tune in and reflect: What is God asking you to surrender today?   📖 Matthew 26:36–46 📍 Ninth Avenue Church of Christ 💬 Subscribe and leave a review if this message blessed you!

In a world searching for answers, is the church still essential? Join us for a conversation grounded in timeless biblical wisdom. 📖   Discover why being biblically based, authentically real, and focused on Jesus is the answer to staying relevant in any generation.   Tune in and be inspired to live your faith boldly! 🙌   🔗 Subscribe for weekly encouragement and biblical teaching.