In a world that rushes past Thanksgiving to market Christmas in October, this message is a powerful call to pause. Discover the profound spiritual importance of the holiday calendar's order. Michael shares a moving, personal story of Thanksgiving as a "grafted" tradition, revealing how it serves as a crucial preparation of the heart. Learn how embracing gratitude first transforms the entire season, shifting our mindset from a "get space" to a "grace space," and truly preparing us to receive the ultimate gift. #Thanksgiving #SacredOrder #Gratitude #Faith #ChristmasPreparation #HolidaySeason #SlowDown #ChristianLiving #ThankfulHeart The post Faith in Action (s1e9) – Why Thanksgiving MUST Come Before Christmas – Rockin’ Around the Tree (Wk 1) appeared first on The Church @ 434.
After our "Face of Fear" haunted outreach event, I received a letter from a retired minister calling our work "evil" and demanding my ordination be revoked. He said we were following the devil. In my response, we explore the true Christian origins of Halloween and why believers are called to invade darkness, not hide from it. The devil doesn't own a holiday—he's a squatter on Christ's territory, and it's time we took it back. This mission is a powerful example of what it means to live 'upbeat' instead of 'beat up.' We then dive into the true definition of happiness, revealing why Jesus taught that lasting joy isn't found in what you get, but in what you give away. #ChristianHalloween #SpiritualWarfare #Theology #Happiness #Joy #ChristianLiving #UpbeatOrBeatUp #Faith The post Bridge to Truth (s1e9) – The Devil is a Squatter – If You’re Happy and You Know it (Wk 1) appeared first on The Church @ 434.
In a world that loves dramatic stories, the history of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" is a quiet lesson in authentic faith. The author, Thomas Chisholm, admitted there was "no dramatic story" behind his famous hymn. And that's exactly what makes it so powerful. From a log cabin in Kentucky to a quiet retirement by the sea, Chisholm lived a life of constant ups and downs. It was in that persistent, everyday struggle that he discovered the truth of Lamentations 3: God's mercies are new every morning. This is the story of how that simple, profound realization created a song that would touch millions, proving that God's faithfulness isn't just for the big moments—it's for every single one. #GreatIsThyFaithfulness #Hymns #StoryBehindTheMusic #FaithfulnessOfGod #ChristianLiving #InspirationalStory The post Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book (s1e7) – The Surprising Story of a Hymn You Thought You Knew appeared first on The Church @ 434.
What happens when the roar of the crowd fades and the bright lights of WrestleMania go dark? Former WWE & WCW Champion Marc Mero (aka Johnny B. Badd) returns to The Clash to share the raw, unfiltered story behind his rise to fame and the crushing fall that followed. In this powerful interview, Marc opens up about his new book, "Badd to Good," detailing his groundbreaking career, the high-flying style he pioneered, and the personal demons—drugs, alcohol, and devastating choices—that nearly destroyed him. He reveals the single decision that cost him his marriage and fortune, and the moment of true surrender that led him to find redemption and a new purpose in Christ. This isn't just a wrestling story; it's an underdog tale of triumph over tragedy, proving that your greatest comeback can happen long after you've left the ring. #MarcMero #Redemption #WWE #WCW #BaddtoGood #JohnnyBBadd #FaithJourney #OvercomingAdversity #WrestlingLegend #TheClash #Inspiration The post The Clash (s3e16) – Badd to Good Part One appeared first on The Church @ 434.
We're often told to be strong, but what if we've been focusing on the wrong thing? This talk uses a simple, inflatable shark to illustrate one of the most important spiritual principles: you will always bounce back, not because you are strong, but because your foundation is. Learn how having Jesus as your foundation means that no matter how hard life hits you—or how many times you get knocked down—you are built to rise again. This is a message of hope for anyone feeling worn out by life's battles. #FaithOverFear #SpiritualFoundation #SermonIllustration #Jesus #Hope #Encouragement #GetBackUp #Unshakable The post REMEMBER (s1e10) – Why Your Foundation is More Important Than Your Strength appeared first on The Church @ 434.
We often hear about the resurrection of Jesus, but what makes it fundamentally different from every other person in history who was raised from the dead? Drawing from Philippians 3:20, we examine the promise of our "citizenship in heaven." While others returned to a mortal life, Jesus rose with an imperishable, glorified body—becoming the "resurrection and the life." Learn how His victory isn't a look backward at history, but a powerful promise of the future that awaits all who follow Him. #Theology #JesusChrist #ResurrectionPower #ChristianLiving #Philippians #EternalHope #FaithInGod The post A Walk Through the Carpenter’s Shop (s9e11) – The Resurrection That Redefined Forever appeared first on The Church @ 434.
For many people – they live life on a quest for happiness… You can move through this life upbeat and not beat up…if you want to…and you already know, because you have found it to be true….you are inspired by upbeat people and you don’t want to connect with beat up people. So how about it? Ready to start living upbeat? In this series we are on a quest for true happiness – as the Bible defines it and ask some realistic, honest questions about each of our lives…today we begin making sure we get the foundation of life right. Are you living faithful or fearful? The post Faithful or Fearful – Upbeat or Beat Up (Session One) appeared first on The Church @ 434.
"I'll be there at nine." "I'll check on that for you." Are these casual remarks or are they promises? This reflection explores how the ancient wisdom of Proverbs 22—"A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches"—applies directly to our modern lives. Through a moving personal story and a heartfelt prayer, we uncover how seemingly small acts of keeping our word are the building blocks of a powerful reputation. This is a call to be mindful of our promises and build a character that honors our name, our work, and our faith. #Faith #Proverbs #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #Integrity #Mindfulness #SelfImprovement #DoWhatYouSay #Truth #Prayer The post PrimeTime Overtime (s1e12) – Bank Note appeared first on The Church @ 434.
In a world of changing slang, one old expression deserves a comeback: "That dog will hunt." It used to be a high compliment for something that was just plain right. This message unpacks that idea, transforming it into a beautiful metaphor for a life well-lived. What if a simple act of kindness, a tip for the garbage collector, or an encouraging word to a clerk was described with that same level of admiration? This is a heartfelt reminder that the best exercise for the heart is reaching down to lift others up. Now that will hunt. #ThatDogWillHunt #Kindness #Encouragement #LiftOthersUp #InspirationalMessage #SimpleTruths #Community #MakeADifference The post PrimeTime Overtime (s1e11) – That Dog Will Hunt appeared first on The Church @ 434.
We spend our lives searching for ways to make an impact. But what if the most powerful gift you can offer isn't money, advice, or even your time? It's hope. Using powerful lessons from the classic movie The Music Man and the profound wisdom of Psalm 62, this message reveals why hope is the ultimate medicine, incentive, and tonic for the human spirit. Learn how you can stop crushing spirits and start bringing the "76 trombones" to the people in your life who need a parade. It's time to become a hope dealer. #GiftOfHope #HopeDealer #Motivation #FaithInGod #ChristianLiving #BeTheChange #EncourageOthers The post PrimeTime Overtime (s1e10) – 76 Trombones appeared first on The Church @ 434.
Many Christians believe Halloween is the "devil's day," a celebration of darkness to be avoided at all costs. We couldn't disagree more. On The Clash, we argue that surrendering any day to evil is a defeat. Instead, we're taking it back. Join hosts Chris Whaley and Jeff Dixon as they break down the Christian case for celebrating—and redeeming—Halloween. Learn how we're turning a day of fear into a platform for faith with our immersive outreach event, "Face the Fear," and why we believe engaging the culture is more powerful than condemning it. This episode might make you uncomfortable, but we guarantee it won't be boring. #TheClash #Halloween #Christianity #Theology #CulturalEngagement #TakeItBack #NotTheDevilsDay #ChristianLiving #ControversialFaith The post The Clash (s3e15) – The Halloween Episode appeared first on The Church @ 434.
In a world filled with noise and distraction, how do we recognize the one voice that truly matters? Drawing from John 10:14, this message explores the profound, personal relationship God invites us into. Using a powerful analogy of a trainer and his loyal dogs, we learn what it means to be so attuned to the Shepherd's voice that we can distinguish it from any other. Discover the peace and security that comes from knowing you are not just a face in the crowd, but you are personally known, loved, and called by name by the Creator of the universe. It's time to listen closely. #GoodShepherd #HeKnowsYourName #HearingGodsVoice #SpiritualGrowth #TrustGod #Faith #Jesus The post A Walk Through the Carpenter’s Shop (s9e10) – The One Voice That Matters (And It’s Calling For You) appeared first on The Church @ 434.
It makes copies, right? But the story of the Xerox machine is one of the most powerful illustrations of the Christian journey you'll ever hear. It began with an inventor, Chester Carlson, whose deep pain sparked a revolutionary idea that everyone told him was worthless. In this episode of "Seriously," we trace Carlson's incredible path from a painful, dead-end job to becoming a multimillionaire, only to make his new life goal to die a poor man. Host Jeff Dixon connects the dots between this amazing piece of history and our own spiritual lives—from being a "copy" of Christ to finding God's calling in our suffering and persevering when everyone else tells us to quit. You'll never look at an office copier the same way again. Seriously. #WalkWithChrist #FaithAndWork #Inspiration #UntoldStory #ChristianInspiration #XeroxStory The post Seriously? (s1e2) – How a Copy Machine Explains Your Walk With Christ appeared first on The Church @ 434.
Today we conclude the Thought Tamer series as you now have the tools you need to step into the arena and face lions. Once you start putting into practice the things we have covered in this series you will see that you can face any fear that is rattling around and running wild in the brain cage. You are roar ready – believe it or not! The post Roar Ready – The Thought Tamer (Session Five) appeared first on The Church @ 434.
Before David faced Goliath, he was a shepherd who fought lions and bears. His confidence wasn't in his own strength, but in his role as a protector—a role that God had prepared him for. In this message from The Carpenter Shop, Jeff Dixon connects David's courage to Jesus's powerful declaration in John 10: "I am the good shepherd." Discover why the one who was willing to lay down his life for his sheep is more than capable of defeating any giant you face today. His track record is perfect. #GoodShepherd #DavidAndGoliath #FacingGiants #Jesus #ChristianEncouragement #FaithOverFear The post A Walk Through the Carpenter’s Shop (s9e9) – The Shepherd Who Slays Giants appeared first on The Church @ 434.
What if John McClane was played not by Bruce Willis, but by a 73-year-old Frank Sinatra? It almost happened. In this video, we uncover the forgotten Hollywood contract that gave Ol' Blue Eyes the first shot at the role, thanks to a prequel film most have never heard of. But Sinatra's "no" paved the way for an iconic hero and revealed something much deeper. Beyond the explosions and "Yippee-Ki-Yay," Die Hard is a powerful story with profound spiritual lessons. Join us as we break down the six hidden themes of resilience, redemption, sacrifice, and faith that make this action classic an unlikely source of inspiration. You'll never see this Christmas movie the same way again. #DieHard #FrankSinatra #MovieTrivia #SpiritualLessons #BruceWillis #FilmHistory #DidYouKnow #ChristmasMovie #PopCultureTheology The post That Didn’t Happen… Did it? (s1e6) – How Sinatra Turning Down Die Hard Revealed Its True Meaning appeared first on The Church @ 434.
In a world that feels uncertain, where do you find your safe place? The answer might be hidden in a single, profound verse: John 10:9. Jesus doesn't just promise to lead you to safety; He promises to BE your safety. Welcome back to the Carpenter Shop, a space where we can explore the heart of God. In this session, we'll unpack the incredible truth that Jesus is both our Shepherd and "the Door." Learn how this ancient imagery speaks directly to our modern need for protection, provision, and purpose. If you've ever felt alone or vulnerable, this message is a powerful reminder that in Him, you have a guardian who is also your entry into peace. #Christianity #Hope #YouAreNotAlone #SafeInHisArms #BibleTeaching #Devotional #JesusLovesYou #FindingPeace The post A Walk Through the Carpenter’s Shop (s9e8) – Finding the Door to True Safety appeared first on The Church @ 434.
Can a wrestling ring be a pulpit? On this special episode of The Clash, we take our Christian worldview on the road to "Wrestle Rama," a unique community outreach event where the spectacle of pro wrestling becomes a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey. Join host Jeff Dixon and the commentary team as they call the chaotic, high-flying action and explore the timeless story of heroes, villains, and the battles we all face. This isn't just about body slams and finishing moves; it's about finding faith in the fight and remembering that even when you're on the ropes, victory is already secured. #ChristianWorldview #ProWrestling #Faith #TheClash #SpiritualBattle #FaithAndCulture #CommunityOutreach The post The Clash (s3e14) – Wrestle-Rama – The Wrestle-Rama Trifecta appeared first on The Church @ 434.
Do you let criticism, insults, and negativity stick to you? In this premiere episode of "Seriously," we dive into the fascinating history of Teflon—a substance created entirely by mistake—to reveal a life-changing spiritual principle. Discover how the properties of the world's most slippery substance can teach you how to be unoffendable, letting hurtful words slide right off while allowing God's truth to be the only thing that sticks. It's time to choose what has power over you. Seriously. #Unoffendable #SpiritualResilience #TeflonPrinciple #ChristianMotivation #LetItSlide #FaithJourney #SelfImprovement The post Seriously? (s1e1) – The Teflon Principle: How to Become Spiritually Non-Stick appeared first on The Church @ 434.
What is the difference between a simple choice and a true test of faith? In this episode of The Carpenter Shop, host Jeff Dixon explores the story of Mary Magdalene's encounter with the resurrected Jesus. Using her immediate response as a powerful example, Jeff challenges our tendency to postpone what God asks of us. Join us as we examine the nature of genuine obedience—the kind that requires sacrifice and immediate action, unlike a child simply choosing a treat. Discover why Jesus's entire life was the ultimate model of obedience and how we are called to follow that example today. If you've ever struggled with procrastination in your faith, this message is a crucial reminder that when God speaks, the time to act is now. #DelayedObedience #FaithInAction #Obedience #ChristianLiving #MaryMagdalene #Discipleship #SpiritualGrowth #Resurrection The post A Walk Through the Carpenter’s Shop (s9e7) – Why Delayed Obedience is Disobedience appeared first on The Church @ 434.