Onward Community Church

"Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?" This powerful message urges us to reflect on our priorities. When we embrace worldly values in any form, we distance ourselves from God. This conflict arises from various aspects of our lives, leading to severe consequences. However, through sincere repentance, we can restore our relationship with God and find true spiritual fulf...

This past Sunday, we explored a profound topic: Wisdom from Above . Join us as we unpack the essence of true wisdom, its defining characteristics, and the rewards it bestows upon us. Let's embark on this enlightening journey together, seeking the divine wisdom that transforms our hearts and minds.

In this episode, we dive into James 3 to uncover the profound impact of our words. Learn about the importance of taming the tongue, the dangers of careless speech, and how our words can shape our faith and relationships. Join us for practical wisdom on using speech to build up rather than tear down.   Scriptures: James 3:12

The term 'Christian' has, to some extent, evolved into a generalized label rather than embodying its true essence—a dedication to fervently pursuing and embodying the principles and character of Jesus Christ. It's crucial for us to reclaim the depth and sincerity of this identity, not merely as a title but as a vibrant commitment to living out Christ's teachings with unwavering passion and authent...

James criticizes the pervasive attitude of favoritism and provides guidance on addressing this hindrance to spiritual development. Embracing others, irrespective of their status or class, is crucial. It entails demonstrating kindness, empathy, and fairness towards all individuals.   Scripture: James 2: 1-13

Learn how crucial it is to engage with your Bible for a meaningful life transformation. In today's passage, James sheds light on three common pitfalls or misconceptions that hinder our ability to effectively interact with this essential guide. Scriptures:  James 1: 19-27 

Temptation, as James 1:13-18 points out, springs from our own desires, not outside influences. So, battling it means understanding where it comes from and seeking guidance. It's about staying alert, disciplined, and leaning on spiritual support. The stakes are high; giving in risks spiritual death and losing connection with what's sacred. But resisting leads to salvation and eternal life.   Script...

"In the journey of life, we inevitably face trials—some undeserved, others a consequence of our own actions. Yet, amidst the tumultuous waves, there's a comforting assurance: He is there with us. Through every struggle, He promises His presence, offering solace and the wisdom necessary to navigate through the darkest of times. It's in these moments that we learn the true depth of His love and the...

Join us as we step into the book of James, a book that ignites action and prompts Christians to live out their faith. Today, we'll begin our exploration by examining James' peronsal views on his identity, attitude, and actions, setting the tone for the weeks to come. Scriptures:  James 1:1

For Christians, the battle against unseen evil forces is constant, with fiery darts of doubt and temptation aimed to weaken faith. Yet, we wield the Shield of Faith as our defense, trusting in God's promises to protect and guide us through the spiritual warfare. With unwavering belief, we stand firm, knowing that nothing can penetrate the shield of our faith in the Almighty.   Scriptures: Ephesian...

We were sick and needed a physician to heal us.  Jesus Christ came not for the healthy but for the sick.  Through the sacrifice of his life and his resurrection from the dead he gives us healing now and for eternity for those who believe.     Scriptures:  Mark 2: 15-17, Matthew 28: 1-8, Romans 6:23, Isaiah 53:5, 1 Peter 2:24

To truly follow Jesus, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross. It means letting go of our own desires and embracing the challenges that come with living out our faith. We surrender our will to God's, trusting His guidance and being ready to follow wherever He leads, even when it's uncomfortable or difficult.  Scriptures: Luke 9:23-24

Despite our realization of sin's consequences and our propensity to choose it, God's love remains unwavering. We, like the crowd who chose Barabbas, a guilty criminal, over innocent Jesus, often make similar choices. Yet, even in our shortcomings, His love offers redemption and salvation, breathing life into our spirits and guiding us through trials with boundless grace. Scriptures: Matthew 27:21-...

In the journey from arrest to crucifixion, Jesus endured beatings, false accusations, and unrelenting mockery. Today, as we measure his pain, we also measure his love, recognizing the profound sacrifice and strength displayed on his path to the cross. Scriptures: Isaiah 53:5, John 10:18,  Luke 22: 63-65, Matthew 27:26

Approaching Easter, we reflect on the Stations of the Cross, focusing today on Jesus' betrayal by those close to him. His response, marked by forgiveness and love, inspires us to emulate this grace when facing our own betrayals.  Scriptures Matthew 26:20-25, Matthew 26:36-46, Matthew 26:69-75, John 21:17

Today's sermon dives into the question of how we handle the wealth entrusted to us by God. It reminds us that one day, God will ask us what we did with what He gave us, highlighting that our money is a way to join in the work God is doing right now. Scriptures:  Proverbs 10:15, 23:4-5, 10:22, 11:26, 11:24, 28:27

Our words are more power than we thinking.  Today we look into the Proverbs to see how we can use our tongues in daily relationships to not gossip and slander but to bless and heal.  We will learn how to speak less, speak more, and speak differently as we follow Christ. Scriptures:  Proverbs 18:21, 21:23, 10:19, 26:20, 11:13

Pride comes before the fall!  Today we look at how pride can distort the way we look at ourselves and the way we look at others.  Combatting pride with humililty is essential as we follow Jesus and love others.   Scriptures: Proverbs 21:4, 30: 11-14, 23:4-5

"We all seek wisdom to navigate life's challenges and the daily grind. Today, let's delve into the art of acquiring and cultivating wisdom. Our focus will be on exploring the profound teachings of Proverbs and unpacking its powerful lessons."

An integral part of being a follower of Jesus is sharing our story with others and living our lives together as we navigate each day.  Today we'll examine what the Bible has to say about procaliming the good news and what that might look in our testimony.   Scripture: Matthew 28: 19-20, John 4:39, 1 Timothy 1:13, 15-16, Ephesians 6: 19-20, 1 Thessaloninas 2:8,  John 4: 31-35

The essence of the Gospel is a call to action for Christians to actively share their faith. Today, we explore the practical steps of living out this calling in our daily lives—whether through acts of kindness, compassion, or actually sharing the details of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Living as a Christian means living out the Great Commission. We are called to go out and make disciples baptizing in the name of Father.  As we begin 2024, we are challenged to reach our "one" and see how God will multiply it for his name sake. 

Leadership matters but is not limited to Pastors and Elders of a church.  All Christians are leaders and are called to follow Jesus and to be leaders of others.  Today, we explore what the Bible says about the characteristics of such people. 

As we depart 2023 and look forward to 2024 we thank God for all that He has done and remind ourselves what His Church is to look like to the body of believers and the community around them. Join us at Chris O'neal guides us through the scriptures.

Christmas epitomizes the Great Exchange, as Christ left heavenly glory for earthly humility, exchanging praise for condemnation and a crown for a cross. Amidst our gift exchanges, we reflect on the profound love and sacrifice of the season, rejoicing in the ultimate gift of salvation. Scripture: Luke 1:30-35, Luke 2:6-7, Matthew 26: 63-68, Matthew 27: 21-23