VCLA Podcast

Does it feel like your world is collapsing? In this powerful message, we dive deep into Habakkuk Chapter 3 to discover that trusting God isn't a "quick fix"—it's a process. Whether you are facing financial strain, a broken marriage, or physical anxiety that makes your "bones tremble," there is a way to move from fear to faith. Pastor Josh shares a relatable (and hilarious) story about a Nintendo S...

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or constantly craving "more" despite having everything you need? In this convicting and powerful message, we dive into Habakkuk 2 to uncover the three primary idols that dominate modern culture: Security, Escape, and Control. The human heart is an "idol factory," as John Calvin once said. We often take good or neutral things and turn them into gods, demanding...

Are you feeling overwhelmed, hurried, or anxious about the future? In this week's message, we continue our journey through the prophetic book of Habakkuk, focusing on the powerful lessons found in Chapter 2. Most of us react to uncertainty by trying to grab control, seeking comfort in our own strength. But Habakkuk shows us a different way: The Watchtower. Instead of losing his mind in the chaos,...

Are you walking into 2026 with high expectations, only to feel like reality is already falling apart? In this powerful message, Pastor Josh opens our brand-new series, "Staying Grounded," by diving into the small but mighty book of Habakkuk. Unlike other prophets who speak for God to the people, Habakkuk speaks for us—crying out with honesty, frustration, and even anger when it feels like God is s...

What do you do when God gives you a sign? In this powerful Christmas message, we dive deep into Matthew 2 and the real story of the Magi. Forget the sentimental nativity scenes—the Magi were intellectual powerhouses, astronomers, and "outsiders" who traveled for two years across a dangerous desert just to worship a toddler. Whether you are a lifelong follower of Jesus or someone still "working thr...

Pastor Josh takes us through the Gospel accounts in Luke 1 and Matthew 1, revealing how the willing "Yes" of two teenagers laid the foundation for the entire Christian faith. Learn why the historical and theological necessity of the Immaculate Conception is central to the Gospel, and how their faith—in the face of confusion, social ostracization, and mystery—serves as a powerful invitation for us...

Are you tired of feeling like you have to argue people into the Kingdom of God? Do you want to see your workplace, your city, and your family transformed, but don't know where to start? In this final message of our Romans series, we dive into Chapter 15 to uncover the Apostle Paul’s personal "secret sauce" for ministry. Paul didn't just tell the Romans what to do; he showed them how to live. We mo...

Pastor Joel dives into Romans 14 and 15, anchoring the church's call to radical acceptance and unity in the profound reality of Christ's welcome. In a city as diverse and intense as Los Angeles, Paul’s command to "Accept one another, just as Christ accepted you" (Romans 15:7) becomes a prophetic sign pointing to the Kingdom of God. This sermon challenges us to choose unity over uniformity, peace o...

In a world filled with anxiety, overwhelm, and conflicting desires, how do followers of Jesus navigate complex dynamics and make wise decisions? Pastor Josh continues our series in the Book of Romans, pivoting from what we learn and feel to how we act in the world. The Apostle Paul gives us two simple yet staggering foundations for life as a Christian: Honor and Love. This sermon dives deep into R...

Are you tired of trying to change only to fall back into old habits? This sermon is the GAME CHANGER you've been waiting for. Pastor Josh dives into Romans 12:1-2, marking a massive shift in Paul's letter from deep theology to radical, everyday spiritual formation and practice. This isn't self-help or 'white-knuckle' religion; it's a Spirit-powered process to become more like Jesus Christ! Learn t...

You've tried everything. You've worked hard, you've been faithful, and you've followed all the rules, but you still feel like you're just outside the favor of God—close, but so far. Or maybe you're in a season of brokenness, doubt, and rebellion, feeling completely lost and unable to see the way forward. In this powerful sermon, Pastor unpacks the incredible, and sometimes ridiculous, way Jesus di...

This week, Pastor Josh dives into one of the Bible's most challenging and misunderstood chapters: Romans 9. We explore Paul's anguish and the profound distinction Jesus makes in the Parable of the Prodigal Son between the rebellious sinner (the younger brother) and the self-righteous believer (the older brother). Many of us who grew up in the church, who were "faithful," who "never ran away," stru...

Is following Jesus hard right now? You're not alone. In this powerful sermon on Romans 8, Pastor Josh dives deep into the reality of Christian suffering and the mind-blowing, purposeful plan God has for you in the midst of it.  Many people quote Romans 8:28 as a "coffee mug verse," but this message unpacks the profound theological context of Paul’s words, showing that God is not surprised or worri...

Do your good desires keep turning into crippling, ungodly obsessions? You're not alone. This sermon explores the deeply human—and deeply Christian—struggle against the "wretched man" war Paul describes in Romans 7. We all want good things like health, wealth, or a loving marriage, but they quickly become idols that rule our lives and steal our peace. It's not more religious rules or accountability...

Are you tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of sin, shame, and fear, even though you follow Jesus? This powerful message from Romans 6:11-14 is your wakeup call to embrace the freedom that's already yours. Pastor Josh uses the history of Juneteenth to illustrate the spiritual reality: many of us have been declared free, yet we still live as if we're slaves to our past and brokenness. The core messag...

Get ready to tap your feet with the incredible Cheryl Tellis! A beloved member of the Vineyard family, Cheryl opens up about everything from her college disco days in India to the life-changing decision to get baptized as an adult. First, she faces a brutal head-to-head competition to crown the Ultimate Dance Style (spoiler: her favorite is banned). Then, she shares her deeply moving faith journey...

Discover the mind-blowing truth from Romans 5 that changes absolutely everything about your faith and your life! Many of us struggle with anxiety, feel we have to earn God's favor, or question the purpose of our pain. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Brianne walks us through two non-negotiable realities: we have peace with God because of Jesus, and our suffering has purpose. Stop looking for escape...

Join us for a hilarious and insightful chat with Vineyard Church's Executive Pastor, Megan Budd, as she walks (four steps!) from her office to the mic. Megan gives us a peek into the surprisingly non-stop world of an Executive Pastor, from wrangling "Kingdom Cash" in kids' ministry to debating playground quality. Megan opens up about her powerful journey of faith, growing up in Arizona, being a de...

In this life-changing sermon from Romans 3:21-26, Pastor Josh dives deep into the heart of the Gospel: Justification by Faith. If you've ever felt the crushing weight of guilt, sin, or not being "good enough," this message is for you. We all fall short of God's glory—no one is righteous, not one. That's the bad news. But here's the incredible news: Through the amazing grace and finished work of Je...

Ever felt like you're a "good person"? Like you're better than others because you follow the rules? This sermon from Romans 3 will shatter that idea and show you the real problem with our own righteousness. Join Pastor Josh as he unpacks Paul's powerful argument that every single one of us, insiders and outsiders alike, are broken and in desperate need of a righteous God. In this hard-hitting mess...

Join us on the podcast for a fantastic conversation with AJ, a member of our Vineyard Church family. We start with some lighthearted but important questions, like her take on the five-second rule and the best breakfast foods. But the conversation quickly goes deeper as AJ shares her powerful and unique story. From her parents' conversions, to her own childhood growing up in China and navigating a...

Do you feel ashamed of your past or what you believe? You're not alone. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Josh dives into Romans 1:16-17, revealing why the Gospel isn't just good news—it's the most life-changing, world-altering message we could ever share. Discover the three reasons Paul was completely unashamed of his faith and how this same boldness can transform your life, your relationships, and...

Join the staff of Vineyard Church for a hilarious and shockingly candid episode! Executive Pastor Megan sits down with the Vineyard team for a speed round of "Never Have I Ever." From peeing in the shower to winging a sermon, they spill all the beans and give you an unfiltered look at their lives, work, and the wild world of ministry. Get ready to laugh and discover what's really happening behind...

Are you feeling burnt out, exhausted, and overwhelmed? In a culture of constant hustle, we’ve lost the rhythm God designed for us. Join Pastor Joel as he shares his personal, transformative journey on a sabbatical and a pilgrimage across Spain. He uncovers the ancient, yet vital, truth of Sabbath and how it's not a luxury—it's oxygen for our souls. Drawing from his own experiences climbing physica...

Join us on the From the Vine podcast with special guest Mieko Poindexter! A recent high school grad. Mieko shares stories about her life; She dives into her experience growing up in the Catholic Church, finding her way to Vineyard, and her journey of starting a Bible study at her Catholic high school. Mieko also gives us a sneak peek into her incredible plans for the next nine months as she embark...