Teaching
We gather around the scriptures to learn the unfolding story of God.
Jesus on Anger – Matthew 5:20-26
We live in a moment that can be described as the "Age of Outrage". Harboring anger, retaliation, and contempt for others has become normalized. However, Jesus calls his followers to a different way of embracing reconciliation over outrage.
The Law and The Prophets – Matthew 5:17-20
At the heart of the culture wars, church division, and Christian conflicts lies the Bible. The most well-read book in human history. Jesus shares his understanding of the Bible in Matthew 5:17-20.
Salt and Light – Matthew 5:12-16
In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus describes his followers as salt and light in the world. This metaphor articulates a Jesus-vision for his followers to be visible disciples showing up to the places we live, work, and play.
The Beatitudes – Matthew 5:1-11
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount begins with the discourse commonly known as "the Beatitudes"; a list of eight types of people who are blessed by God, and it isn't those we expected.
Repent, for the Kingdom has Arrived – Matthew 4:17-23
The words that begin the ministry of Jesus are “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand”. Repentance has come to mean something like “be more spiritual”, “clean up your act”, or a moral revival. While repentance may include those things – they are an incomplete depiction of repentance. As Jesus used it, “repent” is to change your mind or to rethink–– it is a rethinking that has a profound impact on your life and who you are.
Devoted to Prayer – Matthew 5:5-15
Associate Pastor, Amanda Berger shares what it means for Midtown Church to be a community devoted to Prayer from Matthew 6:5-15.
Devoted to Mission – Luke 10:1-12
Lead pastor, Cassie Ferren shares what it means for Midtown Church to be devoted to the mission of God from Luke 10:1-12.
Practicing the Sabbath
Alex and Cassie continue to discuss the theme of Sabbath in scripture and discuss some practices to incorporate weekly. Maybe you have never practiced Sabbath before or you have set aside a day off but have never been intentional about your rest. This guide is designed to help you and/or your family to learn more about Sabbath, design a plan, and incorporate practices to be intentional with your rest.
God’s Design for Sabbath
As a Church, we believe in the value of Sabbath, a day set apart each week in which we abstain from work and make space for Jesus as we rest. By large, the concept of Sabbath is antithetical to the American culture of hustle and go-go-go. Unfortunately, the Church and Christ-followers, including us, have succumbed to this addiction to business. Cassie and Alex introduce the theme of Sabbath throughout scripture and its importance as we bear witness to the Kingdom of Jesus.
Celebrating Juneteenth
In this episode of the Midtown Church podcast, Benjamin Ford joins to talk about the meaning of Juneteenth for the United States and for the Church of Christ.
Spiritual Warfare like Jesus
Preston Ulmer, the founder of the Doubter's Club and director of network development for the Church Multiplication Network, joins the podcast to talk about engaging in spiritual warfare like Jesus. Oftentimes the phrase “spiritual warfare” is used as a phrase to describe a form of superstitious spirituality that we do not see in the life of Christ. Rather, what if we thought of spiritual warfare as working towards human flourishing?
Pentecost, George Floyd, Neighboring, and Possum Trot, MO
Cassie and Alex take the opportunity to reflect on the first few months of 2021 by sharing thoughts on Pentecost Sunday, the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death, what it looks like to neighbor well, and share a few resources they’ve enjoyed learning from.
Creating Space for Women
In this episode of the Midtown Church podcast, Cassie talks about the dynamics of being a female leader in the church and how we can make space for more women.
The Stigma of Vocation
In this episode of the Midtown Church podcast, Joshua Knowles shares his experience in transitioning out of full-time church ministry into social work.
Why Ascension Day Matters
Thursday, May 13 is when the Church celebrates Ascension Day. Forty days after the Resurrection Sunday Jesus took his place at the right hand of God the Father.
Our Strange Church Calendar
Alex and Cassie talk about the significance of following the church calendar.
Severe Mental Illness and the Church
Cody Bivins joins the podcast for a conversation on severe mental illness, culture, and the Church.
On Friendship & Singleness
Amanda Berger, Midtown Church’s pastor of community engagement, joins the podcast to talk about singleness, healthy friendships, and the church.
Crucifixion and the Politics of Jesus
On this Good Friday, Alex and Cassie talk about the Gospel of Mark’s subversive telling of the Jesus’ final days.
Formative Practices
Part 4 of “how do I become like Jesus?”. Alex and Cassie discuss creating intentional habits that are Jesus-like putting us into the gospel narrative.