Navigation Church

Navigation Church
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Biweekly

Navigation Church is a community where you can be real, ask hard questions, and discover your next step in God’s Story. We do that by translating confusing theology into real talk, openly sharing our struggles and triumphs, and helping people make sense of God and grow in relationship with him.

  1. 6d ago

    Upside Down Way of God – Weakness is Strength

    Weakness is Strength What happens when the thing you trust most about yourself finally fails? In this message, we explore the life of Peter and the surprising journey from self-confidence to Spirit-dependence. Peter loved Jesus. He wanted to obey Jesus. He believed he would never abandon Jesus. Yet time after time, Peter found himself relying on his own courage, understanding, devotion, and strength. It wasn’t until his confidence in himself finally collapsed that he discovered the power of God’s grace. Through Peter’s story, we’ll wrestle with some honest questions: Where do we trust ourselves more than God? Where do we rely on our own effort instead of His presence? And what happens when life reveals we’re weaker than we thought? Drawing from 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, we’ll discover that God’s power is not perfected through our strength, but through our surrender. Because before Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from Peter. After Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from the Spirit. And that changes everything. God is not looking for impressive people. He is looking for dependent people. Philippians 2:5-8 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from Peter’s journey?  Was there a specific moment in Peter’s life where you saw yourself? Before Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from Peter. After Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from the Spirit.  What do you think is the difference between self-confidence and Spirit-dependence? Which of Peter’s “strength strategies” do you relate to most? Courage Understanding Performance Helping others Devotion Passion Control Why? HEART – How did it make you feel? Have you ever experienced a season where God exposed a weakness you didn’t know was there? What did that experience teach you? One of the sermon questions was:  “Where do I trust me more than God?” How would you answer that honestly today? Which statement impacted you most? “Peter was not lying about his love. He was wrong about his strength.” “The rooster did not expose Peter to Jesus. It exposed Peter to Peter.” “Jesus did not restore Peter’s ego. He restored Peter’s calling.” “God is not looking for impressive people. He is looking for dependent people.” Why? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one area of your life where God may be inviting you to stop relying on your own strength and start relying on His? Please be specific. Peter’s turning point came when he stopped drawing strength from himself. What practical step could you take this week to depend more on God? Examples: Begin your day in prayer. Ask for help. Admit a struggle. Invite accountability. Spend time in Scripture before making a decision. Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  2. May 31

    Upside Down Way of God – Love Your Enemies

    Love Your Enemies What does it really mean to love your enemies? And how do you respond when people hurt you, oppose you, or work against you? In this message from our Upside Down Way of God series, we explore one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus from Matthew 5:43-48 and Luke 6:27-36. While culture teaches outrage, retaliation, and tribalism, Jesus teaches a different way: bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you. Together, we unpack how hatred and bitterness shape the human soul, how modern culture profits from outrage, and why Jesus calls His followers to refuse becoming what wounded them. Most importantly, we discover that loving enemies is not weakness—it is one of the clearest ways we resemble our Father in heaven. Because while we were still enemies, God moved toward us through Christ. The world understands revenge. What shocks people is mercy. Matthew 5:43-48 Luke 6:27-36 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message?  Looking at Matthew 5:43-48, what was wrong with the religious teaching Jesus was correcting? Why do you think people naturally drift toward instead of Kingdom love? tribal love conditional love transactional love Which one of these four commands that Jesus gave feels the hardest to you personally, and why? love your enemies bless those who curse you do good to those who hate you pray for those who mistreat you HEART – How did it make you feel? What did it look like when bitterness or resentment began shaping: your thoughts your speech your attitude your peace Which line impacted you the most, and why? “The Kingdom refuses to become what wounded it.” “Hatred punishes the person carrying it.” “The cross is proof that God loves His enemies.” “You cannot love enemies while protecting ego.” Is there anyone you have quietly stopped seeing as an image-bearer and started viewing only as “the enemy”? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one practical way you can actively show Kingdom love this week? praying for someone refusing gossip blessing instead of retaliating doing good quietly showing compassion releasing bitterness Take a moment and ask yourself: Is there someone I need to forgive?  Is there bitterness I’ve been rehearsing? Is hatred quietly discipling my heart? Now pray together for: healing from offense freedom from bitterness compassion for difficult people the ability to love like Jesus Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  3. May 24

    Upside Down Way of God – Power Through Patience

    Power Through Patience What if patience is not the absence of power, but the pathway to it? In this Pentecost Sunday message, Power Through Patience, Dallas Amsden explores the upside-down way of the Kingdom, where true power does not come through control, speed, or self-reliance. It comes through surrender, waiting, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Looking at Philippians 2, Acts 1–2, and John 14, we’ll see how Jesus models surrendered power through Kenosis, how the disciples waited in unity and prayer before Pentecost, and how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live as witnesses of Jesus in the world. The world says, “Move faster. Take control. Force the outcome.” The Kingdom says, “Wait on the Lord. Empty your hands. Receive the Spirit.” Because in the Kingdom of God, the Spirit fills what surrender empties. Acts 2 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message on Pentecost and patience? Why do you think waiting is often uncomfortable for people? Looking at Acts 1:4-8, why do you think Jesus told the disciples to wait instead of immediately sending them out? What is Kenosis from Philippians 2:5-8, and how did Jesus model surrendered power? HEART – How did it make you feel? Which of these hit closest to home for you: confusing control with peace confusing speed with obedience confusing self-reliance with strength Why? Where in your life do you currently feel like you’re in a “waiting room”? relationships healing finances purpose family clarity spiritual growth What are you most tempted to control when life feels uncertain? What does that reveal about your trust in God? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one area of your life where you need to stop rushing and start trusting God more deeply? What would it practically look like for you to: wait with God instead of rushing ahead of Him? surrender control instead of forcing outcomes? seek God’s presence instead of merely quick solutions? Take a moment and honestly share: Where are you emotionally exhausted from trying to hold everything together yourself? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  4. May 17

    Upside Down Way of God – First Will Be Last

    First Will Be Last What sits on the throne of your heart? And what happens when the pursuit of being first quietly becomes the center of your life? In this message, we confront one of the deepest struggles of modern culture: the obsession with visibility, influence, comparison, and self-promotion. We live in a world where attention has become identity, where followers can feel like significance, and where people are constantly pressured to perform instead of simply live. But Jesus introduces a completely different Kingdom—one where greatness looks like servanthood, humility, surrender, and faithfulness. Through the teachings of Jesus in Mark 9:30-37 and the Parable of the Workers in Matthew 20:1-16, we uncover how comparison creates entitlement, how pride turns life into competition, and why grace feels offensive when we believe we deserve more than others. We also explore the powerful theological idea of Kenosis from Philippians 2:5-8—the self-emptying of Jesus—not as weakness, but as ultimate surrender. Because the Kingdom of God does not reward the loudest voice, the biggest platform, or the most recognized name. Heaven’s scoreboard is different. The world climbs ladders… but the Kingdom washes feet. This message is a challenge to stop building the kingdom of self and surrender the throne to the true King. Because in the end, the goal of Christianity is not self-promotion… it’s self-sacrifice.Message Description Mark 9:30-37 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message?  What does Jesus mean when He says, “the first will be last and the last first”? How does modern culture define greatness differently than the Kingdom of God? Looking at Matthew 20:1-16, why were the workers who came first upset even though they received exactly what was promised?  Do you think they had a legit reason to be upset? HEART – How did it make you feel? Which line hit you the hardest and why:             “Visibility is not the same as significance.”             “Comparison is the birthplace of resentment.”             “Pride turns life into competition. Humility turns life into calling.” When someone else succeeds, do you naturally celebrate with them… or compare yourself against them?  What does that reveal about your heart? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Where are you tempted to build your identity around visibility instead of obedience? What is one practical way you can choose humility over self-promotion this week? serving quietly encouraging someone else celebrating another person’s success stepping away from comparison choosing faithfulness over attention Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  5. May 10

    Upside Down Way of God – Strength through Surrender

    Strength through Surrender What if surrender isn’t weakness… but trust? And what if the interruptions in your life are invitations from God? In this Mother’s Day message, we look at the story of Mary and discover a powerful Kingdom truth: God often does His greatest work through surrendered people. Mary’s life was interrupted by a promise she didn’t fully understand, a process she didn’t control, and a future she could not clearly see. Yet her response became one of the most courageous statements in Scripture: “Be it unto me according to your word.” Together, we explore the biblical idea of Kenosis—the emptying of self—not as becoming less human, but as becoming fully surrendered to the God who created us. From Mary’s “yes” to Jesus surrendering Himself in Philippians 2, we discover that the Christian life is not about clinging tighter to control but learning to trust God more deeply through the process. Because the truth is, most of us want the promise without the preparation. We want the destination without the journey. But God is not only concerned with where He is taking you… He is shaping who you become along the way. This message is an invitation to loosen your grip on fear, control, and self-preservation—and trust that surrender in the hands of God is never wasted.  Because sometimes the very thing that feels like interruption… is preparation for purpose. Luke 1: 26-38 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message? How is biblical surrender different from weakness or giving up? Why do you think God often reveals purpose progressively instead of giving us the whole picture at once? HEART – How did it make you feel? Which line hit you the most: “God’s plans often arrive disguised as interruptions.” “The process is not punishment—it’s preparation.” “Faith trusts God before it understands God.” What area of your life is hardest for you to surrender and why: control timing future comfort reputation understanding other? DEEP HEART QUESTION… Are you more focused on the destination God promised… or the person God is forming? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one practical way you can surrender control to God this week? Where do you sense God may be developing your character instead of simply changing your circumstances? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  6. May 3

    Brave: What Faith Does to Fear – Fear of Loneliness

    Fear of Loneliness What if the loneliness you feel isn’t a flaw… but a signal? And what if the life you’re trying to build was never meant to be built alone? In this final week of BRAVE: What Faith Does to Fear, we take an honest look at one of the most common—and most hidden—fears people carry: loneliness. In a world where we’ve never been more connected, we’re discovering that connection doesn’t always mean community. From the beginning, God said it was not good for man to be alone. Scripture consistently points us toward something deeper than independence—a life of shared purpose, shared burdens, and shared growth. Because you can believe alone… but you grow together. We explore the tension between a culture that celebrates self-sufficiency and a Kingdom that calls us into interdependence. We look at what true community looked like in the early church, why it wasn’t forced but fueled by transformed hearts, and how real connection is still possible today. This message isn’t just about understanding loneliness…It’s about stepping out of it. Because at the end of the day, you don’t just need a plan from God— you need people from God. And maybe the step you’ve been avoiding…is the one that changes everything. Psalms 68:6 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What is the difference between being connected and being known? Looking at Genesis 2:18, why do you think God said it was not good for man to be alone? How does Acts 2:42-47 challenge the way we typically think about church and community today? HEART – How did it make you feel? When do you feel loneliness the most—crowds, quiet moments, stress, or something else? Have you ever experienced a season where you had “everything”… but still felt alone? Which line hit you the most: “You can believe alone… but you grow together.” “If you have everything… but no one… you’re still missing something.” HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Do you tend to:       – isolate when things get hard       – or move toward people Loneliness is real—and it’s felt deeply.  Take a moment and share (if comfortable) Where have you felt alone recently? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  7. Apr 26

    Brave: What Faith Does to Fear – Fear of Rejection

    Fear of Rejection What if rejection isn’t something to avoid… but something to understand? And what if the pain you’ve been trying to escape… is actually pointing you toward something deeper? In this message, we walk through the Beatitudes and discover a powerful truth: the journey of following Jesus doesn’t end with peace—it often leads to resistance. From being poor in spirit to becoming peacemakers, Jesus shows us how God transforms us first… and then works through us in a world that doesn’t always receive it. We take an honest look at rejection—what it is, how it shows up, and why it hurts so deeply (even on a neurological level). But more importantly, we uncover the difference between rejection that calls us to grow… and rejection that confirms we’re living out our faith. Because not all rejection is persecution—but when you follow Jesus fully, some rejection is inevitable. And here’s the hope: The same Jesus who spoke about persecution also lived it. He was pursued, opposed, misunderstood, and rejected—so that you could be accepted. This message will help you discern your response to rejection, stand firm in truth, and trust that what feels painful may actually be proof that you’re pursuing something worth it. Because sometimes the pushback you feel…isn’t a sign you’re off track—it’s a sign you’re right where God wants you. Here is a Fear of Rejection Resource PDF Matthew 5:1-11 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from the Beatitudes this week? How does the progression from Revelation (God changes me, steps 1-4) to Realization (I change the world, steps 5-8) help you understand spiritual growth? How would you explain the difference between persecution and rejection? HEART – How did it make you feel? Have you ever experienced rejection that made you pull back, hide, or stop trying? Which type do you relate to more right now:    Christ-centered rejection (because of obedience, truth, or faith)     Self-centered rejection (because of pride, tone, or personal struggle) Do you tend to avoid rejection at all costs… or do you sometimes assume all rejection means you’re right? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one area where you may need to:       Stand firm (if the rejection is Christ-centered)       Step back and grow (if the rejection is self-centered) Is there a relationship or situation where you need to move toward peacemaking, even if it risks rejection? Group Action / Prayer Moment Take a moment as a group: Where have you been letting rejection define you? Where might God be using that moment to refine you? Pray for one another—for courage to stand, humility to grow, and clarity to discern the difference. Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  8. Apr 19

    Brave: What Faith Does to Fear – Fear of Failure

    Fear of Failure What if failure isn’t the thing you should fear most? And what if the very thing you’ve been trying to avoid… is where God is trying to meet you? In Week 3 of Brave: What Faith Does to Fear, we tackle the fear of failure—a fear that doesn’t just come from messing up, but from what failure says about us. From the stories of Scripture to a real-life conversation about chasing dreams, this message exposes how fear often disguises itself as wisdom and keeps us from going all in on what God has called us to. But here’s the truth: failure is not final, and it’s not wasted. Through redemption, God rescues us from the penalty of our failure. Through sanctification, He transforms us so it no longer defines us. And in our weakest moments, His power is revealed the most. This message will challenge the way you think about failure, uncover what it’s really revealing in your life, and remind you that you don’t have to run from it—you can trust God in it. Because when everything feels like it’s falling apart… you may be standing in the very place where His grace shows up the strongest.Message Description Proverbs 24:16, Proverbs 28:13, 2 Corinthians 12:8-9, Romans 8:28, Galatians 6:4-5 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message?  Why do you think the Bible is so honest about the failures of its main characters? What is the difference between redemption and sanctification, and why do both matter when it comes to failure? Redemption is God rescuing you from the penalty of your failure through Jesus. Sanctification is God transforming you over time so failure no longer defines you. What does it mean that “failure reveals what success hides” HEART – How did it make you feel? When you hear the word failure, what do you feel first—fear, shame, frustration, pressure? Is there an area of your life right now where fear of failure is holding you back? Do you tend to avoid failure by:   not trying lowering expectations creating backup plans Which one do you relate to most? DEEP HEART QUESTION: What do you think failure says about you… and do you believe that’s what God says about you? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one area where you need to step out in faith this week—even if there’s a chance you might fail?  What would it look like for you to trust God instead of fear in that situation? What is one thing you’ve been avoiding because you’re afraid to fail?  What would it look like to take one step toward it this week? Group Action / Prayer Moment Over the past few weeks we have been asking the question, “Who should have been sitting next to you?”.  Who in your life is dealing with fear, pressure, or failure right now?  Who have you failed to invite out of fear? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

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About

Navigation Church is a community where you can be real, ask hard questions, and discover your next step in God’s Story. We do that by translating confusing theology into real talk, openly sharing our struggles and triumphs, and helping people make sense of God and grow in relationship with him.

Information

  • Creator
    Navigation Church
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Navigation Church