Rooted and Grounded

109 Church of Christ

"so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love" - Ephesians 3:17 Connect with God through this study of scripture looking at the roots and grounded truths we can draw from the text. 109.church

  1. 10/21/2025

    Lifted Up: Why The Ascension Matters

    A cloud didn’t end the story—it expanded it. We dive into Acts 1:6–11 to explore why the ascension is not Jesus’ exit, but the moment His earthly ministry gives way to His heavenly reign and the church’s global mission. If you’ve ever wondered why He had to go, or how the Spirit changes ordinary people into bold witnesses, this conversation brings clarity and courage. We start with the disciples’ honest question about restoring Israel and uncover how Jesus redirects their focus from timelines to power. The ascension becomes the necessary pivot for Pentecost, where the Spirit empowers the witness that spreads from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. Along the way, we unpack how the ascension confirms the Father’s acceptance of the Son’s perfect work, why intercession matters for your prayer life, and how Ephesians 2 repositions our identity with Christ in the heavenly places. We also sit with the angels’ words: stop staring and start serving. Readiness for Christ’s return is not a countdown; it’s a calling. Expectation turns into action—repentance today, courage today, love today—because the same Jesus who ascended will come again. If you need a fresh vision for mission, a deeper confidence in prayer, or a reason to raise your eyes without leaving the ground, this one is for you. If this conversation stirred you, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a review so others can find the show. Tell us: what changes in your life when you live between ascension and return? Learn More at 109.church We invite you to join us in this journey of faith. If you would like to learn more about a deeper relationship with God or need someone to pray with, please reach out to us at hello@109.church. We are here to support and encourage you in your spiritual growth.

    28 min
  2. 05/07/2025

    Beyond Happiness: Finding Untouchable Joy in Jesus

    Ever wondered about the difference between a fruit and a vegetable? Beyond the culinary distinction, there's a profound spiritual lesson—fruits contain seeds that spread life, while vegetables are merely structural. This botanical truth launches us into Jesus' powerful teaching that He is the Vine and we are the branches. When you disconnect a branch from its life source, it withers rapidly. Many of us have seen this in our gardens—cut a stalk, and everything attached to it dies. This vivid imagery perfectly captures what happens in our spiritual lives when we're disconnected from Christ. The difference is stark: permanent withering versus abundant growth. Abiding in Christ isn't a casual visit; it's taking up permanent residence. Think about the difference between staying at someone else's house versus being in your own home. At home, you experience comfort, safety, and belonging. Too many Christians want to "visit Jesus' house" occasionally rather than making Him their permanent dwelling place. True discipleship means Christ is your address, not your destination. The purpose of this abiding relationship becomes clear—bearing fruit that glorifies God and proves our discipleship is genuine. This fruit isn't just good works but encompasses the entirety of the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. And just as fruit contains seeds, our spiritual fruitfulness spreads faith to others. Perhaps most profound is Jesus' promise that abiding in Him produces joy—not mere happiness that fluctuates with circumstances, but deep, untouchable joy that persists even through trials. As James tells us, we can "count it all joy" during difficulties because our joy isn't dependent on external conditions but on our connection to the Vine. Are you merely visiting Christ occasionally, or have you taken up permanent residence in Him? The difference isn't just semantic—it's the difference between life and death, between withering and flourishing, between temporary happiness and lasting joy. Listen now and discover how staying connected to Jesus as the true Vine transforms everything about how you live and grow. Learn More at 109.church We invite you to join us in this journey of faith. If you would like to learn more about a deeper relationship with God or need someone to pray with, please reach out to us at hello@109.church. We are here to support and encourage you in your spiritual growth.

    30 min
  3. 04/29/2025

    Why Did Early Christians Call Themselves "The Way"?

    Standing amid the tension and uncertainty of the Last Supper, Jesus offers his troubled disciples a powerful declaration that would anchor the faith of millions for millennia to come: "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Imagine the scene—confusion fills the air as Jesus speaks of betrayal and denial. The disciples' hearts race with anxiety about what lies ahead. It's precisely in this moment of emotional turmoil that Jesus provides clarity that cuts through their fear. Wayne and Matt unpack this profound statement verse by verse, revealing how early Christians so embraced this concept that they called themselves followers of "The Way." The conversation moves beyond theological abstractions to practical application. What does it mean when Jesus claims to be "the truth" in a world where truth feels increasingly relative? How does following Jesus' way lead not to restriction but to freedom? The hosts explore how every commandment Jesus gives is designed not to burden us but to benefit us—contrary to the chaos that results from following our own whims. Most compellingly, they illuminate how Jesus doesn't merely point to a way of living—he embodies it through his perfect life of obedience, love, and humility. When life feels like "a small boat in a strong storm out on the sea," Jesus provides not just a destination but accompaniment along the journey. Whether you're questioning your direction in life, struggling with competing truth claims, or searching for purpose beyond the daily grind, this episode offers a lighthouse perspective to navigate life's storms with confidence. Join us as we discover why Jesus' identity as way, truth, and life matters not just for eternity but for finding peace and purpose today. Learn More at 109.church We invite you to join us in this journey of faith. If you would like to learn more about a deeper relationship with God or need someone to pray with, please reach out to us at hello@109.church. We are here to support and encourage you in your spiritual growth.

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

"so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love" - Ephesians 3:17 Connect with God through this study of scripture looking at the roots and grounded truths we can draw from the text. 109.church