The Echo Church Podcast
The Echo Church podcasts exist to equip disciples to make disciples. It's the official podcast of Echo Church in Orange County, California.
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Encounters | What Now? Don't Just Sit There! Acts 16 6-10 | Pastor Jason Polk
08/26/2025
Encounters | What Now? Don't Just Sit There! Acts 16 6-10 | Pastor Jason Polk
This sermon challenges us to move beyond comfort and passivity in our faith by sharing the life changing message of Jesus with others. Using a striking story of a man who drifted away in a lawn chair attached to weather balloons, Pastor Jason illustrates how easy it is to stay seated while the world passes by. Just as Peter and John told the healed man at the temple gate, “What now?” we too are called to rise, go, and reach those who may never hear the good news unless we speak. God is on the move, will we move with Him?
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Encounters | When Jesus Sees You John 9 1-7 | Pastor Rick Young
08/19/2025
Encounters | When Jesus Sees You John 9 1-7 | Pastor Rick Young
In John 9, Jesus heals a man born blind—and Pastor Rick shows how that same encounter plays out in our own lives. Through personal stories of loss, obedience, and family, he reminds us that Jesus sees us, changes us, and gives us a story worth sharing with courage!
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Encounters | Identity Crisis Luke 5: 27-32 | Mikhail Alfon
08/14/2025
Encounters | Identity Crisis Luke 5: 27-32 | Mikhail Alfon
Who Are You, Really? — With Mikhail Alfon | Echo Church In this powerful and deeply personal message, Mikhail Alfon returns to the Echo Church stage to unpack the question: "Who am I?" Sharing from his own season of radical change—selling his business, becoming a father of two, and stepping into a new career—Mikhail explores how transformation often shakes our identity to the core. Through the lens of Levi the tax collector and his encounter with Jesus in Luke 5, Mikhail challenges listeners to rethink how we define ourselves. Are we still clinging to who we used to be? Or are we stepping fully into who God is calling us to become? Whether you’re navigating a major life change or wrestling with daily identity struggles, this message speaks to the moments when faith feels uncertain and the future unclear. Mikhail reminds us that true identity isn’t found in our careers, past, or mistakes—but in Jesus, who calls us to follow Him and invites us into something far greater. Topics covered: Letting go of old identities and stepping into new ones How Jesus meets us in our lowest places Being a light to our communities, not an echo chamber Why the people around us matter when our identity shifts Personal stories of transformation, parenting, and faith Scripture: Luke 5:27–32 | Matthew 9:9 If you’ve ever wondered who you really are or what’s next in your faith journey, this episode is for you.
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Encounters | Sitting at the Feet of Jesus- Luke 10 | Pastor Jason Polk
08/10/2025
Encounters | Sitting at the Feet of Jesus- Luke 10 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason Polk continues the Encounters series by looking at Luke 10:38–42, the story of Mary and Martha. In the midst of our culture’s constant busyness and distraction, even good things can pull us away from the “one necessary thing.” Using the story of Mary and Martha, Pastor Jason contrasts the diligent, distracted mindset of our culture vs. the attentive, disciple mindset of Mary. Jason stressed that serving is good and biblical, but it must flow from time spent with Jesus. Without that order—being with Him first—service can become self-focused, joyless, and exhausting. Pastor Jason uses this encounter to give three challenges: Know the difference between distraction and divine interruption – Live “indistractable” when it comes to God’s will, yet ready to be interrupted for His work. Choose His best over your distracted good – Don’t let good activities crowd out the essential priority of being with Jesus. Don’t let distraction enslave an insecure heart – Busyness often masks a need for significance from others instead of resting in God’s love. Jason closes by pointing out that every time Mary appears in Scripture after this, she’s at Jesus’ feet—listening, grieving, or worshiping. He invites the church to follow that example: focused and submissive. Rachel Polk, Jason's wife, then shared a personal testimony about realizing she had been in a “Martha season”—busy, numb, and spiritually dry. She urged listeners to fight daily for undistracted time with God, warning that Satan often uses busyness to keep believers numb and disconnected.
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Encounters | A Ghost Story on the Sea of Galilee: Matthew 14:22-33 | Ray Machen-Gray
08/10/2025
Encounters | A Ghost Story on the Sea of Galilee: Matthew 14:22-33 | Ray Machen-Gray
In this message, Ray Machen-Gray invites the Echo Church family to pause, be fully present, and remember the staggering truth that the God who created the universe loves each of us personally and desires relationship with us. Drawing from 1 John 4 and the story of Peter walking on water in Matthew 14, Ray explores what it means to live in that love and to obey Jesus, even when His instructions seem counterintuitive or hard. Ray emphasizes that the point of the story isn’t Peter’s failure, but his willingness to get out of the boat at all—and Jesus’ loving, immediate response when he faltered. Obedience, persistence, and desire for Jesus matter more than qualifications or strength. Ray challenges the church to: Live in the present with God, meeting Him “in the now.” Obey Jesus even when it’s inconvenient or doesn’t make sense. Pursue Jesus above all else, preferring to be with Him in the storm than safe without Him. Be willing to step out publicly, encouraging others with visible faith. Recognize our need, cry out quickly for help, and trust Jesus to rescue. Engage in evangelism so others can experience this life-changing love. The sermon closes with a call for the Echo Church community to commit to stepping out—whether in prayer, outreach, giving, or personal witness—trusting that Jesus will meet them in obedience and use them to reach those who don’t yet know Him.
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Encounters | A Boat Full of Freaking Fish: Luke 5: 1-11 | Pastor Jason Polk
07/23/2025
Encounters | A Boat Full of Freaking Fish: Luke 5: 1-11 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this powerful message, Pastor Jason Polk takes us to Luke 5 and the life-changing moment when Simon Peter encounters Jesus by the Sea of Galilee. As Peter washes his nets after an unfruitful night of fishing, Jesus steps into his boat and into his life—issuing a call that will alter Peter’s future forever. Pastor Jason unpacks the simple yet transformative response: “If you say so.” He challenges listeners to recognize when Jesus is pursuing them—often in the middle of routine, distraction, or doubt. This sermon is a heartfelt invitation to pause, listen, and respond to Jesus’ call. Are we willing to drop our nets, let go of control, and trust Him—even when it doesn’t make sense? Whether you're distracted, disinterested, or deeply curious, this message reminds us that Jesus often meets us right where we are—and calls us into something greater.
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Encounters | Touching Jesus: Mark 5:25-34 | Pastor Ken Polk
07/18/2025
Encounters | Touching Jesus: Mark 5:25-34 | Pastor Ken Polk
In this heartfelt sermon, Pastor Ken Polk, father of Pastor Jason Polk, shares a moving message at Echo Church centered on the healing of the woman with the issue of blood from Mark 5. Ken reflects on the themes of faith, persistence, and the courage to reach out to Jesus even in the midst of a crowd. Drawing on personal anecdotes, biblical teaching, and reflections on the nature of crowds and faith, he emphasizes how Jesus responds not just to casual contact but to sincere, faith-filled hearts. Ken encourages listeners to consider their own condition—whether physical, spiritual, or emotional—and challenges them to press through life's obstacles to make a personal connection with Christ. He reminds us that Jesus sees and responds to those who reach out in faith, offering healing, peace, and transformation. The message culminates in a call to honest confession, public faith, and the assurance that only Jesus can truly satisfy the deepest needs of our souls. No matter how overlooked or hopeless we feel, Jesus notices a heart of real faith. Step out of the crowd, reach for Him, and He will respond.
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Encounters | So Close Yet so Far Away! Matthew 19:16-22 | Pastor Jason Polk
07/15/2025
Encounters | So Close Yet so Far Away! Matthew 19:16-22 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this message, Pastor Jason continues the Encounters series by teaching on Jesus’ conversation with the Rich Young Ruler in Matthew 19. Through this story, we’re reminded that it’s possible to do all the “right” things, ask all the “right” questions, and still miss what truly matters if we’re unwilling to fully surrender to Jesus. Pastor Jason challenges us to examine our own hearts: What are we holding onto that’s keeping us from fully following Christ? This message invites us to reflect on the barriers — whether possessions, pride, intellect, or comfort — that prevent us from laying our lives fully at Jesus’ feet. True encounters with Jesus demand everything, but in surrender, we find the only thing that truly satisfies: life with Him.
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Encounters | Crowd in the Way or the Friend Finding a Way? : Mark 2:1-12 | Pastor Jason Polk
07/15/2025
Encounters | Crowd in the Way or the Friend Finding a Way? : Mark 2:1-12 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this message, Pastor Jason continues the Encounters series by teaching from Mark 2 about the paralyzed man whose friends lowered him through a roof to reach Jesus. Pastor Jason challenges us to consider: What if the thing you think you need most isn’t actually your greatest need? Jesus surprises the crowd by forgiving the man’s sins before healing his body — reminding us that restoration of our relationship with God is our deepest, most urgent need. This message also calls the church to reflect on how we’re living out our faith. Are we creating space for others to encounter Jesus, or are we standing in the way? Through both conviction and encouragement, Pastor Jason reminds us that we are called not only to be changed by Jesus but to actively help others experience that same life-changing encounter.
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Encounters | The Paul Encounter: Acts 9:1-19 | Pastor Jason Polk
07/15/2025
Encounters | The Paul Encounter: Acts 9:1-19 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this message, Pastor Jason kicks off our new series, Encounters, by looking at the radical transformation of Saul in Acts 9. He reminds us that Jesus is still in the business of interrupting lives, changing hearts, and sending people out with purpose. Through the story of Saul’s encounter with Jesus, we’re challenged to reflect on our own moments of transformation and consider how God might want to use us to bring others into proximity with Him. If you’ve been feeling stuck or distant, this message will encourage you to seek a fresh encounter with Jesus — one that doesn’t just change you but leads you to change the world around you.
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Images of Discipleship: Luke 14:25-35 | Pastor Jason Polk
07/10/2025
Images of Discipleship: Luke 14:25-35 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this episode, Pastor Jason of Echo Church unpacks what it means to be a true disciple of Christ. Drawing on Luke 14, he highlights five essentials: loving Jesus above all else, willingly bearing your cross, counting the cost of commitment, fully surrendering control, and remaining “salt” that preserves and flavors the world with the gospel. Through illustrations—like building a tower or a king seeking peace—Pastor Jason challenges believers to move beyond mere faith toward radical, lifelong devotion. He closes with an invitation to recommit: lift your hands in surrender, stand in worship, or come forward for prayer, and join Echo Church in making disciples who make disciples.
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The Voice of the Shepherd | Pastor Jason Polk
06/06/2025
The Voice of the Shepherd | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason invites us to reflect on what it truly means to be the church—a flock led by the Good Shepherd. Rooted in John 10, this message unpacks the rich imagery of Jesus as both the Door and the Shepherd: the only way into the Kingdom and the one who protects, guides, and knows us by name. Pastor Jason reminds us that following Jesus isn’t about performance or religion—it’s about relationship. He challenges us to ask hard questions: Do we recognize the Shepherd’s voice? Are we following Him together as one flock? And are we willing to walk in the direction He’s breathing life into, even when it doesn’t match our own plans? Whether you’ve wandered or stood faithfully in the fold, this sermon will realign your heart with the Shepherd who doesn’t just save, but walks with you daily. 04:14 The Importance of Community and Service 07:27 Metaphors of the Church: Flock and Shepherd 12:43 Understanding Our Role as Sheep 20:00 Jesus: The Door and Good Shepherd 28:44 Jesus as the Door and Good Shepherd 31:03 The Role of the Good Shepherd 35:44 Jesus Conquers Death for His Sheep 39:33 Expectations of the Sheep 51:44 Following the Shepherd Together
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One Voice: Romans 14-15 | Pastor Jason Polk
05/24/2025
One Voice: Romans 14-15 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of unity and love within the church, particularly in the face of diversity and differing opinions. Drawing from Romans 14 and 15, he discusses how to navigate conflicts and maintain a spirit of acceptance and understanding among believers. The message encourages listeners to prioritize the Word of God over cultural influences and to engage in ministry together, preparing for both challenges and opportunities in the church community. In this conversation, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of loving confrontation among Christians, highlighting that our first instinct should be to love and welcome others before pointing out their flaws. The discussion moves into the necessity of calibrating our conscience to align with God's standards, encouraging believers to engage in meaningful conversations about differences while maintaining love and acceptance. Pastor Jason stresses that the ultimate goal is to build each other up in faith, following Christ's example of love and service, and challenges listeners to love others in ways that resonate with their unique needs. 00:00 Opening Prayer and Heart for the Church 01:12 The Importance of Expositional Teaching 03:37 Preparing for Summer Ministry 05:35 Unity in Diversity: The Church's Challenge 09:53 The Influence of Culture on Christian Behavior 12:11 Adjusting Expectations in the Church 14:31 Love and Diversity of Opinion 17:51 The Greatest Commandments as Our Filter 19:12 Context of Romans: Addressing Conflict 27:28 Accepting One Another in Christ 29:24 Loving Confrontation: The Christian Approach 34:29 Calibrating Conscience: Understanding Right and Wrong 43:12 The Aim of Love: Building Each Other Up 47:01 Following Christ's Example: The Ultimate Model of Love
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The Gathering Hebrews 10:19-25 | Pastor Jason Polk
05/09/2025
The Gathering Hebrews 10:19-25 | Pastor Jason Polk
This week at Echo Church, Pastor Jason takes us into Hebrews 10 to answer a profound question: Why do we gather? In a powerful and heartfelt message, he unpacks the deep spiritual significance of the church community—not as a duty, but as an invitation into something sacred. He reminds us that gathering weekly isn't about obligation; it's about opportunity—an open door into the Holy of Holies made possible through Jesus, our Great High Priest. Pastor Jason challenges us to see church as the place where we live out the confession of our faith, where confidence is nurtured, and action is inspired. It’s more than a meeting—it's a glimpse of heaven. Church is the closest thing we have to holy fellowship with the angels and saints this side of eternity—a sacred rehearsal for the everlasting worship and unbreakable community we’ll one day experience forever.
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The Days Following Easter, Acts 2: 42-47 | Pastor Jason Polk
05/04/2025
The Days Following Easter, Acts 2: 42-47 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason walks us through the foundational marks of the early church, highlighting how believers responded after Christ's resurrection. Beginning with a celebration of worship, Pastor Jason reflects on the importance of the resurrection and how it ignited the formation of the early church. Pastor Jason explores how the church was never meant to be just an institution but a dynamic, Spirit-empowered movement. Through the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit, the early believers lived lives radically devoted to God's purposes. This sermon focuses on five key devotions that shaped the life and impact of the early church: Devotion to the Word of God – A commitment to truth that grounded their faith. Devotion to Community and Fellowship – Living in authentic, sacrificial relationships. Devotion to Worship – Honoring God with hearts full of praise and reverence. Devotion to Witness and Evangelism – Boldly proclaiming the gospel and expanding the Kingdom. With a heartfelt conclusion and call to action, Pastor Jason challenges us to rekindle these devotions in our lives today, reminding us that the same Spirit who empowered the early church is still at work in us now. 00:00 Introduction and Celebration of Worship 02:34 The Importance of the Resurrection and Early Church Formation 06:23 Understanding the Church as a Movement 10:42 Empowerment of the Disciples and the Role of the Holy Spirit 14:29 Devotion of the Early Church 20:23 Devotion to the Word of God 24:30 Devotion to Community and Fellowship 28:20 Devotion to Worship 32:26 Devotion to Witness and Evangelism 36:17 Conclusion and Call to Action
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Looking for Living Things in Dead Places: Easter Service | Pastor Jason Polk
04/23/2025
Looking for Living Things in Dead Places: Easter Service | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason Polk leads us through the heart of the Easter story—where Jesus conquers death, leaves the grave empty, and invites us into resurrection life. Pastor Jason declares that if Jesus got out of the grave, there’s hope for all of us. He shares the significance of the resurrection—not just as a historical event, but a present reality that changes everything. The resurrection invites us to confront the empty tomb and ask ourselves: Why are we still searching for life in dead places? We hear the voices of angels echoing from Luke 24: “He is not here—He has risen.” And from there, Pastor Jason takes us into the weight of that truth: If it’s real, it’s everything. He unpacks common doubts about the resurrection, highlights the bravery of the early disciples who were willing to die for what they saw, and challenges us to consider what we’re doing with the hope we’ve been given. This message is more than a celebration—it’s a commissioning. Because Jesus lives, we are: Saved from our sins. Empowered by His Spirit. Victorious over death. It’s an invitation to run—not to the grave, but to the Savior. To make a new commitment, to stop hiding in shame, and to step into resurrection power. This Easter, Pastor Jason reminds us that the grave has no grip, death has no sting, and hope has a name: Jesus. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Community and Worship 03:14 The Heart of the Church: A Place for Everyone 05:28 The Resurrection: The Foundation of Our Faith 11:00 Exploring Theories of the Resurrection 16:29 The Evidence of the Resurrection 20:24 The Question of the Angels: Seeking Life in Dead Places 25:55 Resurrection Power and Hope 30:45 The Disciples' Encounter with the Risen Christ 33:40 Understanding the Scriptures and Fulfillment of Prophecy 36:54 The Living Hope for Followers of Jesus 44:01 Responding to the Resurrection: Commitments and Worship
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Coronate the King- Luke 19:28-48 | Pastor Jason Polk
04/17/2025
Coronate the King- Luke 19:28-48 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason Polk takes us to the heart of the Palm Sunday narrative—where Jesus is declared King by the crowd, rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, and immediately sets to work flipping tables and expectations. Pastor Jason emphasizes that restoration begins with coronation—acknowledging Jesus as the King of our hearts and lives. Through rich narrative and humor, he paints the scene of a city swelling with hope, a people longing for deliverance, and a Savior who defies every worldly notion of power. He explores the significance of Jesus' obedience to prophecy, His heart that weeps for those who are close yet still far, and His bold act of cleansing the temple—a call to make space for God to truly dwell within us. This message is a powerful reminder that Jesus is not just a gentle King riding in humility—He is a King who remodels, restores, and reigns. And when we throw down our cloaks and declare Him as King, we invite real transformation into every part of our lives. Show Chapters: 00:29 — Why Palm Sunday Still Matters 06:44 — Setting the Scene: Jerusalem’s Crowds & Expectations 12:16 — Prophecy Fulfilled: Why Jesus Rode a Donkey 18:55 — Language Barriers: Misunderstanding the King 24:02 — Jesus Weeps: The Heart of God for His People 30:18 — Turning Tables: The Temple, Remodeling, and Our Hearts 40:01 — House of Prayer or Den of Robbers? 47:55 — Bridge Builders, Not Wall Builders 52:17 — Responding to the King: Reflection and Coronation
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Above & Beyond: The Voice of the Shepherd 1 Kings 18-19 | Pastor Jason Polk
04/03/2025
Above & Beyond: The Voice of the Shepherd 1 Kings 18-19 | Pastor Jason Polk
In this final sermon of the Above and Beyond on Prayer series, Pastor Jason Polk dives deep into 1 Kings 18-19 and the art of listening for God’s voice—the still small whisper that often goes unnoticed. He explains that while we might expect dramatic signs, God often speaks in a gentle, subtle way. Many times, we miss His voice because we aren’t prepared to hear it, or we’re distracted by the noise of everyday life. Pastor Jason highlights several reasons why we might not think God is speaking. He notes that we often fail to expect God to communicate, having been conditioned by past experiences or traditions that don’t emphasize an active, listening relationship with Him. Additionally, our own busy lives and constant distractions drown out that quiet whisper, leaving us wondering whether what we hear is truly from God or just our own thoughts and emotions. To help us discern God’s voice, Pastor Jason offers practical tips: first, test what you hear against Scripture—if it doesn’t align with biblical truth (or the “Jesus test”), it’s not from Him. Second, seek confirmation from your community of faith, as shared wisdom can validate what you perceive. Lastly, take time to reflect in silence, turning down the volume of the world to fully embrace that quiet, transformative moment when God speaks. Show Chapters: 00:31 Listening to God: Understanding His Voice 06:32 How God Speaks: Biblical Examples 09:28 Elijah's Encounter with God 11:42 Understanding How God Speaks 16:09 Barriers to Hearing God's Voice 23:53 Testing the Voice of God 33:02 Learning to Listen to God 42:15 Closing Reflections and Prayer
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Above and Beyond: F(e)asting at God’s Table
03/27/2025
Above and Beyond: F(e)asting at God’s Table
In this sermon, Ray Machen-Gray challenges the church to reframe the way they think about fasting, not as a gloomy act of self-neglect but as an exciting opportunity to feast on Spiritual food at God’s table. We explore the history of fasting in the bible and the early church, why we should fast, and how we can joyfully participate in this practice together to redeem its identity and experience the physical and spiritual benefits of trusting our heavenly Father to satisfy and sustain us. But ultimately, through this sermon, we learn that fasting is a gateway to consistent, powerful, and authentic prayer, that our hunger pangs can actually lead us into a more active and honest relationship with God. Through Jesus teachings on fasting in Matthew 6 and 9, and Paul’s teachings in Colossians 2 and 3, we continue to see that this spiritual practice should not be a “discipline to perfect” or a religious rule to obey, but rather a “dependance to surrender to” and a pathway to proximity with God. Will we accept the invitation?
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Above & Beyond: Restore to Me the Joy | Pastor Jason Polk
03/21/2025
Above & Beyond: Restore to Me the Joy | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of prayer, confession, and genuine repentance when responding to sin. By looking at how Saul and David each handled their failures, Pastor Jason draws out some important truths about repentance. First, we need to acknowledge our sin instead of justifying it. Second, we must take responsibility for our actions, not pass the blame. Finally, true repentance involves coming to God with a sincere heart, seeking a restored relationship with Him, rather than relying on sacrifices or good deeds. Pastor Jason reminds us that real repentance is about honesty, accountability, and a desire for genuine reconciliation with God. This is the only path out of our sin and shame and into God's mercy and joy. 00:00 Understanding Our Identity in Christ 02:28 Exploring Prayer and Dependence on God 12:18 Contrasting Responses to Sin 22:12 The Role of Confession and Repentance 27:17 The Importance of Daily Confession 29:39 Contrasting Attitudes: Saul vs. David 34:14 Acknowledging Sin vs. Justifying It 39:29 Taking Responsibility vs. Passing Blame 45:29 Sacrifices vs. True Brokenness 52:12 The Joy of Restoration and Forgiveness
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Above & Beyond: When Prayers Go Unanswered | Pastor Jason Polk
03/11/2025
Above & Beyond: When Prayers Go Unanswered | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the vital role of persistent prayer in the life of a believer. He acknowledges the common struggles many face in maintaining a consistent prayer life, such as the challenges of self-discipline and doubt. Despite these obstacles, Pastor Jason highlights the example set by Jesus, who, even in His ministry, relied deeply on prayer. He encourages the congregation to approach God with a spirit of desperation, boldness, and unwavering persistence. Through this approach, Pastor Jason reminds listeners that prayer is not just a routine but a powerful and essential connection to God that strengthens faith and deepens trust in His will. Chapters 00:00 The Role of Prayer in Ministry 11:01 The Power of Prayer as Ministry 12:38 Hurdles to Prayer: Self-Discipline and Doubt 14:27 Understanding Unanswered Prayer 16:27 The Parable of Persistence in Prayer 23:47 Desperation, Boldness, and Persistence in Prayer 31:02 Trusting God in Unanswered Prayer 35:36 The Presence of God vs. Answered Prayer
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Above and Beyond | Persistent Prayer | Mikhail Alfon
03/02/2025
Above and Beyond | Persistent Prayer | Mikhail Alfon
In this sermon, the Mikhail discusses the significance of persistent prayer and how it shapes our relationship with God. He emphasizes the importance of communication in prayer, finding joy in trials, and asking for wisdom. Mikhail shares personal experiences and insights on how trials contribute to spiritual growth and the necessity of faith in overcoming doubt. He concludes by encouraging listeners to bring their struggles to God and to engage in a deeper, more meaningful prayer life. Takeaways Persistent prayer is essential for a strong relationship with God. Communication with God should be constant, not occasional. Finding joy in trials is a key aspect of faith. Asking for wisdom in prayer allows for deeper understanding. Trials are opportunities for spiritual growth and maturity. Doubt can hinder our relationship with God and our prayers. Listening to God is as important as speaking in prayer. Prayer should be a posture of surrender and openness. We must bring all our struggles to Jesus, no matter how small. Faith and perseverance in prayer lead to spiritual completeness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Persistent Prayer 06:01 The Importance of Communication in Prayer 11:33 Finding Joy in Trials 17:00 Asking for Wisdom in Prayer 23:06 The Role of Trials in Spiritual Growth 27:23 The Power of Faith and Doubt 31:06 The Essence of Prayer and Listening to God 35:41 Conclusion and Call to Action
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Above & beyond: The Promises and Conditions of Prayer | Pastor Jason Polk
02/26/2025
Above & beyond: The Promises and Conditions of Prayer | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason talks about the incredible power of prayer. He highlights Jesus many promises about prayer throughout Scripture, promises that guarantee that prayer will bear results—those who seek will find, and those who knock will get an answer. But Pastor Jason also reminds us that there are important conditions to prayer. Rather than praying timidly, we need to approach God with boldness and child-like faith, believing that our prayers have power and that God will move. 00:00 Prayer: A Relationship, Not a Ritual 21:57 The Transformative Power of Prayer 30:09 Parenting and Spiritual Growth 36:47 Faith and Trust in God
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Above & Beyond: Our Reward | Pastor Jason Polk
02/18/2025
Above & Beyond: Our Reward | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of praying faithfully—not simply to receive earthly rewards, but to experience the greatest reward of all: an intimate, daily relationship with our Creator. Using Matthew 6, Pastor Jason highlights key truths about prayer from Jesus' teachings. Jesus models the importance of identifying the object of our prayer, committing to God's purposes, asking for help, and most importantly, seeking the presence of God. While the structure of the Sermon on the Mount provides valuable guidance, Pastor Jason stresses that "prayer is not a discipline to perfect but a dependence to surrender to.” Ultimately, this sermon encourages listeners to faithfully build a relationship with God through prayer and recognize that God is our ultimate reward. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Worship and Surrender 02:54 Understanding Prayer as a Relationship 05:44 The Role of Faith in Prayer 09:09 The Lord's Prayer: Structure and Purpose 11:42 The Importance of Motive in Prayer 14:58 The Concept of Reward in Prayer 17:51 Pursuing God as Our Reward 21:05 How to Pray: Practical Steps 23:53 Seeking God's Presence in Prayer
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Above & Beyond: Water Guns In a Wild Fire | Pastor Jason Polk
02/10/2025
Above & Beyond: Water Guns In a Wild Fire | Pastor Jason Polk
In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of worship, community, and prayer in the life of a believer. The sermon revolves around understanding prayer not just as a discipline but as a lifestyle that connects us to God. The speaker highlights the power of earnest prayer, the significance of obedience, and the role of the church in spiritual warfare. The conversation concludes with a call to expect God's intervention and to respond to His faithfulness in our lives. 00:00 The Power of Worship and Community 04:01 Understanding the Purpose of Prayer 08:02 The Importance of Access to God 11:21 Recognizing Spiritual Warfare 15:06 The Nature of Earnest Prayer 18:51 The Church's Response to Persecution 27:37 The Church's Grief and Urgent Prayer 29:47 Peter's Unshakeable Faith in Crisis 33:06 Obedience Before Freedom 36:55 Identifying Our Own Captivities 39:18 The Power of Prayer and Community 44:09 Expecting God's Faithfulness 47:48 The Mission Continues Despite Persecution 49:58 Responding to God's Work in Our Lives
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Above & Beyond: Praying to be Changed | Pastor Jason Polk
02/09/2025
Above & Beyond: Praying to be Changed | Pastor Jason Polk
February 2nd, 2025 In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of emotional worship, the power of prayer, and the transformative nature of a relationship with God. The sermon revolves around reflecting on past experiences, setting spiritual goals, and understanding prayer not as a discipline to perfect but as a dependence to surrender to. Pastor Jason highlights the significance of being filled with the fullness of God and the ultimate goal of glorifying Him through our lives and prayers. 00:00 The Power of Prayer in Our Lives 05:42 The Journey of Prayer: A Cultural Shift 08:44 Understanding Prayer: Relationship Over Ritual 11:16 Paul's Prayer: A Model for Transformation 14:45 The Depths of Our Being: Identity and Change 18:19 Experiencing the Love of Christ 24:43 Filled with the Fullness of God 32:37 The Purpose of Prayer: Glorifying God
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God's Plan, Your Response | Pastor Jason Polk
01/27/2025
God's Plan, Your Response | Pastor Jason Polk
In this conversation, the Pastor Jason emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God and the importance of our response to His plans. Through the story of Moses and the Israelites, the speaker illustrates how God has a plan for each individual, even in moments of chaos and uncertainty. The message encourages listeners to trust in God's control, to respond actively to His call, and to recognize that faith is not just a feeling but an action. The conversation culminates in the reminder that God's ultimate plan is fulfilled through Jesus, and our response is to trust and follow Him. Chapters 00:00 Faithfulness of God 02:23 Building a Foundation of Faith 03:39 God's Plan and Our Response 13:35 Understanding God's Plan 27:11 Moses' Leadership and Our Response 40:23 The Ultimate Plan: Jesus
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Trusting God in Uncertain Times - Pastor Jason Polk
01/19/2025
Trusting God in Uncertain Times - Pastor Jason Polk
This conversation explores the themes of faith and decision-making through the lens of biblical narratives, particularly focusing on the story of Abraham. It emphasizes the importance of making faith-based decisions rather than reacting to circumstances, highlighting the struggles and lessons learned from Abraham's life. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own decision-making processes and the role of faith in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, the speaker explores the complexities of making decisions in faith, using the biblical figure Abraham as a case study. The discussion emphasizes the importance of pursuing God, acknowledging the struggle in decision-making, and trusting in God's provision and grace despite our mistakes. The speaker encourages listeners to surrender their plans to God and to seek His guidance in every decision they make, highlighting that God values our pursuit of Him over the outcomes of our decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Faith and Decision Making 12:03 The Story of Abraham: A Hero of Faith 28:30 Navigating Life's Decisions with Faith 35:22 Navigating Difficult Decisions in Faith 36:30 The Struggle of Decision-Making 40:39 The Importance of Pursuit 44:05 Compromise vs. God's Best 46:09 God's Grace in Our Mistakes 52:46 Trusting God's Provision 54:58 Surrendering Our Plans to God
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Noah: A Testament to Faithfulness - Jason Polk
01/15/2025
Noah: A Testament to Faithfulness - Jason Polk
In this conversation, Pastor Jason Polk reflects on the importance of worship, community, and a strong foundation of faith as he prepares for the upcoming year. He emphasizes the need for prayer and biblical teaching, drawing inspiration from the story of Noah to illustrate the significance of faith grounded in God's Word. Jason outlines his vision for 2025, focusing on growth, prayer, and outreach, while encouraging the audience to build a robust foundation of faith. Jason delves into the faith of Noah, presenting it as a timeless model for believers today. He highlights how faith equips individuals to face adversity, providing a steadfast foundation and clear evidence of trust in God. He also speaks to the rewards that come from living a life of faith. Jason encourages listeners to build altars of praise in their lives, recognizing God's faithfulness and the ripple effect it has on those around them. This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to deepen their faith, engage with their communities, and lean into the promises of God, drawing strength from biblical examples and practical application. Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage for Worship and Faith 03:25 Plans for 2025: A Year of Growth and Prayer 06:25 Community, Worship, and Biblical Teaching 09:42 The Foundation of Faith: Learning from Noah 12:29 Noah's Story: A Recap of Faithfulness 15:44 Building a Foundation of Faith 18:16 The Importance of God's Word in Faith 29:54 Faith in the Face of Adversity 35:55 The Foundation of Faith 43:11 The Evidence of Faith 50:04 The Reward of Faith 56:02 Building Altars of Praise 58:09 Echo Church Podcast Outro.mp3
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CHANGE - Romans 12:1-2 - Mikhail Alfon
01/08/2025
CHANGE - Romans 12:1-2 - Mikhail Alfon
CHANGE - Romans 12:1-2 - Mikhail Alfon
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