Woodlands Church

Welcome to Woodlands Church located in Plover, Wisconsin! We're passionate about helping people faithfully follow Jesus. Here you’ll find the audio version of the messages from the weekend services at Woodlands, taught by Pastor Jon Ewton and other teaching pastors. Visit www.woodlandschurch.org to learn more.

3 - The Priesthood: The Holy Intermediaries 07/19/2026

3 - The Priesthood: The Holy Intermediaries In week three of our series through Leviticus, we explore chapters 6-10, focusing on the role and holiness of Old Covenant priests. The message highlights their responsibility as intermediaries and the absolute demand for holiness, strikingly illustrated by Nadab and Abiu’s unauthorized offering. We then turn to Jesus' profound words in John 6:53-56 and the insights from Hebrews 8, revealing how Christ serves as our more excellent High Priest, establishing a new and better covenant. This new agreement empowers all believers to live as priests—gifted with holiness and called to a powerful ministry of reconciliation, extending grace, prayer, and presence to a lost world. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41993565

1 - The Book You Skip 07/05/2026

1 - The Book You Skip Leviticus is famous for killing Bible reading plans—but it may be one of the richest books in all of Scripture. In this opening message of a summer series through Leviticus, Pastor Dave builds the case that this ancient book of laws and rituals is essential for understanding the whole of Scripture, from the leper healed by Jesus in Mark 1 to the living sacrifice of Romans 12. Through three lenses—what it means to be God's people, how to enter God's presence, and how to behold the Messiah—Leviticus emerges not as a burden to endure, but as a foundation for the deepest kind of joy. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41992650

9 - The Church in Laodicea 06/21/2026

9 - The Church in Laodicea In part six of the Seven Churches series, Pastor Jon Ewton of Woodlands Church examines the letter to the Church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-12 — one of only two churches to receive no correction. Despite having "little power," this church was commended for keeping God's Word and boldly claiming the name of Jesus. Drawing on 2 Corinthians 12:9, Pastor Jon explores how God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, challenges listeners to walk through the open doors God provides for the gospel, and reminds us that Jesus is coming soon. Hold fast to what you have. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41048015

8 - The Church in Philadelphia 06/14/2026

8 - The Church in Philadelphia The Church of Philadelphia had little power by the world's standards—and yet received no correction from Jesus, only an open door. Drawing from Revelation 3:7–12 and 2 Corinthians 12:9, Pastor Jon explores how God's economy runs completely opposite to the world's: strength is perfected in weakness, the small are used for great things, and faithful stewardship of small gospel moments leads to more. When God opens a door, no one can shut it—but we still have to choose to walk through. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047985

7 - The Church in Sardis 06/07/2026

7 - The Church in Sardis The Church of Sardis had a reputation for being alive—but the risen Lord called them dead. Drawing from Revelation 3 and James 2, Pastor Jon explores what it means when faith produces no works, and why so many Christians drift into spiritual sleepiness. Through the history of Sardis's famously unguarded walls and the urgent call to "wake up," this message challenges us to fan the embers back into flame before the fire goes out entirely. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047965

6 - The Church in Thyatira 05/31/2026

6 - The Church in Thyatira The church at Thyatira had so much going for it—love, faith, service, and a faith community that kept growing. But one fatal flaw threatened to unravel it all: the tolerance of sin within the body of Christ. Drawing from Revelation 2:18–29 and 1 Corinthians 5, Pastor Jon explores why tolerating sin is not an act of love but a form of cruelty—and what it looks like for a church to lovingly hold one another accountable. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047945

5 - The Church in Pergamum 05/24/2026

5 - The Church in Pergamum In a city defined by Roman imperial power and the worship of emperors, the church at Pergamum faced a subtle and dangerous drift—not outright rejection of Christ, but a slow slide into idolatry. Drawing from Revelation 2 and the strange, comedic, and sobering Old Testament story of Balaam and Balak, this message explores how compromise creeps in through culture rather than conquest. Jesus' words to Pergamum carry a sharp edge of correction—and a surprising promise of intimate restoration for those who return to him. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047935

4 - The Church in Smyrna 05/17/2026

4 - The Church in Smyrna The church of Smyrna had nothing by the world's standards—and yet Jesus called them rich. In this message from Revelation 2:8–11, Pastor Jon explores a letter with no correction, only commendation, revealing what it looks like to be poor in the eyes of the world but wealthy in the things that matter most. At the heart of it all is a simple but convicting posture: surrender and dependence on a Savior who is the first and the last—the one who died and came back to life. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047900

3 - The Church in Ephesus 05/10/2026

3 - The Church in Ephesus Jesus writes to the church in Ephesus with both commendation and correction. They work hard, reject false teaching, and stand against evil—but they've abandoned their first love. This message from Revelation 2:1-7 examines what it means to drift from relational intimacy with God and compassionate engagement with people, even while maintaining doctrinal and moral correctness. The sermon calls us to remember where we've fallen, repent decisively, and return to the first things: loving God with all our heart and loving people with both grace and truth, as Jesus did. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047885

1 - Prologue 04/26/2026

1 - Prologue Pastor Jon begins a new series in Revelation by unpacking the prologue (Revelation 1:1–8), reframing the book as a divine "revelation" rather than a doomsday prediction. He highlights three characteristics of the Triune God—the Father who is constant, the Spirit who is perfect, and the Son who is the faithful witness—and reminds the church that we are loved, freed from sin, and made priests in God's kingdom. This message calls believers to take the book to heart, live with expectancy, and be ready for the certain return of Christ. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047765

2 - Know His Name 04/19/2026

2 - Know His Name In week two of Woodlands Church's vision series, Pastor Jon tackles real questions from the congregation about the call to multiply healthy churches in central Wisconsin. He addresses concerns about volunteer needs, financial stewardship, and how decisions are being made—clarifying that while the direction is clear, many details remain open to prayer and discernment. Drawing from James 1:5 and Philippians 3:8-10, Jon challenges the church to be "all in" now, using their time, talents, and treasures not merely to fill roles but to know Christ more deeply through service and generosity. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/41047695

4 - No Longer Dead, but Alive 04/05/2026

4 - No Longer Dead, but Alive On Easter, Pastor Jon opens Ephesians 2:1–10 to name the brutal reality—apart from Christ we’re “dead” in trespasses and sins—and the even greater turning point: “But God,” rich in mercy, makes us alive with Jesus. The message traces how sin is both a willful crossing of the line and a repeated “missing the mark,” then lands on grace as a gift, not a paycheck. And it ends with purpose: those raised with Christ become God’s workmanship—living displays of His mercy, love, and kindness. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40758090

3 - No Longer Old, but Made New 03/29/2026

3 - No Longer Old, but Made New In this Palm Sunday message from the “No Longer” series, Pastor Jon opens 2 Corinthians 5:14–21 (with 5:17 at the center) to show that the gospel doesn’t make you a slightly improved version of yourself—it makes you a new creation. Tracing the Spirit’s transforming “metamorphosis” (2 Corinthians 3:15–18), he names what changes when the old passes away: a new motive controlled by Christ’s love, a new focus where Christ—not self—sits at the center, and a new purpose as ambassadors entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40666695

2 - No Longer Lost, But Found 03/22/2026

2 - No Longer Lost, But Found Continuing the “No Longer” series, this message centers on Luke 15 and the promise that we are no longer lost, but found. Jesus’ parables of the lost sheep and lost coin picture God’s pursuit and the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. In the prodigal son, Pastor Jon traces what it feels like to be lost—losing your way, identity, and sense of relationship—and highlights the Father’s compassion, restoration, and the scandal of grace that isn’t transactional. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40666815

1 - No Longer Slaves, But Free 03/15/2026

1 - No Longer Slaves, But Free In the new No Longer series leading to Easter, Pastor Dave traces a hard tension: Scripture says we’re “no longer slaves” to sin—so why do so many Jesus-followers still feel trapped? From Luke 23’s darkness and the torn temple curtain to Paul’s language of dying with Christ in Romans 6 (with Galatians 5:1), the message frames the cross as victory that doesn’t just forgive sin but breaks sin’s power. Then it turns practical—showing how gospel clarity about identity, honest confession (James 5), and life in community become the tools Christ gives to walk in that freedom. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40671455

8 - The Storm 02/22/2026

8 - The Storm Continuing Acts, this message follows Paul’s journey to Rome in Acts 27:1–26 and the violent storm that drives the ship far off course. The sermon connects Paul’s experience to our own storms: feeling lost, doing everything possible to keep it together, and taking real losses that must be grieved well. It highlights the need for “traveling companions” like Luke and Aristarchus, and anchors hope in God’s faithfulness—present with the brokenhearted and committed to His plan even when all hope feels abandoned. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40192005

7 - Festus for the Rest of Us 02/17/2026

7 - Festus for the Rest of Us In Acts 25–26, Paul’s case moves from Festus to a hearing with King Agrippa II and Bernice. The message looks closely at these historical figures—their backgrounds, wounds, and hidden brokenness—and shows how Paul presents the gospel through his own past, his encounter with Jesus, and his hope in the resurrection. It culminates in Paul’s desire that they might become as he is—free—“except for these chains,” alongside the promise of being a “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17). /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40137985

6 - Felix's Court 02/08/2026

6 - Felix's Court Continuing Woodlands’ Acts series, this message follows Paul into a courtroom in Acts 24 before Governor Felix. A lawyer, Tertullus, brings charges of sedition, rebellion, and desecrating the temple, but Paul answers with respectful clarity: the accusations can’t be proved, and the real issue is the resurrection and “the Way.” Echoing Jesus’ words in Luke 21, the trial becomes a witness. Felix later calls for Paul to speak, and Paul reasons about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment—even as political pressure leaves Paul imprisoned. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/40036310

5 - The Conspiracy 02/01/2026

5 - The Conspiracy In Acts 23:12–35, more than forty men form a deadly conspiracy to kill Paul. Pastor Jon Ewton unpacks the dangers of self-deception, warning against echo chambers and rushing to conclusions. As the truth comes to light, God protects Paul through unexpected means and reminds us to test our feelings and fears against Scripture. This message also highlights God’s sovereignty—using hardship and opposition to position Paul for gospel witness before powerful leaders. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39952425

4 - Take Courage 01/25/2026

4 - Take Courage Pastor Jon Ewton guides us through Paul's intense encounters in Acts 22-23, revealing profound lessons on courage in the face of adversity. We witness Paul demonstrating courage in multiple ways: standing with grace by asserting his Roman citizenship to avoid unjust flogging, and speaking courageously with truth when confronting a corrupt high priest and strategically dividing the Sanhedrin by emphasizing the hope of the resurrection. The sermon culminates with the powerful truth that Paul's consistent courage, even amidst fear and feeling alone, stemmed from Jesus Himself standing by him. Pastor Jon challenges us to embrace our unique callings, speak truth with grace, and remember that our unwavering courage comes from Christ's constant presence, empowering us to fulfill our mission. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39918675

3 - A Captive's Audience 01/18/2026

3 - A Captive's Audience Join Pastor Jon Ewton of Woodlands Church as he continues the Book of Acts series, exploring Paul's remarkable encounter with an angry mob in Jerusalem. Drawing from Acts 21:40 - 22:16, Pastor Jon unpacks four critical principles for engaging a hostile or disagreeing culture with the Gospel. Learn how Paul, despite being beaten, responds with grace, refusing to match the mob's anger to be heard. Discover the power of building bridges by finding common ground and showing genuine care, as Paul did by identifying with his audience. Understand the importance of resisting the temptation to judge others, remembering our own pre-Jesus state and focusing on Christ's transformative power. Finally, be inspired to share your personal "Jesus story," just as Paul recounted his Damascus road experience, demonstrating how God changes lives. This sermon provides vital wisdom for believers to effectively fulfill their mission as witnesses in a polarized world. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39775160

2 - Rumor Weed 01/11/2026

2 - Rumor Weed In this powerful message from Acts 21:17-40, Pastor Jon Ewton of Woodlands Church explores the devastating impact of gossip and slander on Paul's ministry. Paul arrives in Jerusalem, expecting fellowship, but finds his reputation destroyed by false accusations. Despite his resolute obedience to God's will, this misinformation ignites a violent riot, leading to his arrest and near-death at the hands of a zealous mob, ultimately fulfilling prophecies of imprisonment. Pastor Jon highlights Paul's remarkable resolve and gracious response, even towards those who sought to harm him. This sermon challenges believers to guard their words, stop the spread of misinformation, and view every person – even our perceived enemies – as a mission field for the gospel, seeking peace over division. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39689755

1 - The Journey to the Starting Line 01/04/2026

1 - The Journey to the Starting Line /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39606925

In All of Life; For All of Life 12/28/2025

In All of Life; For All of Life /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39562085

4 - Love 12/21/2025

4 - Love /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39145670

3 - Joy 12/14/2025

3 - Joy /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39145660

2 - Peace 12/07/2025

2 - Peace /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39145640

1 - Hope 11/30/2025

1 - Hope As Woodlands Church begins its Advent season, Pastor Jon Ewton explores the theme of hope, as seen in Isaiah 9:6 and Luke 2. Discover how the Israelites' longing for a Messiah mirrors our own anticipation, and how the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus speaks to the holes in our lives that only He can fill. Learn to live with hopeful anticipation of Jesus' return. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/39145625

5 - The Invitation to Intimacy 11/23/2025

5 - The Invitation to Intimacy In this message from the "Known and Unashamed" series, we dive into 1 Corinthians 13 to explore the qualities of love. Pastor Jon unpacks how patience, kindness, and other attributes shape our relationships and reflect God's love. Discover how love protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres, offering a "most excellent way" to build intimacy. The message also touches on how striving to love one another is a "dim reflection" of the love that God has for us. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38728915

4 - Festering Wounds 11/16/2025

4 - Festering Wounds Pastor Jon Ewton dives into the critical role of forgiveness in maintaining healthy relationships, in his sermon titled "Festering Wounds." Drawing from Matthew 18:21-35, he unpacks the parable of the unforgiving servant. Ewton highlights that forgiveness isn't a singular act, but a continuous practice, and emphasizes the high cost of true forgiveness, mirroring the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The sermon unpacks the idea that forgiveness is not an action, but the cessation of action, stopping the demand for repayment or retribution. Listen as Pastor Ewton challenges us to recognize the vast debt we've been forgiven and to extend that same mercy to those who have wronged us. He reminds us that while reconciliation can be a lengthy process, the act of forgiveness is at the heart of the Gospel. This message offers hope for healing and restoration in all of our relationships /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38728890

Woodlands Church

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