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.

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

3 - Cycles of Brokeness 11/09/2025

3 - Cycles of Brokeness Pastor Dave Bondeson continues the "Known and Unashamed" series, diving into the impact of sin on our relationships and the promise of restoration through Christ. Using Genesis 2:25, 4:1-16, and Judges 6:25-27, he explores how sin leads to brokenness, deflection of responsibility, and the perpetuation of harmful cycles across generations. The sermon challenges listeners to identify unhealthy patterns learned from their families, tear down those "altars," and seek support in community. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38728885

2 - Passions that Ware Within Us 11/02/2025

2 - Passions that Ware Within Us Pastor Dave Bondeson unpacks Genesis 3 in this message, "Known and Unashamed," revealing the forces that damage our relationships. He identifies two key enemies: our internal sin nature and the external influence of Satan. Using Genesis 3:1-13, Pastor Dave examines how Satan undermines our trust in God's goodness by twisting God's word and inflaming our desires, causing us to prioritize our wants over our relationships. He cautions against detachment and blame-shifting, urging listeners to draw a circle around themselves and work on what's within their control. Discover how surrendering to Jesus Christ is the only path to true restoration and authentic connection, empowering us to overcome sin and move towards others in love. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38728855

1 - The Beauty of Relationships 10/26/2025

1 - The Beauty of Relationships Pastor Dave kicks off the "Known and Unashamed" series by examining the core purpose of relationships. Using Genesis 2:18-25 as a foundation, he explains that our need for connection isn't just about avoiding loneliness, but about reflecting God's image to others. The sermon unpacks how God saw that "it was not good that the man should be alone," not because Adam needed to receive love, but because he needed someone to love. Pastor Dave challenges us to view relationships as a "stage" where we live out God's character, showing love, faithfulness, and grace. The message offers practical encouragement to rightly understand and value relationships, and to pray for God to soften walls and cultivate hope for deeper, more meaningful connections. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38728850

7 - I Have Come That They May Have Life 10/19/2025

7 - I Have Come That They May Have Life Pastor Jon Payne unpacks Jesus' powerful "I AM" statements in John 10:7-18, focusing on "I am the door" and "I am the good shepherd." He explains that Jesus, as the door, provides access to salvation, protection, and abundant life. As the good shepherd, Jesus offers sacrificial love by laying down his life for the sheep, demonstrating his commitment to our well-being and spiritual nourishment. The sermon explores the implications of following Jesus, being drawn to Him, abiding in Him, and recognizing His voice amidst the distractions of the world. Discover how Jesus fulfills his promise as both protector and provider, offering peace and purpose to all who trust in Him. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38721325

6 - Do You Believe in the Son of Man? 10/12/2025

6 - Do You Believe in the Son of Man? Pastor Jon Ewton delves into the powerful narrative of the blind man's healing in John 9, revealing profound truths about spiritual sight. Discover how the Pharisees, despite their physical sight, were blinded by pride and adherence to rules, while the formerly blind man gained true vision through faith in Jesus. This sermon explores the contrast between outward appearances and inward understanding, challenging us to examine our own spiritual blindness and embrace the transformative power of Christ. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38554470

5 - Do You Want To Go Away As Well 10/05/2025

5 - Do You Want To Go Away As Well Pastor Jon Ewton delves into John 6, asking "Will You Go Away As Well?". This message examines the motivations behind following Jesus and the reasons why some walk away. The sermon highlights that many are initially drawn to Jesus for the blessings and miracles they experience. However, when Jesus presents challenging teachings, their commitment wavers. Drawing from Job's example of unwavering faith in the face of loss, Pastor Ewton emphasizes the importance of a relationship with Jesus Christ, not just the benefits He provides. He uses Peter's response to Jesus' question to highlight that even when teachings are difficult, where else can we turn for the words of eternal life? /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38470945

4 - Neither Do I Condemn You 09/28/2025

4 - Neither Do I Condemn You Dive into the familiar story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery (John 8) with Justin Armstrong. This sermon reveals a deeper meaning, challenging the traditional interpretation and focusing on the Pharisees' motives. Armstrong explores relevant passages in Deuteronomy to expose how the Pharisees were twisting the law, either acting as false witnesses or showing partiality, and reveals that the story is less about the woman's sin and more about the Pharisees being on trial. Discover how Jesus offers both the woman and the Pharisees a path to grace, calling them to "go and sin no more". Explore how this passage speaks to God being on our side against sin, whether the sin we commit or the sin we see in the world, as expressed in Romans 8. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38382545

3 - The Truth Will Set You Free 09/21/2025

3 - The Truth Will Set You Free Pastor Jon Ewton's message, "What Jesus Says," delves into the profound meaning of abiding in Jesus's word, based on John 8:31-36. Discover how staying rooted in God's truth forms us into true disciples, reflecting Christ's character in our lives. Pastor Jon contrasts this with the deceptive nature of sin, which leads to enslavement and prevents us from recognizing our true needs. He examines how worldly influences can negatively "marinate" our hearts and minds. He urges listeners to embrace the freedom offered through Jesus, confessing sin and living as adopted sons and daughters of God. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38296635

2 - Do You Want to Be Healed? 09/14/2025

2 - Do You Want to Be Healed? Pastor Jon Ewton dives into the story of the invalid healed at the Pool of Bethesda in John 5:1-18. This sermon reveals Jesus' pattern of using miracles to deliver profound messages about His identity and authority. The passage also examines the tension between legalistic interpretations of the law and Jesus' claim to be equal with God. Pastor Ewton contrasts this with five models of morality, from legalistic to cultural, finally highlighting biblical morality, where Jesus Christ is the ultimate authority, providing a firm foundation in an uncertain world. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38147725

1 - Give Me A Drink 09/07/2025

1 - Give Me A Drink Pastor Jon Ewton begins the "Jesus Says" series by examining the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). He explores how Jesus offers "living water" to an outcast, illustrating that true satisfaction comes not from worldly things but from a relationship with Christ. This message encourages listeners to confront their own spiritual thirst, skepticism, shame, and confusion, and to accept Jesus' invitation to a life-giving connection. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/38118845

Christ-Centered Community 08/31/2025

Christ-Centered Community In this back-to-school season, Pastor Dave Bondeson invites us to reflect on our spiritual health by unpacking Ephesians 4:1–16. He outlines three marks of a healthy church community: unity in Christ, dependence on one another, and a commitment to growth in Christlikeness. Dave also unpacks six core church priorities—gathering, growing, grounded, grace-filled, going, and giving—and challenges us to identify one area to focus on this fall. This sermon is a timely call to intentional discipleship and deeper connection at Woodlands Church. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/37991670

Encounters with God 08/24/2025

Encounters with God In this powerful message, guest speaker Bruce Miller explores the transformative power of worship by walking through four biblical encounters with God—from Adam and Eve in the Garden to Jon on the island of Patmos. He emphasizes that worship is not about routine or checking off a box but about genuinely encountering the living God. Drawing from stories of guilt, suffering, failure, and loneliness, Bruce highlights how God reveals Himself as Judge, the Incomparable One, the Great “I Am,” and the Living One—and how these revelations lead to transformation in our own lives. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/37882700

11 - The Story So Far 08/17/2025

11 - The Story So Far In this final message of the summer series “The Next Right Thing,” Pastor Dave Bondeson walks us through Acts 16–20 and highlights five key stages of faith: rejection, receptivity, relishing, running, and re-evaluating. Using Paul’s missionary journeys and various characters he encounters, the sermon draws parallels between the early church and our modern faith journeys. Anchored in Acts 1:8 and Philippians 1:6, this message reminds us that while God's work in us may be unexpected, His faithfulness is unwavering. No matter your stage, God is at work in your story. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/37850955

10 - Necessary Things 08/10/2025

10 - Necessary Things In this message from Acts 20:17–32, Brian Berg highlights three “necessary things” for spiritual endurance: be faithful to your calling, be watchful over your life and heart, and be biblical—rooted in God’s Word. Drawing from Paul’s emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders, this sermon challenges listeners to live with purpose and finish strong. Part of the “The Next Right Thing” series at Woodlands Church, this message provides practical guidance for choosing what truly matters in the Christian life. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/37750430

9 - This Sermon is a Riot 08/04/2025

9 - This Sermon is a Riot In this message from Acts 19, Pastor Dave Bondeson continues “The Next Right Thing” series by examining four transformative events in Ephesus. He challenges us to be bold in our faith, live lives that validate the message of Jesus, and return to the awe and love we had at first. As God's Word spread through Paul’s ministry, miraculous healings and repentance followed—including the burning of magic books—as believers disentangled from sin. /episode/index/show/woodlandschurch/id/37924620

Woodlands Church

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