Sermons that help us fulfill our purpose - To bring people into a spiritual community that honors God and builds authentic relationships by nurturing growth into the image of Jesus.
…
continue reading
This podcast exists to promote and encourage two long-time traditions in our society that seem to be dwindling…The Choir and Corporate Singing. We hope to revive the excitement and joy experienced with singing in a choir, as well as inform and educate the listener on all things singing, and all things choir related. A weekly podcast featuring discussion and interviews with choir directors, choir members, and other guests representing church choirs, college and university choirs, community ch ...
…
continue reading
Text: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 There are so many divisions in the church over how to and who should govern the church. Paul, in stark contrast, is encouraging Timothy to select leaders who will bring the church together. The main issue, strong moral character that speaks to the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of a potential leader and the false leadership th…
…
continue reading
Text: 1 Timothy 2:1-15 So often the reader of the Bible will get to chapter 2 of 1 Timothy and forget that Paul is still cleaning up a mess perpetuated by a group of Christians who have incorporated elements of pagan Ephesian society into the church. So, how can the church return to a peaceful and respectful gathering? Paul provides a blueprint tha…
…
continue reading
Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-20 Synopsis: Wouldn’t it be nice if people who want to do damage to our faith and our trust in other people would just announce it at the beginning? Of course it would. Yet, what I find is that our most beloved leaders can be warped in their motivations and can suffer “shipwreck of the faith.” Paul makes clear that those who wa…
…
continue reading
Text: 1 Timothy 1:1-11 Synopsis: A healthy diet is important to living a healthy life. This is true when it comes to our spiritual walk as well. This sermon will look at what Paul means by “sound doctrine” and will contrast that notion with what Paul calls “false teachings” in the Pastoral epistles. Timothy, and Titus, are called upon to move the c…
…
continue reading
I look back over the 10 years at GracePointe Church of Christ.By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 12 Synopsis: Daniel 12 wraps up the book, and so doing it provides a glimpse of the end in which God’s people, because of God’s power will experience new life in the fullest sense. In this great divine reversal, those who have had their time of glory will be defeated, and those who have been oppressed and downtrodden will be rewarded. …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Unlocking Choir Mastery: Rehearsal Strategies, Theological Reflections on 'My Hope is Built on Nothing Less', and Band Collaboration With Ben and Renee Westry
1:02:35
1:02:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:35
There is no single way of conducting a successful choir rehearsal. Unlock some of the secrets to conducting effective choir rehearsals with insights from seasoned choir directors and their friends, Ben and Renee Westry, music directors at the Full Gospel Interdenominational Church. Ben and Renee discuss their journey from being young musicians in t…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 11 Synopsis: Daniel 11 is a description of unending human conflict, as a king rises to power and fights another until defeated, each king living in a self-honoring fashion. The text of Daniel 11 is somewhat easy to understand but also very descriptive…Rise, Fight, win, defeat, rise of another, destruction, glory, defeat, rise of anothe…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 7 Synopsis: Daniel 7 is a two part vision, in the first part we see 4 beasts emerge from the chaos of this world to destroy, kill, and show their power over the people of the earth. In the second scene, the Son of Man comes as a cosmic hero to save the people from these beasts. With a parallel verse in Revelation 13, we see that human …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Hearing the Harmony: The Hymn 'It Is Well With My Soul', Diversity in Choir, and the Joy of Choir Sundays at Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship.
57:06
57:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:06
Step into the vibrant Choir Room where the rich tapestry of song and spirit comes to life. This week, my co-hosts Dorian Johnson, Mietta Stancil-Farrar, and I, Greg Thomas, as we uncover the poignant history of the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul" and then followed by a live rendition by the enchanting Sarai Negron-Ingold. Mietta brings us the CRQ an…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 5 Synopsis: This story should provide the readers of Daniel with a little “deja vu” with some very important variations. The new king, Belshazzar, seems to belittle Daniel and his God, not bearing in mind the ways that God had blessed and helped the kings of Babylon in the past. The story is marred when the king brings out the very ves…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 4 Synopsis: The King of Babylon was the most powerful human being in the world, and he mistakenly thought that the greatness and security he lived in was due to his own achievement. Boasting of his success and walking around with an inflated sense of pride, the King has another dream. Daniel provides an interpretation of that dream - T…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 3 Synopsis: This story isn’t about three people who have so much faith that God saves them from a fire. This story is about the power of God that surrounds us and is present with us through deadly experiences. Whether these three men walk out of that fire or not, God was present in their lives and would be there through their deliveran…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 2 Synopsis: Only God’s wisdom can reveal the mysteries of life. In other words, it is not the content of the revelation of there future that is primary; what is most important here is the fact that it is only Daniel’s God that knows the future. And God’s knowledge of the future is particularly important to a people in exile and under o…
…
continue reading
Text: Daniel 1:8-17 Synopsis: In Daniel 1, spiritual defilement doesn’t come from the education offered or the new names given. Defilement would be forgetting who is ultimately in control of the situation facing Daniel and his friends. Quietly and privately, Daniel participates in a spiritual practice that reminds him that God is in control even wh…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Hymns of Praise and Choir Mastery Cultivating a Transformative Singing Experience
44:54
44:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:54
As we gather in the Choir Room this Easter, a time of reflection and rejoicing unfolds through the power of choral music. The episode kicks off with a stirring reminder of Christ's sacrifice, captured in Kurt Carr's poignant composition, performed remotely during the 2020 pandemic by Greg Thomas and Misty Quinn, and we're transported through the ri…
…
continue reading
Text: John 20:1-29 Synopsis: John 20:1 tells us that when Mary Magdalene came to the tomb “it was still dark.” There is little doubt that the darkness is the darkness of a night of mourning, the darkness of Mary’s un-illuminated understanding, and other things; but in the context of John’s gospel as a whole it is also the dark results of the Old Co…
…
continue reading
Text: John 17 Synopsis: As Jesus prepares for His departure, this prayer provides insight in the mission that He leaves for those who want to follow Him. He asks the Father to watch over them and to protect them so that they can live the life of faith. In this dark and evil world, we are to be the light of truth for the world to see. Some will reje…
…
continue reading
Text: John 8:12-30 Synopsis: Jesus has been clear about who he is, what he has come to do, and who has sent him; but a group of Jewish leaders are not convinced and continue to challenge him. They refuse to see two things: first, that Jesus is the light that gives true life to those who follow him, and second, that their way of life contributes to …
…
continue reading
Text: John 3:1-21 Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, it’s safer that way for such a high ranking religious leader to approach Jesus. In the conversation Jesus has with Nic, there is a challenge to “see” what God has laid before Nic. So, it is fair to say that Nic is both physically and theologically in the dark, because he is a leader of Israel who…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Singing Through Life's Challenges PART 2: The Spiritual Essence of The Hymn, Disney's - "Encanto's" Adassa on Balancing Career and Family in Music With Christ at the Helm.
59:09
59:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:09
Choir is a fusion of singing, faith, community, and tradition that resonates with many of us. In this episode we've orchestrated a vibrant discussion around reviving choir traditions, the undervalued power of corporate singing, and the intricate challenges choir directors confront in today's ever-evolving world, particularly in the wake of a pandem…
…
continue reading
Text: John 1:1-18 Synopsis: The Light Shines in the darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. This is the story of Jesus in a nutshell. The Fourth Gospel starts with a new creation story, one that shows the chaos of darkness that has infected and taken over the world. Even John the Baptist seems to be taken in by some infection of the darkne…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Singing Through Life's Challenges: The Spiritual Essence of The Hymn, Disney's "Encanto's" Adassa on Balancing Career and Family in Music With Christ at the Helm.
36:05
36:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:05
As the harmonies of "Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus" resonated in the Choir Room, Dorian Johnson enlightens us on this deep content rich hymn of the church. Mietta Stancil-Farrar navigates us through our CRQ to discuss the rich tapestry of choir beyond the church walls, uncovering the wide-reaching impact of gospel music from serene nursing home …
…
continue reading
Habakkuk pleads with God to act in the present like he has in the past, bringing down corrupt nations. What follows is an ancient poem that describes a powerful and terrifying appearance of God through clouds, fire, and earthquake. When the Creator shows up to confront human evil, it will get everyone’s attention. Habakkuk continues by describing t…
…
continue reading
God’s promise is then elaborated by a series of five “woes” that describe the typical forms of oppression and injustice perpetrated by nations like Babylon. The first two target unjust economic practices, like how wealthy people charge ridiculous interest to keep others trapped in debt, building their own wealth through crooked means. The third woe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Habakkuk’s 2nd Lament: Why Use Wickedness to Punish Wickedness?
23:00
23:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:00
Habakkuk has a problem with God’s answer and offers up his second complaint because Babylon, the prophet claims, is even worse than Israel. They are even more violent and corrupt; and so Habakkuk asks, “How can such a holy, good, and just God possibly use such corrupt people as his instruments in history?” God responds that He will one day bring Ba…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Embracing the New Year with Gospel Choirs: The Legacy of Hymns, Dr. Scott Cumberbatch's Life Story, and Navigating Choir Music in the Digital World
55:59
55:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:59
Embark on a spiritual odyssey with us as we ring in the new year with a heartfelt celebration of choir and corporate singing, brought to life by the collective genius of Greg Tomas, Doria Johnson, Mietta Stancil Farrar, and Dr. Scott Cumberbatch. We promise a journey into the theological tapestry of Charles Wesley's iconic hymn "And Can It Be That …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Habakkuk’s 1st Complaint: The Wicked Oppress the Good!
31:00
31:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:00
In this passage, we examine the notion that God is good and wonder if there is a time and a situation in which we would possibly question the goodness of God. Habakkuk is facing a complete corrosion of the society he loves, and he sees nothing but wickedness in the power structures and in the behaviors of anyone with power. So, he turns to God. Whe…
…
continue reading
Sermon Text is Hebrews 5:11-6:3By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Exciting Changes Coming : The Exciting Future of The Choir Room, Provoking CRQ’s, and The Reboot of Programs and Service.
32:27
32:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:27
Step into The Choir Room where the harmonious blend of voices isn't just about music—it's a testament to the power of community and faith. Greg is joined by passionate co-hosts Dorian Johnson and Mietta Stancil-Farrar, and together they usher in a symphony of discussion on the resurgent love for choir and corporate singing. This episode promises a …
…
continue reading
Sermon Text is Philippians 4:4-9By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
Our desire to help people grow starts with our thankfulness for all at that God has done for us, then moves to all that God can do for others, and we want to connect the powerful, grace giving God to those around us…we pray for people to KNOW…and let’s make sure we are not simply talking about book smarts, but a tangible experience of the Living Go…
…
continue reading
Introduction to our Theme for 2024 - DeepenBy Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
A year-end review of our theme for 2023, "Freedom in Christ."By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Celebrating the Choir's Voice: Uniting Through Christmas Carols, Worship, and Choir Leadership with Special Guests from Metromusic & Arts. PART 2
45:51
45:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:51
As the holiday season wraps us in its festive embrace, the Choir Room becomes a sanctuary where the soulful blend of voices lifts spirits and fortifies faith. Joined by a group of personal friends and supporters, we delve into the heartwarming world of choral singing, sharing personal journeys and the unspoken bonds it creates. Dorian unpacks the t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Celebrating the Choir's Voice: Uniting Through Christmas Carols, Worship, and Choir Leadership with Special Guests from Metromusic & Arts. PART 1
54:17
54:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:17
Gather 'round the Choir Room's hearth as we kindle the spirit of Christmas with voices that echo the joy of the season. Lend your ear to an episode that promises to rekindle your love for traditional carols and the sense of unity they inspire. The hosts are joined by friends of Metromusic & Arts, we delve into beloved hymns like "What Child Is This…
…
continue reading
By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
"Hark the Herald Angels Sing", Christmas choir recordings and live performances that are sure to get you singing and clapping right where you are: The joy and excitement with singing in a choir during ...
35:57
35:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:57
Ever wondered about the profound significance behind some of your favorite Christmas hymns? Prepare to embark on a journey with us, your hosts Greg Thomas and Dorian Johnson, as we unearth the theological truths embedded in the beloved "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." We dive deep into its history, tracing its origins back to Charles Wesley in 1739 a…
…
continue reading
By Jonathan Woodall
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Igniting Christmas Joy Through Song: Unwrapping the Significance of Singing, Diving into "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel", and Harnessing Technology in Modern Choir Rehearsals
36:49
36:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:49
Are you ready to ignite the joy of the holiday season through song? Join us, hosts Greg Thomas, Dorian Johnson and Mietta Stancil-Farrar, as we unwrap the significance of singing during the Christmas holiday, community singing and the hymn of the week, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel". We dive deep into the biblical references of this beautiful hymn, une…
…
continue reading
By Gary Damschen
…
continue reading
So what does a church look like when it is being led by the Spirit and stays “in step” with the Spirit? Well, it looks like a balance of giving and receiving from each other as we live the life of the Spirit. We seek to restore with gentleness (a fruit of the spirit) and we bear each other’s burdens as we attend to our own struggles. We realize tha…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Renowned Modern Hymn Writer Keith Getty Expounds on The Power of Choir and Communal Singing: The Choir Director and Church Practices, Insights On The Importance of Innovative Hymn Writing, Q&A From Our ...
1:17:53
1:17:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:53
The internet, and the plethora of access it provides, is influencing young people's engagement with music, specifically with choir and corporate singing. Find out how you can contribute your thoughts on the evolution of choir music and the seeming disinterest among today's church generation. We also delve into the pressing issue of an apparent lack…
…
continue reading
What is Life in the Spirit? Do we trust the Spirit of God as a moral guide for our lives? So many of us, who claim to have the Spirit of God don’t even understand the significance of life in the Spirit and trade in the Spirit of God for some rule guide or catechism that teaches us how to behave as a Christian. Paul clearly says that it is the Spiri…
…
continue reading
We have arrived at the essence of Paul’s message to the Galatians, that in Christ, we have true human freedom. The value of “freedom” is a favorite for our nation, and the American view of freedom has been the foundation for the American dream, a rallying cry for times of war, and plea of those seeking rights. We all want freedom. The biblical view…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Part 2: Proper Hydration, Good Vocal Health, Choir Directing, and Vocal Training 102: Dr. Catherine Hall, Coach Tara Simon, and The Hosts continue with Great Insights and LIVE Participation from Virtual ...
1:12:52
1:12:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:52
Ever wondered how weather can impact your vocal cords or what qualifies and makes a successful choir director? Don't miss out this episode as Catherine Hall continues to discuss the benefits of hydration to the effects of temperature changes on your voice, and much more. If you're a choir director or a singer, you’ll glean a lot from our conversati…
…
continue reading
Paul uses an analogy of two sons, one born of Hagar the slave woman and one born of Sarah the free woman. He goes on to assert that while Ismael will never be Isaac, that didn’t stop him from persecuting Isaac. The son born of the slave woman will never be the son of the free woman, and those who insist on legalism will never be the true fellowship…
…
continue reading
Paul’s impassioned plea to the Galatians is one that we can listen to and learn from as we strive to lead others to Christ with varying success rates. First, Paul asks them to imitate his practices, to learn how to once again renounce the law and seek Christ. The reason Paul does this is because he has a goal in mind, one that contemporary readers …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Proper Hydration, Choir in this Generation, and Vocal Training 101: Dr. Catherine Hall, Coach Tara Simon, and the hosts mix it up with a LIVE Virtual Audience. Training the Voice, Navigating the Decline ...
1:01:52
1:01:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:52
Ever wonder why hydration is crucial for both your health and singing ability? Or why choir participation among teens is trending downward? Tune in as we, your hosts, along with Dr. Cathering Hall, and vocal coach and YouTube sensation Tara Simon, get to the root of these issues. We'll puncture the myth of modern hydration habits and how they affec…
…
continue reading
This beautifully written passage shows the inclusion of God by calling all people the “sons” of God, which seems like an exclusive term given that slaves, women, and Gentiles are all addressed. But the term “son” goes beyond patriarchal language and biological make-up to show the special relationship that all those “in Christ” (emphasis on baptism)…
…
continue reading