Answers with Bayless Conley

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By: Bayless Conley

Bayless is the founding pastor of Cottonwood Church in California. He is known for his clear presentation of the gospel and the way he applies the life-changing truth of God's Word to everyday life. It's this same truth that radically turned his life around many years ago. Today, Answers with Bayless Conley is impacting lives around the world in many languages on TV and online.

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Lessons from Philippians: Keep Moving Forward
Lessons from Philippians: Keep Moving Forward episode artwork
Today at 11:00 AM

The apostle Paul was honest about not being where he wanted to be in the Christian life—and maybe you can relate. But he refused to stay stuck where he was.

In this next message from his "Lessons from Philippians series, Keep Moving Forward," Pastor Bayless reminds you that growth isn't about perfection, but about direction. You'll discover what it means to forget what's behind and reach forward to what's ahead in your spiritual life.

Find out how to discern the next step God is calling you to take, stay in your lane, and press fo...


Lessons from Philippians: How to Be Made Right with God
Lessons from Philippians: How to Be Made Right with God episode artwork
Last Saturday at 1:22 AM

The Bible is clear that all fall short of God's perfect standard, so what are you trusting in to be made right?

In his message, "Lessons from Philippians: How to Be Made Right with God," Pastor Bayless explains that righteousness comes when faith in Jesus Christ alone makes us right with God. You'll discover how it's not religion, but relationship—an intimate, personal knowledge of Christ—that makes you right with Him.

Learn to lay aside self-reliance and draw closer to Christ, where true life is found, in this encouraging message!


A Prayer of Repentance
A Prayer of Repentance episode artwork
07/10/2026

What do you do when sin, guilt, or shame make God feel distant—or leave you wondering if you're even welcome in His presence?

In his message "A Prayer of Repentance," Pastor Harrison Conley explores Psalm 51, one of the most vulnerable, honest, and raw prayers in the Bible. You'll discover how this Psalm is a blueprint for how to approach God when you feel like you can't. And you'll find out how repentance begins with God's character, not our worthiness. 

Find out how you can approach God honestly and let Him restore the joy of you...


Lessons from Philippians: Unspeakable Joy
Lessons from Philippians: Unspeakable Joy episode artwork
07/03/2026

Tough times are inevitable in life. So how can you rejoice when circumstances are hard? 

In "Lessons from Philippians: Unspeakable Joy," Pastor Bayless explains that true joy does not depend on what's happening around us, but on the Lord. You'll discover why that truth is the safest place to be as a believer. And you'll be encouraged to trust in Jesus for your salvation rather than your own efforts.

Discover why joy rooted in Christ—not in performance or self-effort—is the true mark of a believer in this powerful message! 


Lessons from Philippians: New Every Morning
Lessons from Philippians: New Every Morning episode artwork
06/26/2026

Many believers today struggle with exhaustion, overcommitment, or pressure. In those moments, it's essential to lean on God's mercy and wisdom.

In this message from his series on Philippians "New Every Morning," Pastor Bayless dives into the story of how Epaphroditus "was sick almost to death, but God had mercy on him." You'll learn how reckless overwork can leave you exhausted, why caring for your body matters, and how you can rest in the promise that God's mercies are new every morning.

Let God's mercy, rest, and strength meet you right where you are in...


Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun
Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun episode artwork
06/17/2026

What are the most important lessons you would want to pass on to the next generation?

In this special Father's Day message, "Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun," Pastor Bayless shares four essentials he longs to pass on to his own children and grandchildren. Discover why unforgiveness becomes a heavy weight no heart is meant to carry, why your word is sacred, how faith "comes by hearing" God's Word, and why God never intended life to be all work and no joy.

These four simple but powerful principles can take deeper root in your life and...


Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun
Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun episode artwork
06/15/2026

What are the most important lessons you would want to pass on to the next generation?

In this special Father's Day message, "Faith, Forgiveness, Faithfulness, and Fun," Pastor Bayless shares four essentials he longs to pass on to his own children and grandchildren. Discover why unforgiveness becomes a heavy weight no heart is meant to carry, why your word is sacred, how faith "comes by hearing" God's Word, and why God never intended life to be all work and no joy.

These four simple but powerful principles can take deeper root in your life and...


Lessons from Philippians: You Are the Light
Lessons from Philippians: You Are the Light episode artwork
06/12/2026

Sometimes your influence may feel small or unnoticed—but even then, God calls you to shine. 

In this message from his Philippians series, "You Are the Light," Pastor Bayless shows you why believers are called to be "blameless and harmless," and "shine as lights in the world." You'll learn how your everyday choices can preach the gospel so people see your good works and glorify your Father. And you'll find out what it means to "hold forth the word of life," offering the hope of Christ to those who need Him most.

Don't hide your lig...


Lessons from Philippians: What It Means to Work Out Your Salvation
Lessons from Philippians: What It Means to Work Out Your Salvation episode artwork
06/05/2026

As believers, we are called to be transformed. But that transformation can sometimes feel confusing or slow.

In his next message from Philippians, "What It Means to Work Out Your Salvation," Pastor Bayless explains what it truly means to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." You'll discover how the new inward life must be expressed in your attitudes and speech, and how sharing the gospel, generosity, purity, faith, and thankfulness all please Him.

 Discover how to actively cooperate with the God who is already at work in you—through this practical and pow...


We Are God's Collaborators
We Are God's Collaborators episode artwork
05/29/2026

You've been called to work with God—to co-labor with Him to bring the knowledge of Christ to our broken world.

In his encouraging message "We Are God's Collaborators," Pastor Bayless shares how you can partner with God through prayer, proclamation, and planting seeds of the gospel. You'll discover the kind of prayer that moves heaven, see how proclaiming the gospel takes many forms, and you'll learn how planting seeds in gospel work produces an eternal harvest.

Listen and discover what God can do in and through you when you choose to partner with Him!


Lessons from Philippians: Keys to Unlocking God's Blessing
Lessons from Philippians: Keys to Unlocking God's Blessing episode artwork
05/22/2026

Unity and humility are the atmosphere where God commands a blessing.

 In this next installment of his Philippians series, "Keys to Unlocking God's Blessing," Pastor Bayless unpacks the apostle Paul's passionate plea to believers: "Be like-minded, have the same love, be of one accord, of one mind." You'll learn how when God's people walk in unity, the anointing of the Holy Spirit flows freely—bringing refreshing, healing, and life. But that can only happen when we are humble.

Find out how to live with humility, serve others, and exalt Jesus in every area of life. Lis...


Lessons from Philippians: Heaven Is Our Homeland
Lessons from Philippians: Heaven Is Our Homeland episode artwork
05/15/2026

"Live as citizens of heaven," the apostle Paul wrote—reminding us that our lifestyle should reflect the fact that God is our King and heaven is our homeland.

In this message from his series on Philippians, "Heaven Is Our Homeland," Pastor Bayless challenges you to let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ. You'll discover how the people around you can shape your faith, and why your relationship with Jesus must stand strong on its own.

This inspiring teaching will remind you that even in hardship, your unity, perseverance, and faith can shine br...


The Unseen Influence of a Godly Woman
The Unseen Influence of a Godly Woman episode artwork
05/08/2026

There's something incredibly powerful about a mother's influence—sometimes unseen, but undeniably strong.

In "The Unseen Influence of a Godly Woman," Pastor Harrison Conley shares the story of Lois and Eunice—Timothy's grandmother and mother—who shaped the young pastor and left a legacy that changed the world. You'll see how God's grace abounds even when the family ideal is lacking, and how He can work through your faith, perseverance, and prayers.

This heartfelt message will encourage every mother, grandmother, and spiritual mentor: your influence matters, your prayers have power, and your legacy can change the wo...


Leadership Lessons from the Life of Joshua
Leadership Lessons from the Life of Joshua episode artwork
05/02/2026

Joshua was a man whose influence held an entire nation steady for God all the days of his life.

In "Leadership Lessons from the Life of Joshua," Pastor Bayless shows how Joshua's faith can serve as a pattern for your own. You'll see the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people who will encourage you to trust God in hard times. You'll also learn how to rise after failure—to "get up" when things fall apart—and to resist blaming God when circumstances don't make sense.

Discover how, like Joshua, you can boldly declare, "As f...


Lessons From Philippians: Faith to Finish Well
Lessons From Philippians: Faith to Finish Well episode artwork
04/24/2026

Too often today, people quit before their race is finished. Some let fear, hardship, or even foolish choices rob them of the long, fruitful life God intends.

Continuing in his series from Philippians with the message "Faith to Finish Well," Pastor Bayless shares how you can live with the same confidence of finishing well that the apostle Paul had—even while he was in prison. You'll discover how focusing on the eternal rewards the Lord will hand out in heaven can give you the strength to endure even the toughest challenges.

Be inspired to keep th...


Lessons From Philippians: Living with Earnest Expectation
Lessons From Philippians: Living with Earnest Expectation episode artwork
04/17/2026

Too many people today let go of their expectations and hopes far too easily. But the apostle Paul said, "According to my earnest expectation and hope... in nothing I shall be ashamed." Even in prison, he held fast to his confident expectation that God would see him through.

 In this message from his Philippians series called "Living with Earnest Expectation," Pastor Bayless shares how, when we pray, God sends a supply of the Holy Spirit to help us. You'll discover that in every circumstance, you can live with confidence and earnest expectation of God's deliverance.

L...


Lessons From Philippians: The Choice to Rejoice
Lessons From Philippians: The Choice to Rejoice episode artwork
04/11/2026

Many believers struggle because their lives are filled with the wrong things. But God wants us to be filled with the fruits of righteousness so we can live in a way that glorifies Him.

In this next message from his series on Philippians, "The Choice to Rejoice," Pastor Bayless shares how God lovingly prunes His people so they can bear more fruit in their lives. Drawing from Paul's time in prison, you'll discover how abiding in Christ—even in difficult seasons—can lead you from bearing spiritual fruit to bearing even more fruit, and to experiencing deeper and...


The Invitation of Easter
The Invitation of Easter episode artwork
04/03/2026

Many in our culture today think of Jesus as unapproachable, aloof, and even distant. But the Bible paints a very different picture.

In his special Easter message, "The Invitation of Easter," Pastor Harrison Conley reminds you that Jesus meets us right where we are—in our exhaustion, our failure, and in our hunger. You'll be encouraged that the Lord provides exactly what you need, right when you need it. 

Listen and hear the call of Jesus to "come and sit at my table" in this powerful Easter message from Pastor Harrison!


What Is Yours as a Member of God's Household
What Is Yours as a Member of God's Household episode artwork
03/27/2026

In this world, it can sometimes be hard to fit in. But if you're a part of God's family, you have a place at the Father's table. You belong.

And when you realize your position in Christ, it will change how you live, pray, interact with others, and look at problems. It will change everything.

So listen in as Pastor Bayless Conley explores Jesus' final words before the cross in his message "What Is Yours as a Member of God's Household." You'll discover what it means to be a dearly loved child of God—and al...


Lessons from Philippians: Don't Take Offense
Lessons from Philippians: Don't Take Offense episode artwork
03/20/2026

The apostle Paul urged the Philippian believers not to take offense—to be free of animosity, anger, and bitterness. 

In this message from his Philippians series called "Don't Take Offense," Pastor Bayless reveals how you can keep offense from taking root, and instead cultivate peace, joy, and spiritual fruit that glorifies God. You'll find out how that fruit grows as you submit to God's correction through His Word, His Spirit, and godly counsel.

Discover how you can forgive and guard against offense—and ultimately glorify God—in this eye-opening message.


Lessons from Philippians: Loving God's Way
Lessons from Philippians: Loving God's Way episode artwork
03/13/2026

Love is powerful—but as the apostle Paul reminds us, it must be expressed within the guidelines of knowledge and discernment.

Continuing his series in Philippians with his message, "Loving God's Way," Pastor Bayless explains that God's love is meant to be expressed through giving and forgiving—but always within the guiding limitations of Scripture and the Holy Spirit's leading. You'll discover how, without these boundaries, love may lead to excesses like enabling laziness or being taken advantage of.

Learn how you can express a love that's both generous and godly in this encouraging message!


Lessons at the Well
Lessons at the Well episode artwork
03/02/2026

Everyone experiences strained and broken relationships. But it doesn't have to stay that way—God shows us how to go from strife to peace.

In "Lessons at the Well," Pastor Bayless dives into six biblical stories to show how you can move from strife, envy, and accusation to peace and fruitfulness. You'll discover practical keys to help resolve disputes, break the cycle of offense, and live with a heart that's open to reconciliation.

Listen and find out how, when you have peace with God, you can have peace with others!


Lessons from Philippians: The Narrow Way
Lessons from Philippians: The Narrow Way episode artwork
02/28/2026

Every single person is either in Adam or in Christ—still under sin and death, or made alive in Jesus. So it's vital we lead others to make the right decision while there is an opportunity to do so.

In this message, "The Narrow Way," from his Philippians series, Pastor Bayless dives into the apostle Paul's reminder that "He who began a good work... will complete it." You'll discover why it's worth offending some people to tell the truth. And you'll be encouraged that no one is a hopeless case when it comes to Christ.

Fi...


Lessons from Philippians: Praise Your Way Out
Lessons from Philippians: Praise Your Way Out episode artwork
02/20/2026

Arrested and beaten, the apostle Paul and his disciple Silas were thrown into prison. Yet still they sang praises to God.

In "Praise Your Way Out," from his series on Philippians, Pastor Bayless shares some powerful lessons from Paul and Silas' imprisonment. You'll discover that often the best way out of a tough situation is to praise your way out. And you'll learn how this act of faith helped plant the seeds of the church in Philippi.

Be encouraged to see how your faithfulness can sow seeds that last into eternity in this powerful message!<...


Building a Great Marriage
Building a Great Marriage episode artwork
02/13/2026

If you want your relationships with others to flourish, your relationship with God needs to flourish first. 

 In "Building a Great Marriage," Pastor Bayless teaches from Ephesians 5 on how wives are called to respect their husbands and husbands are called to love their wives just as Christ loved the Church.  You'll learn why this cycle of love and respect—and the command for a husband to "leave and cleave"—is vital for a healthy marriage.

Discover how to make your marriage thrive with this powerful and practical message!


Lessons from Philippians: God's Bigger Plan
Lessons from Philippians: God's Bigger Plan episode artwork
02/06/2026

The most important thing you can give to another person is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In "God's Bigger Plan," a message from his series on Philippians, Pastor Bayless shares that God is always working on a far bigger plan than we can see. You'll discover from Paul's story of going to Macedonia how it's important to prepare and be fruitful where you're planted. And you'll gain insight into how God opens hearts to hear His truth.

Listen and find out how the Holy Spirit wants to use you to fill the longing of hungry...


Lessons from Philippians: Your True Citizenship
Lessons from Philippians: Your True Citizenship episode artwork
01/30/2026

The book of Philippians has often been called "the Epistle of Joy." In it, the apostle Paul reminds believers that they are citizens of heaven—and that heaven is their true home.

In the first message of his series on Philippians, "Your True Citizenship," Pastor Bayless encourages you that God has determined your boundaries here on earth for a purpose. You'll discover why obedience and God's timing matter in your life today. And you'll learn how love must be guided by wisdom and discernment so your relationships can truly flourish.

Find out how to live as...


The Prayer of Jesus
The Prayer of Jesus episode artwork
01/22/2026

Jesus prayed for oneness among believers in John 17. But the truth is that unity doesn't necessarily mean uniformity.

In "The Prayer of Jesus," Pastor Harrison Conley walks through this incredible prayer Jesus prayed for His followers. You'll discover how Jesus prayed for your sanctification and protection, and that His joy would be fulfilled in you. And you'll be encouraged as you discover what it means to truly behold His glory.

Find out what Jesus really wants for His people—including you—in this uplifting message!


Keys to Holy Living
Keys to Holy Living episode artwork
01/15/2026

God has called us to be holy—and it's not a suggestion, it's a command: "Be holy, for I am holy."

In his candid and encouraging message "Keys to Holy Living," Pastor Bayless explains that holiness begins in the heart and moves outward. You'll be reminded that you can't live a holy life without God's help, and that the Holy Spirit is your strengthener and guide when it comes to holy living.

Dive in and discover how, when you renew your mind and feed your heart with God's Word, it will change your life.


So You Want to Be a Star? (2/2)
So You Want to Be a Star?  (2/2) episode artwork
01/09/2026

As a believer, you are called to serve—to lay down your life and have the same mindset Christ had.

In part two of "So You Want to Be a Star?," Pastor Bayless shares that stars in God's kingdom are fighters who fight the good fight of faith and stand up for what is right. You'll discover how you can carry the message of redemption to the world. And you'll be reminded that there's only one superstar, and His name is Jesus.

Listen and find out how you can be a signpost for others, pointing th...


So You Want to Be a Star? (1/2)
So You Want to Be a Star? (1/2) episode artwork
01/02/2026

What if the way up in the kingdom of God is to actually go down?

In part one of his challenging message "So You Want to Be a Star?," Pastor Bayless shows you how Jesus didn't come to be served, but to serve. You'll learn that the Christian life isn't about position—it's about people—and that God promotes those who first humble themselves. 

Listen and discover how you can become great in the kingdom!


Supernatural Gifts - The Word of Knowledge
Supernatural Gifts - The Word of Knowledge episode artwork
12/27/2025

The word of knowledge is a gift—a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit of certain facts in the mind of God. And as a believer, it is available to you.

In his message, "Supernatural Gifts: The Word of Knowledge," Pastor Bayless opens 1 Corinthians 12 to explore one of the most powerful and personal gifts of the Holy Spirit. You'll hear real-life stories and biblical examples that show how the word of knowledge reveals hidden things to encourage, guide, and even rescue people. 

This gift is not reserved for a few—it's for anyone who's all-in with...


Jesus, Prince of Peace
Jesus, Prince of Peace episode artwork
12/18/2025

If you're like many people, you might wonder if peace is really possible in the world today.

In "Jesus, Prince of Peace," Pastor Bayless shares how peace is not found in the absence of problems but in the presence of Jesus Himself. You'll learn that Jesus gives a different kind of peace than the world gives—a peace that's not a counterfeit or a substitute, but true, abiding peace that can only come from God.

If your life feels chaotic or uncertain, don't miss this message. Let the Prince of Peace step into your situation an...


God's Christmas Gift
God's Christmas Gift episode artwork
12/11/2025

Jesus Christ is God's Christmas gift to the world. Yet so many wrap this gift up in religious rules and regulations instead of enjoying the gift itself.

In his message "God's Christmas Gift," Pastor Bayless takes a close look at what happened all those years ago in Bethlehem, sharing what is really at the heart of this amazing gift and what it means for your life today.

Discover why the gift of Christmas may be more powerful than you imagined in this special message!


Your Checklist for Prayer (2/2)
Your Checklist for Prayer (2/2) episode artwork
12/04/2025

Prayer is an exercise in faith—not sight. Through it, you can find the salvation, healing, and deliverance your heart longs for.

In part two of "Your Checklist for Prayer," Pastor Bayless continues walking through the questions you should ask before you pray, addressing essential checkpoints that can impact your prayer life. You'll discover how a lack of forgiveness can short-circuit your prayers—and you'll find out how assuming your responsibilities as a husband or wife can keep your prayers from being hindered. 

Listen and discover how you can clear the way for powerful, effective praye...


Your Checklist for Prayer (1/2)
Your Checklist for Prayer (1/2) episode artwork
11/28/2025

Have you ever prayed… but felt like nothing happened?

In part one of "Your Checklist for Prayer," Pastor Bayless encourages you to think about an important question before you pray: Is your request promised in the Bible? Through personal stories and Scripture, Bayless illustrates that only faith of the heart—going beyond merely agreeing mentally that God's promises are true—allows you to possess those promises.

If you want to move from unanswered prayer to fruitfulness, don't miss this practical and powerful teaching!


Hear and Be Wise
Hear and Be Wise episode artwork
11/20/2025

Deep within, we all yearn for wisdom. But being wise means living your life according to God and His Word—the source of all true wisdom.

In "Hear and Be Wise," Pastor Bayless uses the acrostic W-I-S-E to show you how to tap into God's eternal wisdom for daily life so you can be more blessed, stand strong against temptation, and overcome fear.

Discover the key to walking in true wisdom in this powerful message!


The Impact of a Generous Heart (2/2)
The Impact of a Generous Heart (2/2) episode artwork
11/13/2025

Generosity is not just a financial act—it's a spiritual one that connects you to God and brings Him glory.

In part two of "The Impact of a Generous Heart," Pastor Bayless continues the story of the Macedonians and shares the spiritual impact of giving. You'll learn that generosity not only meets needs—it results in "many thanksgivings to God" and brings glory to Him. And you'll discover that when your treasure follows God's purposes, your heart follows too. 

If you long to live a life that makes a difference, this message will show you how!<


The Impact of a Generous Heart (1/2)
The Impact of a Generous Heart  (1/2) episode artwork
11/06/2025

Does giving really matter? And what are the benefits of living generously with eternity in view?

In part one of his powerful message "The Impact of a Generous Heart," Pastor Bayless opens 2 Corinthians 8 and tells the inspiring story of the Macedonian believers—people who gave sacrificially "beyond their ability" and were passionate about supporting the gospel. You'll discover how true generosity begins with giving yourself fully to God—not just your resources, but your heart.

Get ready to enlarge your vision for generosity in this insightful message!


Keys to Successful Prayer
Keys to Successful Prayer episode artwork
10/30/2025

Are you facing a barren place in your life—where peace, strength, or material needs seem to elude you? 

In his heartfelt message "Keys to Successful Prayer," Pastor Bayless walks you through the Old Testament story of Hannah and shares five powerful principles for successful prayer. You'll find out how to bring your pain to God passionately—just like Hannah, who "poured out her soul before the Lord" and was met by God's mercy.

Learn how you can pray with persistence, passion, and purpose—to lift your burdens and see God move—in this encouraging message!<