Zion Podcast

Sometimes it's hard to buy into new when new doesn't live up to the old. In Hebrews, the author is continually writing to convince its readers of how incredibly great Jesus is and his new covenant. Today, we talk about this new covenant that has been on God's heart all along, that He would make a new promise based on a new reality, and it is far better than we ever dreamed. Tune into this week's episode at Zion for more. . .

As a follower of Jesus, you have rightful access to righteousness, peace, and joy—not through a system, a list of rules, or traditions. These gifts are yours because Jesus stands in your place. This week at Zion, Pastor Josh will guide us through Hebrews chapters 6 and 7, explaining how Jesus is appointed as our High Priest forever. Tune in to this episode to discover what this means for our lives and to understand that there is a substitute for our sins.

The Easter story is beautiful and powerful all on its own, and it’s nothing like what we would do if we were God. Take a look with us into the Easter story as Pastor Brandon unpacks God‘s heart for humanity with this episode, "If I Were God: A Look at Easter".

The nature of an oath depends on a power bigger than yourself. God swears on an oath that we are His, and His covenant with us is secure in Him. That's on God. Tune in for another episode full of wisdom as we hear from our pastor Brandon Block here at Zion.

In this podcast episode Worship Pastor, Allison Weedin explores what it means to stay on assignment with God - especially when the easier option looks more appealing. Through the story of Jonah, we see how even well-intentioned opportunities can become distractions when they pull us away from our calling. 

This episode will challenge you to course correct, recognize the true cost of our choices and return to the path God has set before you.

As much as we would like to have the sense of security that we could never, EVER throw away our salvation, the Bible gives us many warnings. Pastor Brandon dissects the scripture as a whole and calls the people of God to remain in the security and salvation of Jesus Christ. Tune in to this episode to discover the five warnings to remain in Jesus.

The Christian life is often summarized in doctrines, foundational statements, and in learning as much as we can about what it means to be a Christian. The writer of Hebrews urges us to move on to maturity, not just laying a foundation, but progressing to the person of Jesus. And, Lord willing, that is what we will do. Tune into this episode as Pastor Brandon Block gives us more insight into entering a spiritual maturity hear at Zion.

Jesus was appointed by God, much like the priests of the Old Testament. Similar to these priests, Jesus was chosen to make sacrifices for the people and to also be the sacrifice. His compassion stems from his humanity and the fact that he fully yielded himself in obedience, reverence, and submission to God the Father. Because of this, God performed great and mighty works throughout His life and appointed Him the high priest of all. Tune in to this week as Pastor Brandon Block gives us more insight into the book of Hebrews.

God's desire was to always be connected with his people. When he designed Jesus, the great high priest, to forever make connection for us, He did it in such a way that Jesus has sympathy for us and opens wide the door for us to be connected to the one who created us and loves us more than anything. It's in this place at his throne that we can find grace in favor. This is a new concept when it came to Jesus, but the priesthood was not. Tune into this episode to dig deeper into the book of...

One of the premier verses in the Bible is found in Hebrews 4. It states that the Word of God is alive and powerful, sharper than any double-edged sword. Many times, we refer to this verse to highlight the significance of the Bible in our lives and its profound impact on us. In the context of Hebrews, the author invites us to embrace a deeper level of obedience and encourages us to find rest in Jesus. This powerful word calls each person, everywhere, to enter into a new salvation that comes through Jesus Christ. Tune in for this compelling episode...

In the same way that Israel crossed over from the wilderness to a perfect place of promise, Jesus is that promise of rest for those who will enter it. The invitation in Hebrews Chapter 4 is that we work hard and make it a priority to enter into that rest of completion because it is finished. Tune in to this episode as Pastor Brandon Block dives into the book of Hebrews here at Zion.

There’s more to being born again than what appears on the surface. While God clearly states that we are born again as soon as we believe in Jesus as the Lord of our lives, we are coming to understand that Jesus died to grant us a new spirit through life. With this new spirit, we are called to walk in the fullness of righteousness that has already been provided for us. Tune in to this episode for more as Brandon Block teaches the word here at Zion. . .

In continuation of encounter week, Pastor Brandon Block gives us instruction and a theological basis for healing. Tune in to this episode to understand the steps we should follow before acting in the power God has called us to.

The decisions you make and the strongholds in your life have the power to impact generations to come. This means that when you allow God to break down those strongholds, it can bless future generations as well. In this episode, Pastor Josh Lester teaches us about Nehemiah's strategic rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. This event is significant because it offers a blueprint for how we can reconstruct the walls and dreams in our own lives and combat the enemy's efforts to keep them down. Tune in to this episode for more. . .

Hebrews begins by addressing the Jewish affinity towards angels. Their history is deeply rooted in interactions with these majestic beings, who brought the word of the Lord, protected the people, and delivered them from bondage. It is understandable that any devout Jew would hold a high view of angels. The writer of Hebrews makes it clear from the outset that Jesus is supreme over these supernatural beings. Tune into this episode for more as Pastor Brandon Block preaches the word here at Zion.

As we embark on a journey through Hebrews, we start with a bold statement of the reality of who Jesus is a quick overview, shows us the purpose and direction of the letter, while laying the groundwork for the supreme city of Jesus. Tune in to this episode for more historical context, insight, and mission of Zion as Pastor Brandon Block explores the book of Hebrews in this new series.

As we wrap up the fast this encounter week, it's time to recognize that when we follow God's ways we reap His benefits. Psalm 103 says, "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits". In this episode, Pastor Brandon Block shows us this verse in a new light in addition to the true meaning of the fear of the Lord. This fear is a holy fear. It's a fear that says, God, I'm afraid to live a life without you here. The best way to live in His presence is to follow after His ways. Tune...

This week at Zion, our Young Adults Pastor shares a message about favor—specifically, God's favor. In Isaiah 61, we learn about God's blessing to restore and rebuild the city of Jerusalem after the Babylonian Exile. In this episode, Trey offers insights into how our self-talk can either be destructive or help us become a better version of ourselves. Additionally, when we speak biblical truths over our lives, we can harness an even greater power to rewire and rebuild our minds to think like Christ. Tune in to this episode for more. . .

As we begin our Encounter Week of 2025, our youth pastor, Josh Lester, inspires us for the final week of our 21-Day Fast with a message about revival. Did you know that the words you speak hold the power of life and death? Furthermore, God can take your words and multiply them into something extraordinary. When God plants seeds of dreams and accomplishments in your life, it is your responsibility to bring them to life through your words. Listen to this episode to discover how God did this for Ezekiel and how He can work powerfully through your words as...

Fasting allows believers to focus their hearts and minds on God rather than the challenges of life. It shifts our attention away from problems and directs it toward the solution. Leading up to the revival here at Zion, Pastor Josh Lester shares the story of how Jehoshaphat called for a nationwide fast. This act transformed their appetites and affections in a way that empowered them to win battles. As we examine our own lives, we can discover the solution to facing our struggles and worship the one true God. Tune into this episode for more. . .

Life always gives us the opportunity to reflect on the decisions we've made. When we say yes to God, we may encounter people who offer sound spiritual advice, presenting us with alternatives to the reality we are facing. However, it’s important not to quit. Remain steadfast in your commitment to what you vowed to the Lord from the beginning, and witness His faithfulness to the calling He has placed on your life. 

Let’s look at the story of Elisha and Elijah as an example of not giving up and the importance of pursuing what God has e...

The holy spirit moves inside you in new ways, taking new ground. When he moves, we move with the spirit.

In this episode Pastor Brandon is challenging us to fill ourselves with the Holy Spirit and then to allow Him to flow from you. 

A trusted prophetic voice is something that will restore people and situations, it has the power to take things that were dead and bring them to life!

In this session, Josh Lester teaches on the basics of what prophecy is and how to cultivate a prophetic voice in your own life.

Whatever trials you are going through in life, there is JOY on the other side of the journey. 

In this episode, Pastor Nancy Joe Block teaches on the Joy that was set before Jesus as he endured the cross for our sins and how we can glean from that example in our own every day lives.

Tune in to discover how you can choose to set joy as your goal even when the struggles of life seem insurmountable. 

Pastor Brandon Block is diving deep into the scriptures to uncover what the Bible says about healing. We'll learn about the works of Jesus Christ through his ministry on earth and investigate whether or not healing is still for today. 

Throughout this teaching you will hear accounts of healing that we've seen at Zion and Pastor Brandon will challenge you to take God at His word and believe for the unbelievable to happen in your body, mind and soul.

The Holy Spirit is a powerhouse given to all believers! 

In this episode with Worship Pastor Allison Weedin, we learn about two distinct experiences with the Holy Spirit - the indwelling and the baptism, gaining an understanding of what that means and how it happens according to the Bible. 

And then we’ll dive deeper and explore how we can interact with the Holy Spirit on a daily basis as Ephesians 5:18 instructs us to continually be being filled with Holy Spirit. 

Tune in as we demystify the person of the Holy Spirit because a spi...

As believers, it’s all too easy to slip into a routine of Christianity—checking off a list of do's and don'ts, attending church, reading the Bible, and engaging with the community. Yet, many of us reach a point in our faith journey where we sense that something important is missing.

God created us for more than just mere actions; He longs for a deep, intimate relationship with us. His greatest desire is for us to love Him wholeheartedly—a love many of us might be neglecting. In this episode, Pastor Trey Potter delves into the transformative experi...

Step into this teaching on prayer with Pastor Brandon Block as he unwraps the representation of incense throughout the Bible as it pertains to our prayers. Here you'll learn the value of incense as well as the high value of your prayers and begin to understand that your conversations with God are valuable to Him. 

Then move through a guided prayer meditation with our Pastor as you grow in your communication with God. 

We’ve all been given the unique opportunity to partner with God through the avenue of prophecy.

In this episode, youth pastor Josh Lester explores the significance of prophecy by examining the science behind sound. Understanding how sound works can help us grasp our role and authority regarding prophecy.

Throughout history, the Bible recounts that God's people have fasted, prayed, and consecrated themselves on numerous occasions, and God has responded. Their heartfelt cries have reached the Lord. Fasting serves as a form of constant prayer before Him, and the Bible assures us that no word spoken is wasted in His presence. When people pray, God responds. In this week's episode, Pastor Brandon Block provides guidance on the importance of fasting and dedicating ourselves to God at the start of 2025. Tune in to this episode for more. . .

Give God the beginning of 2025 through fasting and prayer with us here at Zion. As we approach a season of fasting, we look to the Lord as we take our food and give it up. We desire the things of God, and as He blesses and answers with fire from heaven, we understand that everything we have and everything given to us belongs to the Lord. In this episode, Pastor Brandon Block gives us an explanation of what this entails and how we can put Him first in our lives. Just as Hannah pours out her soul in fervent...

Who is Zion? What do we do and where are we going? The people of Zion are the church and as we dig deep in 2025 God will do great things among us! As Pastor Brandon gives nuggets from the Vision of Zion, you are called to a greater measure of transformation as God fulfills his purpose in you!  Tune in to this episode for more. . .

This week at Zion, Pastor Brandon Block gives us encouragement this Christmas season, when some of us are facing hardships at a time when it seems like everyone else is joyful. In this episode, we dive into the powerful message of "Joy to the World." Discover how God’s dominion and authority shape our lives, providing us security and refuge amid life’s challenges. As we face hardships, we can find joy in knowing that God is at work within us. Join us in embracing a spirit of celebration, remembering that we can eat, drink, and be merry in His...

God has always interacted with planet Earth through His Holy Spirit. This is particularly evident in the Christmas story, where He visits Joseph and Mary with incredible news about the birth of Jesus. When Mary asks, "How will this happen?" the only response she receives is that the Holy Spirit will come upon her.

It's no wonder that Jesus instructed His disciples, "You will do greater things than I," because the Holy Spirit will empower them to be His witnesses. In this episode, Pastor Brandon Block guides us through the Christmas story, focusing on Mary's interaction with...

The moment you accept Jesus as the Lord of your life, your spirit becomes completely new. It becomes perfect, holy, and blameless before the Lord. There is nothing else you can do to make it any better because you have received the fullness of salvation. 

Often, as Christians, we struggle with this concept because our souls are still at war with our flesh. We may think that when we sin, we no longer have the same relationship, power, and authority that we had when we were obedient to God. We start to believe we are disqualified.

In Mark 9, Jesus takes James, Peter, and John up a high mountain, where He is transfigured before them. Verses two and three describe this event: "There he was transfigured before them. His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them." This demonstrates the nature of God's glory coming upon individuals.

This week at Zion, Pastor Brandon Block continues to explore the nature of the Holy Spirit as we learn about the glory of God through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is essential; it is the first commandment Jesus...

Have you ever stood before a judge in court and tried to handle your case on your own? Probably not. You likely needed a lawyer—someone who could represent you, understand the complexities of the law, and defend your case. In John 14:16, Jesus uses the term "Parakletos" to describe the Holy Spirit. This Greek word is often used in a legal context to refer to someone who assists another in their legal matters. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is present within you to communicate on your behalf directly to the Father. This week, Pastor Brandon Block continues to emphasize that th...

At Zion, we believe in the Trinity: God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. As a Bible-believing church, we recognize the importance of engaging with the Holy Spirit. In this week's episode, Pastor Brandon Block explores the nature of the Holy Spirit and recounts the story of Jesus' baptism, where the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove. As believers, this serves as our blueprint for how to live and interact with the Holy Spirit. Tune in to this episode for more. . .

To conclude our series on the Beatitudes, Pastor Brandon Block shares the final Beatitude from Matthew 5:10: "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Historically, Jesus was addressing people who would face real persecution for their faith in Him. However, many of us in America today do not experience this level of persecution. So, what does this mean for us in today's context? In the midst of current political discussions, many of us want to stand up for our beliefs and express what we think is right. The real question we...

The pursuit of peace in the world often resembles a threat of war as a means to preserve that peace. However, the Prince of Peace offers something very different—a covenant that requires you to engage with Him in order to carry that peace with you wherever you go. This involves fostering unity, practicing forgiveness, and letting go of grudges. It also means remaining calm amidst the storms of life. This week at Zion, Pastor Josh Lester exemplifies what it means to be a peacemaker. Tune in to this episode for more. . .