Sherwood Oaks Christian Church Podcast

In this sermon, Pastor Shawn Green explores 1 Corinthians 12 to highlight the importance of spiritual gifts and unity within the church. Using the metaphor of a toolbox, he emphasizes that every believer has a unique, indispensable role to play in building up the body of Christ. Contrasting the unity of the early church with the division and immaturity in Corinth, the message challenges listeners to use their God-given gifts for the common good, serve others with humility, and find their place in God’s mission. The sermon closes with a call to action: join in serving the community and discover th...

This episode features Steve Dyer sharing his journey of discovering deeper purpose through long-term faithfulness and serving in the local church. Steve reflects on moving from personal pursuits to investing in God’s work, and how practical acts of service—like building ramps and distributing furniture—became opportunities for ministry, prayer, and discipleship. The conversation highlights the power of healthy church leadership, volunteer empowerment, and finding your unique place to use your God-given gifts to serve others and point people to Jesus.

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This episode explores the heart of Christian community as modeled in the early church, focusing on sacrificial care, compassion, and practical service. Drawing from Acts 2 and Matthew 25, the conversation highlights how the church is not a building or institution, but a people devoted to God and each other—especially those who are vulnerable or in need. Through stories of deacon ministry in nursing homes and hospitals, listeners are encouraged to see every act of kindness as a way of serving Christ, and to help build a culture of dignity and Spirit-empowered love within the church.

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In this sermon, “Built for One Another,” Shawn Green contrasts a consumer mindset with the biblical vision of church as a committed, Spirit-formed community. Drawing from Acts 2:42–47 and Ephesians 2:21, he describes how the early church was marked by shared life, generosity, hospitality, prayer, and public witness. The message challenges listeners to move beyond simply attending church to truly belonging and serving together, growing in Christ, and reaching out to “one more” person in need of hope. Healthy churches, he emphasizes, are not built by consumers but by followers of Jesus devoted to God and one another.

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In this sermon, Shawn Green explores Ephesians 2 and the powerful truth that through Jesus, those who were once outsiders are brought near and given full access to God by the Holy Spirit. The message emphasizes that the church is not built on politics, preferences, or status, but on Christ alone—the chief cornerstone. Listeners are invited to find their place in God’s family, experience true belonging, and build meaningful community. Ultimately, the sermon encourages us to live as a unified people, reflecting God’s grace and presence in the world.

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In this episode, we reflect on the miracle of the Church as local congregations unite to worship as one body. Through conversations about B-Town Worship Night, the speakers explore how music and shared worship break down barriers, foster deep unity, and offer a glimpse of heavenly worship described in Revelation. The discussion highlights the Holy Spirit’s power to move beyond performance, bridge differences, and encourage believers to see themselves as part of God’s larger story. Listeners will be inspired to feel less isolated, more connected, and reminded of the hope and presence of God in their community.

In this heartfelt episode, Ella Claire shares her journey of sensing God’s presence, leaning in during a youth conference, and choosing to follow Jesus through baptism. She reflects on how her faith has brought her a sense of belonging, deepened her appreciation for God’s creation, and made her daily life more joyful and intentional. The conversation highlights the impact of multi-generational faith, especially a mother’s gentle guidance, and offers encouragement for anyone considering a step of faith to “try it out” and discover the fullness of life found in following Jesus.

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In this sermon, “Built by the Spirit,” Pastor Matt Nussbaum invites the church to seek more of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power—moving beyond mere religious activity to a dynamic, Spirit-filled life. Drawing from Acts 2 and the events of Pentecost, the message explores how ordinary, imperfect disciples were transformed into bold, joyful witnesses through the filling of the Holy Spirit. Listeners are challenged to pursue deeper obedience and repentance, recognizing that true spiritual empowerment often brings disruption but always leads to greater joy and fruitful mission. The sermon closes with a call to honest prayer and openness to God’s...

This episode explores how authentic Christian faith is lived out through genuine community rather than religious checklists. Jared and Kate share their journey of finding belonging in a new church, highlighting the importance of being known, building friendships, and serving together—especially during new seasons of life like parenting. The conversation emphasizes spiritual growth as a shared process, learning from those who came before, and welcoming others with humility and vulnerability. Their hope and prayer is that the church will keep moving beyond ritual, embracing real relationships and active love in the wider community.

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In this sermon, Shawn Green reflects on moments of fear and crisis—both global, like 9/11, and personal—and contrasts them with Jesus’ vision for a church that is “built different.” Centered on Matthew 16:13-18, the message explores Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Messiah in a place marked by idolatry and fear. Listeners are invited to consider what it means to be a called-out community grounded in Christ, marked by peace, hope, and courageous love. The sermon challenges us to embody the church Jesus envisioned: a people who shine as beacons of light and unity in a divided and anxious...

This episode features a powerful testimony about finding true identity in Christ rather than in career, achievements, or success. Braden shares how being welcomed by a loving Christian community transformed his perspective, leading him to mentor and disciple young adults navigating similar challenges. Through stories of hospitality, friendship, and faith in action, this conversation highlights how following Jesus reframes our worth and calls us to compassionate, practical care for others, especially the next generation.

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In this message, Pastor Shawn Green explores what truly compels Christians to step beyond comfort and into God’s mission—not guilt, fear, or obligation, but the love of Christ. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5, the sermon highlights God’s desire to reconcile the world to Himself and His call for believers to serve as Christ’s ambassadors. Through stories from mission partners in Honduras and North India, listeners are invited to let the gospel expand their hearts, see overlooked people with God’s eyes, and bring both practical help and spiritual hope. The message closes by challenging believers to respond in faith...

In this episode, Evy Chapman and Maggie Randall share how Christ’s influence works through ordinary believers in everyday places—apartments, classrooms, workplaces, and hospital rooms. Through personal stories of Bible-reading accountability and compassionate care, they highlight how daily devotion shapes our presence and ability to love others well. Listeners are encouraged to “bloom where you’re planted,” ground their identity in Christ, trust God’s goodness in every season, and let the Holy Spirit lead—even when they don’t feel equipped. Discover how discipleship is simply walking alongside others, pointing them to Jesus, and letting His love flow through you...

In this sermon, Pastor Matt Nussbaum explores what it means to be people through whom Jesus influences others, drawing from Matthew 5:13–16. Centered on the call to be “salt and light,” the message challenges believers to invite the Holy Spirit to transform them from the inside out—cultivating supernatural mercy, forgiveness, generosity, integrity, and kindness. Rather than focusing on external rule-keeping, listeners are encouraged to live distinctively and shine God’s light in daily life, helping others see the goodness of God. The sermon concludes with a call to let the Spirit work through us, making the way of Jesus visible an...

In this episode, we explore what it looks like for Christ to influence not just our eternity, but our everyday lives. Through an honest conversation about faith, relationships, habits, health, Scripture, prayer and community, we hear how following Jesus can reshape our desires and help us navigate the influences around us. From learning to make healthier choices and spend intentional time with God to finding supportive Christian community, this conversation offers an encouraging picture of the ongoing transformation that happens when we allow Christ to shape who we are becoming.

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In this sermon, Shawn Green explores the powerful question: Who is influencing you? Drawing from Colossians 1–2, he challenges listeners to examine the voices shaping their lives and invites them to experience the fullness of life found in Christ. The message highlights that true transformation comes not from trying harder, but from abiding in Jesus—through prayer, God’s Word, and authentic community. Listeners are encouraged to root their identity in Christ, resist hollow and deceptive philosophies, and let Jesus’ influence shape who they are becoming.

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In this sermon, Grant Gardner explores Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15, focusing on the radical compassion of the Father who restores both the wayward younger son and the prideful older brother. The message challenges listeners to examine their own hearts—whether they identify as “prodigals” or “older brothers”—and to recognize that true belonging in God’s family is a gift of grace, not something earned. Listeners are invited to lay down pride, embrace a new identity as sons and daughters, and join the joyful celebration of God’s redeeming love.

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In this message, Pastor Shawn Green explores Jesus’ parable of the great banquet in Luke 14, challenging us to embrace humility, grace, and radical invitation. Drawing on the imagery of God’s table—a place where all are welcome, especially those who feel unworthy or have nothing to offer—he reminds us that salvation is a gift, not something we earn. The sermon calls us to accept God’s invitation through Jesus and extend that same grace to others, expanding the table so that everyone knows they belong.

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In this sermon, Pastor Shawn Green explores Jesus’ teaching from Luke 14 about humility and the dangers of seeking status and recognition. Using the setting of a dinner with the Pharisees, Shawn illustrates how our culture often pressures us to strive for the best seat at the table—both literally and figuratively—seeking validation through achievement and the approval of others. He contrasts this with Jesus’ invitation to trust God, take the lower seat, and serve others, reminding us that real honor comes not from self-promotion but from letting God lift us up in His timing. Through practical stories and biblical...

In this sermon from the "Block Party" series, Matt Nussbaum explores the story of Jesus at Simon the Pharisee’s house in Luke 7. Through vivid storytelling and relatable examples, listeners are invited to see themselves in the shoes of Simon, the self-righteous Pharisee, and the unnamed woman burdened by guilt and shame. The message highlights Jesus’ radically compassionate response to both judgment and brokenness, emphasizing that Jesus offers forgiveness, peace, and joy to all—no matter their past. This episode invites you to experience the transformative power of grace and challenges you to respond to Jesus with authenticity and devoti...

Jesus’ call to Levi shows that following him always costs something—and it’s worth it. Levi wasn’t just changing jobs; as a Jewish tax collector working for Rome, he was leaving behind wealth, security, identity, and relationships with no easy way back. When Jesus said, “Follow me,” Levi got up immediately, left everything, and began a day-by-day life of following Jesus.

Instead of keeping his new faith private, Levi threw a great banquet and invited his old circle—tax collectors and other social outsiders—so they could meet Jesus too. The message is that true discipleship doe...

What if the greatest gift you could give someone has nothing to do with money or time—but simply introducing them to Jesus? Shawn unpacks the remarkable story from Luke 5, where four friends literally tear through a roof to lower their paralyzed companion before Jesus—and discover that his deepest need wasn't physical healing, but forgiveness. This message will challenge you to see the people in your neighborhood with fresh eyes and inspire you to become the kind of friend who removes barriers so others can encounter Christ. Don't miss this one—watch or listen now.

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What if Jesus looked at you right now and asked, "What do you want me to do for you?" Matt unpacks a powerful moment in Luke 4 where desperate, hopeful, unashamed people flood Simon Peter's home seeking healing—and Jesus meets every one of them. Like blind Bartimaeus who shouted through the crowd until Jesus stopped, we're invited to bring our deepest needs without managing our image or surrendering to resignation. This isn't religion on autopilot—it's supernatural transformation. Don't miss this message; it just might change everything you thought healing looks like.

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What if the peace you're desperately searching for isn't found by getting your life together—but by simply talking to Jesus about the mess? Matt explores three powerful moments where Jesus tenderly asked his disciples, "Why are you afraid? Why are you crying? Why are you troubled?"—not to shame them, but to invite real conversation. Like Paul writing about supernatural peace from inside a Roman prison, true shalom transcends circumstances. If your soul feels like a blender on high, don't miss this message—it could change everything.

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What if the guilt you've been carrying was never yours to keep? On this Father's Day, Shawn tackles one of life's most universal burdens—guilt—and reveals why wallowing in it actually diminishes the grace Jesus purchased for you. Drawing from Romans 5:1-2, Shawn unpacks the life-changing truth of justification: that through faith in Jesus, you are made *just as if you'd never sinned*—not someday, but right now. Don't miss this powerful message that will finally give you permission to lay down what Jesus already carried to the cross for you.

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What if the deepest longing in your heart—to truly belong—could be satisfied right where you are? Shawn reveals how Paul's radical vision in Romans 12 transforms isolated strangers into devoted family through gospel-shaped community. When Shawn moved during COVID lockdowns, he discovered the ache of isolation that we all carry, but found hope in Paul's call to "practice hospitality"—actively pursuing strangers to make them friends. This isn't just about being nice; it's about living out the revolutionary love of Jesus who left heaven's comfort to welcome outsiders like us. Don't miss this transformative message that could change how yo...

What if the labels you've wrapped around yourself are just chapters in a story God is still writing? Shawn reveals how Michael Phelps, despite Olympic glory, asked "Who am I?" when swimming ended—proof that even our greatest achievements crumble when they become our identity. Through Jesus' call to "take up your cross and follow me," Shawn shows how surrendering our self-made titles leads to discovering we're image-bearers of God—loved, chosen, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. This isn't about losing yourself; it's about finding who you truly are beyond every role and category. Don't miss this life-changing mess...

What if the life you're chasing isn't leading where you think it will? Jesus announced revolutionary news: the kingdom of God—a life of peace, joy, and freedom—is accessible right now, not just after death. Matt reveals how repentance isn't religious oppression but a rescue word, like shouting "stop!" to prevent someone from walking into traffic. When Jesus said "the time has come," He meant this decisive moment when you can step from a life leading to death into abundant life with Him. Don't spend another week trapped in shame, anxiety, or isolation when freedom awaits—experience this transf...

What if the secret to a meaningful life isn't found in your next achievement, but in surrendering control? After seven weeks searching for satisfaction in pleasure, wealth, and success, the Teacher in Ecclesiastes discovers everything earthly fades like vapor—except God's eternal Word. Shawn shares how our noisy culture promises fulfillment but leaves us empty, while true purpose comes from fearing God and keeping His commands—not cowering in terror, but standing in awe like at the Grand Canyon's edge. This isn't about following rules but surrendering to the One who designed us for abundant life. Don't miss this life...

What if the very uncertainty that keeps you awake at night is God's invitation to deeper trust? Shawn reveals how our minds catastrophize everything—from failed sermons to strange pains that "must be terminal"—turning uncertainty into anxiety cocktails. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 11, he shows that everything meaningful requires risk: marriage, parenting, generosity all demand we step forward without guarantees. Through Shannon's house fire story, Shawn demonstrates how trusting Jesus amid uncertainty frees us to serve others facing their own storms. Ready to silence uncertainty's noise and find God's unshakeable peace? Don't miss this anchor for anxious hearts—dive in now!<...

What if discomfort isn't your enemy but God's gentle chisel shaping something beautiful within you? Ecclesiastes 7 reveals wisdom's counterintuitive truth—sometimes we learn more at a funeral than a feast, and God whispers deepest truths through life's pressures. Shawn shares how his intentionally inefficient morning coffee ritual mirrors how meaningful transformation requires heat, grinding, and time—uncomfortable processes that produce richness we can't get otherwise. Are you constantly reaching for your "safety blanket" when life gets hard, missing what God wants to teach you? Don't settle for relief when God offers restoration—dive into this message now!

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What if the grip you have on your money is actually keeping you from the joy God promises? Pastor Matt's twin brother, a millionaire, shares wisdom about distinguishing between wanting financial security and becoming a "lover of money"—a biblical warning that cuts across all income levels. Through Ecclesiastes, Matt reveals how our tight-fisted approach to wealth can rob us of the very peace we're chasing, while God actually wants us to enjoy rich foods and celebrate with open hands. This message challenges you to examine your financial heart and discover the freedom that comes from trusting God's provision. Do...

What if the secret to contentment isn't getting more, but wanting less? Solomon discovered that all achievement springs from envy—that corrosive comparison poisoning our souls with "why them, not me?" Matt reveals how envy suffocates tranquility, sharing his own struggle when driving past a thriving church while his congregation dwindled to fifty people. But there's hope: Jesus offers wisdom more precious than anything we desire, turning competitive striving into supernatural rest. Ready to trade March Madness mentality for soul-deep peace? Dive into this transformative message and discover how love dissolves envy's grip on your heart!

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What if you could have everything you ever wanted and still feel completely empty? Maggie vulnerably shares her own struggle with achievement addiction while walking us through Ecclesiastes 2, where the teacher discovers that building houses, amassing wealth, and denying himself nothing still left him "chasing after the wind." Through biblical stories of Mary and Martha, Gideon's army, and daily manna, Maggie reveals how God consistently values presence over productivity, trust over strength, and surrender over control. Ready to trade the quiet exhaustion of proving yourself for the deep rest found in Christ? Watch now and discover the freedom of...

What if the relentless noise drowning out your soul is actually protecting you from the very rest you're desperate to find? Shawn unpacks Ecclesiastes' brutal honesty—life's endless pursuits are just vapor, bubbles that pop, leaving us chasing meaningless achievements under the sun. Yet this ancient teacher's "last 5%" conversation isn't despair—it's an invitation to turn down life's volume so we can finally hear God's voice calling us to true satisfaction. Ready to trade the exhausting noise for transformative quiet? Don't miss this series opener that dares you to create intentional silence and discover what you've been searching for all...

What if Easter's power could transform the overwhelmed places in your life right now? Shawn reveals how the disciples, hiding behind locked doors after Jesus' crucifixion, felt completely in over their heads—until the risen Christ appeared with "Peace be with you." Drawing from the 12-step principle "I can't, God can, so I think I'll let him," Shawn shows how resurrection isn't just historical fact but present reality. Whether you're navigating teenage struggles, caring for aging parents, or facing financial strain, this message offers surrender as the pathway to transformation. Watch now and discover how one encounter with the ri...

Join us for a special podcast series leading up to Easter. Each day between Palm Sunday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (April 5), a member of our church will join you to read Scripture. 

Today, Luke joins us to read:

Prayer: Lord, thank you for Jesus. Because of him, you have conquered death and brought life that never ends. Fill my heart with resurrection joy and unshakable hope. Let the power of your resurrection shape how I live, love, and trust. Because you live, my future is secure. Because you rose, hope h...

Join us for a special podcast series leading up to Easter. Each day between Palm Sunday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (April 5), a member of our church will join you to read Scripture. 

Today, Karla joins us to read:

Prayer: Lord, you are the God of hope. Meet me in the quiet places. When life feels uncertain and answers seem delayed, help me wait with trust. Strengthen my faith when I cannot see what you are doing. Hold me steady when grief, confusion, or weariness settles in. I place m...

Join us for a special podcast series leading up to Easter. Each day between Palm Sunday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (April 5), a member of our church will join you to read Scripture. 

Today, Hannah joins us to read:

Prayer: Lord, I pause in the shadow of the cross. Thank you for Jesus. Thank you for bearing sin, shame, and sorrow in my place. Help me to rest in what you have done, not strive to earn what you freely give. I lay my guilt, my regret, and my burdens at the foo...

Join us for a special podcast series leading up to Easter. Each day between Palm Sunday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (April 5), a member of our church will join you to read Scripture. 

Today, Tim joins us to read:

Prayer: Lord, you loved by serving and gave by surrendering.
Teach me to love like you. Free me from pride that keeps me from kneeling low.
Give me eyes to see the needs around me and a willing heart to respond with humility and grace. Thank you for your body g...