The First Gospel - Psalm 19 - Sweeter Than Honey
For the past several weeks, we’ve been discovering the goodness of God on every page of the Old Testament, but this week, we paused with David in Psalm 19 to consider something both breathtaking and intimate. The psalmist is struck by the enormity of creation—“the heavens declare the glory of God”—but even more so by the God who draws near, speaking not only through stars but in whispers and words, reaching directly into our lives. Here, awe is not just a feeling; it’s an invitation. What does it mean for such a God to long for relationship with us? Let’s explore together.
Reading the News with Jesus
After months of exploring the sweeping 500-year rhythms of upheaval in the Western Church, I’ve realized something: while deep historical work is essential, we can’t afford to wait to engage with the world right now. That’s why I’m starting a new series alongside the old one. It’s called Reading the News with Jesus.
The premise is simple: every time we read the news, we’re being shaped. The question is—by whom? In a media-saturated world full of bias, outrage, and algorithmic manipulation, how do we make space for the voice of Jesus to rise above the noise? This isn’t just about being informed; it’s about being formed—into people who look and live like Jesus.
Each week, we’ll walk through a current headline together, learning to read not just for facts, but in prayerful conversation with Jesus. Think of it like reading the morning paper with an old friend—one who just happens to be the Savior of the world.
So let’s journey together—less doomscrolling, more discipleship. Less echo chamber, more Kingdom vision. Let’s practice reading the news with Jesus.
The First Gospel - Psalm 27: One Thing | Josh Harrison
Feeling confident in God on Sunday but struggling by Monday morning? In this week’s message on Psalm 27, Pastor Josh Harrison reminds us that true fearlessness comes from making God our “one thing” above all else. Whether we’re on the mountaintop or deep in the valley, authentic worship is both awe and action—gazing on His beauty and seeking His face. Even when life gets hard, God’s presence is our anchor. Wait for the Lord. Be strong, take heart, and know you will see His goodness in the land of the living!
Church & Politics - Golden Calves
It’s been over two months since we began this journey into the rhythms of upheaval—and how, every 500 years or so, the Church finds herself trembling alongside the world. Not destroyed, but disoriented. Not defeated, but divinely disrupted.
These seismic shifts reveal what we’ve clung to in God’s name that bears little resemblance to Him. We’ve seen it before: political idols shaped in the name of Jesus, golden calves dressed in Christian language, baptized ideologies that distort the gospel.
This isn’t new. But it is urgent.
If the Church is to be of any earthly good, we must walk the narrow way—engaged but not entangled, prophetic yet compassionate, political but distinctly Christian.
The upheaval is here. And while it is painful, it just might be our path to renewal.
The First Gospel - Psalm 63 | Josh Harrison
What does it mean to worship when life feels dry, difficult, or disorienting? In this week's sermon on Psalm 63, we unpack how David teaches us to show up, remember God’s faithfulness, and cling to Him—even in the wilderness. Worship isn’t just for the mountaintop moments; it’s an act of faith when we offer God our brokenness, exhaustion, and longing. Whether you feel close to God or far away, you can still choose worship. Let this encourage you to keep showing up, hold on to hope, and find God’s presence in every season.
Church & Politics - Doing Politics In The Way Of Jesus
What if the Church isn’t too political… but not political enough in the way of Jesus?
For generations, we’ve been told to keep politics out of the pulpit. But what if avoiding politics hasn’t protected the Church—it’s weakened it?
⚠️ Christians are being discipled by news anchors instead of Jesus.
⚖️ We’re choosing sides instead of choosing surrender.
✝️ It’s time for a better way—a third way.
👉 In this new blog post, explore how Jesus engaged with political tension in His day and what it means to do politics distinctly Christian in ours.
The First Gospel Part 23: David - The Victory Belongs to the Lord | Sheridan McDaniel
God is faithful—even in our exhaustion and brokenness. This week, Pastor Sheridan McDaniel walked us through 1 Samuel 30, where David’s men lost everything, wept till they had no strength, and yet found hope by turning to God. Sometimes, the battle gets tough and some can’t go on. But God’s victory is for everyone—those on the frontlines and those too weary to fight. No matter our role, God restores, redeems, and makes all things whole. Trust His process, remember His goodness, and know that, together, we recover all.
The First Gospel Part 22: David - Sin and Repentance | Jeff Willis
David was called a man after God’s own heart, yet his story is one of sin, brokenness, and redemption. From adultery and cover-ups to repentance and restoration, we see how even our worst moments can’t separate us from God’s love when we turn back to Him. Sin often starts small, building until it feels unstoppable—but grace meets us when we own up and realign our hearts. If you’re struggling, know this: God is merciful and always ready to restore us. Let’s seek Him with honest hearts and trust that His love can redeem every story.
Church & Politics - Compartmentalization
Is it possible to follow Jesus and stay out of politics? In this thought-provoking post, we explore why the separation of Church and state doesn’t mean Christians should separate their faith from public life. Drawing from Scripture, history, and the teachings of Jesus, the blog challenges the modern impulse to compartmentalize spirituality and politics. Instead, it calls believers to embrace an integrated life—where our earthly citizenship is shaped by our heavenly one. If you're wrestling with how faith and democracy intersect, read this week’s blog
Saul Syndrome
This week’s message dives into the story of Saul, the first king of Israel, and the danger of living for people’s approval instead of God’s calling. When we put pleasing others above obedience to God, we miss out on His best for us—just like Saul. True transformation comes from humble obedience, not outward appearances or sacrifices. Jesus shows us the better way: humility, trust, and surrender to God’s will. Let’s ask God to reveal our blind spots and give us the courage to follow Him wholeheartedly.
Church & Politics - The Church & The State
The separation of church and state is enshrined in our constitution, but how is that actually playing out in real life? What’s the difference between Democracy and Christianity? Read this week’s blog to find out!
Ruth
In the midst of chaos and ordinary struggles, God was at work through ordinary people, weaving together a legacy that would lead to King David and ultimately, Jesus himself. Discover how everyday faithfulness and selfless friendship can leave an extraordinary mark on the world. Join us as we see the power of love to transform generations.
5 Things I'm Pretty Sure Jesus Would Say To His Followers About the LA Protests
What would Jesus say about the unrest we are seeing in Los Angeles? I had some thoughts, click to read more!
Samson
Ever wondered if raw talent really trumps true character? Dive into the jaw-dropping, cautionary tale of Samson—a man blessed with supernatural strength but cursed by his own choices. In this eye-opening message, Pastor Joshua Harrison takes us on a whirlwind tour through the Book of Judges, unraveling the story of Samson like you’ve never heard it before. Discover how charisma without obedience can lead to downfall, why God’s grace operates even amid our mess, and how Samson’s wild journey ultimately points us to a much greater Hero. If you’re craving a deeper look at flawed heroes, cycles of regret, and the promise of lasting hope, this is a story you can’t afford to miss!
The Church & Politics - Christian Democracy
If we’ve seen major Church upheavals every 500 years, then we’re due. In this installment, we turn our attention to the political undercurrents shaping the Church today—beginning with the rise of democracy and its surprising Christian roots. But while democracy and faith once walked hand-in-hand, what happens when the alliance starts to fracture? This post lays the groundwork for a deeper investigation into the cultural and spiritual forces that may soon shake the Church again.
Gideon
Ever felt unqualified, fearful, or full of doubts about what God can do through you? This week at Citizens Church, we unpack the story of Gideon—a hesitant hero who met God in his weakness and discovered that God sees the whole story, from our struggles to our victory. Pastor Joshua shares how God isn’t offended by our doubts or insecurities but invites us to trust Him, carry our doubts to Him, and find strength in His presence. Whether you’re wrestling with your own limitations or longing to step into God’s calling, this message will encourage you that God’s grace meets us right where we are and names us by our victory, not our failures. Don’t miss this inspiring look at what happens when ordinary people say yes to an extraordinary God!
A Brief History of Upheavals – The Protestant Reformation
The Reformation Didn't Start with Luther—But It Changed Everything.
Long before Martin Luther’s hammer hit the Wittenberg door, the seeds of revolution were already planted. Fueled by the humanist spark of the Renaissance and accelerated by the printing press, the Protestant Reformation wasn’t just a religious moment—it was a cultural earthquake. Discover how a German monk, a philosophical shift, and a hunger for truth reshaped the Church and the world.
👉 Read the full post to trace the upheaval that redefined Christianity and still echoes today.
Last Words
Ready to hear the most important advice Moses ever gave? At the edge of the Promised Land, facing his final moments, Moses shares four powerful commands that can change the way we walk with God: Remember, Love, Fear, Hold Fast.
Whether you're in a wilderness or enjoying God's blessings, these words are for you! Don’t miss Pastor Joshua Harrison’s deep dive into Deuteronomy and discover how these ancient truths can anchor and guide your faith today.
👉 Watch or listen now—let these last words encourage your journey!
A Brief History of Upheavals – The Great Schism
What if the worst church split in history was also a turning point in God’s redemptive plan?
In this post, we trace the centuries-long tensions that led to The Great Schism of 1054—a moment of heartbreak, excommunication, and division that still echoes today. But was it only a tragedy… or also a transformation? Dive in to explore how God’s grace can work even through division.
Worship In The Wilderness
Ever wondered why worship matters most when life feels like a wilderness—uncertain, exhausting, and downright inconvenient? In this week’s message from Citizens Church, Pastor Joshua Harrison uncovers the powerful secrets hidden in the ancient Book of Numbers: how God’s people prioritized worship above all else in their hardest seasons, and why centering your life around God’s presence is actually how you survive—and even thrive—through the toughest times.
Discover why worship is more than just singing; it's about rooting your identity, finding hope, and even impacting those who are watching your journey. Whether you’re currently wandering, just made it out, or sense a tough season ahead, this message will show you practical ways to build habits of thanks and praise—no matter what’s going on around you. Plus, learn the surprising reason inconvenient worship might just be the very thing that sets you free.
If you’re feeling lost or longing for deeper meaning in difficult times, this talk will give you simple, soulful practices you can start today. Don’t miss it!