Christ Church Memphis

The Parable of the Talents | Rev. Paul

Sermon: The Parable of the Talents Series: Above & Beyond Teacher: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30 In this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler delves into the powerful message of the Parable of the Talents from Matthew 25:14-30. Drawing parallels to the concept of "Seize the Day," he emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities while they are available. This parable, according to Rev. Lawler, tells a sobering story of wasted opportunity, a wasted life, and dire consequences. He hig...

Serving: Staying in Circulation | Bro. Chris

Series: Above & Beyond Part 3: Serving: Staying in Circulation Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10-11 In this installment of the Stewardship Series, Above and Beyond, Bro. Chris Carter focuses on 1 Peter 4:10-11. The sermon begins with a thought-provoking comparison between Christianity and a bowl of lima beans, emphasizing the need for the Church to demonstrate God's love and power to the world. Bro. Chris emphasizes that Christians are saved to serve, challenging the ide...

Stewardship is Lordship | Pastor Paul

Series:  Above & Beyond Part 3:  Stewardship is Lordship Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10 In this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler draws inspiration from 1 Peter 4:10 and emphasizes that stewardship goes beyond just managing money and resources; it is a concept intrinsically tied to lordship. Rev. Lawler underscores the fundamental principle that everything belongs to God, and humans are appointed as stewards to care for His creation. Each person possesses unique gifts given b...

Giving First Fruits to God | Bro. Chris

Series:  Above & Beyond Part 2:  Giving First Fruits to God Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter In this sermon, which is part of a Stewardship Series, Bro. Chris Carter discusses the importance of giving first fruits to God. He emphasizes that handling money is a test from God and reflects our priorities, loyalties, and affections. The sermon identifies three patterns of life-giving firsts: 1. The Pattern of the Firstborn: According to Exodus 13:2, the firstborn belongs to God and must be consecr...

Giving First Fruits to God | Pastor Paul

Series:  Above & Beyond Part 2:  Giving First Fruits to God Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler In this sermon, which is part of a Stewardship Series, Pastor Paul Lawler discusses the importance of giving first fruits to God. He emphasizes that handling money is a test from God and reflects our priorities, loyalties, and affections. The sermon identifies three patterns of life-giving firsts: 1. The Pattern of the Firstborn: According to Exodus 13:2, the firstborn belongs to God and must be consecr...

What God Can Do with All I Have? | Bro. Chris

Series:  Above & Beyond Part I:  What God Can Do with All I Have?  Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  John 6:1-14 In the inaugural sermon of our "Above and Beyond" series, Bro. Chris Carter delves into the profound message behind the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 from the book of John, chapter 6. While the story is familiar, Bro. Chris challenges us to see beyond the surface and recognize that it's about more than just the multiplication of bread and fish. He encourages us to view t...

What Can God Do With All I Have? | Pastor Paul

Series:  Above & Beyond Part I:  What God Can Do with All I Have?  Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  John 6:1-14 In the inaugural sermon of our "Above and Beyond" series, Pastor Paul Lawler delves into the profound message behind the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 from the book of John, chapter 6. While the story is familiar, Pastor Lawler challenges us to see beyond the surface and recognize that it's about more than just the multiplication of bread and fish. He encourages us to vie...

The Prodigal Son | Bro. Chris

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 6:  The Prodigal Son Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  Luke 15:11-32 Bro. Chris Carter journeys through the powerful and familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son. This parable isn't just about a wayward son; it's a profound story about God the Father, His forgiveness, and His boundless joy. In this sermon, he explores how this parable is intricately woven with two preceding parables: The Lost Sheep and The Lost Coin. All three parables culminate in a...

The Prodigal Son | Pastor Paul

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 6:  The Prodigal Son Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Luke 15:11-32 Pastor Paul Lawler journeys through the powerful and familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son. This parable isn't just about a wayward son; it's a profound story about God the Father, His forgiveness, and His boundless joy. In this sermon, he explores how this parable is intricately woven with two preceding parables: The Lost Sheep and The Lost Coin. All three parables culminate in a...

The Good Samaritan | Nathan

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 5:  The Good Samaritan Sermon by: Nathan Cook (Missions Dir.) Scripture:  Luke 10:25-37 In the fifth installment of "The Parables of Jesus" series, Pastor Paul Lawler delves into a profound question: "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" This question, though somewhat uncomfortable, is essential for all of us to contemplate, especially in light of our inevitable mortality.  Examining Luke 10:25-37, Pastor Paul explores the encounter between a man see...

The Good Samaritan | Pastor Paul

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 5:  The Good Samaritan Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Luke 10:25-37 In the fifth installment of "The Parables of Jesus" series, Pastor Paul Lawler delves into a profound question: "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" This question, though somewhat uncomfortable, is essential for all of us to contemplate, especially in light of our inevitable mortality.  Examining Luke 10:25-37, Pastor Paul explores the encounter between a man seeking to tes...

The Mustard Seed | Pastor Chris

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 4:  The Mustard Seed Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Mark 4:30-32 (Also found in Matthew 13:31, 32 )

The Mustard Seed [Paul]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 4:  The Mustard Seed Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Mark 4:30-32 (Also found in Matthew 13:31, 32 ) In the fourth installment of our "Parables of Jesus" series, Pastor Paul Lawler focuses on The Parable of the Mustard Seed. The seed symbolizes God's Word, and the condition of one's heart determines their spiritual fruitfulness. The seed of God's Word holds the transformative power to impact lives, communities, and nations. The Mustard Seed parab...

What is God's Wrath?

Explore the intricate relationship between wrath, love, and God's attributes. This blog explores why God's wrath isn't a contradiction to His love but rather a response that upholds justice and heals brokenness. Wesley, Wrath, & The Revival That Changed A Nation by Rev. Paul Lawler

The Four Seasons of Growing as a Christ-Follower [Paul]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 3:  The Four Seasons of Growing as a Christ-Follower Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Mark 4:26-29 In part three of "The Parables of Jesus" series, Rev. Paul Lawler delves into the spiritual journey of growth as a Christ-follower through the lens of Mark 4:26-29. Discover the four seasons of spiritual growth, from sowing the seed of God's Word to the divine timing of growth, the intrinsic power of God's Word, and the ultimate season of reaping. Be ...

Vision Night Fall 2023

As we prepare for the fall 2023 semester of Wednesday Night Discipleship, Pastor Paul addresses this semester’s theme: Prayer. Using the Lord’s Prayer, he explores the instructions Jesus gave us for praying. 

Get to Know: Brian Maness (Dir. Athletics Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, with chat with Brian Maness, Director of Athletics Ministry. He shares about his upbringing involved in sports and how he suspects God was always moving him into a role like this. He also shares the importance of using sports to teach children teamwork, hard work, and encouragement. 

The Conditions of the Heart [Grant]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 2: The Conditions of the Heart Sermon by: Grant Caldwell Scripture:  Luke 7:36-50

The Conditions of the Heart [Paul]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 2: The Conditions of the Heart Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Luke 7:36-50 In this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler explores the message of Matthew 13:18-23. Drawing from Jesus' parable of the sower and the four types of soil, the sermon examines the conditions of the heart. The difference in outcomes isn't due to the quality of God's Word but the quality of the heart. Pastor Paul discusses four heart conditions: 1. The Superficial Heart: This heart i...

Get to Know: Olivia Hewitt (Dir. Middle School Ministries)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Olivia Hewitt, Director of Middle School Ministries. While growing up, Olivia was determined she would work with her first love, horses. However, through middle and high school, she developed a faith that put a calling on her life to pursue ministry. We chat about her passion for being a spiritual leader for teens and how they equally develop her faith. 

What is a Parable?

In this podcast episode, Christ Church Discipleship Pastor Grant Caldwell explains parables. Often used by Jesus to present a greater truth, these literary tools can contain double meanings and unclear points. However, Grant emphasizes the importance of understanding genre and context to interpret parables effectively. He addresses why Jesus taught in parables and how they serve to reveal truths and separate those who understand from those who don't. The episode concludes with practical advi...

The Two Debtors [Chris]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 1: The Two Debtors Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  Luke 7:36-50 Bro. Chris Carter's sermon contrasts two characters: Simon the Pharisee, marked by pride and judgment, and an unnamed 'sinful woman,' whose actions show humility, love, and gratitude. Through this parable, we learn about qualities that define a true house of worship: Brokenness: The woman acknowledges her need for forgiveness, while Simon's pride blinds him to his own faults. Extra...

The Two Debtors [Paul]

Series:  The Parables of Jesus Part 1: The Two Debtors Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Luke 7:36-50 In this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler delves into the parable found in Luke 7:36-50. He explores the story of a woman whose past was marked by sin and a Pharisee named Simon, who both encounter Jesus at dinner. We explore the stark contrasts between the two characters: the woman's heartfelt worship and Simon's hidden pride. Discover: The dangers of hidden pride and a judgmental spirit ...

Get to Know: Laura Greenwell (Dir. Women's Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Laura Greenwell, Director of Women's Ministry. Laura never considered ministry in her future; however, through a series of miscarriages, adoptions, foster placements, and developed love for the community, she found herself in the unique position of caring for these groups at Christ Church. After starting in the finance department at Christ Church, she now leads the women's ministry with a heart for de...

The Blessings of the Fear of the Lord [Chris]

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 6:  The Blessings of the Fear of the Lord Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  Acts 9:31 Drawing from Acts 9:31, this sermon unpacks the transformative impact of this often-overlooked discipline on our lives and spiritual journey. The early church, despite limited resources and facing challenges, made an exponential impact on the world because they walked in the fear of the Lord. In contrast, modern society can sometimes trivialize this es...

What Are the Blessings of Fearing God?

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 6:  The Blessings of the Fear of the Lord Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Acts 9:31 Join us as we delve into the final part of "Why the Fear of the Lord Matters." In the finale, Pastor Lawler explores the profound blessings that stem from embracing the Fear of the Lord. Contrary to a common misconception, the Fear of the Lord is not about trembling in terror before a harsh judge. Instead, it's about recognizing God's multifaceted natur...

Get to Know: Ashley Parks (Dir. Special Needs Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Ashley Parks, Director of Special Needs Ministry. For Ashley, special needs ministry was never the goal, but after stumbling into a nonprofit position, she quickly fell in love with the community. For more than 15 years at Christ Church, she has cultivated a loving and supportive community for an often-overlooked group and their caretakers. 

How To Be A Friend of Jesus (Chris)

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 5:  Friendship with God and The Fear of the Lord  Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  Psalm 25:12-15;  John 15:9-15 What does it look like to be a friend of Jesus? In this blog, learn how to embrace the intimate friendship that God desires with you. We explore four invitations that lead to a closer relationship with God. Uncover the beauty of being a true friend of God and draw near to Him, experiencing the transformational power of friend...

Unveiling the Depths of Intimacy: Friendship with God (Paul)

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 5:  Friendship with God and The Fear of the Lord  Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Psalm 25:12-15 In this message, Pastor Lawler highlights the context of David's distress and trouble, potentially caused by his son Absalom's rebellion. This Psalm, written during a time of need, serves as a poignant reminder of how adversity can lead to a deeper connection with God. The foundation of this episode revolves around understanding the fear of...

Friendship with God and The Fear of the Lord (Paul)

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 5:  Friendship with God and The Fear of the Lord  Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Psalm 25:12-15 In this message, Pastor Lawler highlights the context of David's distress and trouble, potentially caused by his son Absalom's rebellion. This Psalm, written during a time of need, serves as a poignant reminder of how adversity can lead to a deeper connection with God. The foundation of this episode revolves around understanding the fear of...

Get to Know: Miles Stevens (Communications Dir.)

Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord (Chris)

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 4:  Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord Sermon by: Bro. Chris Carter Scripture:  2 Samuel 6:14-23 What does it look like for our hearts to be awakened to God’s presence? As King David returns the Ark to Jerusalem, he dances in carefree awe before the Lord. How can we move our hearts to expression like David? This blog explores the transformative power that causes us to crave God’s presence. 

Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord (Paul)

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 4:  Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  2 Samuel 6:14-23 The Ark, considered Israel's most sacred object and the presence of God among His people, David, as the newly appointed king of Israel, sought to bring it to Jerusalem to establish it as the focus of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence in the capital city. David is portrayed as a man after God's own heart, craving the presence of th...

Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord

Series:  Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Part 4:  Holy Presence and the Fear of the Lord Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  2 Samuel 6:14-23 The Ark, considered Israel's most sacred object and the presence of God among His people, David, as the newly appointed king of Israel, sought to bring it to Jerusalem to establish it as the focus of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence in the capital city. David is portrayed as a man after God's own heart, craving the presence of th...

Get to Know: Kyle Holder

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders! In this interview, we chat with Kyle Holder, Contemporary Worship Pastor for Seabrook Hall. Kyle still vividly remembers the moment he was called to music: a televised Lynyrd Skynyrd concert. It opened a world of music to him, making him grab a guitar and start learning the instrument. Kyle grew quickly as a worship leader through mentors and discipleship at his church. As he starts a new role at Christ Church, he is most excited to ...

God in Disguise

Sermon by: William Merriman, Dir. Student Ministries Scripture:  Luke 24:13-35 The sermon discusses how God often comes to us in disguise, especially during difficult times. It centers on the biblical story of Cleopas and the unnamed disciple encountering Jesus in disguise while walking to Emmaus. Through Christian community, the Word of God, pilgrimage, and communion, individuals can encounter Christ and experience a transformation of the heart. The sermon invites listeners to embrace thes...

Get to Know: Don Alsup (Media Director)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Don Alsup, Media Director. He shares his love of film and how he was drawn to media at a young age. From beginning his career in radio to moving into the software industry before being laid off after 20+ years at one company, Don opens up about why the Media Director role is the perfect job for him now. 

Breaking Intimidation pt. 2: Embracing the Fear of the Lord

Sermon by: Rev. Paul Lawler Series: Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7 In this series, we've explored the fear of the Lord as a fountain of life, offering protection from the snares of death. Week 3 focuses on 2 Timothy 1:7, where we learn that God has given us power, love, and self-control, not fear. We've discussed how fear impacts our God-given gifts and talents, distorting reality and hindering our progress. Fear also leads to other sins like resentment and blame...

Get to Know: Jan Averwater (Dir. Fitness Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Jan Averwater, Director of Fitness Ministry. She shares about her upbringing in Wisconsin, working for a pipeline company, and eventually moving to Memphis and meeting her husband in a softball league. We hear her share how her passion, even from an early age, was pursuing Physical Education and how she lives out her ministry in her current role. 

Breaking Intimidation pt. 1

Series: Why the Fear of the Lord Matters Scripture: Assorted Teacher: Rev. Paul Lawler In this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler explores how the fear of man becomes a paralyzing trap by sharing three key insights for breaking its stronghold. Find freedom as you shift your focus from pleasing people to revering God. Trust in the cross of Christ Jesus and experience safety and security, unburdened by fear. His final invitation is to join this journey toward embracing the fear of God and living a li...

Get to Know: Courtney Merriman (Dir. Older Elementary)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this interview, we chat with Courtney Merriman, Director of Older Elementary. From an early age, Courtney knew she wanted to be a teacher; however, after more than half a decade of teaching, she found herself burned out and unsure of what God wanted in her life. She shares how she's always used teaching as a way to share God's love but how He opened the door to having her own faith developed while sharing the Gospel in her new ro...

Life in the Fear of the Lord

Series: Why the Fear of the Lord Matters? Teacher: Rev. Paul Lawler Scripture:  Assorted In this sermon, Paul Lawler emphasizes the importance of embracing the fear of the Lord. He clarifies that it is not a negative fear, but rather a liberating reverence. Lawler warns against distorted fears and explains that the fear of the Lord involves deep awe and reverence for God. It brings wisdom, avoids sin's traps, and establishes a close relationship with God. This fear provides protection and p...

Get to Know: Mike Weaver (Dir. Men's Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mike Weaver, the Director of Men's Ministry at Christ Church since 2014. In this interview, we uncover the remarkable facets of Mike's life, from his courageous service in the Marines to his selfless work as a firefighter. However, Mike's story takes a surprising turn as he reveals how an unexpected divine calling intersected his path, despite his theological education at Bible college. Pr...

What is the Context of Mark 10:27?

Sermon by Rev. Paul Lawler JESUS: "With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God."  Discover the profound insights of Mark 10:27 and the Rich Young Ruler as we delve into the essence of fulfillment and its eternal significance. Is wealth bad, or should we fear the distraction comfort offers? Discover the power of acknowledging our spiritual poverty and embracing the path to profound spiritual blessings.  

Get to Know: Jacky Gatliff (Sr. Associate Pastor)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this inspiring interview, we get to know Rev. Jacky Gatliff, a trailblazing Senior Associate Pastor at Christ Church. She takes us back to her earliest days, recounting the undeniable call from God to enter the ministry. This call initially clashed with societal expectations that women couldn't serve as pastors. Yet, with unwavering determination, she courageously faced the obstacles that came her way, transcending limitations to...

What is the Context of Matthew 7:5-11?

Sermon by Rev. Paul Lawler We see in Scripture that Jesus condemned being judgmental but allowed for righteous judgment. So, what is the difference between judging and being judgmental?  How can we make the right judgment with the right heart and purpose, focusing on restoration rather than shaming? In this sermon, as illustrated by Matthew 7:5-11, you will learn a balanced and discerning approach to judgment within the Christian faith.

What is the Context of Matthew 7:1-5?

Sermon by Rev. Paul Lawler We see in Scripture that Jesus condemned being judgmental but allowed for righteous judgment. So, what is the difference between judging and being judgmental?  How can we make the right judgment with the right heart and purpose, focusing on restoration rather than shaming? In this sermon, as illustrated by Matthew 7:1-5, you will learn a balanced and discerning approach to judgment within the Christian faith.

Get to Know: William Merriman (Dir. Student Ministries)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  In this new staff interview, we speak with William Merriman, Director of Student Ministry. William shares how his love of literature and a soccer injury deepened his relationship with Christ and unexpectedly led him to pursue a role in ministry. 

What is the Context of Philippians 4:13?

Sermon by Rev. Paul Lawler Pastor Paul continues his series on Context this week as we explore Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”  Is the true meaning of this verse simply about achieving personal goals, or is there a deeper and more meaningful message that God wants to teach through the life of the Apostle Paul?    Paul wrote these words from a Roman prison cell, facing possible execution, and yet he expresses contentment and a reliance on Christ's str...

Get to Know: Brad Bogue (Dir. Family Ministry)

Get to know the Christ Church staff and ministry leaders!  Join us for a conversation with Brad Bogue, Director of Family Ministries. Unveiling the profound moments that shaped him, Brad's compelling story is a testament to the power of following God’s calling. From the depths of his heart, he recounts the transformative experience that led him to discover his true purpose. Embark on a vivid exploration of Brad's life as we traverse the vibrant landscapes of his upbringing in the heartland...