Episodes

Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Wilderness Wisdom - Overcoming Trials with Faith - March 9, 2025
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Explore the profound journey of Jesus in the wilderness as He faces temptations and emerges victorious, guiding us in overcoming our own. Through the examples set in scripture, learn how spiritual struggles can lead to incredible growth and victory.
This sermon delves into the importance of prayer, fasting, and scripture as the pillars of spiritual resilience. Discover how the wilderness, whether physical or spiritual, offers the opportunity for a deeper connection with God and prepares us for life's challenges.
Join us in embracing the wilderness as an invitation, not a threat, and find solace in the journey towards spiritual fulfillment and understanding of God's plan for our lives.
With Pastor Mike Curry
Wilderness Wisdom - Overcoming Trials with Faith
Matthew 4:1-11
Main Idea: Wilderness experiences, whether physical or spiritual, are not threats but invitations for growth, preparation, and encountering God.
Introduction: "There’s a wilderness near you. That’s not a threat. That’s an invitation!"
- The Wilderness Experience of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11)
- Jesus was Led by the Spirit (v.1)
- Temptation 1: To prove His deity by using His power for personal reasons (vs. 2-4)
- Temptation 2: To prove His deity by the spectacular (vs. 5-7)
- Temptation 3: To prove His deity by compromise (vs. 8-10)
- The Purpose of Wilderness: Solitude and Preparation involving struggle that can lead to victory.
- Embracing Your Wilderness
- A Challenge: Welcome your wilderness.
- 1 John 2:15-17 NKJV
- Comparison: Civilization vs. Wilderness
- Two Types of Wilderness
- Hot Desert vs. Cold Desert
III. Overcoming the Wilderness
- Using Three Spiritual Disciplines: Prayer, Fasting, Scripture.
- Jesus’ Victory Proclamation: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (4:17)
- Personal Application
- Practice Spiritual Disciplines.
- Share your Testimony of Victory.
Conclusion
- Don’t fear the wilderness; find God and healing there.
Remember: "There is a wilderness near you. That’s not a threat. That’s an invitation!"
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Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. https://www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at https://www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Connected: Developing Relationships Beyond the Church - March 2, 2025
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Welcome to today’s inspiring sermon podcast where we explore meaningful connections in our lives. The sermon encourages listeners to understand God’s plan and to live out His love, not only within the church community but beyond.
Through engaging storytelling, including a heartfelt lesson from Frank's Coffee Shop, learn how genuine relationships and love can flourish in unexpected places. We challenge you to be a light in the world, building authentic connections, and demonstrating the love of Christ beyond the comfort of your usual surroundings.
Join us as we reflect on Matthew 5:14-16, urging us to shine brightly and live lives that naturally draw others to God’s goodness through actions and attitudes. Discover how to build bridges and foster an environment of care, support, and encouragement that reflects the essence of Christ’s teachings.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
Connected: Developing Relationships Beyond the Church
Matthew 5:14-16
Main Idea: Reflecting God's love, believers are called to extend their relationships beyond the church, reaching out to those who may not yet know Christ.
Introduction – Frank’s Coffee Shop
- Be the Light in the World v. 14-15
- Live lives that naturally attract attention to God's goodness. (Philippians 2:14-15)
- Build Authentic Relationships v. 16a
- Forge genuine connections with those outside the church. (Colossians 4:5-6)
- THINK before you speak (or post):
- T - Is it Truthful?
- H - Is it Helpful?
- I - Is it Inspiring?
- N -Is it Necessary?
- K - Is it Kind?
Source: https://harvest.org/resources/gregs-blog/post/t-h-i-n-k/
- Demonstrate the Love of Christ v. 16b
- Reflect Christ's love through acts of service and love. (John 13:35; Galatians 6:9-10)
Conclusion & Communion
Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. https://www.mvcnaz.org/live”
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Continuing from last week, we dive deeper into building meaningful relationships through faith, emphasizing the foundation of God's agape love. Discover how to cultivate relationships within your church community, drawing closer to God with sincere hearts and full assurance of faith.
This episode guides us through the significance of holding fast to our profession of hope, spurring one another toward love and good deeds, and the importance of meeting together as a faith community. With references to Hebrews 10:22-25, we explore how God's faithfulness and the encouragement of fellow believers empower us to live out our faith joyfully.
Tune in to uncover practical wisdom on nurturing a faith-filled life, supporting one another, and experiencing the richness of shared faith, all while preparing for the eternal fellowship with God. Together, let's commit to drawing near to God, overflowing with hope, and being the light in a world in need of love and connection. Don't miss this enriching episode!
With Pastor Mike Curry.
Cultivating Relationships within the Church Community
Hebrews 10:22-25
Main Idea: Relationships within the church community are essential for spiritual growth, support, and accountability.
Let Us…
- Draw near to God
- With Sincere Hearts (James 4:8)
- With Assurance (Psalm 145:18)
- With a cleansed conscience and clean body (Matthew 11:28-29)
- Hold unswervingly to our profession of hope
- Stand Firm (1 Corinthians 15:58)
- Overflow with Hope (Romans 15:13)
- Be anchored in hope (Hebrews 6:19)
- Spur one another on – to love and good deeds
- Do good and prioritize the Church Family (Galatians 6:9-10)
- Support and encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- Remember that love is the defining characteristic of discipleship (John 13:34-35)
- Not give up worshipping together
- Warning: Some have done this. (Acts 2:42-47)
- Charge: Do Not forsake worship. (Matthew 18:20)
- Motive: Judgment is coming. (Romans 12:5)
Conclusion: By engaging in authentic fellowship, believers can experience the richness of shared faith, mutual encouragement, and collective ministry to God and others.
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Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
In this insightful sermon, join our pastor as he delves into the powerful message of connection with God and each other. Discover the significance of drawing near to God with a sincere heart, exploring the concept of prevenient grace and how it paves the way for us to accept Christ.
The pastor emphasizes the importance of church community, comparing it to family dynamics, and highlights the relationships built through shared experiences and faith. Join us in reflecting on Hebrews 10:22-25, as we are encouraged to hold unswervingly to our faith, to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, and to not give up meeting together.
This sermon serves as a reminder of the assurance and cleansing that comes from God, urging listeners to seek a sincere connection with God and embrace the unique moments of fellowship within the church. May this message inspire you to continue your spiritual journey and embrace God's plan for your life.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
Cultivating Relationships within the Church Community
Hebrews 10:22-25
Main Idea: Relationships within the church community are essential for spiritual growth, support, and accountability.
Let Us…
- Draw near to God
- With Sincere Hearts (James 4:8)
- With Assurance (Psalm 145:18)
- With a cleansed conscience and clean body (Matthew 11:28-29)
To be continued..
Conclusion: By engaging in authentic fellowship, believers can experience the richness of shared faith, mutual encouragement, and collective ministry to God and others.
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Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Feb 09, 2025
The Power of Perseverance: How a Young Girl Inspired a Global Movement
Sunday Feb 09, 2025
Sunday Feb 09, 2025
Join us in today's sermon podcast where we explore the essence of faith through an engaging discussion, we delve into Jesus' teachings in Matthew 25 and uncover what it truly means to serve the 'least of these.'
The story of Mary Jones illuminates the impact of perseverance and the importance of cherishing God's word. Her journey to obtain a Bible led to the founding of the British and Foreign Bible Society, reminding us that great things often begin in obscure places.
Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Connected - Foundation: Your Relationship with God - February 2, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the essence of building strong and lasting relationships. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 22, the sermon emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our connection with God. It’s not just about romantic relationships heralded by Valentine's Day, but a deeper reflection on our primary relationship with our Creator.
The sermon invites listeners to explore the different types of love as described in the scriptures— eros, storge, phileo, and the highest, agape love. It underscores the necessity of establishing our relationships on the solid foundation of God’s love, a love that is selfless, sacrificial, and complete.
As we journey into the new year, this message serves as a spiritual reminder that maintaining a personal relationship with God is crucial for the health of all our earthly relationships. In everything, it calls us to love with our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength.
Connected: Building Meaningful Relationships Through Faith
by Pastor Mike Curry
Part 1 - Foundation: Your Relationship with God
Matthew 22:36-40
Main Idea: A strong, personal relationship with God is foundational for all other relationships we have.
Introduction
The Foundation of Relationships
Love the Lord your God
- Love comes from God (1 John 4:7, 19)
- Love is an active and living experience.
Eros, Storge, Phileo, Agape
- Love is the hallmark of a personal relationship.
With all your being
- Heart – seat of our affections and will (devotion) Matthew 6:21
- Soul – seat of our breath and life or consciousness. Genesis 2:7
- Mind – seat of thought, reasoning and understanding. Ro 12:2
- (Strength) – Mark 12:30
Our main duty – Love God and neighbor
- Maintain a personal relationship with God.
- Loving God and others involves:
- Commitment and Loyalty
- Trust and Respect
- Giving and Surrendering oneself
- Knowing and sharing
Conclusion:
Prioritizing your connection with God creates a solid spiritual base that influences every other relationship your life.
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Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Fresh Starts in Faith: Cultivating Community - January 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Welcome to today's sermon podcast where the emphasis is on reviving faith through building meaningful connections within the community of Christ. Drawing inspiration from Apostle Paul's prayer request in Ephesians 6:19, this sermon encourages believers to seek a fresh start in faith, focusing on the power of prayer, scripture, and cultivating authentic community.
Explore the significance of fellowship as a means to combat loneliness and strengthen spiritual growth. Through reflections on contemporary issues and cultural references, the message highlights how communal bonds can bring warmth and hope to our lives. Whether it's through group worship, personal accountability, or service, find ways to engage deeply with fellow believers and embrace the communal nature of faith.
Join us as we delve into the practical steps to nurture a vibrant faith community, reminding us that together, we are stronger and more resilient in sharing the light of Jesus Christ.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
"Fresh Starts in Faith: Cultivating Community"
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
Main Idea: People grow spiritually when there is fellowship and accountability.
I. Introduction: All the lonely people…
II. The Problem of Loneliness, vs. 7-8
a) Empty, frustrated feelings.
b) A multitude of causes.
c) Result: A sense of futility and dissatisfaction.
III. The Solution: Authentic Community, vs. 9-12
a) They can work more and gain more.
b) They can reach out to help each other when one falls.
c) They can provide warmth for each other.
d) They can better defend themselves.
e) They can do even more with another companion.
IV. Action Steps: Cultivate fellowship and accountability in community. (Acts 2:42-47)
• Be intentional in building relationships.
• Join or participate in a small group.
• Seek and offer support.
• Serve together.
• Find an accountability partner/group.
• Pray together.
Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter
Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect

Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Fresh Starts in Faith: Living in the Scriptures - January 19, 2025
Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we aim to 'Come Alive in 25' through a revitalized prayer life and deeper engagement with Scripture.
Today's message emphasizes the importance of understanding God's plan for our lives, encouraging a fresh start in faith by overcoming biblical illiteracy. Despite concerning statistics, the sermon highlights the power and purpose of Scripture in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.
Join us as we commit to living the Word in our daily lives, fostering hope and transformation in our communities with God's truth lighting our path.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
"Fresh Starts in Faith: Living in the Scriptures"
2 Timothy 3:14-17
Introduction
Main Idea: Engaging with the Bible regularly leads to a godly life.
- A believer must live in the Scripture. v. 14
- A person is to learn
- A person is to be assured the Scripture is true.
- A person is to know his teachers.
- A person is to continue in the Scriptures.
- Scripture makes a person wise unto salvation. v. 15
- “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” - John 20:31
- Scripture is inspired by God. v. 16
- “God-breathed” – theopneustos
- Psalm 33:6
- 2 Peter 1:20-21
- Scripture is useful to people. v. 16
- Teaching - John 7:14-17
- Rebuking – Hebrews 4:12
- Correcting – Psalm 119:9; 1 Peter 1:22
- Training in righteousness – Titus 2:12-13
- Scripture thoroughly equips one for every good work. v. 17
- Perfect – atrios – complete, mature.
Conclusion / Application
- Engage God’s Word Daily – Deuteronomy 11:18-21
- How can you do this?
- Bible Reading Plan: Start a new Bible reading plan.
- Memorize Scripture: Memorize key verses each week.
- Start here: 2 Corinthians 5:17.
- Be part of a Bible Study Group: Attend Sunday School and midweek Bible studies. If we don’t have a study, we have other resources available to you. Just ask!

Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Fresh Start in Faith: Foundational Prayer - January 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Welcome to today's sermon podcast. We delve into the themes of spiritual renewal and the power of prayer in seeking a fresh start with God. Through personal anecdotes and biblical teachings, this episode invites you to consider the idea of hitting the 'reset' button in your spiritual journey.
Discover how surrendering to God, making heartfelt requests, and offering praise and commitment form the core of the Lord's Prayer. Explore its significance as a model for invigorating our prayer life and embracing a new beginning through spiritual discipline. This episode encourages you to reflect on the heavenly mindset, the importance of forgiveness, and living out the kingdom values in everyday life.
Join us as we navigate through the importance of prayer and its power to transform our lives, encouraging us to take up new spiritual practices and deepen our relationship with God.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
Fresh Start in Faith: Foundational Prayer
Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV)
Main Idea: Prayer is important as a foundational spiritual discipline.
- Introduction: “Prayer is the key to Power”
- Fresh Elements in the Model Prayer
- Surrender 9
- Request & Plea vs. 10-13 a.
- Praise & Commitment 13 b
- Ways to Keep Prayer Fresh
- Prayer Journal: Keep a prayer journal, noting down their prayers and any answers they receive.
- Prayer Walks: Take prayer walks in your neighborhood or downtown, praying for your community.
- Prayer Partners List: Pray for one another throughout the week.

Sunday Jan 05, 2025
"Come Alive in '25!" - January 5, 2025
Sunday Jan 05, 2025
Sunday Jan 05, 2025
Welcome to today's sermon podcast. As we light the Christ candle, we introduce our church's theme for the year: "Come Alive in 25," symbolizing a fresh start and renewed hope for what lies ahead. Through the exploration of 2 Corinthians 5:17, we are reminded that if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation, and are called to leave behind the old and embrace the new. Today's message encourages us to step into this new life, overcome spiritual stagnation, and find freedom and joy in Christ. Discover the plans God has in store for you and join us in celebrating the newness that comes with faith, worship, and community.
With Pastor Mike Curry.