The Word from Mountain View

Join a stirring sermon that urges believers to run like athletes for Christ—forget the past, pursue God’s high calling, and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.

Through personal stories and Scripture (Philippians 3, David, Moses, and Paul), you’ll be encouraged to memorize God’s Word, serve boldly, and share the gospel with zeal.

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The High Calling of God

Text: Philippians 3:1-14

Thesis: As the Apostle Paul saw it, “The Christian is the Athlete of

Christ!” (How do you see yourself?)

1. “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” (vs. 13a) J It appears at first that Paul can’t count!

• The Greek word for “forgetting” literally means “to neglect or avoid”

1. The fact is there are things in your past that can rob you of Joy and prohibit Spiritual Growth.
   1. Past Sins
   2. Putting confidence in the flesh! (see vs. 2-6)
   3. The Apostle Paul speaks strongly (harshly) about those who try to please God by doing His well in the flesh. “Watch out for those dogs.” (vs2)
   4. The Apostle Paul esteems Jesus highly, “Who put no confidence in the flesh” (vs3c)
   5. In Phil 4:13, Paul makes it clear, “I can do all things…”
2. “Straining towards what is ahead.”
3. “Straining”-means to extend or stretch forward.
   • Paul envisions us as being “Spiritual Athletes of

Christ!”

ILL. God is calling us to be intentional and have intensity in our relationship with God. 

1^st- Run to God!

• “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” (James 4:8)
• MEMORIZE THE WORD

2^nd Run to God through Jesus Christ!

1. Jesus made it clear, to his disciple, that he was the only way to God. (John 14:6)

3^rd   Run to God, through Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit!

1. “In the last days they will have a form of Godliness but denying his power. Have nothing to do with them.” (2 Timothy 3:5)

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With Pastor Chuck Ryan.

 

Pastor Mike invites listeners into a sermon about steadfastness and spiritual habits, inspired by Ephesians and Matthew. He explores how small, faithful actions — like saving, praying, and choosing integrity — compound over time to produce significant spiritual growth.

The message outlines four elements of "grit": grace, resilience, integrity, and teachability, and encourages believers to be faithful in little things so God can work through them and yield lasting, eternal rewards.

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Steadfastness Takes GRIT!

Matthew 17:20

Introduction:  “Stick and Stay and it will Pay”

• Being faithful in the little things is a big

Matthew 17:20; Luke 16:10

• Faithfulness compounds over time, but it takes GRIT!

G - Grace

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” - 2 Corinthians 12:9

 R - Resilience

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. - Galatians 6:9

I - Integrity

If you have integrity, nothing else matters.

And if you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.

The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. - Proverbs 11:3

T - Teachability

“Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more.” Proverbs 9:9 NLT

“If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.”- 1 Corinthians 10:12 NLT

Conclusion: Faithfulness compounded.

 “Well done, good and faithful servant! …”- Matthew 25:21 NIV

with Pastor Mike Curry

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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

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It is my privilege to invite you to today's sermon podcast. Drawing on Ephesians and 2 Corinthians, this message explores the difference between worldly sorrow and godly sorrow and urges listeners to confess sin, repent wholeheartedly, and embrace the forgiveness Jesus offers.

Practical steps are given—confess quickly, repent sincerely, and remove the habits that keep you distant from God—so you can experience restored relationships, spiritual healing, and the freedom Christ provides.

 Habits of a Healthy Heart—4

Get Rid of Your Guilt: The Habit of Godly Sorrow

2 Corinthians 7:9-10

1. I. Introduction: “Caught in the Act!”
2. Two Types of Sorrow

• Godly Sorrow à Repentance à salvation à No regrets
• Worldly Sorrow à Remorse à Spiritual death

III. The Problem: Rebranding Sin

• Modern culture "sanitizes" and "rebrands" sin with less harsh words
• Defining Sin (Romans 3:23)
  • hamartia - "missing the target"
  • "All have sinned."

1. Remorse vs. Repentance

• Remorse: being sorry for getting caught, not for the act.
  • Rationalizing sin is the first sign of a cold heart.
• Repentance: a deep, honest brokenness over sin against God.
  • The word "repent" literally means to "change one’s mind which

 is evident by a change in actions.”

1. How to Practice Godly Sorrow

• Confess quickly and repent wholeheartedly.
• 1 John 1:9

1. Conclusion: Blessed Are Those Who Mourn

• Matthew 5:4 - "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

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

 

With Pastor Mike Curry.

This episode explores the spiritual habit of solitude—slowing a racing mind by following Jesus' example of intentional, regular time alone with the Father. The sermon explains why we must stop anxious striving, be still, and let God refill us so we can pour out to others.

Practical steps are offered: find a quiet place, disconnect from distractions, and build consistent, intentional rhythms of prayer, silence, and Scripture to restore your heart and renew your life.

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Habits of a Healthy Heart—3

Practice Solitude: The Habit of Slowing

Mark 1:35-37

 

Introduction: What do you do when your mind won’t stop?

Ecclesiastes 2:22-23 – “anxious striving”

1. There is no such thing as intimacy without intentionality.
   1. You can’t busy your way to God. Mark 1:35-37
   2. Jesus Withdrew:

• Before starting His ministry. Luke 4:1-2, 14-15
• Before making important decisions. Luke 6:12-13
• After a long, hard day of work. Matthew 14:23
• After ministering to lots of people. Luke 5:15-16
• After losing a close friend. Matthew 14:10-13

2. You can’t continue to pour out if you don’t fill up. Psalm 46:10
   1. Jesus came to give you abundant John 10:10
   2. You can’t give what you don’t have.
3. Practice the Spiritual Habit of Slowing (Solitude) Matthew 5:5 MSG

• Seek God in His Word.
• Listen for what God says.
• Journal what God shows you. 
• Reflect on His faithfulness.
• Worship Him for who He is and what He’s done.
• Stay in His presence for as long as you can.

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

With Pastor Mike Curry.

In this sermon, we are invited to reflect on the teachings of Apostle Paul and the message of simplicity that echoes throughout the Bible. The core theme revolves around breaking the myth that "more is better" and understanding the significance of contentment through faith in Jesus.

The sermon highlights the story of Adam and Eve, cautioning against the deceptive lures of material wealth and possession, and redirects us towards spiritual abundance and peace. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, it prompts us to evaluate our lives and recognize what truly matters.

Join us in exploring the liberating lifestyle of simplicity and learn how having less can actually lead to a more fulfilling life, centered around the teachings of Christ. Because in Jesus, we truly have enough.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

Habits of a Healthy Heart—2

Simplicity: When Less Is Better

Matthew 6:19-21

 If you want to change your habits, let God change your heart.

 Introduction: What if the stuff you have is keeping you from the life you want?

1. The habit of simplifying = “I have enough.”

 “God, give me less of what doesn’t matter. God, give me more of what does matter.”

 God, give me less of what doesn’t matter.

 More isn’t always better (Matthew 6:19-21)

• Want less of what doesn’t matter (Hebrews 12:1)
• God, give me more of what does matter.

 Define what matters most to you by answering the question, “what if I only had one month to live?”

• The most meaningful things in life are not things. Ecclesiastes 4:6

Conclusion: Because I have Jesus, I have enough.

 Philippians 4:12-13

 

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the theme of self-deception and the lies we tell ourselves. Inspired by the Apostle Paul's call for prayer and courage in sharing the gospel, we explore how our most frequent deceit is often directed inward. By examining the narrative of King David, we uncover the dire consequences of self-deception and the necessity of seeking God's truth.

This episode marks the beginning of a new series, "Habits of a Healthy Heart," where we will discuss five essential habits for spiritual growth, starting with the practice of self-examination. We are challenged to allow God's light to search our hearts, recognizing and confronting the sins and issues we hide within.

Join us as we seek to change our habits by first inviting God to change our hearts, encouraging a life of integrity and truthfulness. May this sermon inspire you to embrace God's plan for you and pursue a deeper spiritual transformation.

With Pastor Mike Curry

Habits of a Healthy Heart

The Habit That Will Heal Your Heart

Psalm 139:23-24

Introduction: Who do you lie to the most?

• Jeremiah 17:9

If you want to change your life, change your habits.

If you want to change your habits, let God change your heart.

 

The Habit of Self-Examination

Psalm 139:23-24

An example from the life of King David (2 Samuel 11:1)

5 Indicators of Self-Deception  (Psalm 36:2)

• Addiction to Distraction
• Manic Cheeriness
• Judgmentalism
• Defensiveness
• Cynicism

“You are the man! ...” (2 Samuel 12:7)

• What problem are you denying?
• What sin are you rationalizing?
• What issue are you hiding?

 3 Warning Signs

1. Watch for what others have tried to tell you.
2. Watch for what you rationalize.
3. Watch for where you’re most defensive.

 

The more convinced you are that you don’t have a problem,

the more likely it is that you do.

Conclusion: Psalm 51:10, 12

 

You cannot change what you won’t confront.

 

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

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Welcome to today's inspiring sermon podcast, where the mystery of the gospel comes alive through the words and experiences of a dedicated missionary pastor. Drawing his inspiration from Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, our guest speaker shares his heartfelt journey from being an interim pastor to fulfilling his childhood calling as a missionary in Africa.

Join us as we travel through the beautiful yet challenging landscapes of Malawi and Mozambique, hearing stories of church planting, water well projects, and the transformative power of education. Discover how God's guidance and provision have led to extraordinary outcomes, including the establishment of schools from former prisons and life-changing sewing machine initiatives.

In this episode, learn the significance of being 'Focused and Faithful,' navigating life's distractions to fulfill God's plan, and the importance of serving as 'under rowers,' all to glorify Jesus. Through triumphs over personal health battles and community struggles, this sermon illustrates how unwavering faith and commitment bring hope and change to the furthest corners of the earth.

With Pastor Les Moore.

Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. https://www.mvcnaz.org/live

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In today's sermon, we explore the transformative power of connection. Through a captivating narrative, we are reminded of our innate drift towards isolation and the importance of anchoring ourselves in God and community.

The sermon challenges us to recognize that we are each a vital stone in God's kingdom, intricately placed to support and be supported by others. We delve into the significance of relying on God's faithfulness and the community of believers while fighting the drift towards solitude.

Join us as we uncover three essential ways to cultivate meaningful connections and fulfill God's plan, encouraging each other to step out of isolation and embrace the power of unity and God's spirit dwelling among us.

Join us in this powerful sermon that invites you to embrace the transformative power of God's grace in your life. Inspired by Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians, this episode explores the deep essence of grace, which is God's unearned gift of love and forgiveness. As we delve into the recurring theme of grace throughout the sermon, discover how it empowers believers to share the message of Jesus with boldness, even in the face of adversity. Through a deep dive into Acts chapter 4, we witness the bold faith of Peter and John amidst persecution and learn the significance of staying rooted in prayer and community. This sermon calls us to form and cherish 'grace groups' for spiritual support and accountability. Allow this message to come alive in you, helping you understand God's divine plan while inviting you to partake in His ongoing work through the Holy Spirit. Experience God's grace as a constant companion on this journey of faith.  

 

LOVING GRACE IN ACTION

Acts 4:23-31

Main Idea: The loving accountability (grace) of a covenant discipleship group provides the best grace-filled environment for being and making disciples.

Witness the loving grace in action within the early Church

Introduction: Believers are People of Grace!

1. Consider their grace (Acts 4:23)
   1. “Peter and John went back to their own people” - fellow believers.
   2. Here they found:
      1. Emotional and spiritual support.
      2.  
      3.  
      4. An inviting group that encouraged vulnerability.
      5. Partners in ministry.
   3. Consider their action plan (Acts 4:24-28).
      1. Prayer
      2. Confidence in God’s Sovereignty
      3. Praise (v. 24)
      4. Scripture inspired by the Holy Spirit
      5. Testimony

• Consider the prayer requests (4:29-30).
  1. They simply prayed for:
     1. Renewed strength to preach the gospel message of Jesus with “great boldness” (v. 29).
     2. God to work in miraculous ways to magnify “the name of your holy servant Jesus” (v. 30).

Conclusion: The Result of their Loving Grace in Action (Acts 4;31)

• The place where they were meeting was shaken.
• They received a new infilling with the Holy Spirit.
• They spoke the word of God boldly.

 

Action Step: Commit (or re-commit) yourself to a grace group – a Sunday School class, LifeGroup, midweek Bible Study group, men’s, women’s, youth, children’s group, etc.

 

Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. https://www.mvcnaz.org/live

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With Pastor Mike Curry.

Join us for today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the powerful message drawn from Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians, urging believers to share the gospel fearlessly and with clarity. This episode explores the intersection of faith and patriotism, challenging the notion that Christians cannot be patriotic. Emphasizing the true meaning behind the phrase "God Bless America," we reflect on what spiritual blessings are essential for our nation and how we, as Christians, can be good stewards of our nation and faith.

Through the lens of biblical teachings, we address the importance of prioritizing God's kingdom and His righteousness in our lives and communities. We draw inspiration from historical figures like George Washington and explore how reverence for God's Word, house, and will can lead to national repentance and renewal. This sermon encourages us all to live out our faith actively, becoming salt and light in our communities and leading our nation back to its spiritual roots.

 

“America – God Shed His Grace on Thee”

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…” -  Psalm 33:12

Main Idea: The true blessing of a nation comes not from power or prosperity, but from honoring God through repentance, righteousness, and the faithful witness of His people.

1. Introduction: What Do We Mean by “God Bless America”? - Matthew 6:33

• “It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” — George Washington, Thanksgiving Proclamation, 1789

• “Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?” — Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, 1785

• <<Pastor Reads Psalm 33:12-22>>

1. “God Bless America” with Spiritual Blessings - Proverbs 14:34

• a. Recover Lost Values
  • Micah 6:8
  • “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.” - George Washington
• b. Recover the “Faith of Our Fathers”
  • The Mayflower Compact (1620) began with a covenant “for the glory of God and advancement of the Christian faith.”
  • “To the distinguished character of a Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of a Christian.” — George Washington
• c. Rebirth of Reverence
  • For God’s Day (Sabbath), God’s Book (Scripture), God’s House (worship), and God’s Will (obedience).
  • Hebrews 10:25
  • “The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease.”— Calvin Coolidge, 1924

III. “God Bless America” Should Also Mean “God Save America!” 2 Chronicles 7:14

• a. From Moral Decay
  • Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. - 1 Peter 2:11 (NLT)
  • “We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven... but we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace... and we have vainly imagined... that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own.”  — Abraham Lincoln
• b. From False Ideologies and Religions
  • Colossians 2:8
  • “The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity.” — John Quincy Adams

1. “God Bless America” Through the Church - Matthew 5:13–16

• a. The Church Must Lead in Repentance and Renewal

• “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” — John Adams, 1798

• • “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom.” — Benjamin Franklin, 1787
• b. Faith Must Be Active
  • James 2:17
  • “I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth—that God governs in the affairs of men.” — Benjamin Franklin, June 28, 1787, Philadelphia Constitutional Convention

1. Conclusion: A Call to Hope and Holiness - Psalm 33:20–22

• America’s hope is not in her wealth or might, but in her Maker.
• “If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” Ronald Reagan, 1984

• Call to Action:

• • Pray for national repentance.
  • Live as a holy people.
  • Be salt and light in a darkening world.

 

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