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Inspiring People to Live The Way of Jesus | The podcast of Spark.Church in Palo Alto, CA

Spark Cast

Available episodes

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Why Jesus? Ad Fontes [Kevin Neuner]

A very personal sharing of Kevin's journey, spiritually, vocationally, and philosophically, and Why Jesus continues to be not just compelling for him, but critical for the world.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Conclusion [Danielle Parish] (with Pamala Simpson testimony)

In summary, this is the life of the Spirit.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Self-Control [Tom Arrington] (with Nancy Loh testimony)

Self-control is often thought of as just a perpetual “no” to our desires. But self-control is always about saying “no” to lesser desires in order to say “yes” to the greatest desire.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Gentleness [Danielle Parish] (with Grace Zhuang testimony)

We have the choice to add to or subtract from the already existing conflict in the world. Gentleness is our choice to subtract from that conflict, a posture toward the world as a revolutionary strategy for transformation.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Faithfulness [Danielle Parish & Kevin Neuner] (with Renee Barker testimony)

Faith as "belief" or "ascent to an idea" misses the mark of the faithfulness of God as our way of salvation. Faith as a follow-through can be seen. It is behavior, action, and trust.

Fruit Of The Spirit | It's All Good [Kevin Neuner] (with Denise Tsang testimony)

From ancient Greece's Plato to Netflix's The Good Place, philosophers throughout the ages have debated the nature of what is "good." Is it an ideal for which we all strive? Is it a mere adjective? Perhaps it is actually not,...eh, "good" to want to pursue so much good? In contrast, the biblical narrative proposes that it is all, actually, very good.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Kill 'Em With Kindness [Omair Akhtar] (with Maiya Yu Testimony)

The New Testament often calls on followers of Jesus to be kind, meek, humble, or submissive. But being told to be kind or submissive is often a tool used by those in power to maintain the status quo (e.g. against women, slaves, etc.). Is that Paul’s goal in encouraging kindness? To uphold the status quo? The kindness that the Spirit produces in us actually does the opposite—it subverts the status quo, flips the world order, and kills the evil in our enemies (and in us).

Fruit Of The Spirit | Patience [Mark Arevalo] (with Allison Chen testimony)

Patience is a much-needed trait in our world, and yet it is developed, not gifted. This fruit of the Holy Spirit comes not from awaiting a change in your circumstances, but through a change in us.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Peace? Really? Do you know what I'm going through? [Tom Arrington] (with Kwame Eason testimony)

There may be no experience in the world that we want more, and have less of, than the experience of peace, of shalom. The word is everywhere describing something that is desired but missing – between nations, between people, between the good Earth and its inhabitants. What is peace as a fruit of the Spirit in a world so full of trouble, division, fear, and heaviness? What does it mean to be a person of peace?

Fruit Of The Spirit | Joy [Omair Akhtar] (with Hannah Dawley Ly testimony)

We often think of Christian joy as feeling happy no matter what – Jesus has done so much for you, what do you have to feel bad about? That outlook jives neither with our experiences nor the experiences of the Biblical authors who wrote about joy. Joy, as a fruit of the spirit, is less about producing happy feelings and more about producing audacious judgments about the way the world is and ought to be.

Fruit Of The Spirit | Love & The Root [Kevin Neuner] (with Craig Barker testimony)

The ubiquity of the word “love” makes understanding difficult. Is love a “feeling,” a “commitment,” a “chemical neurotransmitter?” In trying to discern a definition of love, perhaps we ought to ask what this Galatians passage suggests about the "fruit" of love.

Fruit Of The Sprit | Introduction To Galatians [Kevin Neuner]

The letter to the Galatians—in which the "fruit of the spirit" is found—addresses a serious threat to the good news of Jesus. That threat will have serious consequences, not least of which it will promote a wholly "different gospel," one that is at odds with the love and grace of God.

Beginnings [Danielle Parish]

Beginnings feel fresh and new. There's joy. But let us also embrace sadness as necessary for new creation. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. Are we addicted to "joy" and "happiness?" Why or why not? 2. Does Christianity promote one over the other? What emotional experiences does Christianity prioritize? 3. What would life look like if we embraced the full scope of human emotions?

Advent | Spark's Online Service

This is the audio from our online liturgical service. Merry Christmas everyone, and a happy new year! We'll see you in 2023!

Advent | "EL" Is With Us

This advent Sunday we are invited to pause to consider the “el” in the word “immanuEL.” As arrival is drawing near, we consider the long and deep history of what is understood as the presence of “God,” in Hebrew, “EL.”

Advent | The Kingdom of God Is On The Move [Danielle Parish]

While we expect kings to be born in luxury, this king is born in a cave, and his announcement is to shepherds. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. Compare and contrast the luxury of then to the luxury of now. Have things changed? What's different? What's the same? 2. When you think of "good news" what do you think of? What category, or area of life is that thought? What category is the good news of Jesus in? 3. If the kingdom is on the move, to where or whom is it moving? Where's it moving from? Where is it taking us?

Advent | The Keeper of the Songs [Danielle Parish]

This is not a gospel of gain or wealth. This is a gospel of trust. Mary’s song is one of remembrance of God’s promises of mercy and faithfulness to Israel, to Abraham and his descendants. And Jesus is how God is going to continue this covenantal song. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. What are the traditional ways "songs" have been understood in Christian practice? How does that compare with these biblical songs? 2. Discuss the different aspects of "trust" in this story. (To "believe" but also to be "entrusted with"…) 3. What are the songs that are needed today?

Advent | Shaky & Hopeful [Danielle Parish]

This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent ... "Advent" means coming or arrival, and this is the time of year when we remember and anticipate Christ's coming into the world. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. What expectations do you have for this advent season? 2. What does the "arrival" of Jesus mean? 3. Advent implies "not yet" but "is coming." What observations, feelings, or questions do you have in-between those two things?

John | What Was He Thinking? [Tom Arrington]

The radical nature of God's love is a story of diversity and inclusion where everyone is welcomed and loved. It's a story of forgiveness with second chances and two hundredth chances where you don't ever lose your place and you are never finished. It's a story that reveals Jesus as Israel's long expected Messiah and that he indeed is the Son of God. GROUP QUESTIONS 1. What does "messiah" mean, both then, and now? 2. Why is "inclusion" so radical? What are the opposite forces of "inclusion"? 3. Israel had "expectations" which means there was a period of waiting. Consider what waiting means as a Christian, in spiritual practice. Have we grown impatient?

John | I Have Seen The Lord [Omair Akhtar]

The climax of the gospel according to John are when women who followed Jesus find his tomb empty just days after the government oversaw his execution. What follows is a series of bizarre and unprecedented encounters with Jesus. Then the way Jesus' followers try to make sense of these encounters offers us ways to make sense of Jesus' resurrection too. GROUP QUESTIONS 1. Imagine yourself going to "anoint" the body and finding it empty. What would be YOUR immediate reactions? 2. Why would the gospel accounts put women at the center of the story? Why is that important? 3. What DOES it mean that "Jesus is alive?"

John | "We Have No King But Caesar" [Danielle Parish]

The theme of kingship runs throughout our Scriptures. Every Sunday, we pray the words Jesus taught us, "Your kingdom come, your will be done." Who is our King? And where is this Kingdom? In whom do we place our trust and hope? Here we GROUP QUESTIONS 1. How do we translate ancient monarchies into modern democracies? How shall we think about "royal rule" in today's language and concepts? 2. In many ways this is also a question of allegiance. What demands does the Gospel of Jesus make upon our allegiances? 3. How can we know when we've compromised our allegiances? What signs should we look for that indicate we've lost our "Way?"

John | What Is Truth? [Kevin Neuner]

In John 18, the trials and interrogations of Jesus intensify, and they culminate in a dialogue with Pontius Pilate, the governor of the Roman Province of Judea. But this trial, as it is told, is not simply about Jesus' violations against the Roman Empire. This is much more about a clash of kingdoms, of authorities, and of worldviews. At its most profound, this is an epistemological inquisition. In other words, this is a question of "truth." GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. What do the words "emet" and "aleithia" mean to you, in your own words? 2. Share some other examples of how one was emphasized over the other, and what it would look like to ensure both are equally expressed and valued. 3. Do you have a tendency to emphasize one over the other? (Perhaps in one area of your life you emphasize "emet" over aleithia," and in another area of your life it's the opposite?) 4. How can Jesus followers advanced this understanding of "truth" more into the world?

John | Judge, Lest Ye Not Be Judged [Mark Arevalo]

In John 17, Jesus prays that his followers will be united, but it doesn't take much to recognize that the Church is very much divided along social, political, and theological lines. Why are we divided, and how can Jesus's teachings on the Kingdom of God provide insights into how we might find common ground once again?

John | Advocacy Is Comfort [Kevin Neuner]

When Jesus speaks of sending the spirit when he departs, in addition to being a comfort, this spirit of truth is an Advocate, someone who will not just stand with you, but for you. Comfort, in this view is not mere sentimentality, but results from God's advocacy. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. What kind of meaning does this teaching give to the "Trinity" in Christian understanding? 2. If God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is an Advocate, then what does that mean for those of us who are followers of this Way? 3. Why does this word "Advocate" (Greek: "paraklete") features so prominently in the writings of John? 4. Can you think of other stories in the Bible where advocacy changes the meaning and interpretation of the story?

John | He Is The Vine [Danielle Parish]

Vines are a symbol of God's blessing and provision. What happens when vines do not grow or bear fruit? What about when they do bear fruit? In it all, the vinedresser works to ensure that the vine remains connected. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. What is the difference between being "cut off" versus being "lifted up?" 2. How does this understanding change our Christian identity and life? 3. Can we see this kind of interpretation in other passages that seem to "condemn?" 4. What is our responsibility to others through this understanding of the vinedresser?

Spark's 10th Anniversary [Danielle Parish]

Spark celebrates 10 years. We host Rabbi Chaim Koritzinsky and his welcome, and Pastor Danielle shares reflections of the past and exhortations for the future. (Videos can be seen at www.spark.church/events)

John | In My Father's House [Danielle Parish]

Jesus promises to prepare a place for us, for in his "Father's house are many rooms," a phrase to describe the expansive inclusivity of Jesus' call and welcome. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. "The way," "the truth" and "the life" are abstract concepts. What does it mean that Jesus points to himself, as a human person who IS those things? What radical shifts in thinking is Jesus calling us toward? 2. Could it be that the "theological principle" is really more about belonging, and relational intimacy with God? How does that change the way we read and understand the Jesus story? 3. If Jesus IS the way, truth, and life, how does that address our very present concerns and troubles, be they personal, philosophical, or national?

John | Love One Another [Danielle Parish]

Jesus is all about the love. Jesus loves us and calls us to love one another. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. Pastor Danielle talked about "experiencing" vs. "knowing" love. What truly is the difference and does it matter? 2. In philosophy this is called a "phenomenology"; that is, an "experience." Do you think this kind of "experience" is central to being a Christian / Follower of Jesus or not? 3. Apply this kind of love to your circumstance and talk about what real outcomes might occur if you loved the way God loves us? 4. How do you live this kind of love when someone has experienced broken relationships that were supposed to be loving (parents, family, etc.)? [This question is connected to Pastor Danielle's reference to "Attached To God"]

John | Betrayal and Reconciliation From One Young Dreamer to Another [Tom Arrington]

We live in a world that seems to be full of hate, greed and jealousy. We see lies and betrayal and it hurts. Something is messed up and broken. In fact, in many cases it is shattered and reconciliation can seem impossible. We want to set it right, but we can’t seem to get it right. With God, there is a hope of reconciliation that is bigger than human wisdom. GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. Is reconciliation a "moral" or an "ethic?" Does it matter? What difference does that make? 2. What are the elements necessary for reconciliation to happen? 3. Pastor Tom mentioned our hesitancy to reconciliation because we might ask if someone "deserves" to be included. Is reconciliation dependent upon someone "deserving it?" 4. What is the difference between "forgiveness" and "reconciliation?"

John | Truth Is The Judge. Jesus Is A Savior [Kevin Neuner]

We all have an innate impulse to assess and judge others. It is almost second nature. This may be part of the reason why the Way of Jesus is tremendously frustrating. Rather than accept any labeling, opinions, or condemnations, Jesus defers to observation, experience, and the “truth of the matter” as the judge, and focuses on what he (and we) can do, rather, to bring salvation, “rescue” to the cosmos.

John | Whoever Loves His Life Will Lose It [Danielle Parish]

As is often the case, our familiarity with these teachings of Jesus can blind us to the real challenge of His call to lay down our lives.

John | The House was Filled with the Fragrance [Danielle Parish]

Mary's extravagant act of anointing Jesus with perfume is an ode to a much broader movement of Jesus and the Gospel elevating the presence and voices of women.

John | Putting the Pieces Together [Tom Arrington]

People were puzzled about Jesus’ identity in the Gospels and are still today. In John 10, people ask Jesus, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”

John | Figuring It Out [Mark Arevalo]

Through the Gospel of John we have encountered people’s confusion over Jesus’s role and identity. One of the biggest metaphors Jesus used to address this — the “Good Shepherd” — poses the question, “Now that I know who the Good Shepherd is, how do I figure out what he wants?”

John | I Am [Omair Akhtar]

In the thick of a debate with religious leaders about Jesus’ identity, he claims, “Before Abraham was, I am.” They disagreed (and tried to execute him on the spot for it). Was Jesus saying he was God? What person in their right mind could possibly believe that about themselves?

John | Are We Blind? [Tom Arrington]

In John 9 Jesus heals a blind man. It's a miracle! Yet, not everyone who was there saw Jesus for who he is - The Messiah. They were blind. But there is more to this text for those who are willing to consider digging deeper into the biblical story, for people who are disabled, and how non-disabled people may be blind.

John | Light of the World [Omair Akhtar]

When we think of Jesus as the “light of the world”, we often think of the sharp contrast between light and dark, true and false, and whether we’re saved in the light or lost out in the darkness. Jesus’ claim that he is the light of the world is actually much bigger than that, and it tells us deep truths not just about who Jesus is, but about who we are and what our purpose on earth is.

John | Stone Catcher [Tom Arrington]

The radical nature of Jesus' love protects a woman that was caught with a man who wasn't her husband. Some religious leaders want to stone her to death. This text raises many questions: What does this story mean? Why does Jesus help this woman? What was Jesus writing in the dust? What caused the religious leaders to walk away? We will learn that Jesus helps those that are having stones thrown at them. He is a Stone Catcher.

John | The Neverending Debate [Mark Arevalo]

Why is following Jesus and living out the law seem so contradictory to Christians, then, and now?

John | This Is A Hard Teaching [Marcus Randolph]

Many of his disciples said this is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it? This week we will attempt to unpack some of the tensions of trying to live the way of Jesus. Really, eat flesh? Literally drink blood? Living the way of Jesus isn't as cut and dry as it sounds (and was probably never meant to be cut and dry).

John | Bread Of Life [Omair Akhtar]

“I am the bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.” Who talks like that? And how does that work? Jesus speaks a bold message, polarizing both his followers and foes. The ensuing questions that Jesus’ first hearers asked probably aren’t that far off from the questions we’d ask today.

John | The Son Gives Life [Danielle Parish]

John 5 tells the story of a man longing for healing in the pools of Bethesda. Jesus' encounter with this man brings about healing, questions and conflict.

Building Climate Resilient Communities [Violet Wulf-Saena]

Violet Wulf-Saena is the Founder and Executive Director of Climate Resilient Communities (CRC),an environmental justice organization working hand-in-hand with the Peninsula's frontline communities to implement tangible climate change solutions, from nature-based infrastructures like rain gardens to community air quality monitoring and home upgrades. The impacts of climate change will be felt first and most by communities without the resources to adapt. Justice demands that communities who have been historically marginalized, excluded from panning processes, and those that are at the frontline should receive the resources and support necessary to adapt to climate impacts that are already negatively affecting their health. The situation is urgent and the time to act is now.

John | Unless You See Signs and Wonders [Kevin Neuner]

Signs, wonders, and miracles all refer to a category of events in the biblical accounts of Jesus' ministry. But what role do they really play in the story? Why are they there? And how shall we think of them in a rationalistic world? Perhaps the miracle is not the point. Rather, the miracle points.

John | Where Can You Get This Living Water? [Danielle Parish]

Much ink has been spilled, and many sermons preached, on Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. Most often portrayed in our pulpits as a sinful woman of ill repute, the Samaritan woman becomes a one-dimensional lesson on morality. But what if there's more to the story than that? (Spoiler Alert ... there is!)

John | Born Again [Omair Akhtar]

A prominent religious leader, Nicodemus, seeks out Jesus under the cover of night. Looking for answers, he instead gets more questions as Jesus takes him through a perplexing dialogue about water, spirit, flesh, rebirth, and the upside-down kingdom of God's love.

John | How Dare You Turn My Father's House Into A Marketplace [Kevin Neuner]

The fashioning of the whip and the driving out of the moneychangers is an act that happens at a temple. But the temple to which this event refers has a long, varied history and identity, all the way to modern expressions of Christianity. May we heed Jesus' words again, to not turn this house into an emporium.

Two Week Summary [Kevin Neuner]

Due to technical difficulties, the messages from May 1 and May 8 were not recorded. Here we provide an extremely brief summary of main points that we hope are helpful for our Spark community.

John | Introduction [Danielle Parish, Omair Akhtar, Siddhi Sundar, Marcus Randolph]

"In the beginning was the word." These words mark the opening of the Gospel According to John, a piece of writing that has incredible diversity and profundity in its depiction of Jesus and what the Christian story means as a result.

Easter [Danielle Parish]

HE IS RISEN! [Unfortunately the first part of this message was not recorded.]

Palm Sunday [Danielle Parish]

Palm Sunday commemorates the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, a declaration of peace with tears of sadness for so many expectations of war.

Wisdom | Conclusion—Ask God [Danielle Parish & Kevin Neuner]

In summation and reflection, we consider the journey we've been on through Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and the Song of Songs.

Wisdom | Song of Songs [Danielle Parish]

The Song of Songs has long been understood as a theological metaphor for God's love of God's people, and as such is included in our canon. But while the traditional interpretation is valuable, perhaps there is more to be discovered and celebrated in this beautiful poetic song.

Wisdom | Ecclesiastes—Jesus, Wisdom & Ecclesiastes [Siddhi Sundar]

How might we revisit Ecclesiastes in light of the gospel accounts, Jesus, and Israel's story? What is the relationship between wisdom literature and Jesus? What about Qohelet—the teacher of Ecclesiastes—and Jesus?

Wisdom | Ecclesiastes—Think & Rethink [Tom Arrington]

The author of Ecclesiastes provides an important last word. He says we are to "Fear God and keep the commandments." How are you interpreting the commandments and living them out in our particular place and time?

Wisdom | Ecclesiastes—What's The Point? [Omair Akhtar]

The Teacher in Ecclesiastes offers many hot takes and dark reflections on the way the world works, repeatedly chanting that "everything is meaningless"... right from the start! How do we make sense of the apparent senselessness? How do we think of the Teacher's tirades as wisdom? Despite the controversy, God's people have canonized Ecclesiastes and found enduring value in it over the centuries.

Wisdom | Proverbs—Eshet Chayil (Woman of Valor) [Danielle Parish]

The final chapter of Proverbs uses language and imagery that is widely diverse and presents an incredible image and vision for women as central to biblical wisdom.

Wisdom | Proverbs—Modest Justice [Danielle Parish]

Proverbs promotes humility, a modesty that leads to justice.

Wisdom | Proverbs As The Pursuit of Wisdom [Kevin Neuner]

The blind pursuit of given principles may itself be folly, the very kind of foolishness the Proverbial wisdom is attempting to remedy. Rather than mere revelation, these proverbs exhort us to reason together.

Wisdom | Psalms of Lament [Danielle Parish]

Psalm of Lament express the depths of human emotion, and invite us to embrace the cries and suffering of others.

Wisdom | Psalms of Praise [Kevin Neuner]

While we think of praise as a feeling, or even a genre of music, the psalms of praise are a declaration of the affections, benefits, and characteristics of the god we worship. To sing, then, those psalms of praise is to invoke their presence and value upon ourselves, and this life.

Wisdom | Psalms of Ascent [Danielle Parish]

Whether "ascent" means a geographical going up, or a musical elevation, these Psalms lift our eyes, our hearts, and our attentions to the place from where our help and life comes.

Wisdom | Job, part 2 — The Absurdity Of Life [Kevin Neuner]

The Job story is…absurd. Recognizing and accepting this absurdity is itself a gift, that liberates us from the expectations and perceptions that frequently don't make sense in this chaotic world.

Wisdom | Job, part 1 [Danielle Parish]

Job is not just wisdom literature, but permission, to ask questions, to speak, to be silent, to wrestle, and to say, "I don't know." That permission is a spiritual liberation from the expectations of other religious ideas.

"State Of Spark" and 2022 [Kevin Neuner & Danielle Parish]

This first Sunday of 2022, Pastors Kevin & Danielle reflect a bit on 2021, highlight a few key observations, and briefly share what's coming in 2022.

A Strange Way | Odd Announcement

Each of the declarations by the angels is,...odd. Yet, precisely because they are strange are they also profound.

A Strange Way | Helpless Child

In a world of kings, rulers, authorities, and...well, adults, God's medium of salvation came in the form of a helpless child. What does that teach us about the message of Christmas and the radical shift in values that transformed our world?

Eyewitness to COP26

”COP” stands for “Conference of the Parties,” the United Nations annual gathering of world leaders to address climate change. Pastor Danielle Parish of Spark.Church was an official United Nations Conference Observer at this year’s COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland. At this event, Pastor Danielle shared a report on her experiences, key moments and decisions, and discussed how faith communities can continue to pursue justice in our current climate crisis. We were also introduced to Violet Wulf-Saena, Founder & Executive Director of Climate Resilient Communities, a community-based organization dedicated to serving the underrepresented through empowering community voices to implement climate solutions that bring about unity and resilience. (www.climatercommunities.org)

A Strange Way | Joseph

Do not be afraid. Rather, be amazed. And through that amazement, tell the story.

A Strange Way | Introduction & Virgin Birth

This story we tell every year, when considered, is really a strange way to bring salvation. In this introduction, we consider one possible avenue of thinking about the Virgin Birth.

PRESENT | Thanksgiving

We do not give thanks because we are happy. We are happy, because we give thanks. Giving thanks, is good, and not just for the Thanksgiving holiday. It is good for our soul, all year round.

Pastors Kevin & Danielle give a brief report to the Spark community on climate change, COP26, and why it matters. We hope this is simply one part of our continued commitment to #GospelJustice through #CreationCare.

PRESENT | Service

Service in The Way of Jesus is not a simple act. It is an entire posture of identity, living a life of simply being a servant to all.

PRESENT | Communion

Many consider communion deeply personal to one's spiritual life and identity. However, it is far from individual. This meal and sacrament calls the body together, imploring us to consider each other as the aim and goal of eating together.

PRESENT | Scripture

What happens when we read sacred texts? In addition to it being a moment of meditation, it is the reading that draws us closer to the author.

COP26 Announcement & Invitation

Pastors Danielle & Kevin are going to #COP26, the United Nations Climate Conference in Glasgow, Scotland. In this brief introduction, we share a glimpse of what COP26 is, why we're going, and how you can journey with us. https://www.spark.church/cop26

PRESENT | Worship

Pastor Kevin and Spark's Worship Leader, Junior, sit down for a conversation on worship, what it is, why it is important, and what it tells us about our practice of faith. We discuss a bit about Junior's background and upbringing, in addition to his evolution of thinking over time. Together, we are inspired to consider worship far more than the "singing" portion of our services.

PRESENT | Prayer

We introduce a new series on the presence of God IN PRACTICE. The characteristics of our faith are all encompassing of the fullness of our human experience. Embracing the contemplative, prayerful, and meditative aspects of our relationship with God is just as necessary as theology.

ReCreate | Resurrection

The conclusion of our series on Spark's core values.

ReCreate | Rescue

Spark's next core value, Rescue, is our call to bring salvation to all, just as God brought salvation to us.

ReCreate | Reputation

Last week's discussion on reconciliation culminates in the restoration of God's reputation, how God is viewed and understood by everyone, most especially Christians.

ReCreate | Reconciliation

Our next core value of reconciliation is not only a prime characteristic of Jesus followers, but is also a worldview, and even an archetype of the progress of the universe. Embodied in Jesus followers is a cosmic force that exemplifies what we say in our services each week, that God really is "one."

ReCreate | Introduction & Love

As we approach Spark's 9th Anniversary, we'd like to revisit the foundational teachings, principles, and values that form the identity of our church.

Luke | Fully Human, Fully Divine

Before his death, Jesus lived the life of a human being, but was MORE. After his resurrection, that MORE became evident to those with whom he interacted. The final chapter of the book of Luke gives us a glimpse into what that MORE is, and provides insight into how we can be MORE as well.

Luke | Yes. It Happened!

Chapter 24 of the Gospel According to Luke narrates some details of the morning of the resurrection, the most significant, meaningful, and central event of the Christian faith. And yet, to claim that a dead man rose from the dead is dubiously incredible. Our heritage and history affirm both of these perspectives as a challenge to carefully consider.

Luke | The Bodies of Two Jesuses

Chapter 23 of The Gospel According to Luke chronicles the trials of Jesus before he's crucified. The narrative culminates in a guilty man who goes free, and an innocent man who is condemned to die. It is upon the bodies of these two men that we see the dire need for the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

Luke | Betrayed With A Kiss

It may be easy to dismiss Judas Iscariot as an anomaly, a bad actor, or perhaps just a fulfillment of God's ordained prophecy. Perhaps we should consider more carefully the underlying lessons.

Luke | When Desolation Comes Near

Jesus' description of the destruction of the Temple in Luke 21 is frightening and disheartening. The very center of socio-religious identity is going to be destroyed and desolated. Bad things are going to happen, and many persecutions. But while the heavens are shaken, the Son of Man is coming, and redemption is drawing near, and the Kingdom of God is about to be established. How in the world does that all make sense?

Luke | By Whose Authority?

In chapter 20, Luke describes a series of encounters at the Temple between Jesus and various groups and individuals. The thread connecting each interaction is the debate over authority: who has it, who doesn’t, how do you get it, and how do you live by it?

Luke | My House

In the well-known "cleansing of the temple" story, Jesus makes reference to two passages in the prophetic tradition that speak quite forcefully about who we exclude, and what we include in our worship. The answer to both is predicated on one principle. This is not our house. This is God's house.

Luke | See/Saw/Seen

In the story of the blind man from Luke 18, we will consider what this precious gem of scripture has to offer, and try to determine what we can "see" in the text, what the blind man "saw," and how we are "seen" by Jesus.

Luke | Rich Young Ruler

The good news of Jesus asks us not just what is possible with our resources, but with our souls.

Luke | When The Son of Man Comes

Lightning covering the sky from end-to-end, fire and sulfur raining down from heaven, people taken away while sleeping or at work, vultures circling dead bodies. These are all images Jesus associates with “the coming of the Son of Man”. But what is a Son of Man? And when will this mysterious figure come? And why the (seemingly) world-ending language to describe his arrival? How do we unpack and discern Jesus' apocalyptic warning, and what does it look like to heed those warnings two thousand years after Jesus issued them?

Luke | Kingdom Economics

The two parables in Luke 16 magnify Jesus's perspective on money. As expected, what we think, and how we use our resources are central to understanding the gospel message.

Luke | Parable of Lost Things, A Conversation

(Please forgive the bad audio recording this week due to technical difficulties.) This well known set of parables is perhaps one parable, not about our morality, but about God's amazing love, grace, acceptance, and forgiveness. Through our conversation, we will discuss the structure, context, and message, keeping our focus on the character and nature of God.

The Discipline of Hope | We Had Hoped

In discussing the events of Jesus, two disciples, after the crucifixion and before they knew anything of the resurrection, declared their inner desire, that they had hoped that Jesus was going to be the one to redeem Israel. In this story, we find Jesus walking with us in our disappointment.

The Discipline of Hope | Poured

Our hope springs from the well of the stories we tell. Let us reconsider day three of the creation story and the gathered waters, an etymological connection to biblical hope and how that image and metaphor speaks of the great potential of God's love poured out on each of us.

Luke | Dinner Guests

Jesus is a dinner guest at the household of a religious leader on the Sabbath. Under their watchful eye, Jesus takes the opportunity to heal the sick and teach about the kingdom of God. His actions and stories about dinner parties are a challenge to his audience—and us today—to rethink what (and who) we prioritize in our lives.

Race, Faith, & Science in the Age of COVID

A live, public conversation on the topics and intersection of race, faith, and science.

Luke | Conversational Storytelling

We continue in our conversational format, discussing the parable of the Fig Tree, Mustard Seed, and Yeast. Rather than blaming "sin" for the bad things that happen, the teachings of Jesus look to a hopeful imagination of what could be, and nurtures and nourishes that growth in each of us.

Luke | The Conversation Continues

What are the threads that are pulled through the "sign of Jonah," the "good eye" and the exhortation of the Pharisees? In this conversation we tease out several possibilities and options.

Luke | Another Conversation

Pastors Kevin, Danielle, and Omair discuss various elements of Luke, chapter 11. Through various perspectives, we see once again the radical and revolutionary message of Jesus, and discuss the various difficulties and challenges that emerge when faced with his teachings.

Luke | A Conversation

This week we discuss chapter 10 of Luke, the sending of the seventy, and the Good Samaritan. We discover yet again, the amazing commission of love, as an extension of God's story and work throughout history, and a radical revolution for how to even think about the command to love in the first place.

Luke | Take Up Your Cross

We are struck, yet again, with a difficult, but profound teaching of Jesus to "take up your cross." Set in the original historical context of crucifixion, this command of Jesus is as powerfully transformative as it is convicting.

Luke | Who Do You Say I Am?

John the Baptist back from the dead? Elijah returned? Another prophet from long ago? Jesus’ followers, critics, and everyone in between tried to connect (or disconnect) who Jesus was with who they expected the Messiah to be. People had all kinds of hopes in the triumphal––sometimes literal––return of some of these famous figures of Israel’s past to usher in the unending era of God’s reign. Where did these hopes come from? Who did Jesus think he was relative to these figures, and how does that affect how we understand Jesus today?

Luke | The Miracle of Loaves and Fishes

Apart from the miracle of the resurrection, the feeding of the 5,000 is the only other miracle told in all four Gospel accounts. What made this miracle so significant in the minds of the Gospel writers that everyone made certain it would be told and retold for generations? And what does this miracle teach us today about Jesus and ourselves?

The Last Word, and The Word After That

The last words spoken on the cross, "It is finished," holds an ironic poetry, in that this is exactly what everyone thought. The movement of Jesus, the hopes and expectations of the people, they were all done. Crucifixion spoke the last word, and the burial was the end of the movement. Except, in Jesus, there is always another Word that comes after the last word.

Luke | Rely On The Community

In Luke 9, Jesus' commission to his disciples to "take nothing with you," has significant implications for the ministry they were to accomplish and is a model for us to consider today.

When A Child Asks | Conclusion, Questions As A Pursuit of Wisdom

While we conclude this series, we persist in our commitment to question asking as a means of pursuing the deepest wisdom of God's world.

When A Child Asks | "Do I have to tell people about Jesus?"

Spark teachers converse on the personal, biblical, and spiritual aspects of "mission" "evangelism" and "the good news" of Jesus.

When A Child Asks | "What's so important about church?"

With testimony and passion, we discover how church encompasses both personal, public, private, and communal meaning as we together gather to advance the goodness of God here on earth as it is in heaven.

When A Child Asks | "What was there before God?"

In addition considering the logical pathways of science and theology, we will embrace the story of the biblical narrative and the answers it provides.

When A Child Asks | "Why are some people different religions?"

[Our apologies for the poor audio quality.] This week, Pastor Kevin, Pastor Omair, and Siddhi Sundar were live for an interactive, personal, and insightful conversation on pluralism, conversions, evangelism, and Jesus.

When A Child Asks | "Why are there homeless people?"

More than just curiosity, this question invites us to personal compassion, dignified care, and systemic evaluation in accordance with the Way and ethics of Jesus.

When A Child Asks | "Why do we call God 'he'?"

This question invites us to seriously consider the place of gender in our faith tradition in referring God. This question speaks, not just to the nature of God, but to ourselves as well, and we would do well to consider carefully our language, our metaphors, and our concepts of the divine.

When A Child Asks | "Do I go to heaven when I die?"

In this talk, we are guided through this question taking into consideration the roll this question plays in our spiritual lives, and the faith to which we adhere.

When A Child Asks | "What Is The Bible?"

Underlying this big question are additional questions that address how we frame, think about, view, and read this sacred text. Through this talk, we get a refreshed understanding of scripture's brilliance, beauty, and power for our life and faith.

When A Child Asks | "Why Is Life Hard Right Now?"

In this talk, five members of Spark's teaching team share their reflections, thoughts, and encouragements to this the question of why life is so hard.

When A Child Asks | "Why Are We Christian?"

This week, Pastors Danielle and Kevin were live with the Spark community to introduce this teaching series that will encourage us to embrace every question and every curiosity so as to achieve a meaningful and powerful faith.

2020/21 Reflections

This week, Pastors Danielle and Kevin were live with the Spark community to share some reflections on the past year as well as some perspectives for the future.

Hope In The Dark | While It Was Still Dark

We begin at the beginning, and tease out the motif of darkness in the Bible. Through understanding the metaphor and meaning of darkness in the scriptures, we will see how Jesus, once again, upends the story to bring salvation, light, and hope to all parts of this world.

Hope In The Dark | The Solution To Sin

The birth of Jesus is a "solution" to a "problem." That problem is called in the story, "sin," can be best understood through carefully considering the solution of a baby born to be King.

Hope In The Dark | Waiting

The spiritual practice of waiting is a frequently unwanted discipline of hope. Yet, it is in the waiting that we discover the depths of our faith.

Hope In The Dark

During this season, our Christmas story reminds us that dark times have come before, and the light of hope continues to shine brighter still.

Luke | Bring Resurrection

The restoration of two women in Luke 8 in the same story speaks to the life that returns when we are returned back to our belonging in our community.

Luke | Confronting Legion

In the story of Jesus restoring a man who is possessed by an “unclean spirit" we see a revolutionary allegory that is politically evocative, symbolic as a critique of Rome’s brutal occupation. Yet, this is also a story of hope and liberation, where we learn that Jesus is the true King.

Luke | The Gods Must Be Crazy

The story of Jesus asleep in the boat and then waking to calm the storm has multiple layers. Ultimately, this continues the message of God's overwhelming and compassionate love, for all, including the enemy. The wind and the waves obey this command. Will we?

Luke | In & Kin

The key question, "Who really is Jesus's family?" What does it mean to be "kin" according to Jesus? Once again, here in Luke 8, there is a revolutionary message that Jesus is advancing, one that is still needed today.

Luke | Parables

There are brilliant insights that the parables teach us about ourselves, not just the moral "takeaways." In this talk, we discover the power of these stories to shift our thinking, and our lives.

Luke | Chapter 8

Pastors Danielle & Kevin have a conversation on what Luke 8:1-3 illuminates for us regarding the Way of Jesus. We include live Q&R from the congregation.

Reading While Black | A Public Conversation with Rev. Dr. Esau McCaulley

Dr. Esau McCaulley's work is at the intersection of the academy and ministry. In this conversation, Dr. McCaulley shared on his just published book, Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope. This event was hosted by Spark.Church, Palo Alto (www.spark.church), and sponsored by our partners, The River Church Community, San Jose (www.the-river.org) and Sequoia Church, Redwood City (www.sequoiachurch.com). For more on Dr. McCaulley, visit esaumccaulley.com.

Luke | Debts Forgiven

In the encounter with a meal, at a Pharisee's home, and a woman with an alabaster jar, Jesus prompts us to consider our debts forgiven as the basis of God's radical love.

8th Anniversary Reflections

Pastors Danielle and Kevin share reflections on our 8th Anniversary, remembering and recounting the stories and values that have brought us thus far and will take us into the future.

Luke | Why You Gotta Make Things So Complicated

The story of the centurion in the 7th chapter of Luke turns the teachings of Jesus in unexpected ways. There is potential for those, who we may deem to be the enemy, to actually exemplify the very teachings Jesus is advancing.

Luke | When Jesus Preaches

A portion of the Bible popularly known as "The Sermon on the Mount" from Matthew is here in Luke's account in shorter form. It is considered some of the most concentrated teachings of Jesus, packed with depth, wisdom, profound connections to our greater story, and a compelling vision for humanity. As we are guided and led to simply pay attention to Jesus's words, what happens to us, as we listen?

Luke | Jesus & Wineskins

Wineskins are a metaphor for “disciples,” students who will take the message forward into the world. This is a commentary on how “old” ways can hinder “new” thinking, the teachings that Jesus is advancing.

As Jesus’ ministry begins to draw big crowds, it begins to draw big crowds of critics, too. In one encounter, Jesus “saves” a man who can’t walk. But what exactly did he save the man from? And why were the religious experts in the audience so upset? In this text, Luke invites us to think bigger about who Jesus is, what salvation means, and what access looks like for people of all abilities and disabilities.

Luke | Casting Nets, Sinking Ships

In the purposeful and brilliant calling of Jesus's first disciples, ordinary fishermen, we learn that “following," the main metaphor for Luke’s message of discipleship, is to be challenged: to do more, see more, feel more...even when it may be most uncomfortable.

Luke | Jesus Heals

Healings are manifestations in the physical world of the power that exists in the “spiritual.” “Sickness” and “disease” are real ailments, but also metaphors for the condition of the human soul.

Luke | What Is Your Calling?

Pastor Tom shares this week on Jesus' announcement in Luke 4. This mission is a global reordering of values, systems and power structures whereby freedom and healing will be good news for the poor and the primary markers of his calling. And, as followers of Jesus, as “hearers” of his message, that’s our calling too, in our time and in our context.

Luke | In The Wilderness

What is going on in with Jesus's temptation in the wilderness, and why is Jesus specifically tempted with bread, fame/worship, and putting God to the test? Perhaps this story leads us to trust in Jesus to do for us what we ourselves cannot do for ourselves.

Luke | Let Me Introduce You To The Family

There is tremendous value and importance in the genealogy, going all the way back to Adam, including all of humanity. This Jesus story is rooted in both Israel's ancestry and in world history. In other words, the Kingdom of God is a “Family Affair.”

Luke | Prepare The Way

The behavior of the people are setting the groundwork for the full expression of the Kingdom of God through the ministry of Jesus. Life is about to change, and that has implications for how we live, and condemnations for those who oppress.

Luke | In My Father's House

This talk looks at the dedication of Jesus in Jerusalem, and his worship experiences at the Temple throughout his childhood years. What we learn about Jesus, his identity and his religious practice, shapes our own practices today. Like Jesus, may we be found in our Father's house.

Luke | Caesar & Christ

This week Pastor Danielle dives into chapter two of the Gospel According to Luke. While the birth of Jesus is commonly known as merely a Christmas story, here we see that this event is surrounded by the ominous presence of Empire and the subtle rumblings of the revolution being birthed right under Caesar's nose. Who's rule and kingdom will we choose?

Luke | How To Recite The Bible

Zechariah's "Benedictus," (Latin for "blessed be") is his prophetic utterance after Elizabeth gives birth to John the Baptist. In this recitation we discover the usage of Scripture for the sake of paving a pathway of peace, mercy, and justice.

Luke | Sing Mary's Song

This week Pastor Omair dives into the "song of Mary." Also known as "The Magnificat,” many see this song as a delightful praise. However, we frequently miss the subversive declaration of the usurpation of powers, the announcement of victory over rulers and thrones, and the proclamation of good news to the lowly, the hungry, etc. Also, this comes in a long tradition of women singing victoriously over oppression. So, when women sing, it is more than a mere tune, it’s a declaration, and a warning, to the powers that be, things are about to change. We'll see you soon, online.

Luke | Lord of All

The stories of Zechariah and Mary are not just characters in a story. They represent the larger frameworks of religion and politics as the areas of human organization that need to be transformed by the lordship of Jesus.

Luke | The Genre of Faith

In this introduction to the Gospel According to Luke, we set the groundwork and framework for how we are to even read this text. Recognizing the importance of genre, and the relationship that genre invites us into is critical for centering Jesus and inquiring whether or not Jesus is worthy of imitating.

Ephesians | The Struggle Is Real

The closing of Ephesians encourages followers of Jesus to put on the whole armor of God, because there is a struggle against the rulers, authorities, powers, spiritual and cosmic forces. So, what are these things that we are fighting/wrestling against? They are, "structures of earthly existence," systems that need the salvation and redemption of God.

Ephesians | Waking Up

This week Pastor Tom talks on Ephesians 5, and how the Jesus Way upends the social order, a continuation of God's work in dismantling the systems that marginalize people. Through Christ, everything is brought "to the light" and we are "woken up from our sleep" to join in this work of challenging these hierarchies.

Ephesians | It's Tiring, It's Challenging... It's Faith

This week's news of the death of George Floyd has upended our nation. In this talk, Pastor Marcus shares honestly about the challenge of trying to live the Way of Jesus in world so full of injustice.

Ephesians | God-Given Gifts

When the Bible talks about gifts, there are several questions we should be asking. Who are these gifts given? How are they given? And, for what purpose? In this talk, Pastor Omair addresses these inquiries and encourages us to live into the calling God has given to us all.

Ephesians | One Hope

Be humble and gentle, patient, and bear with one another. Far beyond a mere set of moral directives, these exhortations advance the Good News in very practical and communal terms, to the actual communities living out the ethics of God's Kingdom.

Ephesians | Love, Love, Love!

The love of God set apart the early Christians from their pagan counterparts, and sets followers of Jesus apart still to this day. It is this love that transforms everything.

Ephesians | Carriers of the Gospel

We have been entrusted with a great mystery, the radical and life changing message of Jesus' inclusion of those who we deemed "outsiders." We are commission to carry this message well, bringing the Kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven.

Ephesians | One New Humanity Out of Two

As we are being built into the "temple" a dwelling for God, we are challenged to tear down all the barriers that separate us, and join in the agenda of Jesus to make us all truly one.

Ephesians | Alive

It is possible to be alive, and yet appear as dead. And it is possible to be dead, and still be very much alive. When we are "in Christ," this is the "aliveness" that Paul is challenging and encouraging us all to embrace, and celebrate.

Ephesians | Resurrection Power

The Resurrection is the most central event in all of history. It has the power, once again, to bring new life today, even in the midst of pandemic.

Ephesians | Heaven and Earth

In this talk, Pastor Danielle takes us through the historical context of Palm Sunday, and its significance. This theme is continued and advanced through Paul's words in Ephesians when speaking of "heaven and earth."

Ephesians | Chosen Children

Still meeting remotely, we continue our series in Ephesians. In a culture that discards people for not living up to the standards of beauty, form, and expectation, our gospel declares that we are all chosen, beloved, cherished children of God.

Spark.Church Online | What Is Going On Here?!

With the directive to "shelter-in-place," Spark ran services completely remotely this Sunday. Pastor Danielle guides us through some reflections and solace during this time of significant disruption.

Spark.Church Online | Introduction & Ephesians | God Is Our Context

In the first service that did not gather people together in a room, we share some reflections and updates on Spark's response and responsibility. Then, in the first installment of our Ephesians series, we consider how we should think about and frame our current circumstances, recognizing that we have a much larger context in which we live as followers of Jesus.

Why Jesus? | Empathetic Suffering

There is a distinct difference between sympathy and empathy. The Way of Jesus is distinctively empathetic, suffering with us to bring comfort and connection in times of great difficulty.

Why Jesus? | Bill Glenn & Crash Theory

Personal Testimony: Bill Glenn In answering life's biggest questions, we all tell stories that ground us in our identity, our understanding of truth, and our values for behavior. But what do we do when those stories don't work with new discoveries, bad news, negative experiences, or new revelations? In Jesus, we see a model and pathway forward by reinterpreting both the old master story and the new disruption.

Why Jesus? | Nico Poux & All Are Welcome

Personal Testimony: Nico Poux In Luke 15, Jesus tells one parable with three stories; sheep, coin, and sons. We discover through this teaching Jesus's radical message of radical welcome.

Why Jesus? | Marcus Randolph & Power

Personal Testimony: Pastor Marcus Randolph There are a variety of ways we understand and interact with power in our world. One of the reasons we follow Jesus is because His Way upends, transforms, reforms, subverts, and displaces power and creates completely different understandings and dynamics. Power, according to the Way of Jesus is in service, ultimately, to self-sacrifice love.

Why Jesus? | Dan Bradford & "Higher"archies

Personal Testimony: Dan Bradford One of the most transformational ideas found in the Jesus movement is the subversion and transformation of the hierarchies that humans have created to create social order. In Christ, these beliefs are upended, and we are all seen, in God's Kingdom, as equal members, of equal value, of equal worth, with equal responsibility. This is a "higher" way.

Why Jesus? | Alexa DeSanctis & Love. Bless. Pray. Forgive

Personal Testimony: Alexa DeSanctis Jesus's message of radical nonviolence is frequently misunderstood as passive. However, the Way of Jesus through nonviolence is far more radical and provides the most powerful way of advancing human flourishing.

Why Jesus? | Bob Lin & All Things New

Personal Testimony: Bob Lin Pastor Danielle shares more personally her journey of a Jesus who continually made—and continues to make—all things new.

Why Jesus? | Kelly Gilbert & Suffer God His Grace

Personal Testimony: Kelly Gilbert Suffering is frequently understood through pithy axioms which only turn out to be half-truths. The fuller realties as found in Jesus are far more profound and beautiful.

Why Jesus? | Siddhi Sundar & Athens and Jerusalem

Personal Testimony: Siddhi Sundar Athens & Jerusalem are cities that respectively represent science and faith, sense and soul, the empirical and the mystical, the West and the East. Why would Jesus and Paul use and leverage Greek ideas, terms, and images in their teaching and spreading of the Gospel? Rather than contention, perhaps there is harmony.

Why Jesus? | Introduction, Rajesh Philipos, & American Religion

Personal Testimony: Rajesh Philipos Our introduction to our series surveys the "free market" of religion in America and how it has influenced our particular context of faith expression.

Birth | Finding Hope In The Dark

One of the reasons we celebrate Christmas during the darkest time of the year is because it is here that we are the most hopeful. Let us join with our ancient ancestors in bringing forth that hope from the dark.

Birth | Not Such A Strange Way

The birth of Jesus, while unusual and strange to modern sensibilities, actually makes a lot of sense when considering the entirety of the biblical story. From the very beginning, God has been rebirthing the world, and people, out of chaos, out of injustice, toward salvation.

Birth | Mary's (Fight) Song

While we think of joyous feelings during the holidays, Mary's song is far more subversive and declarative than we perhaps recognize. It speaks to the profound levels of meaning found in the event that we celebrate and commemorate during our Christmas season.

Deuteronomy | In The End, An Invitation

How do we come to the end of Deuteronomy, and sum up, not just this book, but the entire Torah? In the end, we see woven throughout the text an invitation to participate in this kind of life, that we would be wooed, inspired, and drawn in to carry on the legacy of our ancestors.

Deuteronomy | Choose Life

Throughout Israel's history, there's been a choice. Toward the end of Deuteronomy, there is a clarion urging, to choose life.

Ryan Eller | The Souls of America, Q&R

Our question and response time with Rev. Ryan Eller after his talk.

Ryan Eller | The Souls of America

Rev. Ryan Eller is the Executive Director of Define American (defineamerican.com). In this opening talk, he shares a call to all of us to consider a more compassionate and educated perspective on immigration.

Ryan Eller | The Souls of America, Jesus Pineda-Ramirez Introduction & Testimony

Jesus is a chapter leader of Define American and the Sparker who conceived this event. He shares personally why this event is so important to him through his personal testimony.

Professor W. Warren Binford | Q&R

This is a followup Q&R (question & response) with Professor Binford after her talk, "4 Days In Clint."

Professor W. Warren Binford | 4 Days In Clint

W. Warren H. Binford is an internationally recognized children's rights scholar and advocate who holds a tenured position as Professor of Law and serves as the Director of the Clinical Law Program at Willamette University. Professor Binford was a principal witness of the inhumane conditions of children at the detention center in Clint, TX, and helped to bring this issue to the media. Spark Church & Congregation Etz Chayim hosted Professor Binford for a joint worship service in which she shared first-hand witness experiences of the children and families detained at the Clint and Ursula Detention Facilities.

Deuteronomy | Changing Times, Woven Threads

Chapters 19-26 of Deuteronomy is a long list of various legislation about a variety of topics. For many of us in the 21st century, some of these legal stipulations are ancient, and even barbaric, things like the death penalty, mutilation, bodily fluids, etc. But a longer historical and contextual view reveals that times have always been changing, and we are not immune. But woven into this text are threads of redemptive ethics that transformed societies then, and have the power to transform societies still today. May we be thoughtfully responsible with what God has given us, rather than simply doing what we think the text literally or mechanically says.

Deuteronomy | The Once and Future Prophet

When we think of "prophets" and "prophecy," we too often think of some magical clairvoyance or foresight into some radical improbability. The problem is that this is not how messianic prophecy worked in the ancient world. Neither should it work that way for us today. Rather, we are committed to fulfill the calling of the messianic prophetic voice today.

Deuteronomy | Justice, Justice You Shall Pursue

When we think of "judgment," we often think of negative condemnation. But the installment of a judiciary in Deuteronomy is truly about justice, the pursuit of what is good and right in a society. It is this kind of justice—unpersuaded, not bribed, not delayed—that we are to pursue.

Deuteronomy | Reset

Deuteronomy invites us into a reset. No matter where we've been, how we've arrived, there's always the opportunity to to start over. This kind of redemptive renewal is woven into the fabric of our faith.

7th Anniversary | Sparkers Sharing & Benediction

Five Sparkers share their stories as reflections of our values. We end with a benediction for the next seven years.

7th Anniversary | Our Story

Pastors Kevin & Danielle share a brief background on our story to this point, and what brought us through these seven years.

Spark.Cast | #CreationCare, part 2

The "Great Barrier" is our psychologies, the biases, stereotypes, and fears we all have about our most important issues. Using empathetic listening and imagination, we can hopefully move from fright to productive conversations when it comes to discussing climate change.

Deuteronomy | You Are Children Of The Lord Your God

The commands in Deuteronomy are predicated on a fundamental message, one of identity. God is teaching us to see ourselves first and foremost as Children of the Lord our God. Once we see that, everything else changes.

Spark.Cast | #CreationCare, part 1

The top three things you can do about climate change.

Deuteronomy | When You... Then You...

All of us, including our spiritual ancestors, did better when they knew better. There are new behaviors for new lands, and we will continue to evolve as we move forward in the world.

Deuteronomy | Green New Covenant, Part 2

In this second installment of the Green New Covenant, we discuss the biggest challenges facing the climate change crisis and how The Way of Jesus provides the direct response. Not only is the prophetic voice, a reconciled life, and a grand narrative view good faith, it may be the platform upon which we can, in partnership with God, bring salvation to our world.

Deuteronomy | Green New Covenant, Part 1

God's covenant has always been with God's people in God's land. The relationship we have with the creation, our environment, is central to how we steward our identity and God's good world. In obedience, there are blessings. In disobedience, there are curses. Will we keep our end of the covenant?

Deuteronomy | What The Lord Requires

What if God, in giving the Israelites the commission to speak and act boldly as His representatives in the world, is not just providing commands that they are to obey, but upending whole power structures? What if God is closing the gap of the "high power distance" that is accepted and perpetuated by both ancient and modern peoples?

Deuteronomy | All Sorts of Shade

Why does God seem to "throw some shade" to the Israelites, a barbed comment that reminds them that they're not so special? Perhaps it is because we all have a tendency to think highly of ourselves, and we forget who we were.

Deuteronomy | Continued

We pause to reflect on our "first principles," how the Gospel Justice work that we do, the study of our historical scriptures, and the faith of Jesus are all one and the same. And, why it matters.

Jemar Tisby | Conversational Q&R Interview

A conversational Q&R interview with some live questions from the audience.

Jemar Tisby | The Color of Compromise

Author, historian, and theologian, Jemar Tisby shares on the colors of compromise from his book with the same title.

Jesus Economics | Pastor Paul Bains

Pastor Paul Bains is the Senior Pastor of Saint Samuel Church in East Palo Alto and the Co-Founder and President of Project WeHOPE whose mission is to help people become healthy, employed and housed using innovative solutions.

Jesus Economics | John Liotti

Our guest, John Liotti from Able Works (able.is) shares candidly and prophetically the dynamics of his faith and development work.

Jesus Economics | Rolando Zeledon

The first of three conversational interviews with leaders in our local community ministering in Silicon Valley economic realities.

Jesus Economics | Whatever Is Just

Lauren shares on "The Parable of the Vineyard Workers," and explains how the Kingdom of Heaven is about justice, a radical message in Jesus's day and our own, when most of us want fairness.

Jesus Economics | Eye See You

Jesus uses a metaphor in Matthew 6 that may be foreign to many of us. Having a "good" or "healthy" eye represents an underlying ethic of seeing one another, so that we can be generous and lavish in our economic behavior. Different from the commonly known Matthew Effect, that the more someone has the greater their advantage, this principle proposes a way of governing our economic selves by restoring our proper relationship with each other.

Jesus Economics | Introduction

An Introduction to our series, "Jesus Economics," providing some historical and contextual background into why this is important, and the place economics has in the faith and Way of Jesus.

Break Every Chain | When We Show Up

In this follow up from last week's sermon, Darren Lew shares his experience in protesting in Clint, TX, and Pastor Danielle shares reflections on the importance and value of "Showing Up."

Special Message | Break Every Chain

The recent news of the U.S.'s treatment of migrant children on our southern border cannot be ignored. In this special message, we hear consider the scriptures that speak of God's clear admonition against those who mistreat the stranger in our midst. For resources, please see Spark's resource email to accompany this week' message: https://mailchi.mp/024075df3315/sparkchurch-3006649

Deuteronomy | Rigors and Riches

Through the wilderness, we were dependent on God. But what happens when riches come? Will we forget?

Deuteronomy | Sh'ma Or Die

The most central command, to hear, listen, and obey, is ultimately about one thing, life. And life, in its fullest.

Deuteronomy | Measure For Measure

Many believe in Karma, the idea that we get what we deserve. A similar concept is found in Deuteronomy called "measure for measure," but with a completely different way of measuring.

Deuteronomy | We Saw No Form

In this message consider idols, things we can see, and a God of the Israelites that gave no form.

Deuteronomy | Love Does

Chapter 4 includes two verses that are about love, bringing, and inheritance, language that grounds the commandments, not in duty, but in relationship. The force of Deuteronomy's "laws," emerges from the fact that we belong to God, that we are loved by God, and that God cares deeply for our souls.

Deuteronomy | Look Back

The first three chapters of Deuteronomy tell a brief and critical history that is critically important for how the Israelites are to move forward into uncertainty, and in creating justice in this world. As we chart a way forward, we do so by leaning back into our story.

Deuteronomy | You Have Stayed Long Enough

Deuteronomy is about storytelling. And storytelling is about moving the story forward. In this talk, we discover that it's time to pass the story along, as the lessons of the past are crucial and critical for the future journey ahead.

Deuteronomy | Introduction, These Things

In this introduction to Deuteronomy, Pastor Kevin proposes a fundamental shift in perspective and understanding of the "laws" that are written down in the book of Deuteronomy. Rather than merely "divine legislation," this book reveals wisdom, insight into how we can tackle even the most important and critical issues we face today.

Easter | New Creation

This day we celebrate and commemorate the most significant event in history. The meaning of this event, however, is far more cosmic and epic than we often realize. To understand that, we've got to go back to, "In the beginning…"

Palm Sunday | Hosanna!

The commemoration of Palm Sunday was perhaps a bit of street theatre, reaching back to Israel's history, illuminating the profound symbolism of Jesus's actions on a day known to the early followers of Jesus as "lamb selection day."

1 John | This Is The Message

In this closing message, Pastors Danielle & Kevin converse about the series, and the various aspects and themes of the previous weeks. In summary, this is the message of 1 John, and why we spent time in this book.

1 John | You Already Know

It's been said that we need to be reminded more than we need to be told. In this message, Pastor Marcus shares and encourages us with that reminder that we are loved, and to love, even "those people."

Spark.Cast | Conversational Interview with Preston Sprinkle

On March 10, 2019, Spark Church in partnership with four other organizations, hosted a public conversation between Justin Lee and Preston Sprinkle on the topic of sexuality, scripture, and the soul of christianity. If you haven’t watched or listened to that event, I highly recommend doing so before listening to these follow-up conversations because for that particular event, our main focus was to model and engage in respectful and humble dialogue on one of the most divisive issues facing the church. I’m deeply grateful to Justin and Preston for holding that space, and for them incarnating that ethic, and being exemplars for The Church as a whole. Because time is always a frustrating constraint, Justin and Preston have graciously agreed to these follow up podcast interviews where we address some of the top questions that were submitted, and dig far deeper into the implications of each of their views. These interviews are based on that same ethic, and it is our hope that these conve…

Spark.Cast | Conversational Interview with Justin Lee

On March 10, 2019, Spark Church in partnership with four other organizations, hosted a public conversation between Justin Lee and Preston Sprinkle on the topic of sexuality, scripture, and the soul of christianity. If you haven’t watched or listened to that event, I highly recommend doing so before listening to these follow-up conversations because for that particular event, our main focus was to model and engage in respectful and humble dialogue on one of the most divisive issues facing the church. I’m deeply grateful to Justin and Preston for holding that space, and for them incarnating that ethic, and being exemplars for The Church as a whole. Because time is always a frustrating constraint, Justin and Preston have graciously agreed to these follow up podcast interviews where we address some of the top questions that were submitted, and dig far deeper into the implications of each of their views. These interviews are based on that same ethic, and it is our hope that these conve…

1 John | Love Drives Out Fear

One of the most pernicious of all human experiences is fear. It is debilitating and terrifying. In this message, we discover how God's perfect love drives fear out.

1 John | True/False Test

False prophets, false teachers, God haters, the antichrist? Who is John so concerned about, and who or what forces of evil in our midst should we be so worried about today? [Editorial notes: At minute 21:50, instead of "a divine force that let go of humanity,..." should have been "let go of divinity..." At minute 23:26, instead of "empirical cross of Rome," should have been "imperial cross of Rome." At minute 26:13, instead of "Irenaeus," should have been "Ignatius."]

Sexuality, Scripture, & the Soul of Christianity | Part 2, Q&R

A public conversation with Justin Lee (www.geekyjustin.com) and Preston Sprinkle (www.centerforfaith.com). This is part 2, Q&R (question & response).

Sexuality, Scripture, & the Soul of Christianity | Part 1, A Conversation

A public conversation with Justin Lee (www.geekyjustin.com) and Preston Sprinkle (www.centerforfaith.com). This is part 1, a conversation.

1 John | God Is Love

What do Christians believe about God? Simple. God is love. Everything else is details.

1 John | Our Hearts

The phrase "when our hearts condemn us" appears in 1 John 3, the sense that we all struggle with self-condemnation, insecurity, and feelings of inadequacy. This conversation with Pastor Omair, who holds a Ph.D. in Social Psychology, helps us navigate these feelings of reality in the context of our faith.

1 John | Love In Action

In this message Pastor Tom provides practical ways to live out the love of God, through awareness, and advocacy.

Austin Channing Brown | 3 of 3: Q&R

PART 3 of 3 | Austin takes questions from the audience on a variety of topics, including church leadership, dating, and raising children who are racially aware.

Austin Channing Brown | 2 of 3: Conversational Lecture

PART 2 of 3 | Austin sits down with three Sparkers to discuss reactions, responses, and further insights into some of the ideas in her book.

Austin Channing Brown | 1 of 3: Why I Wrote "I'm Still Here"

PART 1 of 3 | Austin shares the why behind her book "I'm Still Here."

1 John | In The Light

In this message, we read a bit more carefully the behavior of Jesus, and take stock of how we ourselves can also walking in that same light.

1 John | Walk As Jesus Walked

Walking is one of the most poignant metaphors for being a disciple of Jesus. In this talk, we unpack the idiom, and are challenged by the images to be more like Jesus.

1 John | The Atoning Sacrifice

The second chapter of 1 John is rich with theological significance, rooted in our story, profound in its message of redemption.

1 John | Koinonia

What does it mean to have a community? What are the ways in which a fellowship can be built and established? No surprise, it has something to do with a common truth, being in light together, and the absence of deceit.

We begin our teaching series on 1 John with the idea that this faith movement is "fleshy."

Numbers | People & Place

Cities of refuge, the ending of our journey through Numbers, summarizes the entire journey of "people" and "place." This is the revolutionary idea, where the people become the place of redemption, whole, redeemed, and made new.

Arrival | Light Has Come

Audio clips from our candlelight service, readings and reflections on light throughout the scriptures.

Arrival | The Way To Find Joy May Be Through Loving Others

The command to love God and love people is much more transformative than mere piety. It radically alters our view of our world, others, and ourselves.

Arrival | Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room

The Advent season, a word that means "arriving," is here. How shall we prepare for the coming of Light, and the King?

Numbers | Women Make Vows Q&R

A follow up Q&R (question & response) time after Pastor Omair's message.

Numbers | Women Make Vows

Numbers 30, where women make vows is yet another example of "divine accommodation," a strategic way by which God redemptively moves people forward. In addition, it sets up beautifully the vows that God ultimately makes in the Advent season.

Numbers | So. Many. Sacrifices!

Numbers 28 & 29 is a list of sacrifices at certain times. Far from ancient practice, we too, in the modern world, also sacrifice. Understanding what this is all about actually helps us understand who we are, why we sacrifice today, and how we can move redemptively to the ultimate aim God intends.

Numbers | #StrengthInNumbers

We are at another point in the book of Numbers where there are actually a lot of numbers. Here we discover the power of those numbers in light of slavery, and the responsibility of those numbers in light of succession.

Julie Lythcott-Haims | Q&R

Julie sits down with Pastor Kevin for a conversational interview, Question & Response.

Julie Lythcott-Haims | Raising Adults

Our special guest, Julie Lythcott-Haims gives an impassioned talk on raising Adults.

How Long, O L-RD?

In light of current events, it's appropriate to take time and lament. Another reason our faith is so powerful, for our Bible is full of them.

Numbers | The Red Cow Is Purple

The ceremony of the Red Heifer of Numbers 19 is perplexing and mysterious. Most recognize there's a paradox of clean and unclean switching places. In this talk, we consider what this may mean for the evolution of this ancient religion, and a grounding ethic for the faith that has emerged.

Numbers | No, Smoking

The rebellion of Korach leaves many questions...unanswered. Regardless, we still have a responsibility, to ourselves, to our community, and to our God.

Spark's 6th Sparkiversary Party!

During the teaching time of our Sparkiversary Party, we took some time to simply remember, and honor the work that God has been doing in and through this amazing community. We then invite you to join us in living The Way of Jesus.

Numbers | Look, Remember, and Do

In chapter 15 the Israelites are commanded to make "tassels" and put them on the "fringes" of their garments. In this teaching, Pastor Danielle is joined with Rabbi Ari to help explain why.

Numbers | Do Not Despair

(We apologize for the poor audio quality this week, due to technical difficulties). There are giants in the land. Many of us either deny or despair that reality. But we don't really have a choice. The battle is before us. Let us believe, not in what is seen, but rather in what is unseen.

Numbers | Sibling Rivalry

The story of sibling rivalry is a lesson in how to redeem difficult and challenging relationships with the most difficult people in the world with whom to reconcile, our family.

Numbers | Cloudy with a Chance of Fire

Do we want God's blessing, provision, and goodness without God's judgment? We pick up on our series in Numbers that we began a while ago to dive deeper into these questions and lessons from the desert.

SparkCast | Interview with Andrew Olson

One of our young adult Sparkers discusses his upbringing, journey through education and creative work.

Marie Griffith | Moral Combat, Q&R

The follow-up live public conversation Q&R (Question & Response) time.

Marie Griffith | Moral Combat, How Sex Formed and Fractured American Christianity

From birth control and abortion, to sexual harassment and sex education, R. Marie Griffith's most recent work Moral Combat is a sweeping historical account of the people and ideas that shaped how American Christianity taught, lived, and legislated sex over the last hundred years. We have asked Dr. Griffith to come share on the topic "Moral Combat: How Sex Formed and Fractured American Christianity" to help us better understand Christianity's past ideas of sex in relation with power, gender, race, education, etc. Perhaps we can then forge a redemptive and life giving way forward.

The Way Forward | We Are The Way Forward

Some more direct thoughts on how the Way of Jesus needs to move forward into the future.

The Way Forward | A Cloud Of Witnesses

As we look to the past to help us guide our future, Pastor Danielle shares insights and stories from the lesser known figures of history to inspire us that there is a long tradition of social engagement in our Christian tradition.

The Way Forward | An Infinite Imagination

This short series begins with some thoughts on how the Way of Jesus is moving forward into the future. As an introduction, Pastor Kevin shares some musings on what kind of thinking is required to help us even frame the conversation.

After the journey of re-inquiring about basic Christian beliefs, so what? What does it matter? What does it mean? And how does it answer the most important questions and inquiries of our existence?

So,... | what Is the Bible?

The most widely distributed book in the world is also widely misunderstood and misused. In this talk, Pastor Tom helps us grasp an understanding of the Bible on its own terms, not on ours.

So,... | what happens when we die? (heaven)

The word "heaven" is seen as a distinctly separate, better, and personally centered location outside of this world. It is popularly understood as "the place where we go when we die." However, the way in which the Bible uses the word "heaven" is far closer to us than we think.

So,... | what happens when we die? (hell)

Far from the standard version of hell that is so common in our current cultural context, the Biblical teaching is far more nuanced, visceral, and "real" for right here, and right now.

So,... | what does it mean to be saved?

For many, "salvation" is an "event," that happens. While the moment of transformation is absolutely meaningful, the Scriptures seem to teach that salvation is something that we are committed to keep working out.

So,... | what does Jesus' death mean?

There are lots of images and metaphors that we use to describe what actually happened. By revisiting the way the Biblical authors used those metaphors, perhaps we can see with greater depth the upside-down way Christianity thought of Jesus' death.

So,... | why did Jesus have to die?

In short, he didn't. Understanding what crucifixion is and was, helps expose the injustices of today, and why they also don't need to happen.

So,... | what is wrong with the world?

Our next teaching attempts to revisit the idea of sin, in light of creation.

So,... | Introduction, & why are we here?

We begin a new teaching series as an inquiry of Christian beliefs.

Why Are You A Christian? | Jason & Pamala

We continue our series in conversations with several pastors and teachers of Spark. Hear Jason's and Pamala's unique stories and struggles in this installment of Why Are You A Christian?

Why Are You A Christian? | Danielle & Marcus

We continue our series in conversations with several pastors and teachers of Spark. Hear Danielle's and Marcus's unique stories and struggles in this installment of Why Are You A Christian?

Why Are You A Christian? | Tom & Omair

We continue our series in conversations with several pastors and teachers of Spark. Hear Tom's and Omair's unique stories and struggles in this installment of Why Are You A Christian?

Special Guest: Justin Lee | Q&R

Justin Lee fields questions in this follow-up from his talk, Talking Across The Divide

Special Guest: Justin Lee | Talking Across The Divide

Justin Lee shares on his new book, Talking Across The Divide.

Why Are You A Christian? | Introduction

We begin a new series, Why Are You A Christian? Good Question. Let's dive into how we even begin to understand it before we attempt to answer.

Authors @ Spark

This week, we had the tremendous honor and privilege to hear from two published Sparkers on faith, story telling, and creative work. To find out more visit kellyloygilbert.com and lindsaylackey.com.

TIOS | The Grand Narrative

This is the final teaching in our series, This Is Our Story. Pastor Danielle shares on the overarching theme, the "Grand Narrative," and how we can find ourselves in this story.

Pastor Marcus shares some reflections, historically and personally, on living a life like Peter, and how we all have a really powerful calling.

Narkis | Parable of the Good Samaritan

During a tour to Israel, Pastor Danielle was a guest speaker at our home church in Jerusalem, Narkis Street Baptist Church. Here, she shares on the Parable of the Good Samaritan, and dives into Israel's history as context for Jesus's teaching.

TIOS | Rebels Just For Kicks

Pastor Tom speaks to the radically rebellious nature of the Jesus movement, that we are to be different, in very transformative ways.

By taking a few snapshots of Paul's life, we get a glimpse into his full agenda, a personal transformation that had profound public influence.

While love is sometimes seen as perhaps the fount from which our faith flows, Pastor Danielle will argue here that it is actually the Resurrection that transforms everything, including how we love.

Special Guest: Diana Butler Bass | Q&R

A Conversation with Dr. Diana Butler Bass, including Q&R from the audience.

Special Guest: Diana Butler Bass | Lazarus

Our special guest, Dr. Diana Butler Bass, shares how the Zacchaeus story illustrates Jesus's radical upending of the patron system of the first-century, causing gratitude to emerge in the heart of Zacchaeus.

Most popularly known about the story of Jonah is the big fish and the controversy (?) discussion (?) around the "miracle" or "myth" of that event. However, this story is far deeper, more profound and more convicting than that. It is more about the categories we put people in, and the challenge to love our enemies.

TIOS | Purim Q&A with Rabbi Ari Cartun

This is a very informal follow up conversation between Rabbi Ari and Pastor Danielle on a variety of questions about the book of Esther.

Our friend Rabbi Ari led us through the reading of the Megillah, the scroll of Esther. With song, and wit, we tell the story of hiddenness, irony, and redemption.

SparkCast | Interview with John Liotti, CEO of Able Works

TIOS | Daniel: Living Amongst Fools

How shall we live when we're in "foreign lands?" How do we maintain faithfulness, in the midst of tempting compromise?

Suffering. Justice. Blame. Innocence. These are all challenges and ideas that emerge in this, the most ancient of texts we have in our Bible. Predominant on all of them, however, is wisdom.

TIOS | Like The Nations

There is always a temptation to be like those around you, to be seduced into their way of living. Yet, our story is one where we are to be different, to be a light to the nations, not like them.

TIOS | Place In This World, part 2

This is the recorded conversation from our Communal Meal following service, on finding our place in this world.

TIOS | Place In This World, part 1

Our guest Dr. Cyndi Parker continues our series on Story, and what role the concept of "place" has in our narrative. Far from a simple geographical location, understanding our place is about becoming aware of how the physical space within which we find ourselves informs how we belong to the world and to each other, and how we find meaning in all the spaces of our lives.

TIOS | What Is Wrong With The World (Judges)

Pastors Kevin & Danielle share in this teaching, some thoughts and insights from the Book of Judges.

TIOS | Let Us Be Strengthened

Joshua's famous cry is to "be strong and courageous." This clarion call is the grounding identity of the Israelites as they enter the "Promised Land." Rather than mere "guts," being strong means to stay connected to the stories and covenants that have been established throughout Israel's history. And they are not to turn from it, either to the left or to the right.

TIOS | What's In A Name?

The very name of God is one that refuses to be boxed in. So, if you think you're going to box God in—to define God's name—get ready for a broken neck and a weird, weird disease.

TIOS | Born Again, Again

Distinctly different from a "resolution," being "born again" pulls long historical threads of redemption, liberation, and being made new. We celebrate those who have been "born again" in converting to Christianity. We now hope we can be born again, again, to live anew God's redemptive story, as it was from the very beginning.

Christmas | Light Came Down

In the midst of darkness, Mary sings a song. In the midst of chaos, Mary glorifies the Lord. In the midst of despair, Mary believes. Can we?

TIOS | About Stories

Stories are not just captivating, but they're powerfully convicting. In this message, Sparker Omair shares how stories can expose and confront in a way that mere argumentation cannot. This is perhaps why Jesus told so many parables, as a revolutionary master story teller.

TIOS | Homo Covenantus

The stories of the Bible were not written so that we could become better Christians. They were written because they envisioned a new kind of humanity. One of the main plot lines (pillars) of this humanity, is the theme of covenant.

TIOS | Food For Thought

The meal is one of the most significant events in our lives and in the Biblical narrative. The stories we tell and live around those meal are powerful. In this message, Pastor Mark encourages us to find the hope in those meals.

TIOS | Noah And The Ark, Q&A

Q&A after the message

TIOS | Noah And The Ark

The next part of our story includes a flood, a destroying of the earth that God created. Okay, so whether it "happened" or not, Pastor Tom addresses the story that this narrative is attempting to convey. What does this story tell us about the character of God?

TIOS | After The Fall

We all fall short. This is neither news or a surprise. It is perhaps the most common experience of humankind. This story, however, tells only a few verses of that fall. The rest of the story is how God is pursuing us again and again for a gazillion chances.

TIOS | In God's Image

Our story continues with the development of humanity "in God's image." In this talk, we peer into that image, and reclaim our identities as those image bearers.

This Is Our Story (TIOS) | Introduction

Our new series introduces us to a new way of considering and thinking about faith, spirituality, and The Way of Jesus. Rather than through the lens of doctrinal statements, the Bible begins with what is essentially, "Once upon a time," a phrase that invites us into seeing ourselves in new ways, ultimately valuing meaning, purpose, and the next chapters that we are to write. The video played at service is available here: https://youtu.be/GaoOdSqlGfc

On The Edge Of The Inside

Following up from our 5th Anniversary Service, Pastor Danielle exhorts Spark to be the kind of church that is committed to inviting people to The Way of Jesus, grounded in our values. This means that we will be pushed to "the edge of the inside," but it is there, that we find healing and hope.

Acts | Snake Bite, House Arrest, Rejection, The End?

The end of the book of Acts leave us hanging a bit. In this message, Omair shares why that might be, and what it calls us to do. This, as with all things in the Bible, was no accident.

Acts | The Storm

Paul faced many storms in his travels, an illustration and metaphor for the challenges we all face as we journey with and for Jesus. In this message, Pastor Tom shares how we can be with one another, in and through the storms of our lives.

Acts | Take Courage

What is your metric of success? That question helps frame your responses to the experiences of your life. In Acts, there are immediate challenges, persecutions, etc. But these early followers of Jesus held to a "long view" of God's redemptive work.

Acts | The Family That Travels Together

Each name and pronoun in our narrative highlights aspects of this early movement. In this study, we'll dig into the name Mnason, and the pronoun "we," and how that informs our practice today.

Acts | When Good Fortune Falls Asleep

The story of Eutychus is a strange narrative in the middle of what appears to be a travelogue. What is this story doing in there? Drawing from Homer's Odyssey, we consider the possibility that Luke is doing something profound, which is retelling an ancient story in light of the new movement of Jesus, infusing the hearers with a new set of principles, lessons, and values. Really brilliant of Luke!

Acts | Radical Welcome

The early church wrestled with the question of who's "in" and who's "out," regarding their engagement with this community. As we discover, this has been a human expression since the beginning of time. The Jesus Way is one of radical welcome, that ALL are truly welcome, not just at the table, but at the PARTY!

Acts | Trust & Obey

Sparker, Tom Arrington, continues our series with an impassioned encouragement for followers of Jesus to actually trust, and then actually obey.

Acts | Getting Your Hands Dirty

We are not to sit on the sidelines. Indeed, we cannot, because we ARE NOT on the sidelines. Engaging with the realities of our world, both the light and the dark, is simply an embrace of our true selves, our real identity, and our central calling.

Acts | Was Blind SO I Could See

What are the pathways from terrorism to truth, from fear to faith? A reexamination of Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus reveals blindness as a necessary component of that transformation. As it turns out, blindness is a theme we see throughout the biblical narrative. Rather than "I once was blind but NOW I see," this idea embraces "I once was blind SO I could see."

Special Guest, Lauren Chan Q&R

The Q&R with Pastor Danielle after Lauren's message.

Special Guest, Lauren Chan

Sparker Lauren Chan reflects on life, and leaving for college. While many are thrilled to be departing from home, this is not something Lauren is looking forward to. Yet, throughout her life, and throughout the biblical story, "leaving home" is a dominant theme of a growing faith.