Sunday Sermons

The mission of Westside Christian Church is to reach people with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ and to lead, teach and equip them to become life-long followers of Him.

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Seeing Jesus Through The Old Testament

Seeing Jesus Through The Old Testament

To many Christians, the Old Testament is “foreign” territory. By that I mean that if they read the Bible, most of the time it is limited to the New Testament because it is about Jesus. But guess what, so is the Old Testament! How do I know? Because Jesus, Himself, said so. He said,” Everything must be fulfilled that was written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms”. That was the Hebrew division of the Scriptures, which we call the Old Testament. Over the next several weeks, we will take a look at a few of the examples of God giving glimpses of Jesus in the Old Testament. Heaven knows of nothing more glorious or wonderful to reveal to man than the Savior…all Scripture converges with Jesus, the Cross and an Empty Tomb. I hope these next few weeks open up a whole new awareness and hunger to dig deeper into the Old Testament and find there the wonders of Jesus! ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Fitting Acts into the BIG Picture

Fitting Acts into the BIG Picture

Every book of the Bible has its place in the overall message and plan of God that is revealed throughout the entirety of the Scriptures. The Book of Acts, and specifically chapters 1-10 which we just studied, is no exception. I thought it would be beneficial for us to tie what we have just learned into the “BIGGER PICTURE” of God’s intent and redemptive purposes for people. God has so beautifully weaved His message in the Bible and through the centuries has patiently worked out His plan on His way to fulfilling His eternal purposes for our salvation and His glory. With that in mind, I hope these messages will bring great joy and a new awareness of God’s faithful love to each of our hearts. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Acts 1-10: God’s Blueprint for Ministry in the Church

Acts 1-10: God’s Blueprint for Ministry in the Church

The Book of Acts is foundational to understanding God’s plan and purpose for the church. Can you imagine finishing the Gospel of John and then reading the Epistle to the Romans and wondering…how did the church get to Rome? Not only do we have the birth, growth and history of this new entity of God’s design, the church, but we see what the church was to be about doing and how it went about doing it. It has many things that we can learn and apply to our lives as the church today, some 2,000 years beyond the first century. That’s why we are calling this series, “God’s Blueprint of Ministry for the Church” – how can we do better than learn from the apostles and those who showed the way from its very inception? So open your Bible to the Book of Acts and let’s start our journey! ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Easter – How Can You Resist It?

Easter – How Can You Resist It?

HE IS RISEN! Happy Easter everyone and thank you for joining Westside Christian Church this morning as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Easter is such an amazing time...but it can easily be diminished by the many distractions and commercial trappings of the holiday. Today we invite you to push aside those distractions, release your anxieties and stand in wonder at the empty tomb as we consider “Easter...how can you resist it?” Jesus comes to you in a real and living way calling you by name and inviting you to you know Him. Today we invite you to encounter the real Jesus who desires to have a real and powerful relationship with you. The question you must ask yourself is...how can you resist HIM?! ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Living in Light of Christ's Return

Living in Light of Christ

The chronology of end time events is debatable but one thing remains clear and that is that Jesus WILL return physically to the earth as the Scriptures declare. Another clear teaching of the Bible is that followers of Jesus will encounter trouble in this worldly existence (John 16:33) but that we can be confident that we will overcome these troubles one day. In the meantime, how are we to live in light of Christ’s return and yet be faithful in troubled times? The Apostle Paul reminds us, as he did the believers in Thessalonica, that we are to live with expectation of Christ’s return, knowing that God’s judgment will settle all accounts. We are to be steadfast and diligent in the meantime, engaging in God’s kingdom rather than just biding our time. How are you Living In Light Of Christ’s Return? Join us as we take a look at the book of 2 Thessalonians. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

The Story That Never Grows Old

The Story That Never Grows Old

Everyone likes a good story. We are captivated by various components as the story unfolds - drama, suspense, comedy, courage, faith, strength in adversity – the circumstances and responses of the characters capture our emotions as the story unfolds. The Bible contains the greatest story ever told and is revealed through various literary genres in the Old and New Testaments. It is the story of God’s unrelenting love and His passion to redeem and restore His creation – and specifically people – to His intended place and relationship with Himself. It is the story that we are part of and the story He has placed in our hearts to tell to others and to live out in this world. It is the “Good News” that is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes (Rom 1:16)... and it will never grow old or obsolete, because it is rooted in God’s love. Join us for “The Story That Never Grows Old!” ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Christmas Eve 2009

Christmas Eve 2009

Christmas Gossip

Christmas Gossip

Christmas means different things to different people. For some it is just another holiday and time off work…to others, it is a time for parties and festivities…for others, it is Santa, toys and Christmas trees. But for Christians, it is the realization that God came down from heaven and became human in the form of Jesus for our deliverance. Many consider the events surrounding His birth a myth, just some religious story, and there is a lot of misinformation, as well as, misconceptions about Jesus and what Christmas is all about. How do you view Christmas? What is its significance for you? More importantly, what do you tell others who may be confused about this amazing event? God gives us the opportunity to clear up the misconceptions of Christmas every year – do we keep the truth to ourselves or share it? ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Developing Habits That Will Change Our Church

Developing Habits That Will Change Our Church

Most of life is habitual. We do the same things today that we did yesterday, the day before and every day for the last month. Personal habits are things that make or break us. They help define us individually - and as a church. Some habits are useful and some are of no real benefit to us or others. When we become Christians, God has some new habits that are to be built into our lifestyle. With new life in Christ comes the challenge to develop new habits which require stepping out of our old patterns or our “comfort zone.” The more we put these new habits into practice, the easier they become part of our lifestyle as Christ’s disciples and they not only serve to change us individually, but will change us as a church! Are you willing to take the risk? I hope so, because if you do, we will never be the same! ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Witnesses Not Lawyers

Witnesses Not Lawyers

Today’s world has changed, our country has changed, and especially our culture. Your neighbor, your friend isn’t the same person anymore. And chances are, if they aren’t your age, they speak a different language and dance to a different beat. Their values, their beliefs, and even their world view isn’t yours. The changes over the past few decades have been dramatic and because of that we must change. It is not that our message must change, not the gospel, but how we communicate to reach people with THE story when they are often only interested in THEIR story must adapt. All of us have to become cross-cultural missionaries, learn a new language, and relate to a new culture. We must return to being witnesses and not think we all have to be lawyers. ~Andy La Breche

The Missing Factors of Genuine Friendship

The Missing Factors of Genuine Friendship

All of us want and need friends. Friends share life with us. Friends help us gain insight and skills needed for other relationships, teach us about loyalty and trust, and become places of refuge for us in times of distress. Friendships require a certain investment from both parties – friendship requires time, commitment, giving of oneself, and sacrifice. In other words, friendship means being real, being involved, being sacrificial and loving the other person over time and through the circumstances of life. Come with us as we explore examples of friendship in the Bible and see the Missing Factors of Friendship and how we can develop deeper friendships and be a real friend to others. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Hope and Joy in the Midst of Adversity

Hope and Joy in the Midst of Adversity

What do you think about when you think of the word “joy”? Picture this…a little, curly haired boy playing with his daddy on the living room carpet. They are rolling all over the place “wrestling” with each other until Dad’s wrestling morphs into tickles and the little boy begins to giggle which grows and grows until both of them end up laughing hysterically. That is joy…security, contentment, and love. But joy can also be found in the adversities that we face in life…in pain and in struggles. Perhaps it is at a funeral, or an illness, or in the unemployment office, or the exhaustion of a rebellious child, or a broken marriage, or unfair treatment at work or school, or….well, you fill in the blank. God intended that Christians not be overcome by adversity, but that they learn to trust Him through their hardships and find true joy and an expectant hope that flows from a confident assurance of God’s loving control. The Book of Philippians instructs us that regardless of life’s circumstances, you and I can find joy and hope in the faithful Savior of our souls. He is the Great Shepherd who leads us through the dark shadows of this life. Join us as we learn how to have “Hope and Joy in the Midst of Adversity” in the Letter to the Philippians. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Lessons in Leadership

Lessons in Leadership

The New Testament emphasizes the importance of the local church and that includes the leadership of the church. Appropriately, God has not been silent concerning the leadership structure of his household, but has given us instruction and examples about these things in the Bible. As WCC moves through our infancy and continues growing up as a church, it is becoming evident that we are approaching a time where we begin to phase into a biblical form of church leadership. With that in mind, I hope you will plan to join us each week through the remainder of the summer as we explore and consider the biblical model of church leadership from God’s Word. ~Frank Mascaro

What's My Identity

What

If some stranger off the street asked you to identify yourself, what would you say or do? Some people might open their wallets and show a state issued driver’s license. Others might describe their job or hobbies. Still others might simply state their name. In today’s American culture, our identity is wrapped up in so many things that we’ve lost who we truly are...and the struggle to maintain position, possessions and status is more than we can bear. Today we’ll look at 2 Corinthians 5:15-18 and ask the question, “What’s My IDENTITY?!” Discover with me that what I do, own and accomplish does not define who I am. ~Nathan Cherry

That’s What A Brother Is For...

That’s What A Brother Is For...

In these trying times, it is more evident than ever before that we need more in this life than what we’ve experienced. Not only do we need to reconnect with our Creator, but we need to reconnect with each other; to rediscover community. We are not alone in our struggles and trials for we were and are created for relationship; not an acquaintance or associates but real, biblical relationship. Join with me this morning as we look into the relationship of David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel and discover “That’s What A BROTHER Is For!” ~Nathan Cherry

God's Top 10 List

God

David Letterman has made “Top Ten Lists” popular in our culture, but God had the original “Top Ten List” well before the entertainment industry ever thought of them. If you want to start a commotion in a social setting, bring up the Ten Commandments in your discussion. You will find that everyone has an opinion – whether social, ethical, political or spiritual – and a definite response to the relevancy or application of them in today’s society. Virtually everyone will weigh in with their opinions and beliefs on the subject. Even Christians have differing views about whether they need the Ten Commandments any longer. What do you think? Where would you weigh in on the subject? Join us as we explore “God’s Top 10 List!” and how it applies to us. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

Snapshots of the Passion

Snapshots of the Passion

The hours leading to the crucifixion did not find Jesus paralyzed with fear, wringing His hands, sitting and waiting with fearful resignation for what was before Him. Those hours were instead filled with activity, action and His last words to His disciples, who were pretty much oblivious to the realities that would very shortly come. The empty tomb of Easter would bring triumph and victory, but not before the Cross. Let’s follow Jesus and the disciples in the last hours before the crucifixion and discover some lessons that may be of benefit to us as we move toward the empty tomb on Easter with Snapshots of the Passion. ~Pastor Frank Mascaro

From Worry to Worship

From Worry to Worship

Have you ever finished watching the evening news with all of the violence, injustice and suffering and asked, "Why doesn't God do something?" Or maybe you are the recipient of an unjust decision or action, or you are suffering from some illness or tragedy in your life and wonder, "Why isn't God answering my prayers?" Well, you are in good company, because one of God's prophets felt the same way and wrote a book about it. The small, but relevant, book of Habakkuk has much to teach us about moving "From WORRY to WORSHIP" in our lives. Let's journey with God's prophet! ~Pastor Frank

The Anchor of Our Souls!

The Anchor of Our Souls!

In the midst of the storms and challenges that life throws at us, or the trials and doubts that catch us unaware, God has provided an anchor for us, which is sure and steadfast, and that will never fail. We can confidently trust God, because this anchor was forged on the anvil of God's unchanging character. God encourages us to hold securely to this anchor – the promises He has made to us. Join me this morning as we take a look at “The Anchor Of Our Souls.” ~Jim Davis

Establishing a Firm Foundation

Establishing a Firm Foundation

God has a very personal plan on developing eternal, spiritual attributes that we uncover, hidden within his truth. It is the same for us today as it was for Timothy in the Ephesian Church. It takes time, discipline and desire. He has chosen to walk us through step by step in revealing to us the very essence of His heart through his Word. Join me this morning as we discover God’s plan for “Establishing A Firm Foundation.” ~Dennis Shippy

A New Year...A Steadfast Hope!

A New Year...A Steadfast Hope!

As we start this New Year, it seems we are faced with many challenging circumstances that can cause us to become fearful and uncertain of our futures. There is concern over the economy and its affect on us; fear of keeping a job–or finding one; there is the uncertainty of a new administration and leadership; there is the continuation of a moral decline and on and on. But what does the Bible say? Is it even relevant for the Christian during adversity, or is it only true when things are favorable? These next few weeks we will look at A New Year…A Steadfast Hope! I believe it will radically affect our viewpoint to live with a new and bold perspective if we will hear and believe God’s Word! ~Pastor Frank

An Attitude Worth Following

An Attitude Worth Following

The three words that the Lord used as He called the disciples to a life changing experience are the words, “Come Follow Me!” These are still the words every devoted follower of Jesus Christ must respond to. What will we do with our own personal call and commission from the Lord? Join me as we explore what these three words can mean for us today. They truly are “An Attitude Worth Following! ~Dennis Shippy

The Manger and the Cross

The Manger and the Cross

Sometimes in the rush of Christmas activity, we forget that the most wondrous part of Christmas is the fact that, in the Person of Jesus Christ, God became flesh in order to save us from our sins. That is the crux of the Christian message…that is the answer to those who ask, “Why did God become human?” It is because the shadow of the Cross is present at the Manger in Bethlehem. They are intertwined…His human birth, His humanity is necessary for the purpose of the Cross. It is GOD WITH US – Immanuel! ~Pastor Frank

All iWant for Christmas!

All iWant for Christmas!

We live in a fast paced, self-absorbed time and culture. Even our technology and “toys” reflect that attitude, don’t they? Apple has certainly tapped into that mindset with their “i” products...the iPod, the iPhone, the iBook, there is even iTunes. At some point, many people begin to wonder if there is more to think about than “me”, more to life than “i”. Christmas is the perfect opportunity to find the answer to that question and to find a richer and more abundant way to fulfill the deepest desires of our hearts. Join us as we consider “All iWant for Christmas!” during this wonderful time of year. ~Pastor Frank

Following Jesus in a Confused Culture

Following Jesus in a Confused Culture

I don’t know if you have noticed, but we are living in a culture that offers a smorgasbord of religious opinions and beliefs. People are picking and choosing what they want to put on their personal, spiritual plate. Like the Colossian church that was dealing with the blended views of Gnosticism, we live in a culture dominated by religious pluralism – that is, the view that any belief is the right one as long as it is right for you. Because of this reality, I think you and I will find Colossians to be a very timely book that will help us think through the importance of personally Following Jesus In A Confused Culture. ~Pastor Frank

Family Values: Don’t Leave Home Without ‘Em

Family Values: Don’t Leave Home Without ‘Em

Values… what are they and why are they important? With a presidential election on the horizon, FAMILY VALUES are in the news again, but what do these words mean? In our American culture, many families don’t stop to think about their values and how they affect the way we live in today’s world. Yet our values affect every area of our lives, give meaning and direction to our lives, and define who we are and how we live. Join us for the next six weeks as together we discover the importance of building essential values into our own lives and the lives of our children. They are an indispensible foundation as families develop character and assure a solid future. ~Pastor Frank

Living Mary in a Martha World

Living Mary in a Martha World

It’s so easy to get distracted with all that goes on in life. Let’s face it, life is busy and it doesn’t look like it’s going to slow down. But what does God want? Is he pleased with an over extended schedule? Is he glorified when we are stressed with all that has to get done? And how does ministry fit into all this? While I can’t promise that all your stress and worry will go away, I can help you recognize what God has in store for you. Join me this morning as we discover that what is best is not necessarily what we do but who we are. So take a deep breath and relax as we look at “Living MARY in a MARTHA World!” ~Pastor Nathan Cherry

Where Were You, Jesus?

Where Were You, Jesus?

Sometimes we worship God as we "create" Him in our minds rather than as the Almighty Creator. We pray to Him and make requests based on a very limited view of who He really is. I mean, God is more than just "Jehovah-Jireh" – God, my Provider. His character and attributes are multi—faceted and not subject to the limitations we place upon Him. So where is God when He seems to be "sitting on His hands" when we need Him? This morning, I hope we might see beyond ourselves to something bigger that God may be up to in our lives when those troubling life situations occur. ~ Pastor Frank Mascaro

The Way of Wisdom

The Way of Wisdom

Proverbs is a little read and often neglected book of the Bible, yet it is packed with practical, common sense counsel for everyone. The purpose of the book is that we might acquire wisdom to live a life that is honoring and pleasing to God; which results in our ultimate benefit and joy. Today, there are many intelligent people who are very knowledgeable about a variety of things, but it seems to me that wisdom is sadly lacking in much of our society. Come with us as we take a brief journey through this collection of proverbs and see if there are some things that you can discover about the Way of Wisdom and how you can be Living Practically Before God. After all, it couldn’t hurt, right? Let’s go!

Ministry at the Next Level

Ministry at the Next Level

Sometimes, as Christians, we can become too comfortable; we can slide into complacency in our relationships � our relationship with God and our relationships with others. Jesus never left His church here to languish in its own self-indulgence, but to flourish in His command to be His witnesses, penetrating the world with the �Good News� of His grace and love. Ministry At The Next Level is a reminder of the mission of the church and a call to renewed commitment to engage in the ministry that God has set before His church. As followers of Christ, we really have no other option, do we? Blessings.

The Jonah Syndrome: Being a “Fishy” Follower of Jesus

The Jonah Syndrome: Being a “Fishy” Follower of Jesus

In this new series, The Jonah Syndrome: Being a “Fishy” Follower of Jesus, we will examine the small, but powerful book of Jonah and see how easy it is to miss God’s purposes because of our own self-centeredness and desires. Through this prophet, I believe we will see ourselves and hopefully, make the adjustments in our own thinking so that we will begin to develop a vision for what God desires and is doing, rather than what we desire. That is what I want and I hope you do too!

Reasonable Doubt: Real People... Real Questions.

Reasonable Doubt: Real People... Real Questions.

If you have questions about God and the Bible, let me encourage you. God understands that. After all, God is the One who wired us to seek truth. Many questions trouble our hearts and leave us wondering “where is God in this?” As we embark on our journey through our current series— Reasonable Doubt: Real People...Real Questions!,let me challenge you to keep seeking the answers to your questions and assure you that God is not threatened by our desire to find the truth, but rather delights to reveal Himself to those who honestly look for Him. (Matthew 7:7-8)

The Week That Changed EVERYTHING!

The Week That Changed EVERYTHING!

Over the next few weeks leading up to Easter, we will look at “The Week That Changed EVERYTHING!” Each week, we will examine specific events in the last week of Jesus’ life and how this remarkable time frame affected not only individuals at that time, but the entire world from that week onward! The ramifications of the last week of Jesus’ life reverberate through all of human history and carry profound implications for every person in every place. May God lead us and guide us as we step back to Jerusalem and the events that lead to an empty tomb!

I'll Drink To That

I

John 4:1-42

Jesus was able to meet people where they were and address the issues that made them realize their need for something more than this life could provide. We can learn a valuable lesson from our Savior as we study His approach with a woman who got more than water at this well and then showed others where they could find that same water.

Five Reasons People Like Jesus ... But Not Christians

Five Reasons People Like Jesus ... But Not Christians

Have you noticed that people are responsive to discussing Jesus, but not very receptive toward Christians? What has happened that makes people think there is a disconnect between Jesus and those who follow Him? Join us as we consider this critical issue through the teachings of Jesus, and see that it is possible to follow Jesus and dispel the misunderstandings that have become barriers to faith.

What's In Your iPod This Christmas?

What

Christmas – it invokes memories of family, friends, traditions and of course, music. Sometimes Christmas Carols become so familiar to us that we don’t really think about the message. So this December, we are looking at “What’s in Your iPod This Christmas?” Join us for a fresh look at the songs of Christmas and the message of hope that spring from this 2,000 year old story.

Life's Greatest Purpose

Life

At one time or another in each of our lives we ask ourselves, “What Is Life’s Purpose?” At Westside Christian Church, we are no different. Join us as we begin a series that will help us discover God’s insights to this question as we consider what is “Life’s Greatest Purpose.”

No Perfect People

No Perfect People

Sure, everyone’s perfect till you get to know them, so why fake it? At Westside Christian Church we love unique, unfinished, fabulously flawed and perfectly imperfect people – and so does God. Join us as we begin a series celebrating our “real” families, relationships and lives, and discover God’s insights and strength to make them better each day

Reflections on the Road of Faith

Reflections on the Road of Faith

Psalms 120-134 are known as the “Psalms of Ascent” because they were sung as Israelites climbed toward Jerusalem in celebration of their feast days. As they walked and sang together, they would reflect on their faith. In these four Psalms, we can reflect and discover wonderful truths to enrich our relationship with God and one another as we Connect with God…Connect with Others and Serve All.