Madison Church

Have you ever found yourself caught in life's waiting room? That space between where you were and where you're headed, but with no clear roadmap for how to get there?In this powerful message on waiting, Pastor Stephen Feith gets refreshingly honest about his own struggles with patience and the tendency to either rush ahead or delay too long. Drawing from Acts 1, we witness the disciples' confusion after Jesus ascends to heaven—standing, staring at the sky, uncertain what to do next. It's a scene that perfectly captures our own spiritual limbo when we're waiting for God's direction.The angels' gentle redirection to the disciples echoes into our lives today: "Why do you stand here staring into heaven?" Sometimes our spiritual waiting isn't about God making us wait, but about us avoiding what we already know we should do. We disguise fear as wisdom, hesitation as discernment, and delay as dependence on God.Through biblical examples of Abraham, Moses, and Paul, Pa

Between resurrection and Pentecost lies a crucial season that transformed ordinary followers into world-changers. This waiting period wasn't wasted—it was precisely where God prepared His people for an unprecedented mission.The disciples found themselves in limbo. Their Rabbi had conquered death, yet confusion lingered. What comes next? When would Israel be restored? Rather than offering clear timelines, Jesus redirected their focus: "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you." Before they could go change the world, they needed to wait.This pattern reveals a profound truth for our spiritual journeys today. When we find ourselves in waiting seasons—seeking healing, clarity, or breakthrough—we're not being punished. These periods confirm what's true and prepare us for what's coming. The disciples craved certainty just as we do, but Jesus knew they needed something more fundamental: supernatural power from above.What made the early church extraordinary wasn't s

Jesus is alive, and that changes everything. The resurrection stands as the ultimate pivot point of history—not just as a miracle to analyze but as a living reality that transforms how we understand ourselves and our world.What does it mean that Jesus rose from the dead? It means that death isn't the final word. It means that suffering doesn't have the last say. Most radically, it means that new life can emerge from our darkest moments. The women who discovered the empty tomb weren't looking for hope—they were carrying spices to anoint a dead body. Yet they encountered a question that still challenges us: "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive?"Too often we search for hope in places where it cannot be found. We assume God has stopped working in our circumstances when He's simply moved ahead of us. Faith rarely begins with certainty. It starts in confusion, with half-formed hope and unanswered questions. Just like the disciples on the road to Emmaus who didn&

The rhythm of Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday's triumphant yet misunderstood entry—a king riding on a donkey while crowds wave palm branches, hoping for political liberation but receiving something far more profound. This sermon explores the rich symbolism of Holy Week and how it creates essential spiritual rhythms that help us focus on timeless truths throughout our year.As we journey through Luke 19, we discover the crowd's expectations didn't align with Jesus' mission. While they waved palm branches—symbols of military victory since the Maccabean Revolt—Jesus wept over Jerusalem, knowing they missed "the way to peace" standing right before them. His path forward would confound everyone: overturning temple tables, claiming divine authority, and ultimately gathering his disciples for one final Passover meal.The Lord's Supper, instituted during this last meal, transforms the ancient Passover symbols into something revolutionary. The unleavened bread—originally representing

Hope doesn't come after pain—it rises within our pain. As we continue our journey through Luke's gospel in week two of our "Hope Rising" series, we encounter Jesus preparing his followers for difficult times ahead. While they admired the magnificent temple in Jerusalem—its stunning white limestone and gold accents symbolizing permanence and divine presence—Jesus delivers a shocking prophecy: "Not one stone will be left on top of another."Unlike leaders who offer shallow platitudes, Jesus doesn't sugarcoat reality. He warns of persecution, betrayal, global conflict, natural disasters, and cosmic upheaval. Yet within this sobering forecast, he plants seeds of profound hope: "This will be your opportunity to tell them about me." The very moments of greatest challenge become platforms for powerful testimony.Most striking is Jesus's paradoxical promise: "Not a hair on your head will perish." Given that many disciples would face martyrdom, this wasn't

What makes the Prince of Peace flip tables and chase people out of the temple? In this powerful exploration of Jesus' temple cleansing, we discover a Savior passionate about protecting sacred space and genuine relationship with God.The temple courts had become a marketplace where vendors exploited worshippers - particularly Gentile seekers who could only access the outer court. Money changers demanded exorbitant fees, animal sellers rejected perfectly good sacrificial animals to sell their own overpriced alternatives, and the entire system transformed worship from relationship into transaction.This revelation challenges our modern faith practices. Have we reduced our spiritual lives to religious rituals, Bible reading schedules, and church attendance out of duty rather than devotion? Jesus didn't suffer and die to establish more religious obligations. He came to restore relationship.Perhaps most powerfully, Scripture teaches that we are now God's temples - the Holy Spirit dwells within believer

Lead Pastor Stephen Feith concludes the powerful 12-week "A Life That Matters" series with a profound exploration of surrender as the gateway to significance. As Jesus approaches Jerusalem in Luke 18-19, we witness both the anticipation of Palm Sunday and the heartbreak of misunderstanding that follows. Through encounters with a blind beggar who sees with spiritual clarity and a wealthy tax collector whose surrender transforms his entire life, Jesus demonstrates that recognizing our need is the first step toward true discipleship.The tension between human expectations and divine reality becomes increasingly clear as the cross approaches. While the disciples and crowds want glory without suffering and transformation without discomfort, Jesus redefines power, purpose, and the very nature of God's kingdom. Through tears, he mourns for those who miss the peace he offers because it doesn't match their expectations—a challenge that resonates powerfully with our modern desire for comfort over sur

What defines your worth? Is it achievements, wealth, status, influence, or how you compare to others? In this piercing exploration of Luke 18, we confront the universal human tendency to measure ourselves against others and trust in worldly securities rather than God's grace.Through three powerful encounters, Jesus systematically dismantles conventional wisdom about success and righteousness. First, we witness the shocking contrast between a proud Pharisee and a humble tax collector, where Jesus declares it's not the religious achiever but the broken sinner who goes home justified. Next, when children approach Jesus, he doesn't just tolerate their presence but holds them up as models of the faith we should emulate. Finally, a wealthy, moral man walks away from eternal life because he cannot surrender what he trusts in most.These aren't just ancient stories—they're mirrors reflecting our own struggles with self-righteousness, independence, and misplaced security. Many of us still wrest

Pastor Stephen Feith takes us on a profound journey through three powerful narratives from Luke's gospel that reveal what authentic faith looks like in daily life. Beginning with the story of ten lepers healed by Jesus, we discover that while all ten received physical transformation, only one—a Samaritan—returned to express gratitude. This singular act transformed his experience from mere physical healing to complete salvation. The stark contrast challenges us to examine how we respond to God's work in our lives: do we walk away with the blessing, or do we return to worship the giver?The sermon explores the tension between the "already" and "not yet" nature of God's kingdom. When questioned by religious leaders expecting political dominance, Jesus makes the radical claim that "the kingdom of God is already among you." This statement reframes our understanding of how God's reign manifests—not primarily through visible power structures but through transformed he

As life often overwhelms us with responsibilities, we must ask ourselves: what are we clinging to? This episode explores our tendency to overcommit and carry too many burdens and challenges us to reflect on what truly matters, especially as we enter the season of Lent. Our pastor shares a personal story that resonates with many, highlighting the struggle between fulfilling our obligations and making room for God.Through biblical teachings, we examine how our lives can become overloaded, including the dangers of temptation and the critical need for forgiveness. Jesus calls us to forgive not only once but continuously, thereby emphasizing the profound nature of grace in our lives. Listeners will be invited to assess whether their actions draw others closer to God or push them away, a vital aspect of our faith that extends beyond personal belief to influence community dynamics.By embracing the attitudes of service and reflection, we are encouraged to shift our mindset from entitlement to gratitude for God’s grac

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey in our latest episode, where we unravel the profound teachings found in Luke 16. Starting with a pressing question—what would you do if you had only 24 hours left to live?—the discussion leads us to a greater understanding of how time constraints can reveal our true priorities. This episode offers rich insights into the relationship between wealth and stewardship, urging us to consider how we manage the resources we've been blessed with.Listen as we dissect the Parable of the Shrewd Manager, a tale that’s not about dishonesty, but rather astute decision-making in urgent times. We explore the notion that the world often serves wealth more wisely than believers, encouraging each of us to be shrewd in utilizing our funds for eternal impacts. Contrast this with the harrowing story of Lazarus and the rich man, which serves as both a warning and a call to action about our responsibility to respond to the needs around us.Join the conversation about the value of deve

What happens when you check your bank account and wonder where all the money went? Join me, Stephen Feith, on a journey through life's losses as we explore not just financial dilemmas but the deeper losses we all face. From lost pets to missing people, I reflect on how these universal experiences mirror God's longing for those who are far from him. Together, we traverse the Gospel of Luke, particularly the poignant teachings in chapter 15, where Jesus reshapes our understanding of purpose. We revisit the timeless parable of the prodigal son, unraveling its rich themes of grace, forgiveness, and restoration, and how they challenge our perceptions of divine love and human relationships.Reflect upon my own path in founding Madison Church, where the humble beginnings included working at a Hy-Vee grocery store in Springfield, Missouri. As Megan and I journeyed across the Midwest sharing our dream of a new church community, we met both skeptics and supporters. Those supporters have been pivotal in our gro

What does it truly mean to follow Jesus? Brace yourself for an eye-opening exploration as we tackle the challenging teachings from Luke 14:25-35, where the call to discipleship is presented with stark realities. We confront the controversial notion of "hating" one's family and giving up possessions, diving into the heart of these teachings to uncover their true intent. Often misunderstood and misused, these passages call us to prioritize our commitment to Jesus above all else, especially as Lent approaches. This episode invites you to reflect on the depth of your personal relationship with Christ and challenges the notion of blind allegiance to religious institutions.Join us on a journey through the Gospel of Luke as we delve into Jesus' mission, shattering expectations of political uprising, and redefining the essence of true discipleship. Through the experiences of biblical figures like Peter and the rich young ruler, we see the grace that Jesus extends even amid our failures. The metaph

What if the kingdom of God isn't just a distant hope, but a vibrant reality unfolding right now? Inspired by theologian N.T. Wright, we explore this transformative concept, challenging the notion of an untouchable heaven by highlighting how Jesus's work reveals an overlap between heaven and earth. Through the lens of the Gospel of Luke, we grapple with the cost of discipleship and the unsettling but urgent message of division that Jesus offers. It's a call to disrupt our complacency and embrace the profound changes that true surrender to Jesus demands.The radical inclusivity of God's kingdom takes center stage as we reflect on Jesus's parables, particularly the great banquet in Luke 14. Here, we uncover the dangers of misplaced priorities and passive indifference that can lead us away from the divine invitation. The teachings of Jesus remain ever relevant, pushing us to live authentically and inspire others, not through force but through genuine actions. We explore the idea that livin

Imagine a world where baking sourdough becomes a profound metaphor for spiritual introspection. That's exactly what we explore as we reminisce about our sourdough-filled adventures, from crafting loaves of bread to unexpected creations like chocolate cake. These culinary experiments become a lens through which we examine deeper truths, inspired by Jesus’ caution against the "yeast of the Pharisees" in Luke 12:1. We discuss how this yeast-like influence parallels the subtle shifts in our attitudes and actions, urging a reflection on the importance of authenticity and integrity amidst life's bustling distractions.In a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, we challenge the facade of composure that so many of us hide behind. The power of radical honesty is laid bare as we share personal tales of chaos and struggle, finding solace in God’s unwavering presence. This episode encourages living for divine approval rather than societal acceptance, emphasizing the comfort found in trusting God over

Ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Dive deep into the essence of authentic discipleship in this transformative episode. We promise you'll explore the profound journey of aligning your internal values with your external actions, illuminated by the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11. Join us as we tackle the struggles of divided loyalties, spiritual blindness, and the masks that hide our inner battles, all while discovering the power of living in God's truth.This episode goes beyond superficial understandings, challenging us to examine the importance of genuine faith and inner transformation. Using Jesus' metaphor of a lamp, we unravel how God's truth can act as a guiding light, steering us away from cultural or personal darkness. We also scrutinize Jesus' critique of the Pharisees, using the powerful imagery of a clean cup on the outside but dirty on the inside, to remind us of the necessity for inner reform over mere ritualistic observance.Discover how these

What does it truly mean to live a life that matters? Uncover transformative insights from Luke's gospel as we navigate the profound journey of discipleship. We're not just talking about gaining knowledge or adhering to rituals; we're exploring a life reshaped by love, prayer, and relationships. This episode promises to challenge your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus, as we unpack four compelling stories that each offer a unique perspective on spiritual growth and transformation.As we explore the interconnected nature of discipleship, we delve into the parable of the Good Samaritan and the conversation between Jesus and a religious law expert from Luke chapter 10. The dialogue probes deep questions about love, compassion, and what it means to inherit eternal life, breaking down cultural barriers and urging us to redefine our concept of 'neighbor.' We also highlight the importance of persistent prayer, advocating for a balance between rest and work, and teaching the audaci

Ever wondered why so many of us abandon our New Year's resolutions before January even ends? Join me, Stephen Feith, as I uncover the hidden motivations behind our commitments and reveal how understanding your "why" might just be the key to lasting change. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical insights, I explore the significance of setting compelling reasons for our actions and how this concept intertwines with our spiritual journey. Together, we unpack the essence of a life that matters, moving beyond mere comfort and success, as we start a new series rooted in the Gospel of Luke.The episode continues with an exploration of living a purposeful life inspired by the historical and spiritual significance of Jerusalem, a city synonymous with devotion and sacrifice. We'll reflect on the resolute journey of Jesus towards this sacred destination, despite the challenges, and what this means for our personal callings. I'll challenge you to identify your own "Jerusalem" and

Reflect on the unyielding anticipation of the holiday season—those magical yet trying moments of waiting, as we unravel the layers of emotion and expectation surrounding Christmas. Ever wondered how an advent calendar can be more than just a countdown? It's a reflection of our impatience and longing for change, resonating with the Jewish people's historical anticipation of the Messiah. Journey with us as we set the scene within the Roman Empire's expansive reign, where hope struggled to stay alive amidst overpowering control.Step back in time to the oppressive days of King Herod's rule, a period marked by fear and tyranny. Discover how absolute power can devastate, as we draw stark parallels between Herod's violent reign and modern-day atrocities. We share personal insights from travels in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where eerily similar themes of senseless violence persist. These narratives remind us of the metaphorical "Herods" we face in life—those daunting challeng

Have you ever found yourself hoping for a Christmas miracle to navigate the chaos of the holidays? Join us as we share personal stories filled with humor and heartfelt moments from our latest episode, "Desperate for Christmas Miracles." From a hilarious, high-stakes game of Speed Scrabble with family to the burdens of maintaining the jolly holiday spirit despite personal struggles, we explore the anticipation and longing for those elusive miracles. Whether it's the hope for peace amid family gatherings or the wish for a financial breakthrough, we reflect on the comfort found in believing that divine interventions are still possible, even when the waiting feels endless.The episode also touches on the deeper frustrations of waiting and the disappointment that can seep in when miracles seem out of reach. Through relatable tales of traffic woes and reflections on biblical stories, we dive into how prolonged waiting can turn anticipation into cynicism. We also tackle the pursuit of miracles in the f