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Kingdom and Government State of the Church — Romans Series | Part 10Pastor Dan Harrison | Ravenna Assembly of God What happens when our faith and our politics collide? And how should Christians respond when the government doesn’t reflect their values? In today’s message, “Kingdom and Government,” Part 10 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church — Romans Series, we explore what the Bible teaches about government authority, God’s sovereignty, and our responsibility as followers of Jesus Christ. Drawing from Romans 12:21–13:7, Pastor Dan challenges us to examine how our Christian faith should influence our attitudes toward political leaders, elections, authority, and those with whom we disagree. As our nation approaches another election, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by political division, uncertainty, and fear about the future. But Pastor Dan reminds us of a powerful biblical truth: No matter who occupies the White House, God’s Kingdom is not going anywhere. Romans 12:21 declares: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This verse establishes the foundation for understanding Paul’s teaching about governing authorities in Romans 13. When Paul wrote these words, Christians were living under Roman rule, where emperors claimed extraordinary authority and believers would face increasing hostility and persecution. Yet Paul instructed the church to respect governing authorities, fulfill their responsibilities, and continue demonstrating the character of Christ. How do we honor leaders whose decisions we disagree with? How do we remain faithful to God while living under imperfect governments? Through Romans 13, Daniel 2:21, Daniel 4:17, and Jesus’ teaching about paying taxes in Matthew 22, Pastor Dan explores three essential truths: 1. God’s People Are People of Honor.Christians are called to demonstrate respect, dignity, and integrity—even toward leaders who oppose their values. Honoring an office or authority does not require agreeing with every decision made by the person holding it. 2. God’s People Trust His Sovereignty.Governments change, leaders come and go, and election results may surprise us. But nothing catches God by surprise. His authority extends beyond every earthly kingdom, and His eternal purposes remain secure. 3. God’s People Overcome Evil With Good.When others respond with hostility, anger, or division, followers of Jesus are called to demonstrate grace, mercy, forgiveness, and peace. Pastor Dan also reminds us that Christians have an opportunity—and responsibility—to participate thoughtfully in the political process while remembering that our ultimate hope is not found in any political party, candidate, or government. Our hope is found in Jesus Christ and His everlasting Kingdom. As you listen to today’s message, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart and help you examine how your faith influences your response to political disagreements, uncertainty, and authority. Are you allowing fear to shape your decisions? Have political disagreements damaged your relationships? Do you struggle to honor leaders whose values differ from yours? And when the world responds with hostility, are you reflecting the goodness and grace of Jesus? Today’s Takeaway Participate faithfully. Honor others. Trust God’s sovereignty. Overcome evil with good. This week, prayerfully consider how you can demonstrate Christlike character in your conversations, decisions, and relationships. Pray for those in authority, including leaders you disagree with. Remember Christians around the world who face persecution for their faith. And when you encounter anger, division, or hostility, choose to respond with grace rather than retaliation. Because governments will change, leaders will come and go, but the Kingdom of God will never be shaken. Our calling is not simply to live in an earthly nation. It’s to represent the Kingdom of Heaven wherever God has placed us. Lean In

What if the person everyone sees on the outside doesn’t reflect what’s happening on the inside? In today’s message, “The Inside,” Part 9 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church — Romans Series, we explore what genuine spiritual transformation looks like and why becoming more like Jesus must begin within our hearts. Drawing from Romans 12:1–3 and Romans 12:14–21, Pastor Dan challenges us to examine our identity in Christ, our relationships with others, and our willingness to surrender bitterness, jealousy, resentment, and the desire for revenge. We live in a world where appearances matter. Social media allows us to present carefully selected moments of our lives, often hiding the struggles, insecurities, and brokenness beneath the surface. But what happens when our spiritual lives begin to look the same way? Are we more concerned about appearing transformed than actually allowing God to transform us? Romans 12:2 reminds us: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Pastor Dan explains that authentic Christian transformation begins when we surrender ourselves completely to God and learn to see ourselves the way He sees us—not too highly and not too lowly. When we understand our identity as sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father, it changes how we respond to others. Instead of jealousy, we learn to celebrate others. Instead of being consumed by offense, we learn to bless those who hurt us. Instead of seeking revenge, we learn to trust God with justice. And instead of allowing bitterness to control our hearts, we discover the freedom that comes through forgiveness. Because genuine transformation isn’t simply about changing our behavior. It’s about allowing God to change our hearts. Throughout this message, Pastor Dan addresses the emotional and spiritual struggles that can keep us trapped in resentment, comparison, insecurity, and unforgiveness. He also reminds us that pursuing peace doesn’t mean remaining in abusive or harmful situations. Romans 12:18 calls us to live peaceably with others “if possible, so far as it depends on you.” One of the most powerful moments comes through the biblical account of Stephen’s death in Acts 7. As Stephen was being stoned, he prayed: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Among those present was Saul, who would later encounter Jesus and become the Apostle Paul. Pastor Dan challenges us to consider what God can do when we release our desire for vengeance and entrust even those who have hurt us to His hands. What if the person you’ve struggled to forgive is someone God still wants to reach? Lean In As you listen to today’s message, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak directly to your heart and reveal anything you’ve been holding on to that may be preventing genuine spiritual growth. Is there someone you’ve struggled to forgive? Has comparison or insecurity affected your ability to celebrate others? Are you carrying bitterness from something that happened years ago? And does the life you’re presenting on the outside reflect the work God is doing on the inside? Today’s Takeaway Real transformation begins on the inside. This week, ask God to reveal one area of your heart that needs His healing and renewal. Maybe it’s an old wound, an unresolved conflict, a jealous attitude, or a desire to get even. Whatever it is, bring it before your Heavenly Father. Release what you’ve been holding on to. Trust God with what you cannot control. Allow His love to transform your heart. Because following Jesus isn’t just about believing in Him. It’s about belonging to Him—and reflecting His character in the way we live, love, and forgive.

True Generosity State of the Church — Romans Series | Part 7Pastor Dan Harrison | Ravenna Assembly of God What if true generosity isn’t measured by how much we give, but by how much of ourselves we’re willing to share? In today’s message, “True Generosity,” Part 7 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church — Romans Series, we explore what it really means to live generously, love our neighbors, and demonstrate the transforming power of Jesus Christ through authentic Christian relationships. Drawing from Romans 12:13, Pastor Dan challenges us to look beyond financial giving and discover the deeper meaning of biblical generosity. “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” — Romans 12:13 (ESV) At first glance, this verse may seem like a simple instruction to give to those in need. But when we examine the original Greek language, we discover something much more meaningful. The word translated contribute is connected to koinonia, a word describing fellowship, participation, and genuine connection with others. True generosity isn’t simply handing someone a gift, writing a check, or offering assistance when it’s convenient. It’s becoming involved in people’s lives, understanding their struggles, and being willing to walk alongside them. Because genuine Christian love isn’t transactional. It’s relational. Pastor Dan shares a deeply personal challenge about the familiar phrase, “If you need anything, let me know.” While those words may sound compassionate, biblical generosity calls us to move beyond good intentions and actively demonstrate love through meaningful relationships. He also reminds us that generosity isn’t only about helping others carry their burdens. Sometimes it means being willing to let others help carry ours. You weren’t created to carry every burden alone. As we continue through Romans 12, we also discover the biblical meaning of hospitality: demonstrating love toward strangers and making room in our hearts for people who may be different from us. Through the example of the Good Samaritan, the fellowship of the early church, and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:35, Pastor Dan challenges us to examine the boundaries we’ve placed around our relationships. Are we willing to love someone outside our normal circle? Are we willing to welcome people who look different, think differently, or come from unfamiliar backgrounds? And are we willing to move beyond simply inviting people to church and begin inviting them into our lives? From supporting foster children and missionaries to encouraging coworkers, neighbors, and those who feel forgotten, true generosity reflects the heart of Jesus Christ. Lean In As you listen to today’s message, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak directly to your heart. Ask God to reveal where your generosity may have become more about what you give than how you love. Is there someone whose burdens you could help carry? Is there someone you’ve kept outside your circle because loving them might require stepping beyond your comfort zone? And is there an area of your life where God is asking you to do something new? Today’s Takeaway True generosity is more than giving something. It’s giving yourself. This week, ask God to place one person on your heart who needs genuine connection, encouragement, or compassion. Don’t simply offer to help. Look for an opportunity to show up, listen, and demonstrate the love of Christ. Because the love of Jesus was never meant to remain inside the walls of the church. It was meant to transform our relationships, our communities, and the lives of those around us. True generosity begins when we make room in our hearts for someone else.

What if the problem isn’t that we’re not praying enough, but that we’re praying in the wrong order? In today’s message, “Steadfast in Prayer,” Part 7 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church — Romans Series, we’re challenged to examine the role prayer plays in our daily lives, our decisions, and the mission of the church. Drawing from Romans 12:12, Pastor Dan reminds us of the Apostle Paul’s instruction: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” But what does it really mean to be constant, faithful, persistent, and steadfast in prayer? Too often, our natural response to life’s challenges is to act first and pray afterward. We react, make decisions, develop plans, and sometimes even panic before bringing our circumstances before God. Pastor Dan challenges us to reverse that order. Pray, then act. Pray, then respond. Pray, then plan. Throughout the Book of Acts, we discover that the early church didn’t simply include prayer in its activities. Prayer was the foundation of everything it did. From the disciples waiting for the Holy Spirit to the appointment of church leaders and the spreading of the Gospel, believers remained devoted, steadfast, faithful, and persistent in prayer. Prayer wasn’t their last resort. It was their starting point. But this message goes beyond the importance of prayer in church leadership and ministry. Pastor Dan also addresses the personal struggles that can interfere with our relationship with God. What happens when serving becomes more important than spending time with the Father? What happens when we begin finding our identity in what we do rather than in who God says we are? And perhaps most importantly, what happens when we’ve prayed for something for years, but the answer still hasn’t come? Pastor Dan reminds us that prayer isn’t simply about getting what we want from God. It’s about developing a relationship with Him, learning to trust His heart, and remaining faithful even when circumstances don’t change. Through Romans 12:12, Acts 1:14, Acts 2:42, Acts 6:4, and Colossians 4:2, we discover how persistent prayer transforms our priorities, strengthens our faith, and prepares the church to accomplish God’s purposes. Lean In As you listen to today’s message, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak directly to your heart. Is prayer the driving force of your life, or has it become your last resort? Are you allowing God to direct your decisions, or are you asking Him to bless plans you’ve already made? And is there someone or something you’ve stopped praying for because the answer hasn’t come? Today’s Takeaway Put prayer first. Before you react, pray.Before you make your plans, pray.Before you give up, pray again. And when the answer doesn’t come immediately, remember that God may be doing something in your heart while you’re waiting for Him to work in your circumstances. Don’t stop praying. Don’t stop trusting. Don’t stop believing in the faithfulness of God. Because a transformed church begins with believers who are devoted to prayer.

There is always hope. In Part 4 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s “State of the Church” Romans Series, Pastor Dan continues exploring what happens when the Gospel doesn’t simply inform what we believe but actually transforms the way we live. In today’s message, “Results of Transformation,” Pastor Dan draws from Romans 12, where Paul describes a transformed community of believers living differently because of what Jesus has done. The message centers on the powerful command of Romans 12:12: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” But what does biblical hope actually mean? For Paul, hope isn’t wishful thinking. It isn’t crossing our fingers and hoping circumstances eventually work out. Christian hope is rooted in what Jesus Christ has already accomplished through His death and resurrection and in the promise that He is coming again. That means our circumstances don’t get the final word. Pastor Dan reminds us from Romans 8:36–39 that believers are “more than conquerors through Him who loved us” and that nothing—death, life, the present, the future, or anything else in creation—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. That is why we can rejoice in hope, even while walking through uncertainty and tribulation. The church doesn’t need gimmicks to manufacture hope. People facing pain, loneliness, fear, hopelessness, and questions about their purpose need something far greater: the transforming reality of the resurrected Jesus. When the Gospel has genuinely transformed our hearts, that transformation should become visible in the way we love, serve, endure hardship, pray, use the gifts God has given us, and live together as the Body of Christ. As you listen today, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Ask God to quiet the voices telling you that your circumstances are hopeless and allow Him to speak His truth into your heart. Today’s Takeaway: What voice are you allowing to define your future—your circumstances, the people around you, or the promises of God? Whatever you’re facing today, remember: Rejoice in hope.
Be patient in tribulation.
Be constant in prayer. Because in Jesus Christ, there is always hope.

What happens when you’ve prayed, cried out to God, and the answer still hasn’t come? What do you do when your faith feels small and the situation in front of you seems impossible? Today we’re grateful to welcome Pastor Bill Donovan back to share God’s Word with us. Pastor Bill served in ministry for more than 40 years, including many years as a lead pastor. He and his wife have now returned to their home church here at Ravenna Assembly of God. In today’s message, “Faith, Little or Great, Does It Matter?”, Pastor Bill takes us into two powerful encounters found in Matthew 15:21–28 and Matthew 14:22–33. In Matthew 15, a desperate Canaanite woman comes to Jesus pleading for her daughter. She refuses to walk away. Her desperate faith becomes persistent faith, and her persistent faith becomes unwavering faith. Jesus ultimately responds, “O woman, great is your faith,” and her daughter is healed. Then, in Matthew 14, we see Peter step out of the boat and walk toward Jesus on the water. When Peter takes his eyes off Jesus and begins to sink, he cries out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reaches out His hand and catches him. Peter may have had “little faith,” but even that little faith was enough to step out of the boat and walk toward Jesus. Through these two stories, Pastor Bill reminds us that faith is ultimately about trust—who we place our trust in. Whether your faith feels desperate, persistent, unwavering, or even very small, the answer remains the same: keep your eyes on Jesus. Keep asking. Keep seeking. Keep knocking. Keep trusting. Don’t give up. Maybe you’re praying for a prodigal child, struggling in your marriage, battling an addiction, facing difficulties at work, needing provision, or carrying a situation that seems impossible. Jesus knows where you are, understands what you are facing, and invites you to keep walking with Him through it. As you listen today, lean in to what Pastor Bill has to share. Ask God to quiet the distractions around you and speak directly to your heart through His Word. Today’s Takeaway: Identify the situation where you are most tempted to give up. Instead of walking away discouraged, bring it to Jesus again. Keep asking. Keep seeking. Keep knocking. Hold on to Jesus and choose to trust Him—even when you cannot yet see the answer. Your faith may feel small today, but keep walking toward Jesus.

What happens when the fire of the Holy Spirit burning within us begins to change the way we live outside the walls of the church? In today’s message, “Internal Fire, External Focus,” guest speakers Chuck and Wilma Lormis challenge us to tend the fire God has placed within our hearts—and allow that fire to impact the world around us. Chuck and Wilma serve as Missions Cultivators, helping local churches grow a heart for missions and encouraging believers to take part in reaching people with the Gospel both near and far. After decades of pastoral and missionary ministry, they now work to strengthen the missions foundation of the local church and help believers embrace their role in the Great Commission. Beginning in Leviticus 6:12–13, Chuck points to God’s command that the fire on the altar was to be kept burning continually: “It shall not go out.” God started the fire, but the priests were responsible for tending it. That same picture challenges us today. God ignites the fire, but we must continually tend our relationship with Him through prayer, His Word, worship, repentance, and time in His presence. Wilma takes that picture further through Acts 1:8 and Acts 2:1–4, reminding us that the fire of the Holy Spirit was never intended to remain contained within us. The Holy Spirit gives believers power to become witnesses for Jesus. Using the three elements necessary for a physical fire—oxygen, heat, and fuel—Wilma gives us a powerful picture of maintaining our spiritual fire. We need time waiting in God’s presence, the power and leading of the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to place ourselves on the altar and surrender our desires to Him. But an internal fire must produce an external focus. If the Holy Spirit is truly transforming our hearts, it should affect our families, workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, communities, and ultimately the world. As Chuck reminds us from Jeremiah 20:9, when God’s Word becomes like a fire within us, eventually we reach the place where we simply cannot hold it in. What could happen if every believer began tending their own spiritual altar? What could God do through a church filled with people who arrive already hungry for His presence and ready to carry the Gospel beyond its walls? As you listen today, lean in to what Chuck and Wilma have to share. Ask God to speak directly to your heart through this message. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything that may be weakening the fire within you—and give Him permission to rekindle it. Today’s Takeaway: Don’t depend on someone else to keep your spiritual fire burning. Tend your altar. Seek His presence. Surrender what needs to be surrendered. Then take that fire beyond the walls of the church. 🔥 Keep the internal fire burning—and let it create an external difference.

What do you do when God tells you to go—but doesn’t give you all the details? In today’s message, “Even Though, Go,” guest speaker Rusty Nottingham takes us into Acts 8:26–39, where Philip receives a simple instruction from God: go down the desert road. Philip isn’t given a complete plan, a timeline, or an explanation. He simply obeys—and his obedience places him directly in the path of an Ethiopian official who is searching for answers. That divine appointment becomes an incredible reminder that sometimes God gives us clarity after we take the first step, not before. Rusty challenges us to consider how often we may miss what God is doing because we are waiting for every detail to fall into place. We want the complete plan. We want certainty. We want to know where the road leads before we start walking. But faith often requires us to move while we are still unsure of what comes next. As Rusty puts it, our responsibility is obedience; the outcome belongs to God. Rusty Nottingham serves as the President of CitiReach, a ministry based in Akron, Ohio, that exists to reach people far from God with the hope of Jesus. CitiReach serves overlooked and underserved communities through outreach events, food initiatives, mentoring programs, youth programs, dinner church, creative arts, and relational ministry—walking alongside people and sharing the love of Jesus in tangible ways. During this message, Rusty also shares how CitiReach has been living out this very principle. After sensing God calling the ministry to expand without knowing exactly where that would lead, they began preparing and saying yes. Through a remarkable series of confirmations and relationships, God opened the door for CitiReach to begin expanding its ministry into Kenya, partnering with local believers to reach children, youth, and families with the Gospel. Maybe God has already been nudging you toward something. Maybe there is a conversation you need to have. A person you need to reach out to. A ministry you need to serve in. A step of faith you need to take. Maybe your struggle isn’t that God hasn’t spoken—it’s that you’re still waiting for all the details. As you listen today, lean in to what Rusty has to share. Ask God to quiet the distractions around you and speak clearly to your heart through this message. And here is today’s challenge: What is the “go” God has placed in front of you—and what would happen if you simply said yes? Even though you may not understand everything.Even though you may feel unqualified.Even though the timing may not seem perfect.Even though you cannot see the entire road ahead. Go. Take the first step, trust God with the outcome, and see what He can do with your yes.

What if church was never meant to feel like something you attend—but like a family you belong to? In “Family System,” Part 5 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church: Romans Series, we continue through Romans 12:9–13 and focus on Paul’s command to: “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” — Romans 12:10 Pastor Dan explains that the word Paul uses for this kind of love is rooted in family affection. It goes beyond friendliness, politeness, or simply seeing familiar faces on Sunday morning. Paul is calling believers to treat one another like family. That message would have been especially powerful for the church in Rome, where Jewish and Gentile believers—people from dramatically different backgrounds—were worshiping together. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, people who normally would not have shared the same table were being brought into the same family. That raises an important question for us today: How big is our circle? We naturally surround ourselves with people who are familiar, comfortable, and similar to us. But Jesus repeatedly challenged people to expand that circle. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, He showed that loving our neighbor often means making room for someone we never expected to include. The same is true of the Church. There are people looking for Jesus who may first be looking for something much simpler: a place to belong. Some have experienced church hurt. Others have little family support. Some simply need someone willing to say, “There’s room at my table for you.” Pastor Dan also challenges the consumer mindset that can easily creep into church life. Consumers leave bad reviews and walk away when something disappoints them. Families have conversations, work through conflict, and become part of the solution. The question becomes: Am I merely consuming church, or am I helping build a healthy church family? Lean In As you listen to “Family System,” lean in and ask God to speak directly to your heart. Ask Him to show you where your circle may need to grow, where a relationship needs reconciliation, or where He is asking you to move from being a consumer to becoming an active, loving part of His family. Today’s Takeaway: Find one person outside your normal circle this week. Learn their name, invite them into a conversation, share a meal, send a message, or simply make room for them. Ask God to help you become the kind of person who makes others feel that they truly belong in the body of Christ. The Church becomes powerful when people who normally would never sit at the same table discover that, through Jesus, they are family. #FamilySystem #StateOfTheChurch #Romans12 #ChurchFamily #BodyOfChrist #ChristianCommunity #BrotherlyLove #ChristianUnity #ChurchGrowth #AuthenticRelationships #PastorDanHarrison #RavennaAssemblyOfGod

Join us as we welcome Pastor Jaipaul Singh in his first sermon as the Next Generation Pastor at Ravenna Assembly of God. In this powerful message, “Soul Reset,” Pastor Jaipaul challenges us to rethink what true rest really means. In a world that celebrates constant productivity, busy schedules, and endless accomplishments, Jesus offers something far greater: rest for our souls. Through the example of Christ’s own life, Pastor Jaipaul shows that biblical rest is far more than taking a vacation, getting extra sleep, or simply slowing down. True rest is found in surrendering every burden, every success, every fear, and every unanswered question to Jesus Christ. Drawing from Matthew 11:29 and numerous examples throughout the Gospels, this message reveals how Jesus consistently withdrew to spend time with the Father before major decisions, after great victories, during seasons of grief, and even in His greatest moments of suffering. If the Son of God modeled intentional dependence upon the Father, how much more should we? Whether you’re carrying the weight of family responsibilities, work stress, financial pressures, ministry, disappointment, or the expectations you’ve placed on yourself, this sermon will encourage you to stop striving and begin surrendering. Key Scripture: Matthew 11:29 (ESV)“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” In this message you’ll discover: Why soul rest is different from physical rest.The hidden danger of making productivity an idol.How Jesus modeled a rhythm of prayer, withdrawal, and dependence.Why “Rest Requires Release.”The life-changing question every believer should ask:“How is it with your soul?”This message is an invitation to lay down the burdens you’ve been carrying and trust the One who never intended for you to carry them alone. Lean In As you listen today, don’t simply hear another sermon—invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Ask God to reveal anything you’ve been carrying that He never asked you to bear. Allow Him to replace your striving with His peace and your exhaustion with His presence. This week’s challenge:Take intentional time every day to step away from the noise, surrender your burdens to Christ, and honestly ask yourself: “How is it with my soul?” True rest isn’t found in doing less—it’s found in resting in the One who has already done everything.

Results of Transformation | State of the Church, Part 4 What does real spiritual transformation look like in everyday life? In “Results of Transformation,” Part 4 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church: Romans Series, we continue through Romans 12 and look at the practical evidence of a life being transformed by the Holy Spirit. This week’s message focuses especially on Romans 12:9 and 12:11: “Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.”“Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” Pastor Dan explains that Paul’s command to “abhor” evil means more than simply saying we dislike sin. It carries the idea of recoiling from it—recognizing something that can pull us away from God and immediately turning in another direction. But sometimes repeatedly fighting the same behavior is like driving a car that is out of alignment while constantly pulling on the steering wheel. We may try harder to control anger, addiction, gossip, insecurity, or unhealthy coping habits without ever allowing God to address what is underneath them. Instead of simply holding the wheel tighter, God invites us to let Him look under the hood. The Holy Spirit wants to bring healing to the wounds, insecurities, fears, loneliness, and pain that can continually pull our lives out of alignment. Paul then gives the opposite command: hold fast to what is good. Pastor Dan explains this as something much stronger than occasionally choosing what is right. It carries the idea of attaching ourselves so closely to what is good that we become inseparable from it. Philippians 4:8–9 reminds us to fill our minds with what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. God is not someone we visit for a few hours on Sunday. The Holy Spirit desires to remain with us through Monday morning, our workplace, our homes, our struggles, and every decision we make. Romans 12:11 then challenges us not to hesitate when God calls. When the Spirit says go, go. When He says speak, speak. When He asks you to pray, serve, encourage, or step beyond your comfort zone—just do it. Finally, Pastor Dan points to Romans 1:1, where the Apostle Paul introduces himself simply as “a servant of Christ Jesus.” Paul did not merely serve God occasionally; being God’s servant was part of his identity. Lean In As you listen to “Results of Transformation,” lean in and ask God to speak personally to you. Ask the Holy Spirit: Where am I out of alignment? What am I entertaining that I should be recoiling from? What good things do I need to cling to more closely? And where have I been hesitating when You have already told me to move? Today’s takeaway: Identify one area where you know God has been speaking. Stop delaying. Take one concrete step of obedience this week—and trust the One who designed you to bring your life back into alignment. #ResultsOfTransformation #StateOfTheChurch #Romans12 #SpiritualTransformation #HolySpirit #ChristianLiving #ServeTheLord #RenewYourMind #FaithInAction #PastorDanHarrison

What does a genuinely transformed Christian life actually look like? In “Results of Transformation,” Part 3 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church: Romans Series, we move deeper into Romans 12 and ask an important question: If God is truly transforming us, what should people begin to see in our lives? Pastor Dan approaches this portion of Scripture like a mirror—not simply asking what the Bible says, but inviting the Church to honestly ask, “How are we doing with this?” Beginning with Romans 12:9, Paul gives a simple but challenging command: “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” The word translated “love” is agape—the unconditional, selfless love that comes from God Himself. It is the same kind of love God demonstrated toward us when, while we were still sinners and separated from Him, Christ died for us. That means genuine Christian love goes far beyond being friendly at church. It loves without demanding something in return. It shows kindness to difficult people. It reaches toward the person everyone else avoids. It sacrifices. It endures. It gives hope. And sometimes, it means showing God’s love to the very person we would rather avoid. Pastor Dan also explores Paul’s call for our love to be genuine—literally, without hypocrisy. In the ancient Greco-Roman world, actors wore masks to portray different characters and emotions. Those actors were known as “hypocrites.” Paul takes that imagery and essentially tells the Church: Don’t wear a mask when you love people. We can smile, shake someone’s hand, worship passionately, and say all the right things on Sunday—but who are we when no one is watching? Do we speak about people differently once they leave the room? Are we the same person at church, at home, at work, and with our closest friends? Transformation produces authenticity. And perhaps one of the most powerful truths in today’s message is this: We don’t need a better billboard for Jesus if our transformed lives become the billboard. Programs, advertising, events, and creative ideas can have value, but nothing communicates the reality of Jesus more powerfully than a life that has genuinely been changed by Him. Your testimony does not have to sound dramatic to have power. You don’t need a movie-worthy story. If you surrender your life to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to continually refine, shape, and transform you, God can use your story to reach someone who desperately needs to see what Jesus has done in you. And if loving others feels impossible right now, Pastor Dan offers an important reminder: You cannot give what you haven’t received. Before God asks you to pour His love into others, He may first need to fill your heart with a deeper understanding of His love for you. As you listen to “Results of Transformation,” lean in and allow God’s Word to become a mirror. Don’t simply ask whether someone else needs this message. Ask the Holy Spirit, “God, what are You showing me about me?” Ask Him to reveal where your love needs to become more patient, more kind, more sacrificial, more authentic, and more like Jesus. Today’s Takeaway: Think of one person who is difficult for you to love. Instead of simply asking God to change them, ask Him to show you one unexpected act of kindness, encouragement, generosity, or grace that you can offer them this week. Then follow through. May our lives proclaim Jesus more loudly than any billboard ever could. #ResultsOfTransformation #StateOfTheChurch #Romans12 #GenuineLove #AgapeLove #LoveLikeJesus #ChristianTransformation #ChristianLiving #HolySpirit #SpiritualGrowth #AuthenticFaith #PastorDanHarrison #RavennaAssemblyOfGod Lean In

What are you filling yourself with? In today’s message, “The Bread That Satisfies,” guest speaker James Hughes, Media Tech Director at Ravenna Assembly of God, walks through Jesus’ powerful teaching in John 6 and reminds us that it is possible to be full—and still be hungry. After Jesus miraculously feeds thousands with five loaves and two fish, the crowd searches for Him again. But Jesus exposes what they are really looking for: they want more bread. They have experienced the provision of Jesus without fully recognizing the Person of Jesus. Jesus tells them in John 6:35, “I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry, and no one who believes in me will ever be thirsty again.” We can fill our lives with success, possessions, entertainment, relationships, recognition, addictions, accomplishments, and endless activity—and still discover that something is missing. Why? Because we often try to satisfy a spiritual hunger with temporary things. Jesus offers something completely different. Salvation is where true satisfaction begins, but Jesus sustains us through relationship. Using the Israelites’ daily dependence on manna in Deuteronomy 8:3, James reminds us that we cannot live on yesterday’s bread. Yesterday’s encounter with God cannot replace today’s dependence upon Him. Just as Israel gathered manna each morning, followers of Christ need His Word, His presence, His wisdom, and His strength every day. The message then turns to John 4, where Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at the well. She came looking for physical water, but Jesus knew there was a deeper thirst within her soul. The relationships, experiences, and temporary sources she had returned to could never provide what only Jesus could give. Jesus offers living water. He knows our entire story—the brokenness, disappointment, failures, and places we would rather keep hidden—and still invites us to come to Him. Throughout this message, James shares four important truths: • You can be full and still be hungry.• Jesus satisfies through salvation and sustains us through relationship.• You cannot live on yesterday’s bread.• The question is not whether you are thirsty—it is what are you drinking? And ultimately, we are challenged with Peter’s words from John 6:68: “Lord, to whom will we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Many people want Jesus as Savior, but far fewer are willing to follow Him as Lord. A Savior rescues us, but a Lord leads us. As you listen today, lean in and ask God to speak directly to your heart. Ask Him to reveal the places where you may be trying to satisfy a spiritual hunger with temporary things. Ask Him to give you a fresh hunger for His Word, His presence, and a deeper relationship with Jesus. Today’s takeaway: Stop returning to wells that will leave you thirsty again. Come daily to Jesus—the Bread of Life and Living Water—and allow Him not only to save you, but to sustain you, transform you, and fill your life until His love begins overflowing into the lives of others. #TheBreadThatSatisfies #BreadOfLife #JesusSatisfies #John6 #LivingWater #John4 #ChristianSermon #JesusChrist #Faith #SpiritualGrowth #Discipleship #RavennaAG

What does it truly mean to be a member of the Church? In “Member,” Part 2 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church: Romans Series, we explore Romans 12:3–8 and discover that biblical church membership is far deeper than attending a service, carrying a membership card, or belonging to an organization. Paul describes believers as members of one body, with Christ as the head. In this picture, the word “member” does not simply mean someone who has joined a group. It means a vital part of the body—connected to Christ and dependent upon the other members around it. Pastor Dan challenges us to shift our understanding of church from something we attend on Sunday mornings to something we truly belong to. The Church is not a subscription we cancel when it becomes inconvenient or when another option seems more appealing. When we belong to Christ, we also belong to His body. This message examines what it means to: See Christ as the head of the Church.Recognize that every believer has a purpose and spiritual gift.Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.Refuse to suffer in silence or allow others to suffer alone.Pursue spiritual growth through Christian community.Become part of the solution instead of merely identifying problems.Build a church where people from different backgrounds are united through Jesus Christ.The body of Christ was created for growth, healing, service, unity, and purpose. Every person has a place, and every spiritual gift matters. Some are called to teach, lead, serve, encourage, give generously, show mercy, or bring healing to those who are hurting. The Church becomes healthier when every member responds to the role God has given them. Romans 12 also reminds us not to think of ourselves more highly than we should. Our value does not come from our job title, income, social status, or accomplishments. Our true identity and significance come from Christ and from the calling He has placed upon our lives. As you listen, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Ask God to speak directly to your heart and reveal how you have viewed the Church. Have you treated church as an activity you attend, or as a body to which you belong? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you your place, your spiritual gifts, and the people He may be calling you to encourage, serve, or help heal. Today’s takeaway: Take one intentional step toward deeper connection within the body of Christ. Reach out to someone who may be hurting, introduce yourself to someone you do not normally speak with, join a small group, volunteer to serve, or ask God to show you how your gifts can strengthen His Church. You are not called to simply attend the Church. You are called to be a living, active, connected member of the body of Christ. #Member #StateOfTheChurch #Romans12 #BodyOfChrist #ChurchMembership #ChristianCommunity #SpiritualGifts #ChristianUnity #ChurchFamily #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianPodcast #PastorDanHarrison #RavennaAssemblyOfGod

What if the moment God spoke to you was never meant to remain only a memory? In today’s powerful message, “There’s More Than a Moment—There’s a Movement in You,” guest speaker and AGWM missionary David Turner challenges us to recognize that a single encounter with God can become the beginning of a life-changing movement. God gives us defining moments, but moving forward requires obedience, faith, trust, sacrifice, perseverance, and the willingness to release the past. Drawing from Exodus 3:1–4, David examines Moses’ encounter with God at the burning bush. God spoke only after Moses intentionally turned aside to look. In the same way, we must make room in our lives to recognize what the Holy Spirit is saying. Even after years in the wilderness, God’s calling on Moses had not expired. Through the examples of Moses, Joshua, Hannah, Samuel, the feeding of the multitude, and powerful testimonies from Guatemala, we are reminded that God often births movements through ordinary people who surrender what they have to Him. A moment with God can restore a forgotten calling, break the power of addiction, heal emotional wounds, open previously closed communities to the gospel, and bring hope, healing, and freedom through Jesus Christ. David and Marie Turner also share how God is working through their ministry in Guatemala, including pastoral biblical counseling, addiction recovery, Teen Challenge ministries, Living Free small groups, leadership development, and Casa Tavita—Tabitha’s House, a place of restoration for women overcoming addiction, abuse, and trauma. Perhaps God spoke something into your heart years ago, but life happened. Pain, disappointment, church hurt, loss, fear, or delay may have pushed that calling to the background. This message reminds us that what God placed within you is not forgotten. Your wilderness season may not be the end of the story—it may be where God prepares you for what comes next.