RivChurch Audio Podcast

In this message, Justin addresses the concept of "main character syndrome"—the tendency to live as if the world revolves around oneself. Using the historical example of King Herod Agrippa I from Acts 12, he illustrates the dangers of extreme ego and the abuse of power. Justin explains that while Herod sought political approval through violence and accepted divine praise for himself, he was ultimately struck down, serving as a warning that glory belongs to God alone.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Tony walks through the events of Acts 12, focusing on the contrast between King Herod’s opposition and the resilience of the early church. He explains how Peter was freed from prison by an angel while the believers were gathered in prayer, demonstrating that God's plans are not hindered by political or physical barriers. The sermon highlights the importance of choosing prayer as a first response to hardship and warns against the dangers of personal pride. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Noel recounts the story of Peter's vision in Acts 10, where God challenges the old Jewish dietary laws. This pivotal moment, symbolized by a sheet of "unclean" animals, leads Peter to the home of a Roman centurion, Cornelius, which was a forbidden association for a Jew. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

n this message, Hezekiah uses the analogy of a child's milestones to frame his discussion of seemingly small, significant moments in life and faith. Analyzing Acts 9:32-43, Mickey focuses on the Apostle Peter’s miracles—the instantaneous healing of the paralyzed Aeneas and the resurrection of Tabitha (Dorcas). He emphasizes that Peter’s actions were rooted in Jesus’s power, and that the ultimate purpose of the miracles was not the temporary fix but causing people to believe and turn to the Lord.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, the speaker Jordan reflects on the spiritual openness of young adults at the new MSU campus venue before delving into Acts 9:32-43. The sermon highlights the apostle Peter continuing the ministry of Jesus by performing two miracles: the healing of Aeneas and the resurrection of Tabitha (Dorcas). Jordan emphasizes that these physical healings and resurrections served to demonstrate Jesus's power to forgive sins and grant new life, ultimately causing many people in Liddah and Joppa to believe.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Pastor Tony uses the movie Elf to frame a discussion about divine power versus secular "magic." Examining Acts 9:32-43, the sermon details two key miracles performed by Peter: the instantaneous healing of Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years, and the surprising resurrection of the beloved disciple Tabitha. These acts of power lead to widespread belief in the cities of Liddah and Joppa, demonstrating that encountering Jesus's power fundamentally changes lives and communities.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Pastor Noel traces Saul’s dramatic encounter with Jesus in Acts 9 and what it reveals about misplaced confidence and genuine transformation. He explains how Saul, convinced he was defending God, was actually fighting against Him—until a disruptive moment forced him to confront the truth. The sermon highlights how Saul’s blindness became the turning point that reshaped his identity and redirected his strengths toward a new purpose. It closes with a challenge for listeners to consider where they might be resisting change and to respond with the same decisive surrender Saul ultimately embraced.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Hezekiah discusses the intentionality of God's plan by examining the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8. He highlights how Philip was called away from a massive revival in Samaria to focus on one individual, emphasizing that the Gospel is not colorblind and actively seeks out those on the social or spiritual margins. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Jordan explores how God orchestrates personal, transformative moments through the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8. He highlights Philip's obedience in leaving a major spiritual revival to go to the desert for one person, emphasizing that God sees and loves "our one more."Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Tony focuses on the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8, emphasizing that our responsibility as believers is to follow God's lead in faith and action. He shows how Philip, being divinely directed, met the wealthy but religiously excluded eunuch, starting a gospel conversation by asking questions and using the prophecy of Isaiah 53.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Justin explores the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8, highlighting how God actively seeks out and uses "misfits"—people who don't fit the expected religious or cultural mold. He emphasizes the radical inclusivity of the Gospel, showing how Philip, a Greek-shaped outsider, connects with the Ethiopian, a high-ranking but ritually excluded African official, over a shared reading of Isaiah 53. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Noel explores the story of Philip bringing the gospel to Samaria, specifically the "icky" city of Samaria, an area considered irredeemable by Jews. He highlights how the power of God transformed the city, converting many—including Simon the sorcerer—and bringing "great joy." The speaker uses this account to stress the unifying work of the Holy Spirit and to remind listeners that no one is irredeemable in the eyes of God.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Noel talks with Steve Sommerlot who recounts the faith and risk involved in launching Riverview Church in 1977, a venture that led to dozens of subsequent church plants. Drawing from the story of Stephen in the Book of Acts, Noel then argues that God is always inviting his people to join his mission, often in uncomfortable or unexpected ways. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Noel draws a parallel between the excruciating recovery from sinus surgery and the difficult, often messy work of ministry, describing it as "picking out dried gunk." Focusing on Acts 6, he shows how the rapid growth of the early church led to a crisis: complaints that Hellenistic widows were being neglected in the daily aid distribution, creating cultural tension. To resolve the issue, the apostles chose to delegate the responsibility to seven capable men, freeing themselves to prioritize prayer and teaching the Word. This established a system where servants (deacons) manage practical needs while pastors (elders) focus on equipping the church, ensuring healthy growth without sacrificing core mission.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podc

In this message, Pastor James finishes Acts 5, detailing the rising conflict between the relentless apostles and the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. The narrative highlights the miraculous release of the apostles from jail by an angel, leading them to immediately return to public teaching with the declaration, "We must obey God rather than people."Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Hezekiah challenges the modern aversion to being a "follower," arguing that biblical obedience is not about weakness, but about covenantal trust flowing from a relationship with God. He analyzes Acts 5, where the apostles are miraculously freed from jail by an angel and commanded to immediately return to the Temple, illustrating that obedience is bold, Christ-centered, and honest.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Jordan uses a personal anecdote about pet jealousy to frame the conflict in Acts 5, where the Sadducees arrest the apostles out of envy. After an angel frees them, the apostles' immediate return to the Temple illustrates their commitment to "obey God rather than people."Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Pastor Tony explores the intense persecution the early apostles faced from the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin, as the Christian movement gained momentum. He highlights the dramatic account from Acts chapter 5 where an angel miraculously frees the apostles from jail, only for them to immediately return to the Temple to continue preaching. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Pastor Noel discusses the early church's radical generosity and shared possessions from Acts 4:32-5:11, using the church's own giving experiment with "red buckets" we use to collect the tithe, as a relatable modern parallel. He emphasizes that the passage is not simply about money, but about the transformative power of God's grace making the world's possessions grow "strangely dim" to believers.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Noel uses the early church's response to persecution in Acts 4 to challenge listeners on how they face opposition. Noel shares about the very real dangers faced by Christians globally, contrasting it with the relative safety in the US. The sermon emphasizes that because God is the Creator and Jesus's resurrection was part of his predetermined plan, any plot against His church is ultimately futile.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com