passion-church

When You Mess Up...

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:06:18 GMT

When You Mess Up: How to Move Forward Without Staying Stuck

Mortification is a massive part of leadership.

Whether your leadership role is in your home, your workplace, or beyond, people are watching. And as Christians, we are often under a level of scrutiny that feels heavy and constant.

How do we walk through fires in life? How do we deal with frustration, lose our tempers, face addictions, shortcomings, and failures? The scenarios are endless, moments where others are watching. And whether we want to admit it or not, they are looking to us to see who Jesus Christ is… or at least to watch us fail.

So the question isn’t whether or not we are leading someone.

The real question is: what are we leading them toward, and is it worthwhile?

And even when we choose to pick up that mantle, that responsibility, we still mess up. Sometimes in very public ways. Sometimes in ways that leave us mortified at our own actions. Sometimes accidental. Sometimes intentional. Sometimes deeply hurtful, until we stop and realize the damage that’s been done.

For me personally, I’m no stranger to embarrassment.

In many cases, it’s not intentional failure; it’s things that slip through the cracks. Missed appointments. Texts that go unanswered for weeks because they slipped my mind. But then there are the bigger failures, the ones everyone else gets to see.

Being a pastor is a lot like living in a fishbowl. And when there’s something wrong in the water, everyone notices, and everyone has something to say about it.

I’ve grieved my sister’s loss in front of hundreds of people.

I walked through a divorce while pastoring a church of several hundred people and was well-known in the community. I’ve been stopped in Walmart and told how evil I was, because, of course, it happened at Walmart.

From that, and too many other situations to list- I’ve learned a few things.

1. Thick Skin Is Not Optional

If you are going to put yourself out there and lead in any capacity, someone will have a problem with you.

Most likely, multiple people will.

And often, they will be people who don’t fully understand what’s actually going on—but know just enough to say something that stings.

If I’m honest, that’s frustrating. Because sometimes these are people who contribute nothing to your life, yet their words still hurt. And that can make you even more upset.

So you have to learn to prioritize who you listen to and who you work for.

Pick five people. Five voices that truly matter.

Make sure they are mature, close to you, and trustworthy. Don’t give this privilege to just anyone. Choose people who know you, who love you, and who are willing to speak truth into your life.

Then remember who you are ultimately leading for: Christ first, Family second, Friends and those who don’t know Christ next.

When you align who you listen to and who you’re doing this for, the hard days don’t necessarily get easier, but they do gain purpose.

2. Approval Is a Trap You Can’t Win

Working for the approval of others while leading is a battle you will never win.

It’s incredibly easy to fall into the trap of doing what you do because it feels good to be needed… and praised.

I’ll be honest, there’s real joy and fulfillment in providing value to others. There’s something deeply satisfying about helping people, leading well, and seeing impact.

But that can’t be your driving force.

Because there will always come a moment when you do something people don’t like, and they will leave. Often loudly. Sometimes angrily.

Take joy, even healthy pride, in leading and serving well.

But don’t let feedback define you.

Christ should define you.

At the end of the day, when my life is over, I want to stand before Jesus and, God willing, hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

That hope drives me. It gives me purpose. It pushes me forward.

And yes, there are people who believe that will never be said about me. Some with reasons. Some without knowing the full story.

But that’s okay. They are not my audience. Jesus Christ is.

And when that perspective shifts, everything changes.

3. Bravery Is Not Optional

Whether your leadership role is parenting, pastoring, or leading in a boardroom, you will fail publicly at some point.

Why?

Because leadership requires risk.

And risk is necessary. Pushing limits is good, and stepping out in faith is essential. But sometimes, it will go badly. It takes real bravery to take those risks, knowing you might fail, and to choose to do it anyway.

One of the best ways to build that bravery is to remember your wins. Not to inflate your ego, but to remind yourself that failure isn’t the full story.

Final Thought

Time heals more than we think. What feels like a massive, overwhelming failure right now, one year from now, most people won’t even remember.

So don’t give up.

Don’t shrink back.

Don’t let failure convince you to stop leading.

Because mistakes will happen.

But they don’t have to define you.

They can refine you.

And if you keep moving forward, God can still use every part of your story, even the parts you wish never happened.

How do we affect real change?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:35:40 GMT

Is it possible to really change things?

How Do We Fix Anything?

In a world full of war, politics, injustice, inequality, and beyond, how do we fix anything?

Over the years, as a pastor, I’ve heard this question asked numerous times in various ways. It usually boils down to a deep sense that we can’t really affect anything. The world’s problems are overwhelming, and they always will be.

With the advent of social media and global news at our fingertips, and every other media outlet constantly forcing headlines down our throats, it’s easy to feel helpless. How do we do anything about it?

Eventually, many people land in a place of inevitability. The world is going to hell in a handbasket, and there’s nothing we can do about it. That mentality leads us to blame others, develop a defeatist outlook, become jaded and negative, and ultimately lose sight of what is actually important.

One of the more recent conversations I had about this was with a very sharp, very driven young man in our church. He genuinely wanted to help. He wanted to make the world a better place. But he didn’t know where to start or how to make a difference.

He had recently taken on a leadership role in his neighborhood and was already discouraged by the resistance he was facing. He worked hard, applied creativity to solving problems, and kept running into wall after wall.

I’ve heard story after story like this. And over time, I’ve come to believe that generally speaking, people do want to help. They just don’t know how, and eventually they feel defeated.

So the question becomes: Why worry about other people’s problems at all, right?

While that mentality is understandable, it can lead us into some dangerous places as a society. It can also lead us somewhere very different than what Jesus talked about. Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, God’s Word repeatedly reminds us that true religion includes caring for the vulnerable, widows, orphans, and those in need.

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…”
— James 1:27

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.”
— Psalm 82:3

So how do we care without becoming overwhelmed?

Over the years, I’ve developed a simple framework that has helped me tremendously. These are three questions I ask when deciding where to focus my energy.

First: Is this important to my family and me?

Second: Does this affect my immediate community?

Third: Is there anything I can actually do about it?

If the answer is no to two out of those three questions , I leave it alone.

Often, I add it to my prayer list, which is powerful, but beyond that, I let it go. Many times, that means intentionally avoiding conversations, news cycles, arguments, and debates surrounding it. This allows me to focus on what is important , immediate, and doable , while giving to God the things I cannot control.

Let me give you an example.

Currently, the U.S. military has commenced major operations in Iran. Reactions to this have been wildly different depending on political alliances, media outlets, and personal perspectives.

Is that important? Absolutely.

Does it affect my immediate community, my church, my family, my business, or my town, in a way I can directly influence? Not really.

Can I fix it? Not even close.

And honestly, I’m not even sure I would want to. Decisions like that involve layers of information, intelligence, and strategy that most of us simply don’t have access to.

So what can I do?

I add our troops and our country to my prayer list, and I move on.

That may sound harsh, but here’s the reality:

You and I only have so much influence and so much capacity.

That capacity looks different for everyone, but one thing we all share is that both our influence and our capacity are limited. If I spend all my energy worrying about things I can’t directly affect, then I’ll miss the thousands of people I can affect who are right in front of me. By serving in the church, engaging personally in the community, exerting social influence, praying, and building everyday relationships, I can focus my attention where it can actually make a difference.

And when we do that, we become far more effective.

Does this mean we don’t care about war or larger global issues?

Not at all.

Those things should affect us deeply. The loss of life is heartbreaking and tragic. And lives will be lost. That should absolutely weigh on our hearts. But we cannot allow ourselves to drown under the weight of the entire world’s problems.

God, and only God, has the capacity to carry the sins of the world on His shoulders.

We are not Him.

In fact, at its core, believing we can or need to fix everything can become somewhat egotistical.

Scripture reminds us clearly of the limits of our role:

“Be still, and know that I am God.”
— Psalm 46:10

God calls us to be faithful where we are, with what we have, among the people He has placed around us. When we focus there, on what is important, immediate, and doable, we can actually begin to change the world around us.

And sometimes, that’s exactly how God changes the world.

Grace and Truth... Which one actually matters more?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:04:16 GMT

What if this is the question we should be asking?

Grace and Truth… which one actually matters more?

I think this question might be at the root of a lot of the tension and disunity we’re seeing among Christians right now—especially in how we respond to the culture around us. And I think some of it comes down to misunderstanding how grace and truth are supposed to work together.

Hear me out.

All throughout Scripture, we see two big themes in how God interacts with people: grace and truth.

Even in the garden, this shows up. It was pure grace that God created us in His image and wanted a relationship with us. But there was also truth—His law. And when that law was broken, separation followed. Grace and truth, together.

When Jesus shows up, He doesn’t throw out the law. He fulfills it. He teaches Scripture with wisdom that leaves people stunned. And yet… He eats with sinners. He walks patiently with imperfect disciples. He washes the feet of the man who would betray Him. That tension is everywhere. Grace and truth.

Fast forward to today, and it feels like we keep picking one side or the other.

Some people go all in on truth. Call everything out. Shout it down. Cancel it. If culture violates God’s design, it needs to be exposed loudly and publicly. Truth matters, period.

Others swing the opposite way. “Just love people.” “Don’t worry about sin.” “Jesus forgives, so none of this really matters.” Grace becomes the whole message.

The problem is… both of those miss something important.

Truth by itself doesn’t save people who don’t believe. Scripture even warns us about this. Jesus talks about not throwing pearls before pigs—not as an insult, but as a way of saying you can’t expect people who don’t share your worldview to value Scripture the way you do. Why are we surprised when sinners act like sinners?

Truth is mainly for the family of God. We hold Christians accountable to live like Christians. When we try to force biblical standards on people who don’t believe, it usually just pushes them further away.

But grace without truth isn’t love either.

Jesus didn’t come with one or the other. He came full of both.

As Craig Groeschel puts it:

“Truth without grace leads to hell. Grace without truth doesn’t exist.”

If we judge anyone—including ourselves—by the law alone, we’re all done. Romans makes that pretty clear. None of us measure up. Not one.

At the same time, agreeing with everything someone does just to keep the peace isn’t loving. If my one-year-old reaches for a hot stove, I don’t say, “Go for it, that’s your truth.” I stop her and tell her the truth—because I love her.

So maybe the better question is: what if we started with grace?

What if we led with love, patience, and relationship—and then spoke truth inside that relationship? Not as a weapon, but because we actually care. And if someone still chooses a path we believe is harmful, we don’t abandon them. We keep loving them.

Because grace saves.

Our fight isn’t against people. Scripture says it’s against unseen forces. And yet we often end up hating the very people we’re called to reach—over politics, music, or a halftime show no one will remember in a year.

Is that really worth losing the chance to share the gospel?

Nothing is worth souls.

Jesus told us to go and make disciples, not win arguments. The people who vote differently, live differently, love differently, or believe differently are still God’s children. Yes, truth matters—but grace has to lead.

Grace and truth.

Not one.

Both.

So what does this look like in real life?

It looks like this: we keep loving them.

We keep praying for them.

We keep showing up.

We keep building the relationship.

And we keep gently, faithfully leading them toward Christ—slowly, lovingly, with grace and truth working together.

Jesus was perfect—the most right person to ever walk the earth. And yet sinners didn’t run from Him. They flocked to Him.

Why?

Because He embodied the perfect balance of grace and truth. He didn’t water down truth, and He didn’t weaponize it either. He showed us the mark to aim for.

Living that way is hard. It will draw fire from both sides. You’ll be “too soft” for some and “too rigid” for others. But it’s worth it.

I’ve had the privilege of walking with people who came from very dark places and watching them find salvation in Jesus Christ—seeing lives saved, changed, healed, and restored. There is nothing like it.

And that only happens when we love people long enough, patiently enough, and faithfully enough to walk with them toward truth instead of trying to shout them into it.

So I’d genuinely love to hear your thoughts.

Where do we draw lines?

How do we actually live this out day to day?

Do you even agree with this?

Please be kind to one another. We’re here to talk, learn, and sharpen—not fight.

Commitment Sunday, Project OIKOS, Church Partnership

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:01:57 GMT

Passion Family,

Over the last few weeks in The Playbook series, we haven’t just been talking about vision — we’ve been talking about formation . About who God is shaping us to be as His people in this season. At Passion Church, we believe the Kingdom of God moves forward through partnership, not pressure. Through people who say, “God, You can count on me.” That’s why we’re stepping into Commitment Sunday and a Month of Partnership together.

Below you’ll find links to our website with more information about Commitment Sunday, what it means to partner with Passion Church, how to get involved, and a deeper look at Project OIKOS. Please take time to read through this and follow the links. We are prayerfully inviting our church family to seek what God is calling them to do. Our next steps are significant, and this is where you can begin partnering with us.

What does it mean to partner with Passion Church?

On Commitment Sunday, we’re inviting our church family to prayerfully step into four commitments — not as boxes to check, but as a way of life:

GROW
Choosing to go deeper in your walk with Jesus — being rooted in Him, authentic before Him, and intentional about spiritual growth.

SERVE
Using your gifts to love people well — stepping into compassion, meeting real needs, and helping carry the mission of the church forward.

GIVE
Living generously — not out of guilt or obligation, but as an act of worship and a reflection of God’s heart in a broken and divided world.

ATTEND
Showing up consistently — building your life around worship, community, and the work God is doing through this house. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about faithfulness . It’s about alignment. It’s about saying yes to what God is doing here.

A Word to Those Already Partnered With Passion Church

If you are already partnered with Passion Church, I want to say thank you . Your faithfulness, generosity, and willingness to show up have helped shape this church into what it is today. Because of your commitment, lives are being changed and the Kingdom of God is moving forward through this house.

During this season, we’re inviting our existing partners to renew their partnerships —not because anything was lacking, but because God is leading us into a new chapter. Renewal is a way of saying, “God, I’m still in. I’m still aligned. And I’m ready for what You’re doing next.” This season is an opportunity to recommit with fresh faith, fresh vision, and a renewed sense of purpose as we move boldly into the future together.

Commitment Sunday & the Month of Partnership

Commitment Sunday is the starting point — and our largest moment — where we commit together as a church family. Through this Sunday, it will not only unite us in purpose but also allow leadership, myself, staff members, the advisors, and our external oversight team (Elders) to gauge where we are in the process of launching our new campus, both with volunteers and finances. It launches a full Month of Partnership throughout February, giving everyone the opportunity to take their next step in partnership with Passion Church.

Beginning February 1 and continuing through the end of the month :

Partnership and commitment forms will be available at the Connection Desk each Sunday
Online commitment forms will remain open on our website
Upfront gifts for Project OIKOS can be given at any time
Long-term giving commitments can be submitted throughout the month

While Commitment Sunday is our primary push — the moment we believe God will unite us most powerfully — we also want to create space for those who are traveling, sick, new to Passion Church, or simply need more time to pray. Our prayer is that this month will align our hearts, unify our faith, and allow us to move boldly into our next season together .

Learn More About Partnership Here

Project OIKOS

Out of this posture of partnership, we are stepping into Project OIKOS.

OIKOS is a biblical word meaning household, family, and those entrusted to our care. Project OIKOS is about building a spiritual home — a place where people can belong, grow, heal, and encounter Jesus for generations to come.

Our overall goal is to raise $285,000 over the next 24 months . As part of that, we are prayerfully asking God to provide $120,000 in upfront gifts by the end of April , leaving $165,000 to be fulfilled through long-term giving commitments over the remaining 24 months.

I want to say this clearly and pastorally:

Project OIKOS is not about money first.
It’s about mission.
It’s about stewardship.
It’s about obedience.

Giving is simply one way we participate in what God is doing — alongside growing, serving, and showing up.

Learn More About Project OIKOS Here

How to Make a Commitment

If you’re able to be with us in person on Commitment Sunday, we would love for you to participate together as a church family. If you can’t be there in person, you can still partner with us. Our Commitment Sunday page on the website will be live starting today, and you’ll be able to submit your commitment online. Additionally, commitment cards will be available at the Connection Desk throughout February for anyone who wants to commit in person after Commitment Sunday.

Throughout this series, we’ve been reminded that:

God is generous, and He forms generous people
The world is divided, and the Church must look different
Love becomes visible through sacrifice
When God’s people commit together, God moves powerfully

So here’s my pastoral invitation to you: Pray. Seek the Lord. Talk as a family.
Ask not, “What’s expected?” but “What is God inviting us into?”

And whether you are partnering for the first time or renewing your partnership , this Month of Partnership is your opportunity to say yes. We are not trying to build something flashy or glamorous. We are building something faithful. Something rooted. Something that will impact lives for generations. I am honored to walk into this next season with you.

With gratitude and excitement,
Pastor Josh
Passion Church

Who Is God?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:00:18 GMT

Who God Is: Creator, Eternal, Triune, Father, Sovereign, absentee creator, or cruel ruler?

Before we talk about who God is, I want to invite you to pause and open your heart.

We all bring something into conversations about God:

• childhood experiences

• past church wounds

• cultural assumptions

• religious confusion

• parental mistreatment

• or even silence about God

For many, the very word “God” carries layers of misunderstanding.

So as we explore this doctrine, I’m asking you to do three things:

1. Lay down past assumptions.

Not every idea you were taught about God was accurate.

2. Allow Scripture to speak clearly.

We are approaching this biblically—not through wounds, fears, or culture.

3. Give grace to your own story and the stories of others.

Many people struggle with their view of God. You’re not alone.

My goal is not to overwhelm you with theology.

My goal is to help you see God clearly, love Him deeply, and trust Him fully.

Now, let’s walk together through who God reveals Himself to be.

________________________________________

1. God Is Creator — The Beginning of Everything Begins With Him

The Bible opens with a bold, simple declaration: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” — Genesis 1:1

And honestly, I find it a little humorous how people often present the two major views of how everything began.

On one hand, you have the Big Bang: An invisible, unexplainable force that made something out of nothing.

On the other hand, you have God: An invisible, eternal Being who made something out of nothing.

When you put them side by side, it’s almost funny. In both cases, a cause outside the visible universe sparks life into existence.

Both require faith. Both ask us to believe in something we can’t physically observe. The real question isn’t whether an invisible cause started everything. The real question is Who or what that cause is. Some say the universe exploded into existence with no personal intent or meaning. Christians believe the universe was spoken into existence by a personal God filled with purpose, creativity, and love.

And here’s the irony: Even the Big Bang—a sudden burst of light and energy—sounds very similar to “Let there be light.”

It just depends on how you view it. Many scientists now affirm the universe had a beginning— that time, space, and matter came into existence suddenly, and that the cause must exist outside of all three. That sounds a whole lot like God. Science often describes how things work. The Bible reveals Who made them work— and why He made them at all. God didn’t create because He needed anything. He created because He is overflowing with love, creativity, and purpose.

You are not an accident.

You are not random.

You were created intentionally by a God who knows you and loves you.

________________________________________

2. God Is Eternal — Unchanging, Unbound by Time, Always Present

Psalm 90:2 says: “From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”

God existed before the universe.

He exists beyond time.

He does not age, weaken, or evolve.

He is not learning or adjusting.

He simply is.

When Moses asked for His name, God responded:

“I AM WHO I AM.” — Exodus 3:14

Not “I was.”

Not “I will be.”

Just I AM—constant, faithful, ever-present.

This matters because:

• Feelings change.

• People change.

• Circumstances change.

• Cultures change.

God does not.

The God who spoke in Genesis is the same God listening to your prayers today.

You can build your life on a God who never shifts.

________________________________________

3. God Is Father — Loving, Protecting, Guiding, and Caring for His Children

When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He didn’t say:

• “Our Judge…”

• “Our Creator…”

• “Our King…”

He said:

“Our Father…” — Matthew 6:9

Jesus intentionally revealed the heart of God as a Father—

not distant, cold, or harsh, but relational, present, deeply loving.

But for many people, the word “father” is complicated.

If your earthly father:

• abandoned you,

• criticized you,

• abused you,

• ignored you,

• or failed to protect you,

then seeing God as Father may feel painful or impossible.

Here is the truth you need to hear:

God is not the reflection of your earthly father.

He is the perfection of fatherhood.

Scripture reveals that God is a Father who:

• Loves His children (1 John 3:1)

• Protects them (Psalm 46:1)

• Provides for them (Matthew 6:31–32)

• Guides them (Psalm 23)

• Disciplines them out of love (Heb. 12:6)

• Delights in them (Zeph. 3:17)

He is the Father who runs to the prodigal, not away.

The Father who carries His children when they are weak.

The Father who fights for His family.

The Father who never leaves, never wounds, never abuses, never manipulates.

He is the Father your soul was created for.

________________________________________

4. God Is Triune — One God in Three Persons

We believe in one God who exists eternally as:

• Father

• Son

• Holy Spirit

Not three gods.

Not one God wearing three masks.

Not one God shifting between roles.

One Being.

Three Persons.

Perfect unity.

Why does this matter?

1. God has always been relational.

Love existed before creation within the Trinity.

2. God models unity and partnership.

The Father plans,

the Son accomplishes,

the Spirit empowers.

3. The Trinity reveals the depth of God’s love.

The Father sends.

The Son sacrifices.

The Spirit transforms.

The Trinity isn’t a puzzle.

It’s a beautiful mystery that shows us God’s relational, united, and loving heart.

________________________________________

5. God Is Sovereign — Fully in Control, Completely Good

Sovereignty does not mean:

• God forces human choices

• God removes free will

• God causes evil

• God micromanages every detail

Sovereignty means:

• God’s authority is absolute

• God’s plans are unstoppable

• God is never surprised

• God is never defeated

• God works all things for the good of His people

God’s sovereignty isn’t about control—

it’s about trustworthiness.

He is powerful enough to rule creation

and tender enough to walk with you through pain.

________________________________________

6. God Is the Giver of Free Will — The Gift That Makes Love Possible

Free will is one of God’s greatest gifts—second only to grace.

Why?

Because love cannot exist without choice.

If God forced obedience,

forced worship,

forced devotion—

it wouldn’t be love.

So God gave humanity the ability to:

• obey or disobey,

• pursue Him or reject Him,

• choose good or choose evil,

• forgive or stay bitter,

• love or hurt,

• move toward God or away from Him.

This gift is beautiful…

and dangerous.

It is the foundation for:

• every act of kindness

• every act of evil

• every moment of worship

• every moment of rebellion

Free will explains why beauty exists

and why brokenness exists.

You are not a robot.

You are a person God loves—

a person capable of choosing Him freely.

God’s sovereignty and human free will do not compete.

They work in perfect tension.

God’s will is ultimate.

Your choices are meaningful.

Together, they shape your life and your relationship with God.

________________________________________

7. God Is Good — Perfect in Character, Perfect in Love

Everything God does flows from His goodness.

He cannot:

• lie

• manipulate

• harm

• betray

• act out of evil

He is holy, just, patient, merciful, gracious, and loving.

If anything in your life contradicts His goodness,

it did not come from Him.

________________________________________

8. Why Understanding God Matters for Everyday Life

If God is Creator — your life has purpose.

If God is Father — you are loved and safe.

If God is Eternal — He is your anchor.

If God is Triune — you were designed for community.

If God is Sovereign — you can trust Him.

If God gives free will — your choices matter.

If God is good — you can run to Him, not from Him.

Your entire worldview rises or falls on who you believe God is.

________________________________________

9. Don’t Just Take My Word for It — Explore Him Yourself

Read these Scriptures this week:

• Genesis 1

• Psalm 23

• Psalm 90

• Matthew 6

• Luke 15

• John 14–17

• Romans 8

• 1 John 3–4

Ask God to reveal Himself to you as:

• Creator

• Father

• Sovereign

• Good

• Present

Don’t quit when Scripture stretches you.

Lean in.

Ask questions.

Search.

God loves revealing Himself to those who seek Him.

________________________________________

10. Final Thought: The Way You See God Shapes the Way You Live

If you believe God is distant, you will feel alone.

If you believe He is harsh, you will hide.

If you believe He is controlling, you will resist.

If you believe He is passive, you will feel abandoned.

But if you believe He is:

• Creator

• Eternal

• Triune

• Father

• Sovereign

• Good

• Loving

• Wise

• Present

…then everything about your life changes.

Your identity changes.

Your peace changes.

Your purpose changes.

Your relationships change.

Your decisions change.

Your worship changes.

Who God is determines who you become.

Anchor your life to the God who created you, loves you, redeemed you, empowers you, guides you, and walks with you every step of the way.

Why So Many Churches in Kernersville & the Triad Are a Good Thing | Passion Church

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 19:34:30 GMT

But is it really?

If you’ve ever searched “ church near me in Kernersville ,” “ churches in Kernersville NC ,” or “ non-denominational church near me ,” you may have noticed something right away — there are a lot of churches in this area.

At first, some people wonder if there are too many churches in Kernersville and the Piedmont Triad. But when you step back and look at the population, the attendance trends, and the mission of the Church, the truth becomes clear:

Having many churches isn’t a problem — it’s a blessing.

The Piedmont Triad: A Massive Mission Field

The Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina — including Kernersville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point, and surrounding communities — is home to approximately 1.7 million people.

That’s 1.7 million lives.

1.7 million stories.

1.7 million people with spiritual questions, needs, and hopes.

Across the Triad, there are hundreds of churches — traditional, contemporary, denominational, and non-denominational. Using a generous estimate of 300 churches, the math becomes eye-opening.

If the entire population were evenly divided, each church would need to serve more than 5,600 people for everyone to be introduced to Jesus, discipled, and cared for.

That reality alone shows us something important: The Triad doesn’t have too many churches — it has too many people still unreached.

What Attendance Numbers Reveal

When we look at church size across the United States, the picture becomes even clearer.

• The average church’s Sunday attendance is around 65 people

• The median church size is closer to 60 people

That means half of all churches have 60 or fewer people attending on a typical Sunday.

If we apply that reality locally:

• 300 churches × 65 people = 19,500 weekly attenders

• Out of 1.7 million people, that means over 98% are not in church on any given Sunday

So while there may be many churches in Kernersville and the Triad, the vast majority of people remain unchurched or disconnected from a faith community.

Why Having Many Churches Is Actually the Solution

Churches aren’t businesses competing for customers.

They are local expressions of God’s love, placed intentionally in different communities, cultures, and contexts.

People searching for:

• “ church near me in Kernersville .”

• “ friendly churches in Kernersville NC .”

• “ non-denominational churches in Kernersville .”

…aren’t just searching for a service time. They’re searching for belonging. And belonging looks different for different people.

How Small, Medium, and Large Churches Work Together to Reach More People

God never designed the Church to be one-size-fits-all. The diversity of churches in Kernersville and the Triad exists because different churches reach different people — not in competition, but in cooperation.

Small Churches: Deep Relationships & Personal Discipleship

Small churches often excel at:

• Personal care

• Strong relationships

• Deep discipleship

They are especially effective at reaching people who:

• Value a close community

• Have been hurt by the church in the past

• Prefer relational environments

• Want to be known by name

For many searching “church near me in Kernersville,” a smaller church feels safe and approachable.

Medium Churches: Community With Momentum

Medium-sized churches balance:

• Relational connection

• Growing ministries

• Leadership development

• Outreach and vision

They often reach:

• Young families

• Growing believers

• People ready to serve and lead

Passion Church in Kernersville fits naturally in this space — offering passionate worship, biblical teaching, a strong kids ministry, and a welcoming environment while remaining deeply relational and fast-growing.

Large Churches: Visibility & Broad Reach

Large churches provide:

• High visibility

• First entry points for seekers

• Large-scale outreach and missions

They often introduce people to Jesus who may later find their long-term home in another local church. This isn’t loss — it’s Kingdom multiplication.

Different People Reach Different People

God uses diversity intentionally.

Different backgrounds.

Different testimonies.

Different cultures.

Different life stories.

A church filled with young families will reach young families.

A church with powerful recovery testimonies will reach those still struggling.

A church built around questions will reach seekers.

When churches embrace their unique calling, more people meet Jesus in a way they can relate to.

One Mission, Many Expressions

There is:

• One Church

• One Gospel

• One mission

“Go and make disciples of all nations.” — Matthew 28:19

Some churches plant.

Some water.

Some harvest.

But God brings the growth.

When churches across Kernersville and the Piedmont Triad celebrate one another, the community wins — and lives are changed.

Why This Matters for Kernersville

Kernersville is growing rapidly, and people moving here are actively searching for:

• Community

• Purpose

• Spiritual grounding

That’s why having multiple churches in Kernersville NC, including non-denominational churches, is not redundancy — it’s readiness.

Looking for a Local, Fast-Growing Non-Denominational Church?

If you’re searching for:

• A church near me in Kernersville

• A friendly, fast-growing non-denominational church

• A place where your family can belong and grow

• A church that teaches the Bible clearly and passionately

We invite you to visit Passion Church in Kernersville.

Want To Know More About Passion Church?

Passion Church exists to help people:

• Know God

• Find freedom

• Discover purpose

• Make a difference

In just a short time, Passion Church has grown from 87 people to over 200 weekly attenders, celebrated baptisms, and seen lives transformed by Jesus — and we believe God is just getting started.

Service Times

�� Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM

Location

�� Kernersville, North Carolina

Contact Information

�� Website: www.passionchurchnc.com

�� Email: info@passionchurchnc.com

Whether you’re new to faith, returning after time away, or simply searching for a church that feels like home, there’s a place for you at Passion Church.

The Bottom Line

The Triad doesn’t have too many churches.

It has:

• Too many people still searching

• Too many families needing hope

• Too many hearts waiting to be reached

And that’s precisely why every church matters.

Together — small, medium, and large — churches across Kernersville and the Piedmont Triad are working toward the same goal:

�� Introducing people to Jesus and walking with them as their lives are transformed.

What Does Submission Really Mean?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:45:18 GMT

Okay everyone... lets dig into some scary territory.

Before we talk about biblical submission, I want to ask something of you — something that might feel uncomfortable, but I believe it’s necessary.

Please don’t jump to conclusions halfway through this blog. This subject carries a lot of history — some beautiful, some painful, and some deeply distorted. For many people, submission has been misused, Scripture has been weaponized, authority has been abused, and relationships have been harmed rather than healed.

Some of you reading this carry real wounds from past experiences.

Wounds from churches.

Wounds from relationships.

Wounds from people who claimed “biblical authority” while doing things God never endorsed.

I want you to hear this clearly: my goal is not to reopen those wounds. My goal is to bring clarity, healing, truth, unity, and grace — not division.

So as we walk through this topic, I’m asking you to do three things: Lay down bias — both positive and negative.

Not every man is controlling.

Not every woman is rebellious.

Not every marriage abuse story reflects God’s design.

Not every tradition was right.

Not every “new idea” is wrong.

Please release past distortions and listen to Scripture itself. We’re not approaching this through cultural stereotypes, abusive patterns, patriarchal extremes, modern overcorrections, or personal preferences.

We’re approaching it biblically — with open hearts. Give space for grace — for yourself and for others.

Whether you’ve been hurt, confused, defensive, or unsure about submission…

breathe. Let God speak with clarity, not culture with noise.

I am writing this not to control anyone, but to educate,

not to pressure anyone, but to bring truth,

not to condemn anyone, but to bring healing,

not to assign blame, but to bring unity.

My heart is that we walk away with: a biblical understanding, deeper mutual respect, clarity on what God actually intended, and grace for one another’s stories.

Keep in mind, we are talking about this subject in the context of marriage. This is not a commentary on the structure of society, the church, the workplace, or any other situation.

Now — with gentleness, honesty, and open hearts — let’s explore what the Bible really says about submission.

1. Biblical Submission Begins With Mutual Submission (Ephesians 5:21)

This is important to start with because people get so bent out of shape about one person submitting more or less than the other. Before Paul says anything about husbands or wives, he begins with a command to everyone:

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” — Ephesians 5:21

This matters. We often hear submission talked about as if it is something only women do, or as something nasty and demeaning. But Scripture teaches that every follower of Jesus is called to a posture of humility and submission toward others.

God holds both men and women to high standards of humility, service, love, honor, and Christlike character.

Too often, people pick one or two verses to support their viewpoint without considering the entire passage, the entire story of Scripture, the balance of responsibility, or the mutuality God designed. We cannot say, “Women should submit,” while ignoring all the times Scripture calls men to submit to God, to sacrificial love, to humility, and to putting their wives above their own desires. Likewise, we cannot deny that mutual submission — both spouses living humbly and honoring one another under Christ — is the only way a biblical relationship thrives and reflects Jesus.

Remember the beginning of Scripture: God did not say it was “not good” for man to be alone because he needed someone to control. He said it because he needed a helper/partner — someone who fills in the gaps, complements him, strengthens him, and stands beside him with equal value and worth. In return for that partnership, the support, the helpmate, his job is to protect her, put her needs above his own, and beyond.

The Bible is clear: submission is a shared calling — not a gendered punishment.

2. Men Are Called to Submit Too

The Bible never tells men to force or demand submission from their wives. It tells them to submit to Christ, to obey God, and to imitate Jesus’ sacrificial love.

Scripture says: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” — Ephesians 5:25

A man cannot lead biblically unless he is submitted to Christ. If he is not walking in humility, obedience, self-sacrifice, and servant-hearted leadership, then he is not fulfilling his God-given role. Biblical leadership is not about superiority. It is about serving first.

And the ultimate model for men is Jesus Himself.

3. Jesus Shows Us What Submission Truly Looks Like

If you want to understand biblical submission, look at Jesus.

He submitted to the will of the Father out of love, respect, trust, unity, and devotion.

He went places He didn’t want to go.

He endured suffering He didn’t deserve.

He obeyed commands that were costly to fulfill to advance a shared mission.

He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

Jesus proves something essential: submission is not weakness. Submission is a strength. Submission is love in action.

And if Jesus — the Son of God — lived a submitted life, then submission cannot be about inferiority. It is about relationship and purpose.

4. What “Wives, Submit to Your Husbands” Actually Means

This verse has been misinterpreted, misused, and weaponized in ways that do not reflect God’s heart.

So let’s look closely at the original language Paul used.

The word translated “submit” in Ephesians 5:22 is the Greek word:

ὑποτάσσω — hupotassō

(hoo-pah-TASS-oh)

This word does not mean blind obedience, control, silence, or forced compliance. It carries the ideas of: Voluntarily aligning with, supporting a shared mission, partnering with, honoring leadership, creating unity, and offering strength.

It is a relationship word, not often a power word.

When Greek writers wanted to express “obey,” they often used a different word:

ὑπακούω — hupakouō

That word is commonly used for children obeying parents, servants obeying masters, and believers obeying God. Paul does not use that word for wives. Why? Because he is not describing a master/slave relationship. He is describing a voluntary, relational partnership — a posture of ordered unity.

This matches perfectly with the woman described in Proverbs 31: strong, wise, resourceful, hardworking, godly, respected by her community, and clearly not passive or powerless.

Her strength honors her husband and builds her family; it does not diminish her.

A wife’s biblical submission is: offered freely, rooted in love, anchored in mutual respect, tied to the husband’s submission to Christ and her, and always aligned with God’s will.

Submission is not weakness — it is a strength expressed by both partners through unity.

And remember: Jesus Himself lived a life of submission to the Father — not out of inferiority, but out of love and purpose.

Biblical submission calls husbands and wives to reflect that kind of Christlike humility — not to suffer under control.

5. The Big Question: “Does This Mean a Woman Must Obey Her Husband Without Question?”

Absolutely not.

The Bible does not say:

“Wives, blindly obey your husbands.”

“Husbands rule your wives.”

“Women have no voice.”

A wife is called to submit as unto Christ — meaning she honors her husband’s spiritual leadership when he is following Christ.

She is never commanded to: follow him into sin, tolerate abuse, surrender her identity, or abandon her God-given wisdom and calling.

Submission is not control.

Submission is not coercion.

Submission is not demanded — it is chosen.

If a husband, or either spouse for that matter, demands submission, they already misunderstand it.

6. Biblical Marriage: Equal Value, Distinct Callings — And What That Doesn’t Mean

Let’s make something very clear: some of the things people say today in the name of “biblical” marriage are nowhere in Scripture.

Statements like:

“My wife has to ask my permission to spend money.”

“She needs my permission to leave the house.”

“She has sex with me whenever I want.”

“She submits, I lead — end of story.”

Personally, I have heard all these statements from both parties in a marriage, and none of these reflect God’s design. Not one. These are distortions, not doctrines.

The Bible does not call husbands to treat wives like children.

It does not diminish a woman’s autonomy or personhood.

It does not give men “final say” on every household detail.

From a man's point of view, Guys, we need to realize God did not give men a servant. He gave us a partner.

A God-Honoring Marriage Looks Like This: The spouse who is stronger at finances manages the money in a respectful, God-honoring way. The spouse who is the better communicator handles communication. The spouse who is the stronger provider provides. The spouse who is the more natural nurturer nurtures.

These are expressions of giftings, not gender stereotypes.

Marriage thrives when each person does what God has gifted them to do — for the good of the whole home.

And even when one spouse leads in a practical area through gifting, decisions are still made in unity, through prayer, and with mutual honor.

What Spiritual Headship Really Means (And the Greek Word Behind It)

The one role Scripture consistently gives uniquely to husbands is spiritual headship.

Paul writes:

“For the husband is the head (κεφαλή — kephalē) of the wife as Christ is the head (kephalē) of the church.”

— Ephesians 5:23

The Greek word kephalē carries the idea of head/leader with responsibility — like Christ’s headship of the church — expressed through sacrificial love, initiative, and care. It does not mean: dictator, boss, ruler, or automatic final decision-maker on all earthly matters.

Spiritual headship means: A husband leads the way spiritually. He takes responsibility for the spiritual tone of the home. He prays for and with his family. He models Christlike character. He repents quickly. He sacrifices first. He protects against spiritual harm. He points his family to Jesus.

Headship means he goes first in sacrificial leadership, not that he gets the final say for every situation in life. It’s responsibility before it’s authority. It’s serving before it’s steering. And it’s laying down his life for the good of his family.

Marriage is a partnership where two people are moving toward the same mission, but you won’t always see every situation the same way. Sometimes a decision has to be made even when both spouses love Jesus, love each other, and are aiming at the same goal, but aren’t aligned on which choice to make.

In those moments, Scripture gives us a spiritual design, and wisdom gives us practical application.

And just to be clear: I’m talking here about marriage and family dynamics — not writing a broad statement on church structure or leadership.

Spiritual headship: God’s design for the husband

Here’s the part that can feel controversial in our culture, but it’s still biblical:

God assigns spiritual headship in the home to the husband.

That doesn’t mean he’s more valuable.

That doesn’t mean he’s smarter.

That doesn’t mean he’s always right.

It means God holds him uniquely accountable to lead the family spiritually with humility and sacrifice.

A few verses that capture this clearly:

Ephesians 5:23, 25 — the husband is called to loving headship the way Jesus loves the church… by giving Himself up for her.

1 Corinthians 11:3 — speaks to God’s order of spiritual responsibility in the home.

Genesis 2–3 — Adam is held responsible even when Eve acts first, which shows the weight of his accountability.

So spiritually speaking, when a decision has to be made, and you’ve prayed, processed, and cannot come to an agreement, God’s design places the final responsibility on the husband — not as a privilege, but as a burden he carries for the good of the family.

Example: You’ve both prayed, you’re unified in direction, but you disagree on whether to take a job, move cities, or enroll a child in a certain school. In that rare deadlock, spiritual headship means the husband carries the responsibility to choose under Christ — never against her wellbeing or God’s Word.

Here’s the other side that must be said just as strongly:

Scripture gives women permission — and sometimes a mandate — to step up when a man will not lead, or is leading toward harm.

Headship is not a blank check for passivity, control, or sin. If a husband isn’t leading toward Jesus, a wife is not called to follow him into darkness. She is called to honor Christ first.

For example: If a husband is apathetic spiritually — won’t pray, won’t pursue church, won’t lead the kids in faith — a wife absolutely can and should lead the family toward Christ anyway. She can set the pace spiritually: bringing the kids to church, praying over the home, opening Scripture, asking hard questions, and inviting her husband upward.

If a husband is leading in an unhealthy or sinful direction — like addiction, abuse, infidelity, reckless choices, or spiritual compromise — a wife is not only allowed to resist that direction, she is responsible to do so.

In those cases, her leadership is protection, faithfulness, and courage.

If a husband is present but immature — meaning he wants to lead but doesn’t know how — a wife can guide him into becoming the kind of leader worth following.

That might look like encouragement, accountability, honest conversations, counseling, or even saying, “I believe God called you to lead us — let’s grow into that together.”

Think of it this way: Headship is not domination; it’s discipleship.

And when discipleship is absent, the family still needs leadership toward Jesus.

Practical leadership: The partner who is most equipped leads in that area

Outside of spiritual headship, the person most qualified for a given area should usually lead and make the final call in that area.

That’s not rebellion against biblical design; it’s wise stewardship.

Examples:

Finances:

If the wife is more experienced with budgeting, investing, or managing money, she should lead that area. The husband should trust her wisdom and support the plan.

(And vice versa — if he’s the stronger one there, he leads.)

Parenting and kids:

If one spouse has greater skill, intuition, or experience around child development, education, or discipline, that spouse should drive those decisions.

The other spouse doesn’t check out — they follow, contribute, and reinforce.

Scheduling & home management:

If one spouse naturally sees the calendar, rhythms, and logistics better, it’s smart for them to take point. That’s leadership too.

What this protects against

This balance keeps marriage from drifting into two unhealthy extremes:

Passive headship:

“I’m the head, so I don’t have to do anything.”

No — that’s not biblical masculinity. Headship means initiative, not indifference.

Authoritarian headship:

“I’m the head, so I always get the final say.”

No — that’s not biblical either. Headship means sacrificial responsibility, not control.

A simple summary

Spiritually, God designed the husband to carry the final spiritual responsibility in the home.

If he refuses to lead or leads into sin, the wife is encouraged to lead the family toward Jesus and safety.

Practically, in everyday life, the most equipped spouse should lead the area they’re strongest in.

In all things, leadership looks like serving, listening, praying, and seeking unity — not winning.

That’s headship the way Jesus modeled it: strong, humble, sacrificial, and for the flourishing of the people He loves.

Christ as head does not dominate the church — He died for her. That is the model.

Women Also Lead, Rescue, and Guide Biblically — Often Powerfully

Scripture is full of examples of women leading, saving, and spiritually guiding their families and nations:

Abigail — 1 Samuel 25

Saved her foolish husband, Nabal, and her entire household through wisdom and decisive action.

Deborah — Judges 4–5

A prophetess and judge who led Israel, commanded armies, and guided Barak into obedience.

Esther — The Book of Esther

Saved her entire nation through courage and strategic leadership.

Priscilla — Acts 18:24–26

Helped teach and correct Apollos, a gifted preacher — her name often listed before her husband’s.

Lois & Eunice — 2 Timothy 1:5

Raised Timothy, one of the great leaders of the early church, with strong faith, without any mention of a male spiritual leader.

The Proverbs 31 Woman — Proverbs 31:10–31

Runs businesses, manages money, makes decisions, leads her home, and is respected in her community.

The Samaritan Woman — John 4

Became the evangelist to her entire town after encountering Jesus.

Mary Magdalene — John 20

The first witness of the resurrection — entrusted by Jesus Himself.

Women are not spiritually passive in Scripture. They are essential, powerful instruments of God.

7. Submission in Real Life: What It Should Look Like

A healthy, biblical marriage looks like:

a husband who listens, leads with humility, serves first, and sacrifices willingly;

a wife who honors, encourages, and partners wholeheartedly;

decisions made through prayer together, not dictated by one;

conflict handled with grace, not threats;

roles lived out in love, not fear.

Biblical submission is never forced. It grows naturally where love, trust, and Christlike character exist.

8. A Better (And Biblical) Vision for Marriage

When we interpret submission biblically — not culturally, not abusively, not selectively — here’s what we discover:

God’s design for marriage is not about control — it’s about completion.

Eve was created as a helpmate — not a subordinate — but a partner who fills in the gaps, strengthens her husband, and by extension, her family.

A Proverbs 31 woman is strong, skilled, respected, influential, and deeply godly.

A Christlike husband is humble, servant-hearted, sacrificial, protective, faithful, and gentle.

When both submit to Christ, and both submit to each other… Everyone flourishes. No one is diminished. And Christ is glorified.

Is the Bible reliable?

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 20:45:32 GMT

What We Believe About the Bible at Passion Church

If you’ve ever wondered what Passion Church believes about the Bible, let me put it simply:

We believe the Bible is God’s Word — not just ancient text, but God revealing Himself, His heart, and His will to us. That may sound like a big statement, but it’s one the Bible makes about itself over and over again. Where You Find Your Truth Shapes Your Life. Here’s something I’ve learned as a pastor and as a follower of Jesus: If you don’t choose your source of truth, culture will gladly choose it for you.

And culture is a shaky place to build a life. If you haven't noticed, our country's idea of truth, if it exists, morals, and beyond are, well, perhaps the best way I can describe them is on fire . The news decides which side of what story to publish, and social media is a melting pot of good intentions, fake posts, and angry people yelling at each other. Very few people know where to turn for real information, and everyone seems angry about something. America is leaning further into a toxic and violent mindset than many of us want to admit, and all this is fueled by the idea that Truth, if it exists, is fluid; it changes based on our situation, culture, and who we are. If I'm privileged in one way or another, then my truth changes from those who are starting a few steps behind, because I can mean that it's right for me.

The “truth” of culture changes: Every decade, every election cycle, every new social justice movement, every time the internet decides something is “problematic.” It’s exhausting — because it’s unstable.

But God doesn’t change.

His character doesn’t shift with the polls.

His Word doesn’t fade like trends.

The Bible gives us clarity that doesn’t move — because God Himself doesn’t move.

In Scripture, God reveals: Who He is, how He saves us, and who He created us to be. This is why Christians have anchored their lives to the Bible for centuries. There is peace that comes from knowing that what you base your life on does not change. It's a foundation that doesn't shift and brings incredible peace through life's battles.

The Bible Isn’t Just a Book — It’s God Speaking (Through History)

When we talk about Scripture being “God’s Word,” we’re not using a religious slogan. One of the greatest pieces of evidence that the Bible is divine is the sheer scope of its creation:

Around 40 different human authors

Written across multiple kingdoms and empires — Israel, Judah, Babylon, Persia, Rome

Spanning roughly 1,500 years

Written in three languages — Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek

Authors from every walk of life — kings, shepherds, generals, prophets, fishermen, tax collectors, a doctor

And yet, somehow, through all of that diversity…

The Bible tells one unified story about one God pursuing one humanity with one plan of redemption.

To see the sweep of God’s revelation:

Moses wrote the first five books around 1400 BC, likely while leading Israel through the wilderness.

David wrote Psalms around 1000 BC — worship, pain, repentance, and raw honesty.

Isaiah prophesied in the 700s BC, speaking clearly about the coming Messiah long before Jesus arrived.

Daniel wrote from Babylonian captivity, faithfully serving foreign kings while staying true to God.

Matthew, once a tax collector, wrote his Gospel in the first century AD to show that Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies.

Luke, a physician and historian, wrote Luke and Acts around 60 AD, giving orderly accounts of Jesus and the early church.

John, one of Jesus’ closest friends, wrote his Gospel and Revelation near the end of the first century AD.

Different centuries.

Different nations.

Different languages.

Different backgrounds.

Same God.

Same message.

Same story unfolding.

That unity is not humanly manufactured.

This isn’t just a book. It’s God revealing Himself through history, through people, and through the Holy Spirit — so every generation can know Him.

The Bible Includes Tough Subjects — And That’s a Good Thing

Let’s be real:

The Bible doesn’t skip the hard stuff.

It talks openly about: sin, sexuality, justice, forgiveness, repentance, sacrifice, heaven and hell, and the parts of life we’d rather avoid. Sometimes we will hold beliefs that our culture doesn’t like. And that’s okay. We don’t follow Jesus because He fits neatly into cultural expectations. We follow Him because He is truth.

But here’s the key: Truth is best delivered through relationships, not arguments.

Jesus walked with people, listened to them, knew their stories — and then spoke the truth. We’re called to do the same. The Bible Is True, Clear, and Reliable Scripture doesn’t just contain truth — it is truth.

Psalm 119 says: “Your word is a lamp to my feet…” “All your words are true.” “The sum of your word is truth.”

God’s Word is steady when the world shakes.

One way to picture the Bible is a lot like Google Maps. It doesn’t just give us random information — it shows us the route God has laid out so we can reach the destination He intends for us. It guides, directs, corrects, and gives purpose. And it doesn’t let us down. But here’s what happens: People hit a confusing passage — something culturally distant, linguistically different, or hard to understand — and they turn away. They assume the Bible is outdated or irrelevant. Or they decide to look elsewhere for truth. But confusion doesn’t mean Scripture is unclear. It means we’re invited to learn.

The Bible was written in: a different time, different cultures, with ancient idioms and references, in languages most of us don’t speak. That doesn’t make Scripture less true — it means we need to study, research, and dig deeper. When we do, God’s message becomes even more powerful and relevant.

The Bible Is No Longer America’s Default Standard of Truth

We have to be honest about the cultural moment we’re in. For many people today, “The Bible says…” doesn’t carry much weight. Some see it as irrelevant. Others see it as offensive. Some walk away the moment Scripture is mentioned. That means we must rethink how we share truth — not whether we share it.

Build relationships before sharing hard truths.

Let people see Jesus in how you live long before they hear Him in what you say.

Truth carried on the back of love reaches places arguments never can.

Build a Relationship With God by Reading His Word

The Bible is how we get to know God — not the filtered, Instagram version of Him, but the real, living God.

And just like any relationship, the more time you spend with Him, the more clearly you understand Him.

Think about a close friend or spouse.

After years of walking together, you finish each other’s sentences, you can predict their reactions, you know their heart. Why? Because you’ve spent consistent time together.

Imagine knowing God like that.

Imagine understanding His heart so deeply that you can sense what He wants, recognize His voice, and confidently interpret Scripture because you’ve grown familiar with Him.

Imagine what that would do to your life — and to the lives of your family, your friends, and everyone you influence.

Reading Scripture builds that kind of relationship.

The more you know God’s Word, the more you understand: who He is, what He wants, how He speaks, and how to interpret other verses biblically and accurately. So don’t stop when you hit something confusing, l ean in.

Ask mentors, Study, Research, join groups, explore commentaries, and pray for insight.

God reveals Himself richly to those who keep seeking.

Don’t Just Take My Word for It — Explore It Yourself

The passages below talk directly about the Bible itself —

what it is, what it does, and why it matters:

Psalm 12

Psalm 105

Psalm 119

Psalm 160

Proverbs 30

Matthew 22:37–40

1 Timothy 1:13

2 Timothy 3:16

2 Peter 1:20–21

Read them this week.

Ask the Holy Spirit to speak.

Let the Word shape you.

And if you haven’t already, download the YouVersion Bible App.

Start a simple devotional — even 5 minutes a day creates space for God to speak and helps you build a steady habit of reading.

Also, don’t underestimate the value of trusted, mature Christians.

A mentor, a Bible study group, or a seasoned believer who has walked with Jesus for decades is priceless. Their wisdom can help you interpret Scripture, understand context, and stay grounded.

There are also excellent books that provide strong historical, archaeological, and logical evidence for the reliability of Scripture and the truth of Jesus. Here are five solid and accessible books I recommend:

Recommended Books on the Reliability of the Bible & the Evidence for Jesus

More Than a Carpenter — Josh & Sean McDowell

Evidence That Demands a Verdict — Josh & Sean McDowell

The Case for Christ — Lee Strobel

Cold-Case Christianity — J. Warner Wallace

The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus — Gary Habermas & Michael Licona

These resources will help strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding, and give you confidence that Scripture really is what it claims to be: God’s Word.

Final Thoughts

We believe the Bible is God’s Word.

Steady.

True.

Loving.

Life-giving.

Eternal.

We don’t worship the Book — we worship the God who speaks through it.

Let’s be a church that doesn’t just read the Bible…

but builds our lives on it.

What does it mean to stand on Scripture?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:34:14 GMT

I want to have a heart-to-heart conversation today — not a sermon, not a debate — just an honest talk about what it really means to stand on Scripture .

For many of us, that phrase carries a lot of weight. We’ve heard it since childhood — “We stand on the Word!” or “Because the Bible says so!” But the world has changed since the days when that statement was enough to settle every argument or define what was right and wrong.

The cultural backdrop: “Because the Bible says so” doesn’t land like it used to

When I was growing up, “Because the Bible says so” carried authority. If you quoted Scripture, most people respected it — even if they didn’t fully agree. The cultural current, at least in much of America, still ran in the direction of believing the Bible mattered.

But that’s no longer the world we live in.

Recent surveys show that only about 20% of Americans believe the Bible is the literal Word of God — down from nearly 40% a few decades ago. About half of Americans now say the Bible is inspired by God but not to be taken literally, and another 30% see it as simply a collection of ancient stories and moral lessons with no divine authority. (Gallup 2025; Lifeway Research 2025).

So what does that mean?

It means that the assumption many churches still operate under — that people “should” believe in the Bible’s authority just because it is the Bible — is no longer true. We can’t just say, “The Bible says it, so that settles it.”

People don’t see Scripture as a default authority anymore. And shouting the truth louder doesn’t make people more likely to listen.

But here’s what hasn’t changed: God’s Word is still true. It’s still alive, powerful, and relevant. What’s changed is how we must communicate it.

Living the Word Before Talking the Word

So what does it mean to “stand on Scripture” in this culture?

It means we don’t start by arguing the Bible’s authority — we start by living its truth .

If someone doesn’t believe the Bible is true, no amount of quoting verses will change their mind. But living those verses out might.

The credibility of our message is built on the authenticity of our lives. People don’t need us to tell them what Jesus said before they see how Jesus lived through us.

When they see that our love is real, our joy is unshakable, and our compassion goes further than judgment ever could — that’s when the door to truth begins to open.

That’s when they’ll begin to ask questions like, “What makes you different?”
And that’s when the answer — “Jesus” — actually means something.

Credibility Precedes Clarity: Start With Grace, Lead to Truth

This is where we have to be very intentional.

Before we speak truth, we must start with grace.

We can’t expect non-Christians to act like Christians. Honestly — some days, it’s hard to expect Christians to act like Christians!

Grace is where it begins. We build relationships, earn trust, and live with compassion. We let people know they are seen, valued, and loved — long before they understand why.

But grace isn’t the end of the story — it’s the road that leads to truth.

When we’ve earned the credibility to speak truth into someone’s life, then the Word of God begins to find its way into their heart. That’s when transformation happens — not through confrontation, but through connection.

Grace opens the door. Truth sets people free.

That’s what Jesus did. When He met the woman at the well (John 4), He didn’t start by condemning her choices — He started by offering her living water. When He met Zacchaeus, He didn’t shout about his corruption — He invited Himself to dinner.

Grace first. Truth next.
That’s what standing on Scripture looks like in real life.

Standing on Truth Doesn’t Mean Isolating People

Standing on the truth of God’s Word doesn’t mean isolating ourselves from people who don’t share it.

It means stepping toward them — just like Jesus did.

In Matthew 28:18–20, Jesus said:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

This is our mission. It’s not optional.

If we’re going to obey Jesus’ command to go and make disciples , it means we have to go where people actually are — not just where we’re comfortable.

We’ll be around lifestyles, actions, language, and values that may look nothing like ours. And that’s okay. That’s part of the calling.

If we refuse to engage people because they live differently than us, we’re not protecting truth — we’re abandoning mission.

We can’t reach people we’re unwilling to be around.

We Will Fail If We Don’t Learn to Love First

Here’s the hard truth:
If we don’t take time to know people — to understand their story, to love them first — we will fail to reach them.

You can’t reach who you refuse to know.
You can’t influence who you refuse to understand.

If all people hear from the Church is what we’re against , they’ll never get close enough to discover Who we’re for.

The Gospel is not about proving people wrong; it’s about helping people find life.

An Honest Example: Learning to Love Before We Correct

Let’s talk plainly.

One of the clearest examples of this tension in our culture is how the Church has often responded to people in the LGBTQ+ community.

Now, Scripture is clear — God’s design for sexuality and marriage is between a man and a woman. That’s His plan. That’s His best. But when we start conversations by pointing out what’s “wrong” before we’ve shown love, we lose the chance to reach the person behind the label.

If I meet someone living in a homosexual lifestyle, I don’t start by saying, “You’re living in sin.” I start by saying, “You’re loved. Tell me your story.”

Because if I don’t take time to know them — to understand their pain, their background, their experiences — then I’ll never earn the right to speak truth in love.

It’s easy to call out sin when it’s visible and public. It’s harder to deal with the sins that are private and hidden.

We readily condemn the person whose lifestyle is visibly different, yet often ignore the reality that many Christians are battling secret sin — like pornography, pride, gossip, greed, or bitterness.

One lifestyle is simply easier to point out. But sin is sin. The only difference is whether it’s visible or invisible.

That’s why we must approach every person — inside or outside the church — with the same grace and the same truth.

Jesus didn’t die for “types of sin.” He died for sinners.
That includes all of us.

The Balance: Truth Without Love Is Harsh; Love Without Truth Is Hollow

If we have truth without love, we become harsh, judgmental, and self-righteous.
If we have love without truth, we become sentimental, spineless, and spiritually useless.

The power of standing on Scripture is when both meet — grace and truth, hand in hand.

John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, full of grace and truth.”

Jesus didn’t pick one over the other. He lived both. And He’s our example.

So we don’t compromise truth to be accepted, but we also don’t weaponize truth to be right.
We embody it — with compassion, conviction, and courage.

Living the Mission

Standing on Scripture means we believe it’s more than a book. It’s the living Word of God. But it also means that we become living proof that it works.

At Passion Church, that’s what we want to be known for — not just quoting verses, but living them.

When we feed the hungry, serve our community, or sit down with someone far from God — we’re standing on Scripture.
When we forgive when it’s hard, love when it’s inconvenient, and speak truth when it’s unpopular — we’re standing on Scripture.
When we walk into broken spaces and say, “I’ll stay with you until Jesus changes everything” — that’s standing on Scripture.

We are not called to win debates. We are called to win hearts.

Why This Matters Now

Our culture doesn’t need a louder church; it needs a more loving, more authentic, more faithful one.

If people can see what the Bible looks like lived out — not just quoted — they might start to believe it again.

Our calling isn’t to drag people to conviction; it’s to draw them to Christ.

And when they meet Him, Scripture will take care of itself — because the Author of the Word will speak to their hearts in ways we never could.

Standing on Scripture, Still

Standing on Scripture doesn’t mean shouting louder about what’s wrong with the world.
It means living so faithfully that the world can’t help but notice what’s right about Jesus.

We don’t isolate; we engage.
We don’t condemn; we care.
We don’t hide truth; we embody it.

And we remember that even when the world no longer believes the Bible, the Word of God still has the power to change lives — one relationship, one act of love, one step of faith at a time.

Because the Bible isn’t fragile. It’s not losing power. It’s just waiting for people like us to live it again.

Final Encouragement

So, church — let’s be people who start with grace and lead to truth.

Let’s stop expecting non-Christians to act like Christians and start modeling what it means to follow Christ.

Let’s take our mission seriously — to go, to make disciples, to love deeply, and to live boldly.

Because standing on Scripture doesn’t just mean believing it’s true. It means becoming the evidence that it is.

Passion DNA

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:11:40 GMT

�� Passion DNA: Who We Are and Why We Exist

Every living thing has DNA — the invisible code that determines its identity, function, and purpose.

It’s what makes an eagle soar, a rose bloom, and your heart beat.

The same is true for the Church.

God has written something deep into the heart of every believer and every local body of Christ — a spiritual DNA that defines who we are, what we believe, and how we live.

At Passion Church, we believe God has called us to rediscover and live out our DNA — to be a people who love deeply, live boldly, and shine brightly in our world.

We find this calling in Matthew 28:18–20 , where Jesus gives His followers the mission that still defines His Church today:

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

That’s our why.

It’s our spiritual DNA — to make disciples, love people, and bring the hope of Jesus to our city and beyond.

That’s why we’re launching a brand-new series called Passion DNA: Who We Are and Why We Exist, a six-week journey designed to help us all understand the heartbeat of Passion Church — our foundation, our mission, our culture, and our calling.

Our Foundation: It All Starts With Jesus

Everything begins and stands on Jesus.

Ephesians 2:4–5 reminds us,

“Because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in sin—it is by grace you have been saved.”

That’s our starting point and our ending point.

We aren’t here to promote a brand, a personality, or a program — we’re here to lift up the name of Jesus.

The Gospel is the heartbeat of Passion Church.

We were dead, but Jesus made us alive.

We didn’t earn it; grace gave it.

And now we exist to help others experience that same transforming grace.

When Jesus is the foundation, everything else finds its place.

Our Identity: Passionate About God and People

If our foundation is Jesus, then our identity is love.

When Jesus was asked to summarize all of Scripture, He said:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind… and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37–39)

That’s who we are.

Passion Church exists to love God fully and love people deeply.

And love isn’t just a feeling — it’s an action.

That’s why we’re not just talking about love; we’re showing it.

On Week 2 of this series, instead of having a normal service, we’re having Serve Sunday — a morning of worship, prayer, and community outreach.

We’ll gather for breakfast, share a short devotion, and then go into our city to mow lawns, clean homes, deliver meals, and care for our neighbors.

Because love that doesn’t move isn’t love at all.

Every act of service is an act of worship.

This is what we mean when we say:

“At Passion Church, service isn’t what we do — it’s who we are.”

Our Mission: Reaching People Far From God Through Authentic Relationships

Jesus said in Luke 19:10,

“The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

That’s His mission — and now it’s ours.

We exist to reach people far from God through authentic relationships.

Jesus didn’t shout His love from a distance — He walked into people’s lives, sat at their tables, listened to their stories, and invited them into His grace.

In a world where everyone’s connected online but isolated in real life, people are desperate for genuine connection.

That’s where the Church shines.

We reach people not by arguing louder, but by loving better.

We build bridges, not walls.

We go because Jesus came.

Every believer has a “one” — someone God has placed in your path who needs to experience His love through your relationship.

Who’s your one?

Who could encounter Jesus because you were willing to be real, compassionate, and present?

Our Culture: The Way We Live

Culture eats strategy for breakfast.

What we believe is vital, but what we live is what changes the world.

At Passion Church, our culture is simple:

we want to look like Jesus.

To do that, we’ve identified five defining values — our cultural DNA markers:

Passionate – We worship and serve with fire because our Savior is worthy.

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” – Romans 12:11

Dedicated – We stay committed when it’s not convenient.

“They devoted themselves…” – Acts 2:42

Compassionate – We see people through Jesus’ eyes.

“When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them.” – Matthew 9:36

Authentic – We lead with honesty and humility.

“We have renounced secret and shameful ways.” – 2 Corinthians 4:2

Generous – We live open-handed because God gave first.

“God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7

This is what it means to be part of the Passion Church family.

We’re not perfect, but we’re real.

We’re not driven by ego, but by mission.

We’re a people who live the Gospel every day, not just on Sundays.

Our Foundation of Truth: Built on the Word

In a world of shifting opinions, one thing remains unshakable: God’s Word.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 tells us,

“All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness…”

The Bible is not a suggestion book — it’s the living voice of God to His people.

It’s our authority, our guide, and our source of hope.

When we stand on the Word, we don’t crumble under pressure.

When we live by the Word, we’re not swayed by the latest trend or headline.

Truth doesn’t change with culture; it transcends it.

At Passion Church, we believe the Bible defines our beliefs, directs our actions, and anchors our DNA in eternal truth.

Our Response: Built to Last

In Matthew 7:24–27, Jesus told the story of two builders:

one built on rock, the other on sand.

Both faced storms, but only one stood firm.

The difference wasn’t in their talent or tools — it was in their foundation.

Jesus said,

“Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

We want to be that kind of people.

The kind who don’t just hear truth but live it.

The kind who don’t just attend church but build it.

We’re building something that lasts — lives, families, and a church that stands strong through every season.

This Is Our DNA

Over these six weeks, we’ll rediscover who we are and why we exist.

We’ll celebrate our foundation in Jesus, our identity of love, our mission to reach people through authentic relationships, our Christ-shaped culture, our confidence in Scripture, and our call to live it all out daily.

Because Passion Church isn’t a building or a brand — it’s a people.

People who believe that God’s not done with our city.

People who believe the local church is still the hope of the world.

People who believe Jesus changes everything.

Your Invitation

We want you to be part of this journey.

Whether you’ve been part of Passion Church for years or you’ve never set foot in our doors, this is your moment to see what God is doing here.

Join us for the Passion DNA Series, and discover what it means to belong to a church built on Jesus, rooted in truth, and fueled by love.

Come learn your part in the story God is writing through Passion Church.

Come rediscover your calling.

Come experience your spiritual DNA come alive.

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

– 1 Corinthians 3:11

This is who we are.

This is why we exist.

This is Passion DNA.

See you soon!

Pastor Josh

Are Churches Really Safe? What to Look for When Choosing a Church in Kernersville NC

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:35:59 GMT

Are Churches Really Safe?

Let's be honest: this question shouldn't have to be asked, but here we are. And if you're asking it, you're already being wise. Whether you're new to Kernersville, new to faith, or just looking for a church home where you can actually feel... well, safe, this conversation matters more than ever.

I've been pastoring for over a decade now, and I've seen both sides of this coin. I've watched churches get security spectacularly wrong, and I've seen what it looks like when a church creates genuine safety, not just the kind that keeps bad guys out, but the kind that lets hurting people in.

So let's talk about what real church safety looks like and what you should be looking for when you're church shopping in our little corner of North Carolina.

Physical Safety: More Than Just Locks and Cameras

Here's what I wish someone had told me when I started in ministry: church security isn't about creating a fortress, it's about creating a haven. There's a big difference.

A truly secure church should have done its homework. They should have conducted a security risk assessment, covering everything from their building layout to how they handle money on Sundays.

So, here is what to look for:

Are there greeters who clearly know what they're doing beyond just saying hello?

Do they have adequate lighting in the parking lot? (Trust me, this matters more than you think.)

Are doors managed well, meaning they know which ones should be locked and which ones shouldn't?

Is there a communication system in place for emergencies?

The parking lot is actually a big deal. I know it sounds weird, but criminals know that during church services, cars are left unattended for an hour or more at predictable times. A good church pays attention to this stuff.

Some churches hire professional security services. Others train volunteers with law enforcement or military backgrounds. Both can work great; what matters is that someone's actually thinking about it.

Emotional and Spiritual Safety: The Harder Conversation

Okay, here's where it gets real. Physical safety is the easier part. Emotional safety? That's where churches often struggle, and honestly, it's where the real damage happens.

I remember talking to a woman who told me, "Josh, I've been hurt by churches before. How do I know this place is different?" That question broke my heart and made me realize we needed to do better at showing, not just saying, that we're a safe place for broken people.

Red flags to watch for:

Leadership that never admits mistakes or shows vulnerability

Preaching that sounds like "we're right, everyone else is wrong" all the time

An absence of support ministries for real-life struggles

Green flags to look for:

Pastors who talk about their own failures and growth

Support groups for grief, divorce, addiction, or other life challenges

Leadership that includes diverse voices and perspectives

Teaching that's more about "here's what Scripture says" and less about "here's why we're better than them"

Before you ever step foot in a church building, there is an easy and effective way to learn more about them. Spend some time on its website. Listen to a few sermons online. Do they sound like people you'd want to have coffee with? Do they talk about helping hurting people, or do they mostly talk about how awesome their church is? Is the Bible a consistent focus during teaching? Are the messages relatable?

Leadership Structure: Character Over Charisma

This might be the most important thing I tell people: don't choose a church based on how polished the pastor's preaching is. I know a pastor who can make the phone book sound inspiring, but his church is an emotional disaster zone because he's never learned to say "I was wrong."

Look for leaders who demonstrate the "fruit of the Spirit": love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These aren't optional character traits for church leaders; they're non-negotiables.

Pay attention to how disagreements are handled. Every church has them; what matters is whether they're handled with grace or with pride. A healthy church can have people who disagree about secondary issues while still loving each other well.

Child Protection: Non-Negotiable Territory

If you have kids, this should be one of your first questions. And even if you don't have kids, how a church protects children tells you everything about their values.

Churches should have clear policies about background checks, two-adult rules in children's areas, and transparent procedures for reporting concerns. If they get defensive about these questions or act like asking is somehow distrustful, that is a red flag.

At Passion Church, we're actually grateful when parents ask these questions because it shows they're engaged and protective. That's exactly what we want. Our kids' ministry operates with full transparency because children's safety isn't negotiable.

The Practical Stuff: How to Actually Evaluate

Here's my advice when looking at a church to attend from this perspective:

Start online. Spend 30 minutes on their website. What do they emphasize? What do they barely mention? Do they sound like people you'd want to know?

Listen to sermons. Most churches post them online now. Listen to 2-3 recent messages. How does the pastor handle Scripture? How does he talk about people who disagree with him? Does he sound humble or arrogant?

Visit slowly. Don't feel pressured to jump in with both feet. Visit a few times, attend different types of gatherings, talk to regular people (not just the staff).

Ask good questions:

What's your church's approach to people who are struggling?

How do you handle disagreements within the leadership?

What support do you offer for people going through difficult seasons?

Can you tell me about your security procedures?

What Safety Looks Like at Passion Church

I'm obviously biased, but I think we've learned some things about creating genuine safety over the years. We've got trained volunteers who help with security, & uniformed officers at every service, but they're also the same people who'll help you find the bathroom or get your kids checked in.

We believe safety means creating space for people to ask hard questions, struggle with doubt, and work through real-life problems without judgment. It means having clear policies that protect everyone, especially the vulnerable.

Most importantly, it means understanding that church isn't supposed to be a place for perfect people; it's supposed to be a hospital for broken people. If you're looking for perfect, you're going to be disappointed. If you're looking for an authentic, grace-filled community where you can grow and heal, well, that's what we're shooting for.

Your 10-Minute Daily Challenge

Here's something you can start today: spend 10 minutes each day this week researching one church in the Kernersville area. Look up their website, listen to part of a sermon, read their values or beliefs page.

Don't worry about making a decision yet: just start getting familiar with what's out there. By the end of the week, you'll have a much better sense of which churches might be worth visiting in person.

The goal isn't to find the perfect church (spoiler alert: it doesn't exist), but to find a place where you can be known, loved, and challenged to grow in your faith.

Come Check Us Out

Look, I'd love for you to visit Passion Church, but more than that, I want you to find a church home where you can thrive and grow closer to Jesus Christ. If that's us, awesome. If it's not, I genuinely hope you find what you're looking for.

But if you want to see what we're about, come join us this Sunday at either 9:30am or 11:00am . We'll be the ones trying to create the kind of place we'd want our own families to attend: safe, authentic, and full of grace.

We are located at 612 Edgewood Street, Kernersville NC, 27284.

You're not just welcome here, you're wanted.

Come as you are, questions and all. Let's figure out this faith thing together.

Local Church Events in Kernersville You Can't Miss

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:52:34 GMT

Local Church Events for families You Can’t Miss in Kernersville

Looking for local church events near me in Kernersville? At Passion Church, we believe church is more than a Sunday service—it’s a community where people of all ages (even goofy ones) can grow, connect, and make a difference. That’s why throughout the year, we host events designed to help you build relationships and experience the love of Jesus in real ways.

Weekly Gatherings You’ll Love

Sunday Services (9:30 & 11:00 AM) – Two opportunities to worship with passionate music, practical teaching, Kids Church, and a youth small group Bible study during the second service.
Kids Church (both services) – A fun, safe place where children journey through the entire Bible every three years , learning God’s truth from start to finish.
Youth Small Group (11:00 AM) – Middle and high school students meet for Bible study and real-life discussions while adults are in service.
Small Groups for Adults – Whether weekly or monthly, small groups are a great way to build relationships and grow in faith. At Passion Church, groups meet at different times to fit your schedule:
Sunday afternoons or evenings
Monday evenings
Thursday nights
Monthly or bi-monthly on Friday nights or Saturday mornings

Special Events Throughout the Year

Passion Church is known for creating opportunities where the whole community can gather. Some highlights include:

Baptism Sundays – Every third Sunday of the month , we celebrate new life in Christ through water baptism.
Family Fun Days – Food, games, and activities designed to bring people together.
Holiday Services – Christmas and Easter services filled with hope, joy, and community.
Church Anniversary Celebration (August 25th) – Every year we celebrate what God has done in and through Passion Church with worship, fellowship, and joyful celebration.
Church Fellowship Meals – Throughout the year, we host regular gatherings for the church to share meals together, build community, and enjoy time as a church family.
Community Outreach Events – Service projects, food drives, and local partnerships where we share the love of Jesus beyond our walls.

A Safe and Welcoming Environment

At every event, safety and hospitality are top priorities. Our robust safety team —including a uniformed police officer on-site each Sunday —helps ensure peace of mind for families. Kids check-in is secure, with unique matching name tags for every parent and child , so your family is always cared for.

Come as You Are

Whether it’s a Sunday morning or a special event, there’s no dress code. At Passion Church, you’ll see everything from full suits to shorts and flip flops. Pastor Josh Tufte usually preaches in jeans and a t-shirt. The goal isn’t what you wear—it’s that you come ready to encounter Jesus and build meaningful relationships.

Stay Up to Date on Events

Want to know what’s happening this month at Passion Church? From kids’ events to adult gatherings, there’s always something going on. Check out our Events Page for the latest updates on upcoming opportunities to connect, serve, and grow.

Not Just Welcome—Wanted Here

Some churches or events may say you’re welcome but don’t go out of their way to make you feel at home. At Passion Church, it’s different. You’re not just welcome here—you’re wanted here.

We love growing, meeting new people, serving together, adding new small groups, and seeing new faces at every event. We genuinely love people and want anyone who is interested to join us as we follow after Jesus Christ.

Join Us at Passion Church

If you’re searching for local church events in Kernersville that are safe, family-friendly, and centered on God’s Word, Passion Church has a place for you.

�� Passion Church – Kernersville, NC
�� Service Times – Sundays at 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM

Come early, grab some coffee and snacks, and connect with people who will make you feel right at home.

Sunday Service Times in Kernersville: What to Expect at Passion Church

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:27:26 GMT

Sunday Service Times in Kernersville: What to Expect at Passion Church

If you’re searching for a church near me in Kernersville or looking for a welcoming, Bible-based community for your family, Passion Church is here for you. Whether you’re brand new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, we want Sundays to be the best day of your week.

When We Meet

We gather every Sunday at two service times designed to fit your schedule:

9:30 AM & 11:00 AM

Each service lasts about 60-75 minutes and includes modern worship, practical Bible teaching, and ministry opportunities for every age group.

Come Early for Coffee, Snacks, and Community

We encourage you to arrive a little early! Every Sunday, we provide coffee and light snacks so you can relax, meet new people, and build friendships. At Passion Church, we believe church isn’t just about attending a service—it’s about belonging to a family.

Kids Church – Growing in God’s Word

We believe kids aren’t just the church of tomorrow—they’re the church of today. That’s why Kids Church happens during both services, designed for infants through 5th grade.

Engaging worship and Bible lessons taught on their level

A curriculum that takes kids through the entire Bible every three years, giving them a big-picture view of God’s story

Fun activities in a safe, caring environment led by trained volunteers

Safe and Secure Kids Check-In

The safety of every child matters deeply to us. That’s why our kids’ check-in system gives each child and parent a unique matching name tag every Sunday. Parents keep their tag and must show it when picking up their child, ensuring your child is always released safely and securely.

A Safe Place for Your Family

Passion Church is committed to providing a safe environment for everyone who walks through our doors. Each Sunday, our robust safety team is on site, alongside a uniformed police officer, to ensure the protection of our children, families, and guests. You can worship with peace of mind knowing your loved ones are cared for.

Youth Small Group – Bible Study & Discussion

Middle and high school students have a special opportunity during the 11:00 AM service. While adults are in the main worship service, teens gather for a youth small group Bible study and discussion.

Real conversations about faith and life

Guided Bible study that helps students apply God’s Word

A safe space to ask questions and build friendships

What to Wear

One of the questions people often ask before visiting a new church is, “What should I wear?” At Passion Church, the answer is simple: come as you are.

Most of our church family dresses casually—jeans, t-shirts, or whatever makes you comfortable.

You’ll also see some people dressed in full suits and others in shorts and flip flops.

Our pastor, Josh Tufte, typically preaches in jeans and a t-shirt.

We care far more about you than what you wear. So whether you’re dressed up or dressed down, you’ll fit right in.

What to Expect on Sundays

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly volunteers who are ready to make you feel at home. Here’s what a typical Sunday looks like:

Welcoming atmosphere – Coffee, snacks, and people eager to connect.

Passionate worship – Our band leads with modern, Christ-centered music.

Relevant teaching – Pastor Josh preaches directly from the Bible in a way that applies to everyday life.

Community – Opportunities to connect, serve, and grow are available every week.

Why People Choose Passion Church in Kernersville

There are many Kernersville churches, but people choose Passion Church because:

We’re committed to preaching and teaching God’s Word.

We’re a community of authentic people striving to follow Jesus.

We provide ministries for the whole family—kids, teens, and adults.

We prioritize safety so you can focus on worship without worry.

We believe the church should be filled with hope, joy, and real relationships.

More Than Welcome — You’re Wanted Here

Some people and places may say they want to meet you, that they wish you would come, but when you do, they don’t go out of their way to make you feel at home. At Passion Church, it’s different. You’re not only welcome here, you’re wanted here.

We love growing, meeting new people, serving alongside others, adding new small groups, and seeing new faces every Sunday. More than anything, we genuinely love people and want anyone who is interested to join us as we follow after Jesus Christ.

Join Us This Sunday

If you’re looking for a Kernersville church that’s passionate about Jesus, welcoming to families, committed to God’s Word, and intentional about creating a safe, joyful environment, we’d love to meet you this Sunday.

�� Passion Church – 612 Edgewood St. Kernersville, 27284 NC

�� Service Times – Sundays at 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM

Come early, grab some coffee, connect with others, and experience a church where you truly belong.

How I prep my sermons

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 15:27:32 GMT

Sermon prep takes how long???

How I Write My Sermons

One of the questions I get asked most often as a pastor is: “How do you write your sermons each week?”

The truth is—it’s a process filled with study, prayer, creativity, and a lot of time staring at a blank page asking the Holy Spirit to lead me. In this post, I want to pull back the curtain a little bit. Sermon preparation isn’t some mystical thing that just happens magically, and it’s definitely not something that can be accomplished in 30 minutes. It takes intentional time and focus to hear God’s voice, understand His Word, and prepare to share it faithfully.

I usually aim to spend 15–18 hours a week preparing my sermons. But the reality is that ministry life is busy, and often I end up with closer to 8–10 hours of prep time. Whether it’s on the longer or shorter end, I’ve learned to trust that God can multiply the hours I give Him.

Here’s a look at what my typical week of sermon prep looks like:

1. Research (1–3 Hours)

The first step for me is always diving into the Word itself. I’ll spend 1–3 hours digging into the passage, studying the original language, exploring cultural and historical references, and looking at the context around the story.

This deep understanding of Scripture is what allows me to be more easily led by God into the message He has for Passion Church in Kernersville. When I know the subject, timeline, or history well, I find that God can work more broadly than if I’m walking in unprepared and ignorant. Preparation gives God room to expand the message.

I’ve also found that the more I prepare, the freer I become when preaching. A personal goal for me is to use my notes as a reference, not a crutch. The deeper I know the material, the less I have to rely on reading my notes word-for-word, which leaves more space for the Spirit to move in the moment.

2. Learning from Others (2–4 Hours)

After that, I usually spend 2–4 hours watching other pastors preach on similar passages or themes.

It’s worth noting: at Passion Church, we draw a significant amount of inspiration for sermons and series from other churches, and we recommend that others do the same—with permission and proper referencing. A great example is Life.Church’s Open Church Resource, which provides free sermon series, graphics, and a wealth of resources to support local churches.

Now, I don’t recommend stealing an entire church’s series and replacing your prep with their work. Nor do I recommend following someone else’s script word-for-word, because that can remove room for the Spirit to lead. But inspiration can come from others—and God can absolutely use their work to spark something new in you. You never know how He may choose to work through the Body of Christ.

3. Prayer, Worship, and Reflection (2–4 Hours)

A big part of sermon prep for me is not just information, but transformation. I have to let the message work in me before I can share it with you.

That means I’ll spend 2–4 hours in prayer, worship, and reflection, asking God to show me what He wants to say to Passion Church this week. During this time, I also go back through my notes and manuscript, reading them aloud. Doing this while praying and worshiping helps calm my mind, keeps my heart centered on God, and cements everything into place before I step on stage.

4. Practice, Editing, and Refining

On weeks when I have more time, I’ll split extra hours between practicing the delivery, watching more sermons for inspiration, and spending even more time in prayer and worship.

I also personally find that editing my jokes takes up a significant amount of time. The more I prepare, the shorter my sermons usually run and the more “acceptable” my jokes become. Humor is a big part of preaching for me. I believe God loves me in spite of me—and that’s a reason to be joyful! Because of that, many of my sermons include intentional humor. Our relationship with God should absolutely be one of respect, love, and submission, but it should also be full of humor and joy.

For me, preaching isn’t just about content—it’s about carrying the presence of God and making His Word come alive for people.

5. Using Helpful Tools

Something that has surprised me in recent years is how helpful AI tools have become in this process. I use AI for research, organization, and even structuring my thoughts. It’s not a replacement for the Spirit’s leading (and it never will be), but it has helped me use my time more effectively so I can spend more of it in prayer and preparation.

At the end of the day, sermon writing is not just about crafting words—it’s about hearing from God and faithfully communicating His truth. Whether I spend 18 hours or 8 hours preparing, I remind myself of Jesus’ words:

“Apart from me, you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

That’s why every sermon begins and ends with dependence on Him.

Looking for a Church in Kernersville?

If you’ve been searching online for a church near me in Kernersville, exploring Kernersville churches, or simply wondering about Christian churches near me, we’d love to invite you to Passion Church in Kernersville.

We’re a community of authentic people doing our best to follow after Jesus Christ. Every message is preached and taught from God’s Word, and every service is designed to help you take your next step with Him.

Join us in person or online for one of our services—you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere, meaningful worship, and teaching rooted in Scripture.

�� Learn more at www.passionchurchnc.com/PlanYourVisit

Biggest Mental Health Myths In Church (Destroyed)

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:49:36 GMT

Biggest Mental Health Myths in Church

When the Church Gets It Wrong: Confronting Mental Health Myths

For a complete list of sources, see the References section at the end of this post.

Sadly, the church can sometimes mirror culture by veering toward extremes. On one end, we dismiss mental‑health struggles as a lack of faith or prayer. Ed Stetzer warns that some leaders assume mental illness is caused by spiritual deficiency, leading to spiritual abuse when sufferers are told to “just pray it away.” Steve Austin shares that in his evangelical congregation, if you couldn’t “shake off” depression, you were told you weren’t praying enough; he even hid his medication because he feared judgment. Research shows that most pastors rarely talk about mental health, and many congregations have no plans to help families affected by it. In this environment, medication and counseling can be viewed with suspicion or outright hostility.

On the other side, some in our culture glorify mental illness, treating it as an identity badge.

Neither extreme helps.

The truth lies somewhere in between: mental‑health challenges are real and complex, but they’re not a sign of weak faith. The brain is an organ like any other; factors such as nutrition, exercise, and sleep affect its health. Competent therapy and appropriate medication can be gifts from God. Trusting God doesn’t rule out doctors or medicine. Prayer, worship, and Bible study remain invaluable , but they’re enhanced—not negated—by counseling, medication, healthy eating, and rest. As the church, we must acknowledge mental illness without glorifying it, encourage spiritual practices without dismissing medical ones, and offer compassion and support to those who struggle.

Myth 1 – “Christians shouldn’t struggle with mental health.”

Truth: You can love Jesus and still battle anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout. God cares about your mind and is committed to your wholeness.

Elijah’s story shatters this myth. After defeating the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18), he ran for his life when Jezebel threatened him. Exhausted, frightened, and discouraged, he begged God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). God didn’t rebuke him or tell him to “just pray more.” Instead, He met Elijah in his depression with compassion: an angel brought him food and water, then let him sleep. Later, God spoke not in earthquakes or fire but in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11‑13), reminding Elijah that He was still with him in the quiet moments of despair. Elijah’s experience shows that even faithful heroes can face mental‑health lows—and God doesn’t shame us for it. He meets us there and restores us.

Verses to remember: 1 Thessalonians 5:23‑24, Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 42:11, 1 Kings 19:4‑8.

Myth 2 – “Anxiety means you don’t trust God.”

Truth: Anxiety is a signal, not a sin. It invites you to bring your worries to God and trust Him to carry them.

One of the godliest people I know—someone whose life radiates grace—has fought depression for years. His love for Jesus is unmistakable: he prays faithfully, studies Scripture deeply, and lives out his faith in acts of service. Yet his struggle with anxiety and depression hasn’t gone away. Rather than undermining his faith, it’s refined it. His prayers are more honest, his empathy deeper, and his dependence on God more evident. He clings to passages like Philippians 4:6‑7—casting his anxiety on Christ and receiving a peace that surpasses understanding—and 1 Peter 5:7, trusting that God cares for him. Instead of viewing depression as a sign of spiritual failure, Let’s see it as a place where Christ meets us and continues to shape our lives.

His testimony is a living rebuttal to this myth, showing that genuine faith can flourish through mental‑health struggles.

Verses to remember: Philippians 4:6‑7, 1 Peter 5:7, 2 Chronicles 20:3‑12, Psalm 55:22.

Myth 3 – “Depression means there’s something wrong with your faith.”

Truth: Depression doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love. Your feelings are valid but not permanent; God’s compassion is new every morning.

This myth often springs from a well‑intentioned but ultimately misleading message: “If you just live right, pray more, and trust God, everything will be perfect.” Scripture never says that. Sometimes we sell Jesus like a quick fix or an escape from all troubles. Well‑meaning pastors or friends might promise that Jesus will make every problem disappear. But when depression, anxiety, or hardship inevitably arise, believers can feel confused, ashamed, or abandoned—thinking their faith must be deficient.

The Bible never promises an absence of suffering. Jesus Himself said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Following Him doesn’t shield us from pain; it means we never face pain alone. God did not promise days without pain or laughter without sorrow; He promised strength for the day and comfort in our tears. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us that God is with us and will uphold us, while 2 Corinthians 1:3‑4 calls Him “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” So the idea that “if I do everything right, my mental health will be perfect” isn’t just unrealistic—it’s unbiblical. Faith doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing; it guarantees a faithful Captain in the storm.

Verses to remember: Lamentations 3:21‑23, Psalm 34:18, Romans 8:38‑39, 1 Samuel 1:10.

Myth 4 – “If you worry, you lack faith.”

Truth: Jesus acknowledged our tendency to worry and offered a better way: trust your heavenly Father. Worry reveals where we need to grow, not how much faith we have.

We often equate faith with flawless certainty—believing without doubts or anxieties. That misunderstanding leads some to condemn any hint of worry as evidence of weak faith or divine displeasure. Yet Scripture and experience show the opposite. Emotions aren’t switches we flip on and off; they’re part of how God made us. Fr. Jim Van Vurst addresses this concern head‑on: it is not a sign of weak faith when we worry. True faith is rooted not in our shifting feelings but in a heart that chooses to trust God. Even Jesus, facing the cross, prayed in agony and fear. To pray and trust in God while feeling afraid or worried is, in fact, **a sign of great faith.**

Everyone worries about something—that doesn’t make us faithless; it makes us human. The key is how we respond. Instead of letting anxiety drive us to despair, we can see worry as an invitation to lean harder on Christ. The Bible repeatedly calls us to cast our cares on Him (Psalm 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7) and to trust God with all our heart (Proverbs 3:5‑6). Jesus invites, “Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” Author Alicia Bruxvoort notes that when we bring our burdens to Jesus, He lightens our load. Sometimes that looks like daily rhythms of prayer, reciting Scripture to shift our focus, or simply admitting our needs. Worry doesn’t dismiss faith; it can deepen it.

Verses to remember: Matthew 6:25‑34, Luke 12:22‑31, Psalm 46:10, Philippians 4:8.

Myth 5 – “Your thoughts control you.”

Truth: Thoughts are powerful, but they aren’t the boss of you. The Holy Spirit empowers you to renew your mind and take every thought captive.

Our minds can feel like runaway trains—unwelcome thoughts appear out of nowhere, and it often feels like we’re passengers rather than drivers. This myth feeds the lie that we are powerless against our thought patterns. In reality, Scripture and research affirm that we can redirect our thoughts.

Your life moves in the direction of your strongest thoughts.

Left unchecked, consistent thoughts become actions, actions become habits, and habits shape our character. That’s why Paul calls us to “take every thought captive… to make it obedient to Christ.”

Taking thoughts captive isn’t passive. It requires consistent, intentional direction and a steady diet of truth. A devotional on spiritual input uses the “garbage in, garbage out” concept from computer science to illustrate this. If we allow garbage to fill our hearts and minds, we reap anger, envy, and other destructive behaviors. But if we let God dwell in our hearts, follow His word, seek His help in prayer, and surround ourselves with Christ‑like people, our attitudes begin to display the fruit of the Spirit. Paul echoes this when he urges us to think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy.

Practically, that means feeding your mind with Scripture, prayer, and worship. Colossians 3:2, Philippians 4:8, and Romans 12:2 remind us to set our minds on things above and be transformed by renewing our minds. When we dwell on God’s truth—through daily reading, meditating on verses, singing worship songs—we gradually replace unhealthy thought loops with life‑giving ones. When negativity pops up, we can counter it with a verse or a prayer. Over time, the input of God’s Word and the practice of prayer and worship reshape our thought patterns. Our lives truly will move in the direction of our strongest thoughts—so let’s anchor those thoughts in God’s goodness.

Verses to remember: Romans 8:5‑6, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Philippians 4:8, Psalm 103:1‑5.

Myth 6 – “Trauma means you’re broken beyond repair.”

Truth: Trauma leaves scars, but it doesn’t define you—God does.

Genesis teaches that humanity was created in God’s image and likeness. That identity isn’t erased by abuse, betrayal, or bad choices. **You are not defined by your past, your heredity, or your environment; you are a beloved child of God**. Jesus even reframed a man’s lifelong blindness as an opportunity “that the works of God might be displayed” (John 9:3). God doesn’t just call you—He qualifies you. One article notes that God “rarely calls the qualified but qualifies the called,” promising to equip us with everything needed to do His will. Our mistakes, failures, and traumas don’t disqualify us from His service; they often become the very places where God reveals His grace. The gospel offers sustaining hope and healing, teaching that our identity is **not in our past but in Christ who has redeemed us**. The Bible acknowledges trauma yet refuses to let it define us.

Redemption also means God forgives completely. In several New Testament passages, the Greek verb *aphiēmi* (“forgive”) is in the perfect tense, indicating a past action with ongoing results. When Jesus says your sins are forgiven, it isn’t just for the past—it’s a once‑for‑all act that covers past, present, and future sins. Our failures no longer define us because God has decisively removed them.

Finally, trauma can be a place of divine purpose. Paul wrote that intense affliction taught him “to rely not on ourselves but on God” and that his suffering produced “an eternal weight of glory”. The same article reminds us that our trauma doesn’t save us; Jesus does. God doesn’t cause abuse or tragedy, but He can redeem our wounds by using what we’ve learned to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3‑4).

Your scars can become a source of compassion and testimony that furthers His kingdom.

Trauma is real, but it isn’t your identity. God assigns your worth at creation, seals it through redemption, and continues to forgive and heal. Your story—even its painful chapters—can be part of a larger story of grace.

Verses to remember: 2 Corinthians 1:3‑4, Romans 8:28, Isaiah 61:1‑3, Psalm 147:3.

Myth 7 – “Burnout means failure—you just need to try harder.”

Truth: Burnout is a warning light, not a badge of shame.

It’s easy to think we’re failing when exhaustion hits. Experts emphasise that burnout is not a personal weakness but a reaction to chronic, unresolved stress . Psychologist Britt Slief puts it plainly: “Burnout is not a sign of weakness, but a warning signal from both body and mind that fundamental change is needed”. Treating burnout as laziness ignores the alarm our bodies are sounding.

From my perspective, burnout rarely stems from having “too many things on our plate.” It occurs when we don’t complete enough tasks and don’t leave margin for rest. Unfinished work keeps our minds spinning, and a schedule packed too tightly wears us down. Research‑backed advice mirrors this: establishing routines, prioritising tasks, and breaking them into smaller steps can reduce overwhelm and increase satisfaction as you progress. Regular breaks and self‑care—sleep, exercise, mindfulness, joyful activities—replenish mental energy.

Rest looks different for each person. For some, it’s a long run or a workout; for others, it’s reading a novel, spending time with family, gardening, or even playing video games. Whatever replenishes your mind and soul can be an act of worship and self‑care. Intentionally finish what’s necessary, say “no” to what isn’t, and carve out margin for true rest. Then burnout becomes what it was meant to be—a warning light leading you toward healthier rhythms rather than an indictment of your strength.

Verses to remember: 1 Kings 19:3‑12, Matthew 11:28‑30, Psalm 127:2, Mark 6:31.

Summary

Mental‑health challenges are rising, but they’re not a failure of faith. As a church, we must resist both romanticizing mental illness and dismissing it. We honor God when we embrace spiritual practices and the common graces of counseling, medicine, healthy habits, good sleep, and supportive community. Christ calls us to walk in truth, compassion, and hope—bringing our whole selves, including our minds, before Him.

With Love,

Josh Tufte

References ↴

1. churchandmentalhealth.com

2. vox.com

3. gotquestions.org

4. leeanngtaylor.com

5. proverbs31.org

6. stanthony.org

7. wohbm.org

8. humbleddaily.com

9. thebiblespeakstoyou.com

10. biblicalcounseling.com

11. greekwordstudies.blogspot.com

12. kidscentralinc.org

13. speexx.com

14. openup.com

Pre-Decide | Your Choices Shape Your Life | Passion Church Kernersville

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:31:21 GMT

Pre-Decide: How Your Choices Shape Your Life – Passion Church Kernersville NC

If you’re searching for a Christian church in Kernersville, NC, or googling “church near me” hoping for something real, something refreshing, something life-giving, Passion Church might be exactly what you’ve been praying for.

Over the past several weeks, we’ve been walking through a powerful teaching series called Pre-Decide: Better Choices, Better Life. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this:

"The quality of your decisions will, by and large, determine the quality of your life."

This isn’t just self-help—it’s biblical truth. And at Passion Church Kernersville NC, we’re learning how to make better decisions not based on our emotions, pressure, or past failures—but on God’s purpose and truth.

What Is "Pre-Decide" About?

We’ve all made decisions we regret. And most of the time, it’s not because we’re bad people—it’s because we weren’t ready when the moment came. We reacted instead of responding.

But what if you could pre-decide your values, your boundaries, and your direction before life put you on the spot?

That’s the heart of this series.

“When faced with ______, I have pre-decided to ______.”

This simple declaration has helped so many people in our church build new rhythms of spiritual strength and personal integrity. It’s helped people overcome temptation, step into generosity, grow in consistency, and draw closer to Jesus.

Why Pre-Decide?

Because life is too important to drift.

Because the world is full of distractions and options that look appealing in the moment but lead to regret in the end.

And because you don’t rise to the level of your intentions, you fall to the level of your decisions.

Here are just a few core truths we’ve explored together:

1. When your values are clear, your decisions are easier.

If you don’t define your direction, the world will define it for you. At Passion Church, we’re learning to live by God’s values, not culture’s suggestions.

2. You don’t win in the moment—you win before the moment.

Whether it’s temptation, conflict, or spiritual habits—deciding beforehand how you’ll respond makes all the difference. This is how Daniel in the Bible stayed faithful under pressure (Daniel 1:8, Daniel 6:10).

3. You are not your emotions—you are who God says you are.

We live in a world that teaches us to follow our feelings. But Scripture teaches us to follow Jesus. Pre-deciding based on God’s identity and purpose for your life sets you free from emotional whiplash and spiritual stagnation.

6 Decisions That Can Change Your Life

Each week at Passion Church, we’ve made bold declarations that reframe how we live:

I am ready. (I will be prepared when temptation comes.)

I am consistent. (I will do what honors God again and again.)

I am devoted. (I will seek God first.)

I am generous. (I don’t wait to give—I plan to give.)

I am faithful. (I will multiply what God has entrusted to me.)

I am a finisher. (I don’t quit when it’s hard.)

And in our new Week 6 addition, we’re declaring:

I choose joy. (No matter what, I will rejoice in the Lord. – Philippians 4:4–9)

This Isn’t Just About Self-Discipline—It’s About Spiritual Transformation

Pre-deciding isn't about willpower. It’s about identity.

You are who God says you are. You are loved. You are chosen. You are called.

And when you anchor your decisions to the truth of who He is and who He’s made you to be, your life changes from the inside out.

This series has been a game-changer for our church family—and we believe it could be a game-changer for you too.

A Church Near You That Feels Like Home

If you're looking for a church near me that teaches the Bible, loves people deeply, and challenges you to grow in your faith, Passion Church Kernersville NC is here for you.

We’re not interested in playing church—we’re here to be the Church: bold, joyful, real, and passionate.

Here’s what to expect when you visit:

Biblically-based messages that make sense in everyday life

Powerful worship that helps you connect with God

Incredible kids & youth ministries

A culture of authenticity, growth, and community

Real Stories, Real Growth

“Been a part of this amazing journey from the beginning when we were at the picnic tables at Triad Park to current location. This is my church family, not all know me, but they treat you like family. The members say hello, smile at you, make you welcomed. I have been pulled closer to God, I personally have been dealing with a lot and these extraordinary people I call my family have helped me with their kind words, their hugs, just listening, and it makes a difference, it pulls you to the light when you feel your in the dark place. I hope you come and see why the Passion Church is a welcoming church that does not judge and makes you feel at home and brings you closer to God.” – Lindsay S.

“Passion Church - the name says it all. Starting with Pastor Josh, the authentic, passionate attitude can be seen and experienced through the entire worship team, the members, the partners, and the volunteers who make this church a great place to worship. God is at the center of our worship, and many dedicated and generous individuals put forth a great effort to help point others to a genuine relationship with Jesus. Believing, trusting, and obeying God, being generous, and helping others in need - that is what it's all about - and that is what you will find at Passion Church.” – Ed P.

“From the moment you get out of your car, someone is there to welcome you before you enter the building. I dare say that if you are not greeted by at least 10 people on the way to your seat, you had to try to avoid them. This is the most welcoming church that I have ever seen. Not only that, the people are authentic and not just putting on a show. The workship is raw and real. The messages are shared with love and a genuine heart full of compassion for Jesus and people. I am proud to call Passion Church my church home.” – Paul B.

Join Us This Sunday

�� Location: Passion Church, Kernersville, NC

�� Service Times: 9:30 am & 11:00 am

�� Kids Church: Passion Kids for birth–5th grade

�� Website: www.passionchurchnc.com

Your Next Right Step

You don’t have to drift through life. You don’t have to be a victim of your past or your feelings.

You can pre-decide to become the person God created you to be.

So if you’re searching for a Christian church in Kernersville NC or a church near me where real people are experiencing real change through Jesus—come visit Passion Church.

We’d love to meet you. Better yet, we’d love to walk alongside you as you pre-decide to follow Jesus in every part of your life.

Made New: The Power and Purpose of Baptism

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:34:19 GMT

Made New: The Power and Purpose of Baptism

There’s a moment in every believer’s journey that marks more than just a personal decision—it marks a divine transformation. Baptism is that moment.

It’s more than a ritual. It’s more than a tradition. Baptism is a command from Jesus, a celebration of new life, and a powerful expression of the salvation we’ve received. If you've ever wondered why baptism matters, let’s explore its incredible significance together.

A Commanded Step of Obedience

Jesus didn’t leave baptism as an optional expression of faith. In fact, one of His final commands to the disciples was this:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit...”

— Matthew 28:19

Baptism is not just a symbol—it’s a sacred step of obedience. It’s how we publicly say, “I belong to Jesus.” When we go under the water, we identify with Jesus’ death. When we rise out of the water, we proclaim His resurrection power alive in us.

The Moment of Washing and Receiving

Scripture takes it even further. Baptism isn’t just a public sign—it’s also where something supernatural takes place.

In Acts 2:38, Peter declares:

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

What a breathtaking promise! Baptism is the biblical moment where the stain of sin is washed away—not because of the water, but because of the work of Jesus. It’s the moment we receive the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, empowering us to live a new life, full of purpose and passion for God.

A Line in the Sand — A Flag in the Ground

Baptism is not just for the brand-new believer—it’s also a powerful point of rededication for those who have drifted and are ready to return to Jesus with their whole heart.

Sometimes we need a moment to say:

“This is it. No more compromise. No more wandering. I’m all in again.”

Baptism can be your defining moment. It’s the spiritual act of planting your flag and declaring, “From this point forward, I am living for Christ—unashamed, unafraid, and unshakable.”

Whether you’ve walked with Jesus for years or just come back after a hard season, baptism can serve as your holy reset. A declaration to your family, your church, the enemy, and even to your own soul that you are His.

Not Just a Step—A Statement

Baptism is a line in the sand. It boldly proclaims:

“I’ve been raised to life. My past is gone. My future is in Jesus.”

It’s the wedding ring of our relationship with Christ—an outward expression of an inward commitment. It tells the world, “I’m not who I used to be. I’m brand new in Christ.”

Why Wait?

If you’ve accepted Jesus but haven’t taken this step, know this: Baptism is not about being perfect. It’s about being obedient.

It’s not the finish line of faith—it’s the starting line of a Spirit-filled life.

Whether you're being baptized for the first time or coming back to rededicate your life to Christ, this moment can be your defining spiritual milestone. Don’t let hesitation rob you of what God wants to do in you—and through you—right now.

You’re Invited

If you’re ready to be baptized—or even if you just want to learn more—we’re here for you. At Passion Church, we believe baptism is a party in heaven and on earth. Every time someone takes that step, we rejoice like crazy… because we know the power of what’s happening.

Let this be your moment.

Be made new. Be washed. Be filled. Be baptized.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Grace & Truth: The Heartbeat of Passion Church

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:45:00 GMT

Starting with Grace, Leading to Truth: The Heartbeat of Passion Church

I will never forget an encounter that changed my life.

For this blog, we’re going to say it was a day I was talking with Tammy. Tammy was a teen I had been working with at my gym, training her in self-defense and fitness. She was precious—tender-hearted, kind, smart, and full of promise. All the reasons her dad wanted her to be equipped to protect herself in today’s world.

Over the years, we built a strong friendship. She was like a little cousin to me. But one day, she came in visibly upset. We went through the workout as usual, but something was off. Jokes fell flat, silent tears were shed, and her whole demeanor had shifted. At the end, I gently asked if something was wrong.

It was like a dam broke.

Tammy opened up and shared something deeply personal—she was struggling with homosexual thoughts and urges. Wanting guidance, she had confided in her pastor. But instead of compassion, she was met with condemnation. She described nearly two hours of being berated, judged, and warned she would burn in hell if she didn’t repent. He told her she could no longer serve at the church if this was the path she’d chosen.

But here’s the thing—she hadn’t chosen anything. She was experiencing confusing emotions and looking for help. She loved the church. She loved her friends there. She loved Jesus. She came seeking understanding and got rejection. That was the last time she set foot in that church.

I sat there, heartbroken and angry. Tammy wasn’t rebellious—she was wounded. She needed grace, not a spiritual beatdown. And there I was, a Bible-believing Christian and conservative church pastor, holding the tension of truth and compassion in my hands. I believed in the biblical view of sex and marriage. But what about grace? What about loving her through a confusing season, mentoring her with wisdom, helping her process powerful emotions—not by affirming them as right, but by acknowledging them as real and pointing her toward Jesus?

That day, something changed in me.

I knew that something had to shift. And it needed to start here—with a new way of thinking. One rooted in Jesus. One that starts with grace and leads to truth.

Why Grace Comes First

Jesus modeled this for us. Whether it was the woman caught in adultery, Zacchaeus the tax collector, or Peter after his denial, He led with compassion before correction. He didn’t ignore sin—but He didn’t start there. He met people with grace first.

Because grace softens hearts. It disarms fear. It invites relationship.

That’s what we want people to experience at Passion Church. Whether it’s their first Sunday or their first time back in years, we want them to know: there is grace for you here.

Grace Isn’t the End Goal

But grace isn’t the destination—it’s the invitation. Because grace without truth may comfort us for a moment, but it will never transform us for eternity.

Truth without grace leads to Hell—but grace without truth doesn’t exist.

That might sound bold, but it’s biblical. If we base our salvation on truth alone—just law, just right and wrong—then we fail every time. Romans says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” If truth were the only measure, then by truth alone, we are all heading toward separation from God.

But grace steps in. Grace makes a way.

Yet grace that ignores truth isn't love. You cannot love someone and withhold the truth from them. That’s not compassion—it’s cruelty dressed in kindness.

It’s like this: imagine I tell my daughter not to touch the electrical outlet. I warn her over and over. I even smack her hand away when she reaches for it because I love her and want to protect her. But then I walk away, and she touches it. She gets hurt. When I come back, I don’t shame her—I comfort her. I care for her, tend to her wounds, and get her the help she needs.

But imagine if, at the end of that moment, I said, “Honey, if the light socket makes you feel good, go ahead and touch it again.”

That wouldn’t be love—that would be abandonment.

Love protects those it loves. Love accepts the mistake, but it doesn’t affirm it. That’s the heart of Jesus. Grace wraps its arms around you in your pain, but truth gently guides you toward freedom.

We need both.

Leading to Truth

Truth isn’t a weapon—it’s a key. It unlocks the door to freedom. Jesus said, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

We don’t use truth to shame—we use it to shepherd.

At Passion Church, we believe you don’t have to sacrifice love to speak the truth, and you don’t have to water down truth to be loving. We walk with people through real struggles—just like Tammy—and we don’t abandon them to those struggles, nor do we affirm the lie that they are defined by them. We mentor, we guide, and we let the Holy Spirit do the heart work that only He can do.

This is what real discipleship looks like: walking together, in grace, toward truth.

What This Looks Like at Passion Church

It looks like real stories—of redemption, healing, and restoration.

It’s the single mom who finds community before anyone asks about her past.

It’s the teenager wrestling with identity who finds love before receiving direction.

It’s the addict who walks into a service hungover and walks out full of hope.

From our welcome team to our worship, from the sermon to the follow-up, every part of our church culture is built to reflect this value: we start with grace, and we lead to truth.

Why This Matters

The world is confused about love and truth. Some churches speak truth so loudly they forget to love. Others love so broadly they forget to speak truth.

But we believe the Gospel is better than that.

Jesus meets us where we are, but He never leaves us there. And as His church, we’re called to do the same.

At Passion Church, our mission is to help people become fully alive in Jesus. That starts with grace. But it never ends there.

Final Invitation

Maybe you’ve felt the sting of truth without grace. Maybe you’ve been handed grace without direction.

Maybe you’re like Tammy—longing for a church that sees the struggle, speaks the truth, and never lets go of your hand in the process.

If that’s you, know this: you are welcome here.

There is grace for you. And there is truth that will change everything. Let’s walk that journey together.

When Heaven Meets the Ordinary: The Power of Daily Prayer

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 14:27:09 GMT

When Heaven Meets the Ordinary: The Power of Daily Prayer

The past few years have been some of the hardest I’ve ever faced.

They’ve been filled with tension, stress, loss, and grief—both personally and spiritually. But nothing prepared me for the day I lost my sister, Nia, on January 15, 2024. That kind of devastation cuts deep. I was broken, grieving, and numb… but life didn’t slow down.

My ministry was changing rapidly, my ex-wife and I had just separated, and the businesses I own were starving for attention and direction. I felt like I was standing in the middle of a storm with no place to hide. And the weight of it all was too much for me to carry.

I couldn’t stop. But I also couldn’t survive on my own strength.

And so—I prayed.

Not perfect prayers. Not long prayers. Sometimes just whispered, tear-filled prayers. But they were real. They were raw. And they were lifesaving.

Prayer didn’t make the grief disappear, but it became the foundation I stood on when everything else was shaking. And slowly, through daily prayer, God began building something new in me—a fresh strength, a deeper dependence, and the resilience to lead through one of the most sacred and stretching seasons of my life.

Now, more than ever, I’m convinced: how we start our day matters.

When I start my day with God—everything changes. My mood shifts. My patience increases. My decisions improve. My interactions with others are more grace-filled. I become a better father, pastor, and follower of Jesus.

That’s the power of daily prayer. It’s not just a spiritual routine—it’s survival. It’s strength. It’s a daily invitation into God’s presence where everything begins to realign.

Why Daily Prayer Matters

1. Prayer connects us to the heart of God.

Every relationship needs communication. God isn’t looking for perfect words—He’s looking for your heart. Daily prayer is how we align our minds with His truth, how we hear His whisper, and how we stay grounded in the middle of life’s chaos.

2. Prayer brings peace in the middle of pressure.

Life is loud. Prayer is where the volume gets turned down. Philippians 4:6–7 tells us not to be anxious about anything, but instead to pray about everything—and in return, God gives us peace that doesn’t make sense to the world. That kind of peace only comes through consistent connection with Him.

3. Prayer invites God into the details.

From big decisions to small frustrations, when we invite God into our day—every part of it—we start to see Him show up in unexpected places. Your commute. Your meetings. Your parenting moments. Your late-night thoughts. Prayer transforms “just another day” into holy ground.

4. Prayer transforms us.

Prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind—it’s about allowing Him to change our hearts. It shapes our character, stretches our faith, and reminds us who we are and whose we are.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

You don’t need perfect words. You don’t need a script. You just need a moment—and a willing heart. Pray while driving. Pray while washing dishes. Pray with your kids before school. Start your day with it. End your day with it. Write it out. Whisper it. Sing it. Sit silently and just listen.

There’s no wrong way to pray—only an open invitation from your Father to draw near.

The Power of Pre-Deciding

Here’s a game-changer: pre-decide.

When you pre-decide that you're going to start your day with God and keep Him involved, that decision begins to shape your direction. Over time, it becomes your normal, not your exception. You don’t have to debate it every morning. You’ve already decided—God comes first.

Building that habit takes time and consistency, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, you can start by making it simple and obvious:

Simple: Download the YouVersion Bible App and start with the Verse of the Day. Pair it with a few minutes of reflection and prayer. That’s 5–8 minutes total. You’ve got that.

Obvious: Set a daily reminder in the app. It’ll pop up on your phone at the same time each day. That little nudge might be all it takes to build a powerful new rhythm.

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight—just choose one small step, and keep showing up. God meets us in the simple and the steady.

A Simple Prayer to Start With

“God, today I give you my attention. Speak to me, guide me, walk with me. Help me see people the way You do, and give me strength for whatever comes. I trust You, and I love You. Amen.”

Powerful Bible Verses About Prayer

�� Philippians 4:6–7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

�� 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

�� Jeremiah 29:12

“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.”

�� Matthew 6:6

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

�� James 5:16

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

�� Romans 12:12

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

�� Psalm 145:18

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”

�� Mark 11:24

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

�� Luke 5:16

“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

You're Invited

If you're reading this and wondering where to start—start with prayer. Start with showing up. Start by saying, “God, I want more of You.”

And if you don’t have a church home, or you’ve been searching for a fresh start, we’d love to have you at Passion Church.

We meet every Sunday at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM, and whether it’s your first time walking into a church or you’ve been following Jesus for years—you are welcomed and wanted here.

Come as you are. Bring a friend. Bring your questions. Bring your heart.

Let’s pursue God together.

Josh Tufte

UNshakable

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:47:09 GMT

Unshakable: A Faith That Stands in the Fire

Introduction

How do you live for God when everything around you pushes you to compromise? How do you keep trusting when you’re under attack, waiting in silence, or staring down fiery trials?

That’s what Daniel and his friends faced when King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem and dragged them into Babylon. They were young, faithful, and full of potential—but found themselves immersed in a godless culture. Yet through every test, they stood unshakable.

At Passion Church, we believe God is still raising up people who won’t bow to culture but will stand with conviction, love, and truth. This four-week series is a survival guide for the soul, a faith builder for hard seasons, and a call to be courageous even when the fire gets hot.

�� We want to thank our friends at Life.Church for their powerful series also titled “Unshakable,” which inspired the foundation of our own message series. We are grateful for ministries that share resources so the Kingdom of God can be built together.

Series Overview: Unshakable – Living for God in a Culture That Doesn’t

Week 1: Living for Jesus in a Culture of Compromise

Daniel 1:1–19

Daniel was a teenager ripped from his home and indoctrinated in a foreign land. Babylon tried to change his name, identity, and loyalty—but Daniel resolved not to defile himself. He didn’t rage or protest; he stood strong and loved well.

�� Key Thought: If we trade our convictions for convenience, we risk losing the very foundation of who we are in Christ.

�� Application: Make pre-determined resolutions that honor God before you're pressured. Remember: You might live in Babylon, but you don't have to let Babylon live in you.

Week 2: When You’re Under Attack

Daniel 6:1–23

Daniel served four kings across three empires with unwavering integrity. At 80+, he still prayed daily—and that prayer life got him thrown into a lion’s den. His consistency made him a target, but also made him trustworthy before God and man.

�� Key Truth: A spiritual attack isn't a sign you're doing something wrong—it might mean you're doing something right.

�� Takeaway: Stand with integrity, trust with consistency, and honor God with faithfulness. God may not always save you from the lions’ den, but He will be with you in it.

Week 3: A Faith That Has Been Tested Is a Faith That Can Be Trusted

Daniel 3:1–30

When the music played and everyone bowed, three young men stood tall. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego wouldn’t worship the golden image—no matter the cost. Their courage got them thrown into the furnace, but in the fire, they met Someone else… the Son of God.

�� Bottom Line: God doesn’t always deliver you from the fire, but He will always meet you in it.

�� Application: Even if God doesn’t do what you hoped—still believe. Your stand might just be the spark for someone else’s salvation.

Week 4: When God Seems Slow – While You’re Waiting, God Is Still Working

Daniel 10:1–19

Daniel fasted and prayed for 21 days, with no response. But the moment he began praying, heaven started moving. Behind the scenes, angels were battling forces of darkness. God wasn’t ignoring him—He was working.

�� Encouragement: A waiting season is never a wasted season with God.

�� Reminder: If you’re discouraged, remember this—you are precious to God. He hears your prayers. He’s moving even when you can’t see it. Hold on. Be strong. Peace is coming.

Conclusion

Unshakable isn’t just a sermon series—it’s a declaration of who we are becoming. Faith-filled. Bold. Anchored. Whether you’re walking through the fire or waiting in the silence, Jesus is with you—and He’s building something unshakable inside you.

We’d love to see you at Passion Church this Sunday!

Join us for one of our two services—9:30 AM or 11:00 AM—and come expecting to be encouraged, equipped, and reminded that there is a God in heaven.

Come ready. Bring a friend. Let's learn together how to stand when the world shakes.

With love and excitement,

Josh Tufte

From the Park to a Packed House: 8 Months of God’s Faithfulness at Passion Church

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 19:45:57 GMT

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Eight months ago, a group of 87 people gathered in a park with some chairs, a dream, and a whole lot of faith. It was hot, a little chaotic, and absolutely beautiful. That first gathering on August 25th, 2024 wasn’t about production—it was about presence. God’s presence. And wow, has He been present.

Since that day, Passion Church has grown into something only God could write. From 87 people in a park to two Sunday services starting in January 2025, we’ve seen God move in undeniable ways. And in March—our official Launch Month—we broke 200 people in attendance on a Sunday for the first time. Two services. Over 200 people. All in just eight months. That’s not strategy or hype—that’s the Holy Spirit moving.

We’ve celebrated 14 baptisms—each one a story of redemption, of old life buried and new life raised. And we’ve witnessed dozens of people make Christ-centered decisions—not just for themselves, but for their families and friends. Decisions to live fully for Jesus, to lead differently, love intentionally, and become a light in their homes and communities. That’s what we prayed for. That’s what we live for.

We’ve also seen what it looks like when the Church becomes the hands and feet of Jesus. Nearly 100 people serve faithfully every month, logging thousands of hours of volunteer time—setting up, greeting, praying, leading kids, and more. All that time has translated into hundreds of pounds of food given to those in need, nearly 200 meals cooked and served, and countless prayers, hugs, and hours of support poured out over people who just needed someone to show up. And Passion Church keeps showing up.

Because that’s our mission: to reach people far from God. And to do that, we are sold out on being passionate about two things—God and people. Everything we do flows from that. Every service, every serve day, every prayer, every message—it’s all about drawing people closer to the heart of God and showing them they’re not just welcome here, they’re wanted here.

And it's not just within our walls (or rented spaces). We've sent out more than a dozen people on local missions, serving disaster victims and showing up with hands ready to help and hearts ready to love. That’s the kind of church we want to be: one that goes.

The truth is, every number has a name. Every decision has a backstory. Every Sunday is sacred. We’ve watched God take our small “yes” and do immeasurably more than we could’ve imagined (Ephesians 3:20 kind of stuff). And the best part? This is just the beginning.

As we come to our first Easter Celebration as a church, we want you, your family, your friends, your coworkers—everyone—to know: you are welcomed and wanted here at Passion Church. Join us for one of our two services at 9:30 AM or 11:00 AM every Sunday. Come as you are. There’s a seat for you.

If you’ve been part of this journey—setting up, leading teams, praying, giving, inviting friends—thank you. Passion Church is what it is because of what God is doing through you.

If you’re just finding us, or maybe you’ve been on the fence: now’s the time. There’s room. There’s purpose. There’s a place for you in what God’s doing here.

Let’s keep going. Let’s keep loving. Let’s keep building. Passion Church was never about making a name for ourselves—it’s always been about lifting high the name of Jesus. And after eight months, I can say this with confidence:

God. Is. Just. Getting. Started.

with love,

Josh Tufte

Happy Three Month Birthday (Well, early)

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 12:41:36 GMT

A Reason To Celebrate: Three Months (Nearly) of Incredible Growth and Community Impact

Hey everyone! Can you believe it? Passion Church is approaching its three-month birthday, and I'm excited to share everything we've experienced together as a community! From heartwarming baptisms to generous contributions to disaster recovery, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Buckle up as we dive into our milestones and what makes our church a vibrant place to grow!

A Milestone Worth Celebrating!

Three months may seem like a short time, but it's been a whirlwind of blessings, connections, and spiritual growth for Passion Church! Not long ago, we were having our first meetings in the park, and the anticipation of this new creation buzzed in the air as we gathered to worship. As we step into this new season, let's take a moment to reflect on all that God has done in our midst.

See more below photos...

Five Baptisms: A Testament to Faith

One of the most exciting highlights of these first three months has been the five baptisms we've celebrated! Each baptism tells a beautiful story of transformation, courage, and new beginnings. Watching our members publicly declare their faith was incredibly moving. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces as they stepped into the water, surrounded by loved ones, friends, and our supportive church family, was fantastic.

Their testimonies were powerful reminders of God's love and the life-changing work that He is doing in our lives. It's a joy to witness people taking such a significant step in their Christian walk, and I have no doubt that more will come in the future! Paired with our kid's group doing a worship song that morning, it was a Sunday to remember!

Generosity in Action: Hurricane Disaster Relief For Western NC

Our community has shown tremendous heart and generosity, especially in the wake of the recent hurricane. It's been a challenging time for many, but I'm proud to say that Passion Church stepped up in a big way!

From food drives and traveling to volunteer to monetary donations, the generosity we've witnessed speaks volumes about the commitment to love our neighbors and stand alongside those in need. It's heartwarming to see everyone rallying together, proving that we can make a significant impact when we join forces. Whether it was sharing a kind word, volunteering our time, or donating resources, each act of kindness has helped heal and restore our community.

Progress Through Our Training Phase

As we navigate these formative months, our training phase has also been met with enthusiasm and dedication. The goal is to learn who we are as a new church and equip everyone with the tools and resources to grow in their faith and serve others effectively. Here at Passion, we exist to reach those far from God; the last several weeks have been dedicated to bettering ourselves and learning HOW we will do this at Passion. It has been a joy to witness our members engaging in various training sessions, learning about different aspects of ministry, and discovering their unique spiritual gifts.

Each participant has embraced the opportunity to dive deeper into their faith, exploring scriptural truths and building relationships with one another. An encouraging atmosphere has formed, where questions are welcomed, and discussions flourish. The dedication and Passion shown by our community are paving the way for even more exciting developments in the future.

Upcoming Events: Building Momentum

As we look forward to the coming months, we couldn't be more thrilled about what's on the horizon! We have some exciting events planned that will strengthen our community, deepen our connections, and spread joy!

Serve Sunday: This is a chance for us to put our hands and feet where our mouths are. Sunday, November 10th, we will meet at the VFW for breakfast before breaking up into groups and splitting off into different service projects. This is a chance for us to serve alongside our families, friends, and church practically and powerfully. More details will be coming out in an email later this week and this Sunday during service. We will have multiple service opportunities for all ages so our kids can also be involved.

Volunteer Teams: As we get closer to launch, we are expanding volunteer teams and need your help. Many people have offered to help, and now it's time to act on that. If you have already filled out a form to volunteer, expect to see an email soon about background checks and the next steps. Also, starting this Sunday, we will have sign-ups for volunteering for anyone who still needs to sign up.

Church Planter Commitment: If you're inspired to join our Core Plant Team, you can contribute in many ways! Volunteering your time, talent, or resources is a beautiful way to serve our church community and those in need. Each of us has unique gifts to share, and the possibilities are endless. We are asking for four areas of commitment: daily prayer, weekly activity, bi-weekly service, and monthly giving. If you would like to learn more or talk with Josh about what this entails in more depth, please email passionchurchnc@gmail.com

Final Thoughts: An Exciting Journey

In less than three months, Passion Church has already made a significant impact in the lives of many. The heart behind this community is evident—from the overwhelming support during disaster recovery to the joyful celebrations of baptism. It reflects a loving and vibrant church family dedicated to living out the Gospel.

As we continue this journey together, let's remember the importance of connection, generosity, and encouragement. Let's keep cheering one another on as we grow in faith and strive to make a difference in our community. The future is bright for Passion Church, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for each of us!

Thank you for being a pivotal part of this journey. Here's to more baptisms, generosity, and growth ahead! Happy early birthday, Passion Church! Let's celebrate together and continue to shine brightly in our community!

Josh Tufte

Live Your Passion?

josht@generateonlinesales.com (Joshua Tufte) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:30:43 GMT

What drives you in life?

Is it your ability to provide financially for yourself or your loved ones? Perhaps your children or spouse play a pivotal role in motivating you? Maybe it’s the pursuit of achieving some significant goal that you have dreamt of for your entire life, something that fuels your desire for a better future.

For most people, passion is the essential element, the “IT” that propels them forward in life. When someone possesses a deep-seated passion, they will bravely work through discomfort, push past pain, and strive far beyond what many rational-minded individuals would define as a typical or normal existence. Passion becomes a necessary ingredient for anyone seeking to evolve from the ordinary to the extraordinary in any aspect of their life, whether it's in their career, relationships, or personal growth.

Simon Sinek, a renowned author on leadership and motivation, would refer to passion as our “WHY.” This intrinsic motivation is what explains why we get out of bed each morning, why we work late into the night, why we overcome countless obstacles, and why we continue to push ourselves even when we feel utterly exhausted.

However, when someone loses sight of their “why,” or when that reason for being seems to evaporate, their passion can quickly diminish or even die. We witnessed this phenomenon in stark detail during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals, who were previously driven by factors such as financial success, established personal routines, meaningful social interactions, and a host of other motivating elements, found themselves feeling listless and adrift, struggling to find purpose while being confined at home. The absence of passion left a void that made everyday life feel overwhelmingly challenging.

Here at Passion Church our WHY is simple, but not easy. We get it straight from the Bible in the book of Matthew, chapter 28 and verses 18-20.

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matt 28:18-20 NIV

This is what is known by many as the Great Commission. It's why our church exists and why most others do as well. We express this through our mission statement saying "We exist to reach people far from God." The only thing that differs is how we go about this mission, not the mission itself.

The way we do this here at Passion Church in Kernersville is through relationships that start with Grace and lead to Truth. That means every event, service, blog, video, and beyond is designed to create an environment where relationships can flourish with other people and God. We are passionate about this and will not be swayed from our goal.

So, I'll ask again, what drives you?

Is it something that will last into eternity based on a God that never changes or something that will be swept away in the next pandemic, recession, health struggle, or job change?

If you are passionate about God and People, if you want something in your life that will last beyond your time here on earth, and if God is calling you to step out of your comfort zone, I want to invite you to join us at Passion Church.

Let's go make a difference together!

To get connected with us, Click Here

Josh Tufte

Lead Pastor

Passion Church