Shows
United Church PodcastOvercoming Abuse Through Jesus | Jesus Too | Matthew 27:26-31Have you ever felt like your pain was too deep for anyone to understand, even in church? In today’s message from our Jesus Too series, Pastor Leonce shares his story as a survivor of abuse and reminds us that scars don't make us weak. They are a testimony of strength, healing, and God's presence in our pain.
This sermon invites you to begin the healing journey, find safe community, and discover that Jesus not only knows your wounds but offers hope, restoration, and resurrection. You are not alone. Healing is possible. And Jesus is closer than yo...2025-04-2835 minUnited Church PodcastEaster Sunday 2025 at United Church | Find the Healing You've Been Looking For | Jesus TooOn this Easter Sunday, we launch our brand-new series "Jesus Too" with a sermon that speaks directly to the heart of human pain. In this message, Pastor Leonce reminds us that we are never truly alone because Jesus, too, has felt what we feel. And through His resurrection, He offers us hope, healing, and a new beginning.
If you’ve ever wondered if God understands what you’re going through, this message is for you. It’s an invitation to lay down your burdens and discover the life-changing truth that Jesus not only empathizes—but overcomes.
What p...2025-04-2032 minUnited Church PodcastThe Evangelical Identity Crisis | The Jesus Revolution | Acts 6:8-15Has the word "Evangelical" lost its meaning? In this powerful message, Pastor Leonce calls out the growing confusion between political allegiance and spiritual identity. With raw honesty and biblical insight, he challenges the Church to wake up to a crisis: when 71% of believers prioritize party over pastors, what does that say about our faith?
Drawing from Acts 6:8-15 and the bold stand of Stephen, this sermon is a call to return to a faith rooted in Jesus—not politics. It’s time to reclaim the word Evangelical and live out a Gospel that reflects love, truth, and cour...2025-04-1333 minUnited Church PodcastIs Your Church Excluding Others? | The Jesus Revolution | Acts 6:1–7Is your church truly welcoming everyone? In this message from "The Jesus Revolution" series, Pastor Leonce dives into Acts 6:1–7 to reveal how the early Church faced division, cultural tension, and exclusion—and how they responded with unity, strategy, and Spirit-led leadership.
Whether you’re a church leader, a believer longing for unity, or someone exploring faith, this message will inspire you to be part of the Jesus Revolution happening now.
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Renovation Church is now UNITED CHURCH! New here? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://united.online/ to learn more about us.
...2025-04-0629 minUnited Church PodcastGood Trouble for Jesus | The Jesus Revolution | Acts 5:17-42What happens when obeying God means going against human authority? In this sermon from "The Jesus Revolution" series, Pastor Leonce unpacks how the early church (Acts 5:17-42) faced persecution for preaching the Gospel—and why their bold faith still speaks to us today.
If you’ve ever felt the tension between following Jesus and facing opposition, this message is for you. It’s time to embrace "good trouble"—the kind that honors God, stands against injustice, and boldly proclaims the truth.
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Renovation Church is now UNITED CHURCH! New here? We’d love to connect wi...2025-03-3028 minUnited Church PodcastYou Can Change a Life | Compassion Sunday | Acts 5:12-16We all long to see healing and restoration in our communities, but the overwhelming need can make us feel powerless. Pastor Leonce kicks off The Jesus Revolution series with a reminder that we are created in God’s image—designed to bring hope, healing, and change to those around us.
This Compassion Sunday, take a step of faith and change a child’s life through sponsorship. Your simple “yes” could be the miracle someone is praying for.
💙 Sponsor a child today: https://www.compassion.com/renovationchurch
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Click here to dive deeper into Sunday's...2025-03-2336 minUnited Church PodcastThis Will Ruin Your Marriage | The Vow of PurityNo one plans to ruin their marriage, but many fall into temptation without realizing it. In this final message of our "Vows" series, Pastor Leonce reveals the subtle dangers that can slowly erode relationships. He shares how small compromises lead to major regrets and why guarding your heart is essential in a world filled with temptation.
Drawing from Jesus’ teachings in Matthew, this sermon unpacks practical steps to protect your heart, set healthy boundaries, and live with integrity—whether you’re married or single. Don’t let this mistake cost you your future.
Listen in and take...2025-03-0942 minUnited Church PodcastWhy Most Marriages Fail | The Vow of PartnershipIs marriage just a contract based on emotions and convenience? Or is it something deeper—something sacred? In this sermon, Pastor Leonce and Breanna dive into the profound difference between a contract and a covenant, challenging the modern view of marriage.
If you’re married, single, or hoping to be married one day, this message will challenge and encourage you to build a relationship that stands the test of time.
Don’t miss this word that can transform your marriage!
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https...2025-03-0235 minUnited Church PodcastHow to Keep Love Alive | The Vow of PursuitWhy do so many marriages start with passion but lose their spark over time? In this must-hear message from our "Vows" series, Pastor Leonce and Breanna share how to reignite love and intimacy in your marriage through the Vow of Pursuit.
Learn why intentionality is key, how to keep pursuing your spouse like you did in the beginning, and what the Bible says about lasting love.
Whether you're married, engaged, or hoping for a strong relationship one day, this message will equip you with biblical wisdom to build a thriving, God-centered marriage.
Don’t...2025-02-2341 minUnited Church PodcastThe #1 Reason Marriages Struggle | The Vow of Priority | Pastor Leonce CrumpIs your marriage struggling? Are you looking for a way to build a stronger, healthier relationship? In this message, Pastor Leonce kicks off our Vows series with the Vow of Priority—a critical commitment to putting God first in your marriage and life.
Listen in to uncover how shifting priorities can transform your relationship and bring lasting fulfillment.
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Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/the-vow-of-priority
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Visit https://renovationchurch.com fo...2025-02-1735 minUnited Church PodcastStop Doing Life Alone | Find Your People | Pastor Leonce CrumpAre you feeling lonely, even in a crowded world? In this message, Pastor Leonce reveals why we were created for connection and how true friendships and community impact our happiness, health, and faith.
Discover the key to building deep, meaningful relationships that bring life and purpose. Don’t settle for surface-level connections—step into the community God designed for you!
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Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/find-your-people
Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.
Visit https://reno...2025-02-0935 min
The Pursuit with James GriffinPastor Léonce Crump Talks Functional Atheism | The Pursuit with James GriffinIn this episode, James sits down with Pastor Léonce Crump to discuss success, discipling men, and functional atheism. Crosspoint City Church exists to relentlessly pursue those far from God to help them know and follow Jesus. To help support this mission and work, visit https://www.mycpcc.com/giveTo learn more about all of our locations or what is coming up at Crosspoint City, check out https://www.crosspointcity.com/ or follow us on your favorite social platform @crosspointcity2025-02-0524 minUnited Church PodcastThe Habits That Wreck Lives | Pastor Leonce CrumpNo one plans to wreck their life, but small, repeated choices can lead to destruction. In this last sermon from our Habits series, Pastor Leonce unpacks the story of Samson and how his unchecked habits led to his downfall.
What habits are shaping your future? Are they drawing you closer to God or pulling you away?
Discover how to break free from destructive patterns, surrender your struggles to Jesus, and step into the new beginning God has for you.
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Dive deeper into Sunday's message each week with our 5-Day Devotionals: https...2025-02-0241 minUnited Church PodcastThe Life-Changing Power of One Key Habit | Pastor Leonce CrumpAre your habits shaping the person God wants you to be? In this powerful message, Pastor Leonce unpacks the secret behind Daniel’s keystone habit.
Learn how starting small can lead to profound transformation and hear practical tips and inspiring anecdotes to help you build habits that align with God’s purpose for your life. Whether you're looking to grow spiritually, thrive in your daily life, or take a step closer to Jesus, this message offers a roadmap for meaningful change.
Ready to take the first step? Listen now and discover the power of habits in s...2025-01-2739 minUnited Church PodcastWhy Your Identity Shapes Your Habits | Pastor Leonce CrumpKicking off a brand-new series "Habits", Pastor Leonce unpacks the profound role habits play in shaping our lives. Drawing from the Apostle Paul’s struggles in Romans, this message explores the internal battle between our desires and actions, a frustration we all experience when striving for meaningful change.
Listen in as this sermon will help you reframe your understanding of personal growth, build supportive systems, and root your transformation in a relationship with Jesus.
Don’t miss this opportunity to realign your habits and unlock a thriving life!
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Dive deeper into Sund...2025-01-2040 minUnited Church PodcastThe Secret to a Meaningful Life in 2025 | Pastor Leonce CrumpAs we step into a new year, Pastor Leonce challenges us to reflect on life’s most profound question: What is the meaning of it all? Drawing from the wisdom of Psalm 90:16-17, he explores the deep human need for purpose and the emptiness that often accompanies modern distractions and worldly pursuits.
If you’re searching for purpose or feeling unfulfilled, this sermon will guide you to find meaning in Jesus and live a life that truly matters.
Listen now and step into 2024 with clarity and purpose.
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Subscribe to our podcast for...2024-12-2938 minUnited Church PodcastChristmas Eve Service | Rediscover the Wonder: HopeJoin us on this Christmas Eve as Pastor Leonce shares a message about hope—a gift we all long for, especially during the holiday season.
In a world filled with challenges, this "living hope" offers peace, stability, and renewal. Learn how to cultivate a life rooted in faith through prayer, scripture, and worship while embracing the Christmas story’s transformative power.
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New to Renovation Church? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://renovationchurch.com/new-to-atl for more i...2024-12-2533 minUnited Church PodcastCan You Truly Love Without Sacrifice? | Rediscover the Wonder: LoveIn this sermon titled "Love", you'll explore how love is at the very heart of the Christmas story—God's love for humanity expressed through the birth of Jesus.
Pastor Leonce challenges us to embrace this love in practical ways: by forgiving, serving, showing kindness, and putting others first.
Let this message inspire you to practice and receive Jesus’ love this season, creating a ripple effect that can transform your life, your relationships, and your community.
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Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.
To lear...2024-12-2333 minUnited Church PodcastIs Cynicism Ruining Your Christmas? | Rediscover the Wonder: PeaceHave you lost the sense of wonder that made Christmas magical? In this powerful message, "Peace", Pastor Leonce invites us to rediscover the awe and joy of the season as an antidote to the cynicism that often creeps into adulthood.
At the heart of this message is a reminder that Jesus’ peace is more than just the absence of conflict. It’s a holistic, transformative calm that can alleviate anxiety and bring true fulfillment.
Listen in to this sermon for practical ways to cultivate this peace. Whether you’re a follower of Christ or exploring faith...2024-12-0932 minUnited Church PodcastHow Do You Love People Where They Are? | Harvest: Be All ThingsDrawing from Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians, Pastor Leonce challenges us to reflect on what it means to become “all things to all people” for the sake of the Gospel.
This sermon "Be All Things" invites us to ask: Are we willing to give up our comforts and preferences to reach others for Jesus?
Listen in to be inspired to embrace the call to selfless adaptability for the Kingdom of God.
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Learn more about the Harvest Initia...2024-12-0235 minUnited Church PodcastHow Far Would You Go To Change a Life? | Harvest: Tear the Roof OffHave you ever felt the nudge to share your faith but held back, unsure how to start? In this sermon "Tear the Roof Off", Pastor Leonce shares his powerful testimony of how a friend named Judah’s unwavering dedication to Jesus led him to faith.
This sermon will unpack the challenges many believers face in sharing the gospel and the profound openness many non-believers have to hearing about Jesus. This message reminds us that when we’ve experienced the transformative power of Christ, we are compelled to go to great lengths to invite others into His presence.
2024-11-2534 minUnited Church PodcastThe Invitation You Can't Refuse | Harvest: Work with JesusIn this Harvest series sermon "Work with Jesus," Pastor Leonce explores Jesus’ vision for humanity, encouraging us to respond with compassion to those who are distressed and dejected. Through Matthew 9:35-38, we’re reminded that our life with Jesus is fulfilled when we embrace His mission—not as a duty, but as a beautiful invitation to help restore the world.
In a time when so many face anxiety, fear, and loneliness, this message will challenge you to reach out with hope and connection. Whether you’re a committed believer or exploring faith, you’re invited to experience the love a...2024-11-1841 minUnited Church PodcastWould Jesus Choose a Political Party? | Among Kings: A Defiant LifeIn the final message of Among Kings, Pastor Leonce draws from Daniel's story in Daniel 6:10-28 to inspire a faith that stands firm, even under pressure. He challenges us to go beyond resisting political pressures, calling for unity, compassion, and a commitment to Jesus' teachings over division.
With a call to align our choices with Christ’s love and justice, this message equips us to be agents of peace and strength in a divided world.
Don’t miss this powerful conclusion—listen now!
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Click here for all of our weekly 5-day devoti...2024-11-0438 minUnited Church PodcastAre Your Politics Ruining Your Reputation? | Among Kings: A Distinguished LifeIn this powerful sermon, “A Distinguished Life”, Pastor Leonce explores how we can maintain a godly reputation in a world of political division, drawing inspiration from Daniel’s story (Daniel 5:1-6:9) of unwavering faithfulness in a constantly shifting political landscape.
By contrasting Daniel’s integrity with that of modern figures, Pastor Leonce urges us to cultivate a reputation that reflects the Spirit of God rather than yielding to societal pressures.
This sermon emphasizes how living out our convictions can inspire and influence others deeply. Listen in as we commit to a life that honors God, bringing...2024-10-2841 minUnited Church PodcastIs God's Plan Ruined By Your Vote? | Among Kings: When Sovereignty Isn’t EnoughIn this sermon, "When Sovereignty Isn't Enough," Pastor Leonce explores God's sovereignty in a politically divided world, drawing from Daniel’s experience serving under King Nebuchadnezzar, a ruler he didn’t choose.
The message highlights the importance of inviting God's sovereignty into our daily lives to find peace and make confident decisions, even amid external chaos.
Tune in to be challenged and encouraged to show compassion toward leaders, even those whose values may conflict with ours, while staying committed to God’s principles.
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Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive
Prefe...2024-10-2142 minUnited Church PodcastAre You Being Politically Manipulated? | Among Kings: Faith and FaithfulnessWe continue with part two of our seven-week series, Among Kings: How to be a Whole Christian in a Politically Divided World.
Pastor Leonce uses the story of Daniel 1:8-21 to highlight the importance of choosing allegiance to God over earthly leaders, even in challenging times.
Listen in to explore how Daniel's integrity in Babylon serves as a guide for us today, urging us to resist cultural pressures, trust in God's control, and take practical steps toward deeper faith.
Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive
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2024-09-3034 minUnited Church PodcastJesus Revolution | All Things in CommonYour heart desires to share your person and possessions and love people freely. After all, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). If Jesus has changed your life, I believe you aspire to be like Him and live by His words.
But here is our reality: Our culture has groomed us to keep instead of release. We intuitively know that there is little satisfaction beyond a certain point of financial comfortability, but my goodness, this hurdle of keeping and collecting keeps getting in the way.
I know that can sound nebulo...2024-08-1942 minUnited Church PodcastDefining Jesus | I Am The Light Of The World | Pastor Léonce CrumpWe want the path to how life works best lit clearly before us. We want certainty that we see God, the world, and ourselves rightly. We want to know the way to go that leads life at its best. The problem in our search for the answer to that question is that is there are so many competing answers. There are quite literally hundreds of competing claims, all touting their certainty to light the way to life at its best. And because of these many claims, many of us—even those who profess to practice the way of Jesus—often feel...2023-07-1040 minUnited Church PodcastDefining Jesus | Bread of Life | Pastor Léonce CrumpWe want to be content people. Even those of us with enormous energy and seemingly unending drive for better and greater still desire contentment. For you to have contentment, or to be a content person, guess what—you must be completely satisfied in your life. The challenge to total satisfaction in life, however, is quite complex. It is complex because there is this gnawing hunger for more that never seems to quiet in us. No matter what we do, what we get, what we own or where we go, the hunger says…more.
2023-07-0336 minUnited Church PodcastUnnoticed | Father’s Day | Pastor Léonce CrumpWe want to be clear on what it means to be a good father so that we can raise healthy and happy children. Do not get me wrong, there is a litany of things I desire out of fatherhood, but when I get down to the core, to the something of first importance, it is a desire to know for sure, “This is what it means to be a good father.” To be able to answer that question and raise healthy, happy kids to the best of my ability is what sometimes keeps me up at night, and I am s...2023-06-1940 min
Renovation ChurchIs Saying 'All Lives Matter' Really A Big Deal? In light of current events surrounding George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement, Pastor Léonce and Pastor Ryan Kwon, Pastor of Resonate Church and one of our Overseers, sat down to discuss the events that have led up to this season of protests and unrest, and what are some steps that the Church can take towards racial reconciliation. 2020-08-0229 minRenovation ChurchWhy Do We Not See Racism The Same? In light of current events surrounding George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement, Pastor Léonce and Pastor Ryan Kwon, Pastor of Resonate Church and one of our Overseers, sat down to discuss the events that have led up to this season of protests and unrest, and what are some steps that the Church can take towards racial reconciliation. 2020-07-2625 minRenovation ChurchHow Does The Church Address Systemic Racism? In light of current events surrounding George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement, Pastor Léonce and Pastor Ryan Kwon, Pastor of Resonate Church and one of our Overseers, sat down to discuss the events that have led up to this season of protests and unrest, and what are some steps that the Church can take towards racial reconciliation. 2020-07-1916 min
Renovation ChurchGod Of The Lowly What does the genealogy of Jesus have to teach us about our place in this world? On this Christmas Eve weekend, Pastor Léonce unpacks the beauty of the "raggedy" lineage of Jesus. In doing so, we discover that we matter because we matter to the only one that matters. Ruth | God Of The Lowly | Matthew 1:1-17 2017-12-2439 minRenovation ChurchRestored As the final scene of Ruth comes to a close, we are left with an overwhelming feeling of the goodness of our God. How nearly complete devastation in someone's life can be restored to the full. The question we must ask ourselves is while we perhaps believe this for others, do we believe it for ourselves? Or is there some areas of our lives that we believe to be unredeemable? Join us this week for the conclusion of Ruth as Pastor Léonce unpacks the restoring power of our God in the book of Ruth. R...2017-12-1750 min
Renovation ChurchJesus-Centered It is easy for us to move Jesus to the margins of our lives. And when we do, the door is opened for us to become enthralled with so many other things, every trapping that this age has to offer— Knowledge, Fame, Power, Prosperity. A Jesus Centered Life—founded on God’s Wisdom and Power—boasts only in the Lord. The gospel is foolishness to much of our world, but the wisdom and power of God to the believer. Join us, as Pastor Léonce unpacks our value of being Jesus-Centered. Vision&Values | Jesus-Centered | 1 Corinthians 1:18-20;26-3 2017-01-2943 min
Renovation ChurchOur Corporate Fast Over the next 21 Days we as a church will be going through a collective fast. Pastor Léonce guides us through a few of the ways fasting is a beneficial and necessary part of the Christian walk. Our Corporate Fast 2017-01-0844 min
Renovation ChurchCompassion Day | 2016 What is God's disposition towards the marginalized? How about the poor and the fatherless? In Psalm 146 the Psalmist gives a clear insight to the character and action of God towards those our society deems as less worthy. In addition, we are given an insight into our role as His disciples. In keeping with this scripture Renovation Church has begun a partnership with Compassion International. Join us as Pastor Léonce goes further into what our role with Compassion will be. vime 2016-09-1800 min
Renovation ChurchRenovation Church | A City On A Hill A world awakened to the wonder of God and His transcultural church.Do you have the desire to be apart of something bigger than yourself? As a people, we are designed with an innate desire to make a positive impact on the world around us. But how can we fulfill these desires? What is the best way for us to engage the world around us in a way honoring to Jesus?This past week, during our bi-annual vision Sunday, Pastor Léonce spoke on what it means to be engaged in the life of Renovation C...2016-09-1100 min
Renovation ChurchTrial | One Man Why do we think we can save the day? Do we feel like we are the hero of our own lives and story? Hear from Pastor Léonce that even though we try day in and day out to save ourselves, to be the hero of our lives, God is the only hero of our salvation on this earth. Trial | One Man | John 18:1-14 2016-06-1200 min
Renovation ChurchIs A People, Not A Place We all have thought and said that we are going to church. The Church was never meant to be a place; it has always been a people. Yes, the church exists in beautiful tension. It is a messy movement. And it is most certainly a Transcendent gathering. But it is the people, not the place, that make it so. Hear from Pastor Léonce Crump Jr. as he walks us through what it means to be the Church and not go to Church. Church | Is A People Not A Place | Acts 2:42-47 2016-04-1700 min
Renovation ChurchMovement What is the Church? Now, some of us grew up in church our entire lives, and so it was just there, a part of the family rhythm. A part of the weekly routine. Some of us came to faith late in life, and with no one to tell us exactly what the church is meant to be, we just jumped into the stream of what was “normal,” any pushback or questions we had signaled division rather than genuine curiosity. But most of us, whether we grew up in church or we’re experiencing church for the first time, have reduce...2016-04-0300 min
Renovation ChurchGod Goes First Isn’t it thrilling —if you are in fact Jesus’ disciple —to hear of such seemingly miraculous stories? But often that is where it ends for us, is it not? We are thrilled to hear of where God is working elsewhere, or what God has done in the past, but not compelled ourselves to see such wonders. Why? Well, if we can be honest, the answer is far more simple than we would make it out to be—We Don’t Believe that God Goes Before Us. To be honest, that is our primary issue. Hear from Pastor Léonce Crump Jr...2016-03-1300 min
Renovation ChurchThe Value of Life How do we valuate human life? Who determines the variables by which value is bestowed? These are questions that have been answered for us in the poetic praise David directs toward God, here in Psalm 8:1-9. Hear from Pastor Léonce that if we’re “pro-life”, we’re pro-all-of-life. From birth to death, well off, or welfare. Orphaned or parented. Imprisoned or innocent; we ought to esteem human life...because our God does.Stand Alone Sermons | The Value of Life | Psalm 8:1-9 2016-02-2100 min
Renovation ChurchA Long Road We start far too fast, and give up far too quickly in so many of life’s endeavors. Unfortunately the Christian life, which should be characterized by steady, enduring growth and change, often ends up among that which is abandoned—in whole or in part—as time passes, gratification comes slowly, difficulty arises and we tire. But starting fast and falling short is not what God intended. This passage in Hebrews tells us that God calls us to take the long view. Lasting change is a lifelong endeavor, and we must fight to endure to the end. And scripture tells...2016-02-1400 minRenovation ChurchFaithful Gardener No matter what someone says about who they are, or how they've changed, it’s human nature to look for evidence of that change, not only in others, but in ourselves. This is undeniable. It’s what we do. We need clear evidence that communicates to us—and those around us—the actuality of our change. This is widely understood well beyond “church” circles, right? In school, the evidence of change is knowledge gained. In business, the evidence of growth or change is often a promotion or acquisition of some kind. This week we Pastor Léonce shows us in Galatia...2016-02-0700 min
Renovation ChurchUnited Our living sent lives, in and through the joy of Jesus, is the way the world will change. But listen, as we do that—live sent lives to see the world change—what’s produced is not a smattering of individuals who now pledge allegiance to Jesus, rather God is forming something far more wonderful for us to experience—a family. A united community, founded, sourced, and secured in Him.This week Pastor Léonce unpacks the implications of Christian community that is formed out of the Trinity. Dinner Theatre | Dear God | United | John 17:20-26 2015-08-2300 minRenovation ChurchSent It is not uncommon to go through our lives without remembering we are put here for a purpose. When Jesus prayed for His disciples He didn’t ask that they be taken out of the world, but that they would be protected in the world. As a follower of Jesus, it gives no glory to God to disengage, but rather, we honor God most when we live as though we were sent into the world for a specific purpose, just as Jesus was.As we continue this series of walking with Jesus in His final moments on ea...2015-08-1600 minRenovation ChurchKept What would change if you actually believed that God is keeping you? How would your life be different if you believed that God is walking with you right now, and deeply interested in your life in Him? As Christians, we can truly rest in this promise that God is faithful to uphold us and as the Author and Perfecter of our faith, we can have confidence that it is only faith alone in Jesus that justifies us.Not long before Jesus gives His life for us, He prays for His disciples and all those who would believe...2015-08-0900 min
Renovation ChurchVictory & Shalom At many times in our lives we experience the feelings of being completely overcome, exhausted, and overwhelmed. It doesn’t matter if you’re a Christian, or an unbeliever. You will experience times of deep emotional defeat. Jesus knew this and in those last hours with His disciples, He didn’t try to minimize their hurt as they began to be fearful about Him leaving. In fact, He tells them that in this world you will have tribulation. You will have suffering. You will have anguish. You will have misery. You will have pain. But, be not discou...2015-07-2600 minRenovation ChurchNot Without the Spirit Our hope and the promise of Scripture is that the Holy Spirit would help us to navigate this world in a way that is wise, truthful, and loving. Whether the issue is same-sex marriage or any other sin, Jesus promised that the He would send the Holy Spirit to convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgement and the work of the Spirit is best displayed through His saints. Pastor Leonce explains what Jesus meant regarding each way the world would be convicted, and gives us three ways to respond to the truth of Jesus’ words. It do...2015-07-1200 min
Renovation ChurchVine | Attached We are inherently self-reliant. We believe we have all the answers. We believe we are strong enough by ourselves to withstand every obstacle. We believe we can do our best work without seeking help. When it comes to trials, we believe we can save ourselves. When it comes to our salvation in Christ, we believe we can earn it and that we have the power in ourselves to lose it. Naturally, we were born with the inclination that we can rely on ourselves. If you asked yourself how this belief has worked out for you and were honest about...2015-06-1400 min
Renovation ChurchHelp : The Power to Love “If you loved me, you would do what I am asking you to do.” At some point in our lives, we’ve probably heard our parent or caretaker say this to us, and if they never said it, they’ve probably wanted to. That statement doesn’t come from selfish ambition. It comes out of the desire for us to display evidence that we actually love and trust those who care for us. Furthermore, to show evidence that we love those we say we love.Jesus ultimately tells us the same thing; “If you love me, you will keep my...2015-06-0700 min
Renovation ChurchI Am The Way Is Christianity the only way? Contradictory to God’s word, seventy percent of Americans say “no”. Sadly, many of us who claim to be Christians do not believe that Jesus is the only way to God or to Heaven. The truth is, every human being desires something better. There’s an innate longing in each of us for a Heaven of some sort. So why is it so hard to share the truth? We live in a culture where exclusivity is mean and to say that one way is the only way is prideful and inconsiderate.Jesus knew tha...2015-02-2200 minRenovation ChurchLove Your Enemies “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you do...2015-01-1800 min
Renovation ChurchWith | Prince Of Peace “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” In our last week of Advent, we focus on God as our Prince of Peace.We all long for peace in our hearts, souls, and minds, and through His grace, He has granted us peace right now through the blood of the cross of Jesus Christ. Although we do not see the perfect fulfillment of this prophesy, we can have hope in the...2014-12-2100 minRenovation ChurchWith | Wonderful Counselor Advent is a season of longing for the return of Christ. It’s a time where we renew our hope in the presence and the promises of God as we wait for Christ’s second coming. In our first week of Advent, we set our hearts on Jesus to discover what it means for Him to be a Wonderful Counselor.We turn to our friends, family, and professionals for guidance and counseling many times before we turn to God. Through the death and resurrection of His Son, we have access to go boldly before God, seeking His face...2014-11-3000 min
Renovation ChurchTranscultural | Apocalyptic How glorious will it be to actually be a part of the fulfillment of God’s plan? How amazing will it be to be a part of a sea of faces that is too many to count? How perfect will it be that people of all nations, tongues, and tribes will gather together standing face to face with Jesus, giving praise to the Lamb? This is the fulfilled promise that we live towards.In our final week of Transculturalism, Pastor Leonce gives vivid imagery to describe John’s vision of the culmination of God’s redemptive plan to bri...2014-11-1600 minRenovation ChurchTranscultural | Gospels “Who is my neighbor?” This is a question we all wrestle with. We are like the man who approached Jesus, wanting to know who he was to give his life to, love and care for. Many of us at times hope that our “neighbor” isn’t anyone that will make us uncomfortable or un-liked. What if instead of answering this question with thinking of what value they can bring us, we asked a different question? We can’t choose who our neighbor is, but we can ask ourselves if we will be a neighbor.Jesus’ reply to the man asking...2014-11-0200 minRenovation ChurchTranscultural | Prophets A transcultural community is God’s light to the nations. In the family of God, all are welcome, and all people are a part of God’s redemptive plan to form a family for Himself, from all people.As we continue our series on Renovation Church’s identity, Pastor Leonce again describes what transculturalism is, and how what the vision of a transcultural community could look like. He takes us through four aspects of this glorious idea.The HopeThe ProblemThe RemedyThe VisionPastor Leonce...2014-10-2600 minRenovation ChurchTranscultural | Torah The whole narrative of the Bible is about God’s redemptive plan to bring all people back to Himself. Transculturalism embodies the truth that we are all made in the image of God and are to be celebrated in our differences because we are all a part of the beautiful tapestry of God’s people. Creating a transcultural community and a genuine love for all people is not an addendum to the Gospel, but an implication of the Gospel. Although it’s easier to build deep relationships with people who are like us, vital to our identity and deeply embedd...2014-10-1200 minRenovation ChurchRenewal | Cultural Renewal pt 2 “In that day I will raise up the booth of David that is fallen and repair its breaches, and raise up its ruins and rebuild it as in the days of old...” Last week we saw God’s plan and promise to raise up, renew, restore, and rebuild what has been broken. In part two of Cultural Renewal, Pastor Leonce explains what our parts are in the renewing work of Christ in our city and in the world. We are reminded and encouraged that we have a part to play in ushering in this new Kingdom, right now. He shows...2014-09-2800 minRenovation ChurchRenewal | Cultural Renewal pt 1 Can you imagine a world that is perfect, overflowing in abundance with every good thing, and as it was intended to be in the beginning? In our brokenness, it is hard to visualize a world where humans flourish and nothing made is misused as an idol or a distraction from the glory of God. It’s hard for our minds to conceive it, yet every human longs for a day without the infection and disease of sin and evil. In the passage for this week, we see God’s plan and promise to raise up, renew, restore, and rebuild what...2014-09-2100 minRenovation ChurchMission | Make Disciples Who Make Disciples Shortly before Jesus ascended into Heaven, he commanded all of His disciples and those that would become disciples to go make disciples. By His power and authority, He commissioned us to bring to Him those that are not yet His. As Pastor Leonce continues to share with us what shapes our identity as a local church, he reminds us that everything we do is centered on making disciples for the glory of Jesus. He challenges us to believe that Jesus’ commission is commanded to every Christian. This week, Pastor Leonce teaches what it means to make disciples, how we ar...2014-09-1400 min
Renovation ChurchShut Up Judas It’s been said “nowadays people know the price of everything and the value of nothing.” From shoes, homes, cars and money, to our families and friendships, we place some kind of value on absolutely everything. We ascribe something its value by the price tag placed on it, instead of its true worth.As a follower of Jesus, we must ask ourselves how much is Jesus worth, and what value have we given to Him. Is He worth everything? Do our lives bear the fruit of a faith that’s worth our whole existence? What would it look...2014-09-0700 minRenovation ChurchPaparazzi and the Prince of Peace How do we see Jesus? Are we like the crowd that came to see Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem? Only desiring to see Him because we’ve heard He’s done signs? Do we long for Jesus because we long to be delivered from our problems? Have we shown up at His feet out of our selfish desires for what He can do for us? Jesus came to Jerusalem for one reason; to proclaim who He was. He came to proclaim that He is the Messiah, the Savior, and the King. The people who met Him there came for other reason...2014-08-3100 minRenovation ChurchOh My Troubled Soul Throughout our country and around the globe, injustices have been brought to light, and chaos has rung loudly through our nation leaving many of us divided on the issues of race and forming allegiances not inspired by the Bible. We’ve taken these problems and instead of viewing them rightly through a gospel lens, many Believers have chosen to see them through a cultural lens. This is detrimental not only to the way that unbelievers view us, but because of the apathetic and dispassionate spirit that consumes us. As Christians, how should we respond to the turmoil, chaos, and co...2014-08-2400 minRenovation ChurchPartying with Greeks In an act of obedience and complete surrender to the Father, Jesus gave His life for us at the cross so we could also be heirs of the Father and heirs with Christ. The only way sinners could be reconciled back to a holy, righteous, and just God, was if Christ paid the sin debt that we owed, and bore the wrath that was due for us. In His life leading up to His death on the cross, and in His willingness to actually die for us on the cross, we see in perfection what it means to die...2014-08-1700 minRenovation ChurchThe World Is The Prize As Christians, many of us have been taught that the world we live in is evil. Although it’s our current home and reality, we’ve been taught to separate ourselves from it completely, treating it as a waiting room until we get to Heaven. We’ve created a dichotomy that has us believe the material world is bad and the heavenly realm is our home. This perception of the world has everything to do with how we live here, and if we don’t understand God’s plan for creation, why He sent His Son, and His redemptive work throu...2014-08-0300 min
Renovation ChurchHe Already Stinketh We’ve all been through seemingly impossible situations. Some of us are in the midst of those trials right now and feel completely hopeless that anything good can come from it. Whether it is death, sickness, addiction, a broken marriage, unemployment, dry seasons in our spiritual walk, or the salvation of a loved one, at times we lack the belief that God will be who says He is and that nothing can stand in the way of His authority. Our inclination is to consider a situation dead, too broken to be fixed and disregard our faith in the Almighty, al...2014-07-2000 min
Renovation ChurchExpecting God to be God All throughout Scripture, we see the relationship between remembrance of the mighty works of God, and a right standing with God. Predictions and prophecies were made in the Old Testament beginning in Genesis about the coming Messiah, yet when the Jews were face to face with the Son of God, they could not see Him for who He truly was. They forgot His works and consequently lived with no expectation that God could be God.Just like the Jews, Jesus issues us the same challenge to live in expectation. He commands us to believe in the past...2014-06-2200 minRenovation ChurchSecure Do you really believe that you are secure in Christ’s hand? Has God’s promise of eternal and abundant life through His son become a reality in yours, or are you living in fear of condemnation? Many of us, like the Jewish leaders who questioned Jesus, continuously need to be reminded of what it means to be sheep in His pasture.This week we continue to unpack the implications of what it means to be His, and why we can believe wholeheartedly that all of our being is secure in Christ and that to Christ, we are...2014-06-1500 min
Renovation ChurchKeeping More Of Your Money A French philosopher and historian once wrote, “When it is a question of money, everybody is of the same religion.” Regardless of our faith, many of us believe these six things about money and possessions.Money equals security.More is better.More money makes us more.Borrowing is necessary and normal.My money is my money.My use of money has nothing to do with my view of God.Whether we are followers of Christ or not, how we view money matters, and based on the staggering amount of debt that...2014-05-1800 minRenovation ChurchGenerous 2 Corinthians 3-5For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.It’s hard to imagine how many more lives could be transformed and cities restored if all of us “urgently pleaded” to give. How much more powerful would our giving be if we co...2014-04-2700 min
Renovation ChurchChrist Or Camaraderie? The culture of the United States is one that puts the opinions of others as a supreme value. In fact, while we may privately have as many different views as we want, publicly our values must be that of popular opinion. This has bred an environment that has become increasingly difficult for all faithful members of a religion, particularly disciples of Jesus. We are tempted to value the camaraderie of people over the community of Christ. The parents of the man born blind experienced this same temptation. They where given a choice: deny Jesus and maintain your place in...2014-03-0200 min
Renovation ChurchCould Take Back This One Thing All of us have found ourselves cringing as we remember things from our past. But for some of us we have become defined by these events. Whether it was sins we committed or sins committed against us, we have come to believe that we will never escape these actions. Even worse still, we live under the belief that those sins make us unloveable by God. We believe that if we could take this one thing back, God could love me. Where do we take these struggles? What do we do with this crippling fear? For believers we look to...2014-01-1900 minRenovation ChurchCould Have This One Thing If someone asked you, “if you could have one more thing,” what would you say? In general we are not a contented people. We are not content with what we have. We’ve been cultured into believing that “more” is better than “less,” and taught that to truly achieve the American Dream we have to ascend to a place of financial security in which we can have virtually anything we desire.But standing in sharp contrast to our ceaseless striving for more is Paul's words here to the Philippians, “I have learned to be content with whatever I have.” Even th...2014-01-1200 min
Renovation ChurchThe Lies We Believe We live in a time where the amount of information being thrown at us is staggering. Our minds are constantly being bombarded with different "truths" that are vying for our trust. Even the simple question of, "Who am I?" has more answers than we can fathom. This has produced a people that are unsure about everything.This week as we end our series in John 8, Pastor Leonce exposes these "truths" through the lens of Jesus. What does Jesus have to say about who we are? What do the scriptures have to say about this world? And just...2013-11-2400 minRenovation ChurchSlave or Free? What does it mean to believe in Jesus?Is belief accepting a set of rules? Or ascribing to an understood collection of knowledge and facts? And further, how do we know if we’ve truly believed?The scriptures seem to answer that question with this one; are you free from serving yourself, and free to follow Jesus?This is the underlying question that Pastor Leonce asks us to wrestle with as he teaches through John 8:30-38, and it seems to be the encompassing indicator of true belief. 2013-11-1700 minRenovation ChurchWhat World Are You Of? What world are you of? Jesus challenges us to explore the depths of this question when He very strongly declares to the Jewish religious leaders, “You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am He you will die in your sins.”What world are you of? The answer to that question is far more complex than most of us have ever considered, and according to Jesus, it is a question of paramount importance. Whether you are a follower of J...2013-11-1000 min
Renovation ChurchS.E.X. This week Pastor Leonce concludes our Single, Sexual, & Spiritual series with "The Talk." Sex has long been considered a shameful subject for many people growing up; many parents avoid the conversation entirely when raising children. This has left entire generations of people to interpret sex by cultural rather than biblical standards. The good news is Scripture portrays sex as a wonderful gift from God that should be enjoyed...but in its proper context. Listen as Pastor Leonce paints a picture of sexuality as it was meant to be, as we find out that Sex in context is a good...2013-10-2000 minRenovation ChurchThe Dating Game pt.3 This week, we conclude the three-part sermon, The Dating Game. Pastor Leonce lays out the final five behaviors for Biblical courtship. Dating says, "I’m checking you out to see if I’d like to know you better." Courtship says, "I’m going to get to know you in the context of community to see if we could possibly share our lives together".6. Women Respond7. In Community8. Minimize Emotional Investment Initially9. Don't Drag It Out10. Keep It Pure 2013-10-1300 minRenovation ChurchThe Dating Game pt.2 Last week we began a 3-part sermon called "The Dating Game". Pastor Leonce began by explaining the damage that modern dating has caused to all those involved. This week we look at several principles (2-5) for dating someone biblically:2. Know Who You Are (And Where You Come From)3. New List, New Standard4. Friends First5. Men InitiateThese are important, because one of our guiding principles is that we are trying to prepare to be a godly spouse, even as we try to find a godly spouse. All singles who...2013-10-0600 minRenovation ChurchSignificantly Single In recent years our culture has told us that we are incomplete until we are married (think Jerry Maguire). Unfortunately, the church has been complicit. While marriage is good and should be pursued, it is not necessary to fully living out a Spirit-led, Christian life. This overemphasis has left those who are single in the church feeling insignificant. This week Pastor Leonce unpacks Paul's encouragement to singles from 1 Corinthians 7. There is significance in singleness.1 Corinthians 7:7-8 2013-09-2200 min
Renovation ChurchJoyful Servant There is no greater dichotomy than an angry servant of Christ. In the scriptures Paul gives us this view into what it means to always be joyful in serving. While this seems to be a naive reality, considering the world in which we live in. Paul proclaims that He has joy despite even the worst of circumstances. Through these words Pastor Leonce challenges us to see our lives through the lens in which Paul sees his life.Philippians 2:12-18 2013-09-0800 minRenovation ChurchHumble Servant n Philippians chapter 2, Paul begins by outlining four incredible realities that we have been given by Jesus, and in which we exist as followers of Jesus. He then gives four commands that we should obey, and which are direct results of the incredible reality in which we exist, if our lives are hidden in Christ. Because these are present realities in the life of the believer, we should understand that Paul’s use of the word ‘if’ here is rhetorical. He is using the word “if” to set up a very powerful, emotive and personal argument for how life should loo...2013-08-1800 min
Renovation ChurchChristian Cannibalism? The idea of consumption is not foreign to us. We are a consumer culture. We consume goods. We consume services. We consume entertainment. We consume work. We are incredible consumers. Here’s the catch with that though: what you consume you can quickly be consumed with, and whatever you are consumed with will ultimately consume and conceal you. This week Pastor Leonce examines the unsettling command of Jesus, "Eat my flesh and drink my blood."John 6:41-59 | Wine & Flesh | Christian Cannibalism? 2013-07-0700 minRenovation ChurchThe Will of God Today our hearts and minds engage the interesting and weighty notion of God’s will. What is it? Consider that in an overarching sense regarding humanity. Consider it as perhaps even a hurdle for some to believe. Consider it as the reason some of us, even now, struggle to have faith. Because we don’t feel we can discern God’s will, we give up on trusting Him.Pastor Leonce unpacks three important points from this very rich and large chunk of writing: 1. Faith is the greatest work we can perform. 2. Jesus = complete satisfaction. 3. There is nothing you ca...2013-06-3000 minRenovation ChurchSardines & Satisfaction This week Pastor Leonce continues our study in the Gospel of John by asking the question, "What is faith?" Some of us will automatically associate it with Christianity; with God; with Jesus; with church. But faith, though expressed most completely in each of those, is much more broadly defined. You see even if we don’t believe God, you still have confidence in something or someone. We use our appliances and drive our cars, trusting that they will do and be exactly what they are supposed to. Under that definition then, no one lacks faith completely, even if you wo...2013-06-1600 min
Renovation Church2 Witnesses | Part 2 - Love Story Last week we evaluated the witness of Jesus works, the miraculous things that He’d been doing is that Miracles are a means of showing Jesus is more than a human being—He’s God. They are not an end unto themselves. They are an arrow directing us to see Jesus as He truly is. Jesus is more than a notable human being. Jesus did unbelievably divine things, because He was unquestionably divine.This week Pastor Leonce addresses the question, "Is God knowable?" While we cannot fully understand the God who has revealed Himself, we can know Him. A...2013-06-0900 minRenovation Church2 Witnesses | Part 1 - Miracle Worker n this sermon Pastor Leonce takes us to the court room...not literally; but in our minds. There are five witnesses in these few words, but we will focus in on two over the next couple weeks—Jesus’ works (i.e. miracles) and the Word (i.e. scripture). We have many questions about life, and questions certainly aren’t wrong, but I think at the root of most of our questions is a lack of trust. You see because we don’t trust God, and the fact that He wants good for us, the very best for us, we demand H...2013-06-0200 minRenovation Church38 Years - Pt. 1 In this sermon Pastor Leonce asks a very dangerous question, “Is Jesus fair? And because Jesus is God, is God fair?” Is God fair in His dealings with humanity, with us? Jesus’ little brother John seems to have some clear thoughts on that question, and the hope today is that not only will we come to some conclusion on this but also that whatever that conclusion is we would accept it and act on it.(John 5:1-9) 2013-05-1200 min
Renovation ChurchGuilt & Shame This sermon concludes our three-week series, “My Emote-Control.” The premise for this series is simple: all of us have emotions that, to one degree or another, infrequently or often, control us. The immediate sense of guilt we feel when we worship ourselves or our things or other people in place of God is there not to condemn, but to convict. Condemnation drives us away from God, but conviction drives us toward Him. Guilt is a healthy emotion God has given us to have a sense of right and wrong. However, lingering guilt can be a pathway to tormenting mental and...2013-04-2100 min
Renovation ChurchGod Has Beautiful Feet A continuation of the previous week's message, "As the World Turns." Last week Pastor Leonce urged us to pray for the lost, our friends and loved ones who do not know Jesus. God is patient with us, not wishing that any should remain separated from him. We are also told in Romans 10 that those who carry the gospel to the lost have beautiful feet. The second thing we must do as servants of God is to carry his message of reconciliation to the lost. We must open our mouths! God has so limited himself to use humans in his...2013-03-2400 minRenovation ChurchAs the World Turns When was the last time you felt the weight of lost souls that will be separated from God? Do you yearn for others to know Christ? Do you long to tell others about the greatest love you have ever found? Unfortunately, if we're honest, the answer is no most days. Most days we're content to rejoice in our own salvation and pray that Jesus would return, but what Pastor Leonce reminds us of is that when Jesus returns triumphant and Christians enjoy eternity with him, there will be others who will spend eternity separated from him. Pray. Pray that...2013-03-1700 min
Renovation ChurchCome, See A Man We have a tendency to draw spiritual water from other sources besides Christ. This week, Pastor Leonce Crump investigates the narrative of John 4:27-30; 39-42 in which Jesus calls us to put down our water buckets and drink deeply from the overflowing fountain of God's love. This love, this otherworldly, magnanimous love, looks at us in our deepest despair and our most hideous sin and says, "You are mine! I still choose you!" Our response then should be to drop our buckets and run and tell our townspeople about the man Jesus Christ who can tell us everything we've...2013-02-1700 minRenovation ChurchIntentional Jesus, Unquenchable Thirst We all have a thirst inside of us that is unquenchable apart from Jesus. Yet we all drink from broken cisterns that will never satisfy. We continue to look for natural solutions to our supernatural problem. Listen as Pastor Leonce teaches on John 4:1-26, the story of the woman at the well, and ask yourself if you have truly received the living water that is offered in Christ. And if so, why do you not drink deeply from it? 2013-02-1700 min
Renovation ChurchMake New His City When Abraham was told by God to go, he did not ask "where." He simply left to find a city whose architect and builder was God. The renewal of Atlanta depends on us, believers of Jesus, responding to the call of God to go and make disciples. It is by faith in Jesus that a city is renewed. It is by receiving the gift of faith and new life in Christ that we are able to create culture and redeem what is broken in Atlanta. Listen as Pastor Leonce challenges us to make new God's city by starting with...2013-01-2700 minRenovation ChurchMultiply His Church Do you believe that the Church is the hope of the world? Do you believe that the church is the only eternal institution that begins in this lifetime and carries over into the next? Do you believe, as history shows us, that where vital, Jesus-centered, healthy churches exist, schools, hospitals, social improvements, and advances in civilization have followed? Listen as Pastor Leonce Crump II challenges us to live lives for the multiplication of His church and the making of disciples. 2013-01-2000 minRenovation ChurchMake Known His Glory Renovation’s vision is "To make Atlanta a great city for all people through a holistic gospel movement, making beautiful what is broken." Renovation’s mission is "To make known the glory of God in the city through diverse communities of disciples." All of creation has one purpose: to make known the glory of God. He is the Lord, that is His name, his glory he gives to no other. But what is our role in that? Why were we created? How do God's glory and our existence intersect? Listen as Pastor Leonce Crump reminds us of the reason we w...2013-01-1300 min