Shows
The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEphesians 4:1-6 - DiscussionDoes being a Christian mean being a doormat? Does it mean being a generally good person? Does it involve a sappy sentimentality? If you lived through the last era of Christendom, these might be some of your understandings. But how does Paul discuss living out our faith? Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss this and more.2025-05-1352 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorUnity Among the Rubble - SermonPastor James emphasizes the importance of unity within the Christian community, recognizing Mother's Day as a bittersweet occasion and reflecting on personal experiences with loss. He highlights that while there are 50,000 Christian denominations, true unity stems from the transformative power of Christ and should be a core result of the Gospel, urging believers to maintain the unity of the Spirit. Pastor James encourages a focus on humility, gentleness, and patience, and stresses that understanding the difference between major and minor issues is crucial for fostering harmony. He concludes with a powerful reminder that our unity is a testament to...2025-05-1241 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEphesians 4:1-6 - SermonPastor Dena discusses the importance of living a life worthy of our Christian calling, emphasizing that this means embodying humility, patience, and gentleness in our interactions with others. Using Paul's instructions from Ephesians, she highlights the need for believers to support one another and to seek unity within the church. Pastor Dena reminds us that this journey is not about earning salvation but responding to God's grace with a lifestyle that reflects Christ's love. The sermon calls for self-examination and community engagement, encouraging congregants to cultivate these virtues both individually and collectively. 5-4-252025-05-0540 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRefocusing - SermonPastor James revisits the book of Ephesians, focusing on the idea that the church is a family of God made up of believers from diverse backgrounds. He emphasizes that God's intention was to create a united community through Jesus, breaking down barriers and making all people co-heirs in the promise of salvation. The sermon encourages reflection on how personal identity and belonging should align with being part of this spiritual family rather than being shaped by societal norms. Finally, Pastor James invites the congregation to adopt family values, change their perception of church, and shift from a consumer mindset...2025-04-2933 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorLive Into a Restored Relationship - Discussion What's the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation? Does forgiveness mean a lack of boundaries? What's the difference between processing and something else? Pastor James and Pastor Dena wrap up the forgiveness series with a full discussion, including what was on the menu from Easter!2025-04-2458 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorLive Into a Restored Relationship - SermonPastor James concludes the sermon series on forgiveness by emphasizing that the resurrection is not the end but the beginning of a new way of living through reconciliation. He uses Peter's denial of Jesus and subsequent reinstatement as an illustration of how forgiveness releases debt, while reconciliation restores relationships. The key points highlight focusing on Jesus, loving as he loves, and living out reconciliation in our daily lives. Ultimately, Pastor James reminds the congregation that the impact of Easter should encourage them to embody Christ’s forgiving and reconciling love in the world. Sermon 4-20-252025-04-2135 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRelease the Prisoner - Sermon Pastor James is continuing the forgiveness series, emphasizing the need for both inward and outward forgiveness. Using parables from Matthew and teachings from Galatians, Pastor James highlights that true forgiveness releases offenders from their debts without conditions or expectations of return. He stresses that forgiveness is not merely personal healing but a profound act of grace that reflects our worthiness in the sight of God, not based on merit. Finally, he encourages the congregation to name their debts, clearly discharge them, and desire the good for those they are forgiving, promoting the transformative power of grace in relationships. Sermon 4...2025-04-1439 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorAbsorb the Cost - Discussion Forgiveness is a difficult process; we tell people to forgive like Jesus but never actually spell that out. What are considerations? How do I do it? Does this make me repress my feelings? Does being Biblical mean being emotionally unhealthy? Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss this in today's episode. 2025-04-101h 08The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorConsider Christ - SermonPastor James discusses the importance of having a strong foundation for forgiveness, likening it to essential elements when buying a house, focusing specifically on Jesus as that foundation. He emphasizes that true forgiveness is anchored in Jesus' example and teachings, especially in light of the trauma that sin can bring into our lives. The sermon encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, recognizing His model of forgiveness during His crucifixion as a guide for their own responses to hurt and offense. Ultimately, Pastor James urges the congregation to rewrite their personal narratives from ones defined by pain to...2025-03-3137 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorA Long Journey - DiscussionTaking responsibility for the wrong that you've done is a difficult task, yet Scripture calls us to be people of truth. In this episode, Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk about the difficulties of humility and responsibility and how to show integrity in the midst of brokenness.2025-03-2758 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorA Marked Turn - DiscussionThis week we start discussing the Lenten series on Forgiveness. What are the nuances of forgiveness? Where do we fall short? What can we do? Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss this and more on today's episode.2025-03-2359 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGlory in the Darkest Place - DiscussionGlory is a word that we use easily and a concept that is hard to define. In Ephesians 3, Paul prays for God's glory to shine in the church and in Christ Jesus. What does this mean, and what is an experience of this like? Tune in to this week's edition of the Cutting Room Floor as Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss.2025-03-0757 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEphesians 3:14-21 - DiscussionHow do we seek the fullness of God in our lives, and what happens when we start to make the pursuit of God the greatest value in our lives? Paul's prayer reveals his greatest good for the Ephesians; are we seeking that life? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in today's episode.2025-02-2545 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEphesians 3:14-19 - SermonIn this sermon, Pastor James emphasizes the importance of seeking God's fullness and understanding the depth of Christ's love and power. Using a parable about switched price tags in a jewelry store, he illustrates how we often misplace our values, focusing on circumstances rather than eternal truths. He highlights Paul's prayer for the Ephesians, which encourages believers to be rooted in love and empowered to grasp the vastness of God's love. Ultimately, Pastor James urges the congregation to prioritize a deep and abiding relationship with God over circumstantial concerns, fostering growth and maturity in their faith. Sermon 2-23-252025-02-2535 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGod in 8K (or Technicolor - DiscussionWhen Jesus says that he has come to bring life and bring it to the full, do we think of the life we have in the church? Why is it that the majority of non-Christians don't see life abounding in the church? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss the fullness of God in the church in today's episode.2025-02-2356 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGod in 8K (or Technicolor) - Sermon Pastor James discusses the profound nature of God's grace and our calling to live freely in that grace. He emphasizes that believers have the privilege to approach God with confidence, not based on their righteousness but through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. The sermon encourages congregants to bring their whole selves to God, including their doubts and struggles, and to practice open communication in prayer. Ultimately, Pastor James calls for a deeper reliance on God's grace, fostering genuine relationships with Him and each other as the new family of God. Sermon 2/16/252025-02-2327 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWho is My Family - DiscussionWhat should the church look like when it comes to interpersonal relationships? Paul claims we're part of a new family, but oftentimes we look, sound, or even smell like something else. Pastor Dena and Pastor James discussion this and more in this week's episode of the Cutting Room Floor.2025-02-131h 03The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWho is My Family?Pastor James discusses the ways we resemble our families and how, as believers, we are called to look more like the family of God than our families of origin. He emphasizes that through Christ's sacrifice, barriers between groups have been broken down, creating a new community defined by unity rather than division. Drawing from Ephesians, he asserts that the church is not merely a building but a redeemed people where God dwells. Pastor James encourages the congregation to actively engage with one another and strengthen their relationships by inviting others to share meals, praying for each other, and participating...2025-02-1329 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEnding Hostilities - DiscussionIt seems like our world is really divided right now. Ephesians talks about breaking down the dividing wall of hostility. What does this mean, and how ought it affect the lives of everyday Christians? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in today's episode.2025-02-0657 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorEnding Hostilities - SermonPastor James emphasizes the importance of recognizing the peace that Jesus brings to our relationships, particularly within the church community. He explores how both Jews and Gentiles are united through Christ, breaking down barriers of hostility and exclusion. The sermon highlights that true peace and unity come not from our efforts or identity markers, but through the sacrificial love of Christ. Ultimately, Pastor James calls the congregation to look beyond worldly values and find their identity in Jesus, fostering a community that reflects His love and acceptance. Sermon 2/2/252025-02-0635 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSola Gratia (Grace Alone) - SermonPastor James emphasizes the importance of recognizing our skills and passions while exploring the concept of being saved by grace through faith, as illustrated in Ephesians 2:1-10. He shares personal anecdotes about his father’s craftsmanship, relating it to how God redeems us and creates us for a purpose beyond mere existence. Pastor James encourages the congregation to engage in good works as a response to grace, highlighting that these acts should align with God’s character and mission rather than mere personal achievement. He concludes by urging the community to seek God’s will through prayer, acknowledge the cost o...2025-01-2939 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Walking Dead - DiscussionWhat is the state of your soul? Have you thought about this question? Spiritual realities affect our physical and emotional state. Pastor Dena and Pastor James talk about this and more with a special guest!2025-01-251h 00The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Walking Dead - SermonPastor James discusses the spiritual realities of human existence, focusing on the themes of sin, death, and God's transformative love. He emphasizes that we are spiritually dead due to the influences of the world, the devil, and our own unchecked desires. However, the good news is that God's grace brings us from death to life, offering hope and salvation through faith in Christ. Pastor James encourages the congregation to recognize their bondage, delight in God's love, and embrace the new life that comes from being raised with Christ. Sermon 1-19-252025-01-2235 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorYou Have the Power - DiscussionWhat does it look like to have the power of God active in your life? Would this lead to "health and wealth" by "naming and claiming?" Isn't that power thing really nebulous and scary? Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss this and more in today's episode.2025-01-171h 11The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorYou Have the Power - SermonPastor Dena Roy reflects on the importance of rereading scripture, much like watching a favorite movie multiple times, to uncover deeper insights about God's power and purpose. Focusing on Ephesians 1:15-23, she emphasizes Paul's prayer for the Ephesians to gain a profound understanding of God's love and the power available to believers through Christ. This same power, which raised Jesus from the dead, offers hope and strength in facing life's challenges and encourages believers to pray for themselves and others to recognize their value in God's eyes. Ultimately, Pastor Dena urges the congregation to embrace this truth and find...2025-01-1532 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGod's Gentle Power - DiscussionHow have you been shaped in your thinking about power? Is Jesus' birth something that you would connect to and see value in when thinking about having and using power? Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk extensively about how power is and isn't shaped by our faith. (Note: Recorded via Zoom; please excuse audio quality)2025-01-081h 05The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGod's Gentle Power - SermonIn his sermon, Pastor James reflects on the nature of power as demonstrated by God through the birth of Jesus, emphasizing that true power is a blend of might and compassion. He contrasts the tyrannical power of Herod with the gentle, nurturing power of God, who comes not just to save but to lead with both direction and tenderness. Pastor James encourages the congregation to assess their own use of power and influence in daily life, advocating for a Christlike approach that balances authority and compassion. Ultimately, the message centers on embodying the perfect example of power found in...2025-01-0834 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Breath of God - DiscussionNo one wants to think about their own mortality. It's a conversation we would rather put off--just ask any lawyer who makes wills. But what if our mortality and the enduring reality of God could be a perspective that lets us live more freely than fearfully? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week's episode.2024-12-191h 02The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Straight Highway - DiscussionHow can Christians look different than the culture around them? What would it look like if Christians led the way in confessing their sins? Will Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss cranberry sauce again? Check out this week's episode of the Cutting Room Floor.2024-12-1255 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Straight Highway - SermonPastor James discusses the importance of repentance during Advent, using the metaphor of terrain to illustrate the moral landscape of Judah as depicted in Isaiah. He emphasizes that repentance is a necessary action for preparing our hearts for God's arrival, just as rough paths need to be leveled for a clear way. Drawing from both Isaiah and Matthew, he highlights that repentance is mandatory, urging believers to engage in self-reflection and accountability within the community. Ultimately, Pastor James reminds us that without repentance, we risk living in a cycle of sin that distorts our relationships and sense of normalcy...2024-12-1232 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorComfort, Comfort My People - DiscussionAdvent and Zacchaeus? Repentance and the reason that unchurched people aren't church people? Pastor Dena and Pastor James have a wide-ranging discussion on how and what it means to give up our wars in this episode. 2024-12-041h 03The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorComfort, Comfort My People - SermonIn his sermon, Pastor James explores the theme of anticipation as the Advent season begins, emphasizing the end of conflict that God promises through prophecy. He draws from Isaiah and Luke, highlighting the significance of preparing for the coming of the Messiah and surrendering our personal struggles and wars. Pastor James encourages the congregation to establish a routine of prayer and repentance to end conflicts in their lives, both internal and external. Ultimately, he asserts that we were created for cultivation, not conflict, and true peace can be found in embracing God's comfort and grace. Sermon date 12-1-242024-12-0433 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorLived in Faith - DiscussionA "part two" of last week's discussion on discipleship and everyday living, Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk about the difference between judgment and discernment, living transformed lives, and ways to live into the permanent change an encounter with Jesus brings. 2024-11-2750 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Impact of Ministry - DiscussionWhen we think "ministry", do we think about the ways that our spending reflects our transformation in Christ? It's a thorny issue, but our generosity is directly tied to the ways that we use the resources that we have available to us. Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk finances, wisdom, and salvation in this episode.2024-11-231h 02The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Impact of Ministry - SermonIn his sermon, Pastor James discusses the profound impact of ministry on individual lives and the importance of testimonies reflecting the church’s work. He emphasizes that while we are not saved by our works, our lives should exhibit the changes brought about by the gospel, leading to compassionate action towards others, symbolized by the separation of sheep and goats in Matthew 25. Pastor James challenges the congregation to consider whether they are "and so Christians," who live out their faith through action, or "but Christians," who let excuses prevent them from serving. Ultimately, he calls for reflection on what le...2024-11-2220 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Impact of Ministry - SermonIn his sermon, Pastor James discusses the profound impact of ministry on individual lives and the importance of testimonies reflecting the church’s work. He emphasizes that while we are not saved by our works, our lives should exhibit the changes brought about by the gospel, leading to compassionate action towards others, symbolized by the separation of sheep and goats in Matthew 25. Pastor James challenges the congregation to consider whether they are "and so Christians," who live out their faith through action, or "but Christians," who let excuses prevent them from serving. Ultimately, he calls for reflection on what le...2024-11-2220 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGiving Thanks - DiscussionIn today's wide-ranging conversation, Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss how Paul's thanks and encouragement for the Ephesians' faith stands in contrast to the modern church's culture. They talk about practical applications of Paul's theology and their hopes for the church.2024-11-101h 01The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGiving Thanks - SermonIn today’s sermon, Pastor James shares the importance of celebrating God’s work in our lives and the encouragement that comes from it, drawing parallels to his own experiences with friends. He emphasizes Paul’s gratitude for the Ephesians' faith and love, highlighting how our understanding of God fuels our attitudes and actions. Pastor James encourages the congregation to continue seeking deeper knowledge of God, stressing that our faith should lead to a concrete, actionable love for one another, regardless of our differences. In closing, he reminds everyone that we are ongoing projects in God's hands, called to embrac...2024-11-1028 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSealed - DiscussionWhat does it mean to be a Christian and be imperfect? While that seems like it should be an easy answer (Christians admit that we're imperfect--that's why we need Jesus!), too often we look at our imperfections as proof of God's absence in our lives. Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more in today's episode.2024-11-0350 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSealed - SermonIn his sermon, Pastor James emphasizes that growth is a clear indication of God's ongoing work in our lives, as highlighted in Ephesians. He uses the metaphor of making a pie to illustrate how we often seek signs of God's action, similar to identifying a pie's presence by its ingredients or smell. Pastor James explains that the Holy Spirit acts as a seal in our lives, reassuring us of God's promises and helping us grow, understand scripture, and cultivate compassion. Ultimately, he assures us that God's projects in our lives won't be left unfinished, as the Holy Spirit guarantees...2024-11-0327 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDirect, Open, and Caring - DiscussionWhen you think about the ideal community, what characteristics would it have? Does Christian community in the US pass muster as to working towards an ideal community? How do Christians create a community that reflects the redemption and intention of God in Christ? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss the characteristics of direct, open, and caring and the difficulties in each of them.2024-09-2658 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDirect, Open, and Caring - DiscussionWhen you think about the ideal community, what characteristics would it have? Does Christian community in the US pass muster as to working towards an ideal community? How do Christians create a community that reflects the redemption and intention of God in Christ? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss the characteristics of direct, open, and caring and the difficulties in each of them.2024-09-2558 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDirect, Open, and Caring - SermonPastor James discusses the importance of authentic friendships and the characteristics that define deep relationships, emphasizing the ability of true friends to speak candidly to one another. Using Paul's farewell address to the elders in Ephesus as a model, he points out that relationships in Christ should be direct, open, and caring, reflecting a consistent character both in public and private life. Pastor James highlights how shared experiences and adversity enhance these relationships, encouraging the congregation to evaluate how they spend their time with others. The message underscores that true connections are formed through honesty and vulnerability, fostering genuine...2024-09-2529 min
The CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPaul and Ephesus - DiscussionIn the season 3 opener, Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss Paul, commitment to the lost, and leadership lessons from Paul's experience with the synagogue in Ephesus. How do we live a life on mission? What do we do with the roughly 112 hours per week we're awake? All of this is discussed in this week's episode.2024-09-1652 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSanctified, Sent, United - DiscussionSeason 2 Finale! Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore the difficulties of Jesus praying to keep us in this fallen world. What does it mean for our outlook on the world? What does it mean for our daily interactions? Join us for the series two wrap.2024-09-0648 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorFormed in Innocence - Discussion "Lies and oaths and lunatic demands are regular occurrences..." Great words from Andrew Lloyd Weber's Phantom of the Opera, but sadly they too often can be applied to the life of the church and our individual lives. How do we throw off grumbling and arguing and become blameless and innocent? What's the line between processing and grumbling? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more in today's episode.2024-08-2456 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorBelonging To Each Other - DiscussionHow much is relationality in the Bible? Is it simply a list of rules, or is there more to it than that? Pastor Dena and Pastor James dig further into the end of Colossians and the list of names that Paul mentions. The application for life, discipleship, and ministry might surprise you!2024-08-1252 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorBelonging To Each Other - SermonWhat's in a name? Or a list of names? Paul closes the letter to the Colossians with a list of greetings that we often just skip over. But, when we dig deep into who these people were, we understand a little bit better about who we've been created to be. Pastor Dena digs in to Colossians 4:2-18 as we figure out how our relationships can help us to live as Christ is formed in us. (Sermon 8/4/2024)2024-08-1230 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGospel Integrity - DiscussionGospel integrity is the concept of aligning the convictions of the Gospel with our own identities, values, attitudes, and behaviors. Pastor James and Pastor Dena reflect on how to make this more of a reality and critically engage our culture for the advancement of the Gospel. 2024-08-0454 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSay What You Said - DiscussionTelling our stories is not an aspect of the faith the American church is exceptionally familiar or comfortable with. Pastor James and Pastor Dena reflect on bringing this out in worship and what some of the strengths and weaknesses are. 2024-07-3058 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Low Road - DiscussionDiscussion Summary: What does it look like to live out a life of humility and humiliation? How does humiliation fit into the Christian life? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss some nitty-gritty about living out the faith we profess as we begin to pivot to "no other purpose but Christ formed in you" in the "Why Jesus?" series.2024-07-1954 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorA Tale of Two Values - DiscussionAs Christians, how do we live in the tension between loving God and loving the good things of this world? When Paul talks about the good things of this world being crap in comparison to knowing Jesus, how do we live that out? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week's episode.2024-07-0450 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPutting Our Trust in God - DiscussionWhat is the difference between comparison and perspective? How can we live a life of perspective instead of comparison? How does that interact with our faith in God? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more in today's episode of the Cutting Room Floor.2024-06-2755 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPutting Our Trust in God - SermonWhat are you afraid of? Do you trust God with you fears? Pastor Dena takes a look at Psalm 56, particularly our Vacation Bible School Theme Verse, as we remember that we all struggle with fear and doubt and suffering. 2024-06-2720 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRecognizing God's Presence - DiscussionHow do we sense God's presence in our day-to-day life, especially when things seem out of control? This is difficult for every believer (and non-believers, as well!). We face it on a daily basis. Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more on today's episode.2024-06-1249 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWhy Jesus? - Peace - DiscussionHow does sharing our story help us show God's peace to the world? How do we work through the problems of finding the peace of God in our lives? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more in today's episode.2024-06-0852 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWhy Jesus? - Hope and Strength - DiscussionHave you ever considered the thought that Satan wants to create a division between you and God rather than make you outwardly evil? When thinking in these terms, separation, loneliness, and silence are all tools to make us doubt God’s love for us. Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week’s episode.2024-05-3148 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorA Gifted People - DiscussionWhat are your gifts? This is a question that we don't ask often enough in the church, and if we do ask it, we're generally looking to meet a need. How can you identify and cultivate your gifts? These are all things that Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore in today's episode of the Cutting Room Floor.2024-05-2551 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorCore of the Gospel-DiscussionHow is Christian unity lived out when there are so many differences within the Christian faith? What is the driving force behind living out our faith? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more on today’s episode.2024-05-1855 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorLove and the Community of God - DiscussionWhat does Christianity have to offer in terms of living in the world today? Is 1 Corinthians 13 aspirational or something else? How do we get to a community that lives out these values? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week's podcast.2024-05-1159 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Danger Within - DiscussionWhat's the difference between Christian unity and uniformity? How does this affect the way that we live out our faith? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this in today's episode.2024-05-0858 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Danger Within - SermonMany Christians fear the dangers to the faith that come from outside of the Christian community, yet there are a number of dangers that come from within. Pastor Dena discusses 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 to show how Christian unity is such an elusive but necessary value.2024-05-0732 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorCorrected and Connected - DiscussionTruth or grace? This is a false question that we often can fall into. Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss how they experience this dichotomy and how the Scripture helps to correct them.2024-03-0854 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorHometown Boy - DiscussionWhat does it mean when we hold theological beliefs that we don't really like? Does that mean that there is something wrong with that belief? Is it possible to not like things that you believe? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in today's episode.2024-02-2938 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSeason 2 InterruptionPastor James and Pastor Dena give a quick update on the Cutting Room Floor.2024-02-0903 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorFaith and Fear - DiscussionMany times in life we want God to act at a quick speed because we feel an urgency to our situation. However, God rarely moves that quickly. How are we to understand God's slow pace, and how does that impact our faith? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in today's episode.2024-02-0251 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWho Is This? - DiscussionWhen we say that Jesus changes our lives, do we understand what we mean by that? Do we understand what Jesus means? Do we know what kind of power he has to upend our world? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss these topics in discipleship and more in today's episode.2024-01-2645 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGetting the Word Out - DiscussionHow can we live into being a community that shares its story? What does a parable about soil tell us about Christian maturity? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more on today's episode.2024-01-1851 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWhich to Pick? - DiscussionWhen Jesus shows us a different way to live than our world sets out, what do we do? When Jesus shows us a different way to live than our traditions set out, what do we do? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss these issues, which can be thorny for the church.2024-01-1250 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe God Who Hears All - DiscussionIs there some middle ground between a participation trophy and worshipping God only when something major happens? What does worship in the midst of pain look like? Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk about some of the things cut from this week's sermon.2023-12-2451 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPreparations - DiscussionWhat would a prepared heart for Christmas look like? This is a question that many of probably have not considered. We probably have a better vision of what a prepared house looks like. Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more on today's episode.2023-12-2251 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorVisions of the Future - DiscussionIsn't all of this sin talk depressing us for no reason? Aren't things bad but not that bad? How do we see the reality of our own world and lives? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more on today's episode.Jeremiah 33:10-182023-12-1450 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGraceful Pause - DiscussionWhat does it mean to be a faithful follower of Jesus in our culture? Is it simply ignoring the bad? How does Josiah's faithfulness give us insight on how to live? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week's episode.2 Kings 22:1-20; 23:1-32023-12-1253 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorGrace for the Hopeless - DiscussionWhat does it mean when we've done all that we could, yet our best isn't good enough? What would surrender look like? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in this week's episode.Isaiah 5:1-7; 11:1-52023-12-0850 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorBreaking the Cycle - DiscussionHow do you think about the idea of God's compassion controlling God's wrath? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss the implications for our faith about this concept from Hosea 11.2023-12-0645 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWho Rules? - DiscussionWhat are the signs of the health of your faith? What are the things that give you meaning and purpose? Pastor Dena and Pastor James discuss this and more in today's episode.2023-11-1650 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWhat's Your Compass? - DiscussionPastor James and Pastor Dena discuss decision-making when the world has one set of values and Christ has another.2023-11-1445 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorReliance - DiscussionWhen discussing David's life of waiting, Pastor James talked about the process and the pain of waiting. What if there was also power that came from waiting? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and the sermon.2023-11-1046 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRuth & Naomi - DiscussionPastor Dena and Pastor James talk about how the story of Ruth and Naomi applies to our lives today.2023-11-0847 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorHear, O Israel - DiscussionJoin Pastor Dena with Dale and Diane as guests as we discuss the 10 Commandments, the Shema, and the call to Israel to reaffirm the covenant that God had made. Deuteronomy 5:1-21 and Deuteronomy 6:4-9.2023-10-1334 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorThe Eternal One - DiscussionHow has God uniquely equipped you for service to the world? How do we reframe our history through the lens of God's redemptive love? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this through the sermon and the story of Moses' call.2023-10-0747 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorYou've Got to Fight... - DiscussionWhat does it mean to have an identity that comes from outside of yourself? What are the pitfalls in choosing your own identity? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this in terms of the life of Jacob.2023-09-3045 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPromises, Promises - DiscussionWhat does discernment look like when we want something closer to a scientific study? How do we learn to trust God and read the signposts along the way? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss Abraham and Sarah and how we can learn from their very modern way of dealing with unfulfilled promises.2023-09-2346 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorPeace at the Start - DiscussionHow does scarcity mindsets affect our lives and the life of the church? What does this have to do with the trees of life and the knowledge of good and evil? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more.Living Missionally: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB5IWIDudkUForgiving: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB5IWIDudkUHope: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNabGxlNdLY2023-09-1546 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorSo? - Series Summary - DiscussionWhat does it look like to live into the mission of God? What will we look like? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss this and more in the series (and season) wrap-up.2023-09-0846 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWorship - Example - DiscussionWhat does it mean for the church to be the example of God's wisdom to the world? What happens when we don't look like the wisdom of God? What is the connection between being the wisdom of God and nearness to God? Pastor James and Pastor Dena explore this and more.2023-08-3148 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWorship - Edify - SermonPastor Dena explores the second purpose of worship in today's sermon from Ephesians 5:15-20 and Deuteronomy 11.2023-08-1627 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorWorship - Exalt - DiscussionWhat characterizes worship? Is it the space? Is it the time? Pastor James and Pastor Dena discuss how difficult it is to describe our chief end.2023-08-0941 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDiscipleship - Reproducing - DiscussionPastor James and Pastor Dena discuss discipleship that isn't awkward. How can we disciple non-Christians without sounding like we're selling something?2023-08-0450 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDiscipleship - Teachable - DiscussionWhat does it mean to be teachable? How can we learn from others and maintain our faith? Pastor James and Pastor Dena talk about this and more!Book: Three Mile an Hour God: https://www.amazon.com/Three-Mile-Hour-Kosuke-Koyama/dp/03340614742023-08-0248 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorDiscipleship - Available - DiscussionHow do we increase margin in our lives? What is the root of our frenzied work and school lives? Pastors James and Dena discuss these issues and more.Flannery O'Conner's Journal: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/09/16/my-dear-godRube Goldberg Machine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rube_Goldberg_machine2023-07-2046 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorFollowing Jesus - Faithful Discipleship - SermonPastor Dena discusses John 1:35-51 as Jesus is beginning his ministry and inviting disciples to follow him. Faithful discipleship means following Jesus and inviting others to follow, too.2023-07-1430 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorFollowing Jesus - Faithful Discipleship - DiscussionPastor Dena is joined by Dave and Linda Watkins as they talk about what it means to be a FATR disciple - faithfully following Jesus and inviting others to follow.2023-07-1425 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRelationships and Peacemaking - DiscussionPastors Dena and James discuss the difficulty of secondary issues and forms within church life and how Christians might move forward in the future.2023-07-0144 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorVision - Relationships within the Church - DiscussionHow do we look after the well-being of the Christian community using metrics that evaluate heart issues? Pastors James and Dena discuss this and more in today's episode.Barna Research: https://www.barna.com/research/openness-to-jesus/2023-06-1448 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorVision for the Future - Introduction - DiscussionPastors James and Dena talk about the early church and how that description can provide hope and vision for the future.2023-06-0851 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorRadical Transformation - DiscussionPastors James and Dena talk about the implications of really believing that God is for us and not against us. How would that impact the way that you live?From the Podcast:It is Well Story: https://youtu.be/ReApJymYSiw2023-06-0247 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorLife in Christ - DiscussionHow does life in Christ connect with identity? Pastors James and Dena talk about identity, life in Christ, and behaviorism.2023-05-2552 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorQualities of the Gospel - DiscussionHave you shared your story of how God has worked in your life? Pastors James and Dena talk about how to do that in this week's episode.2023-05-1245 minThe CCUPC Cutting Room FloorCRF - TrailerPastor James and Pastor Dena introduce CCUPC's new ministry: the Cutting Room Floor!2023-03-0303 min