Romans 3

Pastor Marshall Ochs | January 18, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 3. In this chapter, Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles are equally guilty before God: the law reveals sin but cannot save, leaving everyone in need of God’s intervention. God resolves this dilemma by sending Jesus to perfectly meet the righteous standard and credit His righteousness to those who believe, making Him both just and the justifier. The passage calls believers to humility and continual dependence on Christ, recognizing our ongoing need for Him not only for salvation but for daily life.

WATCH

Listen

Reflect

Understanding Romans 3

As we explore Romans 3, it is important to reflect on the notes provided by Marshall and consider the profound truths Paul shares in this chapter. Paul makes it clear that both Jews and Gentiles are in need of salvation. No one is able to perfectly keep the law, and relying on works alone cannot save anyone. In Romans 3:23, Paul declares, “ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” This raises important questions for personal reflection: Are you attempting to “work” your way to God? Do you believe that being “good enough” will earn God’s approval? Do you constantly feel that you are falling short of His standards?

The Purpose of God’s Law

God established a righteous standard that no one can fully attain. The law was not given as a checklist for people to prove themselves, but rather to reveal that everyone falls short. Its purpose is to show our need for a Savior because no one can be “good enough” or follow all of God’s commandments perfectly. Recognizing this, God, in His mercy, sent His Son, Jesus, to fulfill the standard on our behalf. Jesus took upon Himself the punishment that we deserve, and through His sacrifice, we are justified. Consider whether you have truly acknowledged your need for Him. Have you asked Jesus to be your Savior and accepted that He paid a price you could never pay yourself?

 Living Out Your Faith

If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, reflect on how far you have gone beyond that initial decision. Do you rely on Him in your daily life, or do you still depend on your own wisdom and intelligence to navigate your day? Perhaps you find yourself depending on success, money, or knowledge as your guiding forces. This is where pride can become a stumbling block.

 The Ongoing Need for Christ

As Christians, our need for Christ does not end at the moment of salvation. In fact, we need Him even more in every aspect of our lives. His guidance, strength, power, and anointing are essential for us to love, serve, and truly live. There is a common misconception among believers that simply accepting Christ as Savior is sufficient—having “fire insurance” without a surrendered life. In reality, we are called to seek God through His word and prayer daily, not as a mere task or obligation, but as a recognition of our desperate need for Him.

 Surrendering Completely

If you have struggled with the desire to read the Bible and pray, begin by asking God to transform your desires. Are you willing to give Him every part of your life? Pray and ask God to reveal any areas that are not fully surrendered to His control and leading. Commit to being obedient to His guidance, and trust that He will work in your life in ways you cannot imagine!

Romans 2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | January 11, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 2. In this chapter, Paul uses a rhetorical tool called a diatribe to confront religious self-righteousness, showing that moral superiority, possession of the law, or outward signs like circumcision do not exempt anyone from God’s judgment. He argues that God shows no partiality. Our relationship with God is not based on ceremonies, activities, or lineage. It is rooted in faith and proved with Spirit-led obedience. Ultimately, Romans 2 levels everyone, revealing equal need for God and emphasizing that faith is proven by a transformed heart and life.

WATCH

Listen

Reflect

1. In what ways can we ensure our hearts are aligned with God's commands rather than just our outward actions?

2. What does it mean to you personally that God does not show partiality?

3. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility in our interactions with others?

4. What steps can you take this week to practice the commands of God in your daily life?

5. What specific areas in your life reveal a disconnect between your outward religion and inward transformation?

6. In the context of your work or community, how can you show kindness in a way that leads others to God?

7. How can your reputation as a Christian affect others' perceptions of God?

Romans 1

Pastor Marshall Ochs | January 4, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 1. This chapter covers Paul’s mission to proclaim the gospel and unite Jewish Christians and Gentiles Christians in the church. He shares his regular prayer for the Roman church, encouraging spiritual growth and the importance of obedience in prayer. The passage also covers the wrath of God against unrighteousness, showing how sin suppress the truth by worshipping creation instead of the Creator.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Understanding God’s Plan Through Jesus

Paul’s letter to the Romans emphasizes that the work of Jesus was always central to God’s purpose. This was not a secondary or backup plan; rather, Jesus was at the heart of God’s intentions from the very beginning. The entire narrative of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, points to this reality. All of the Old Testament prophecies find their fulfillment in Christ—His birth, life, death, and resurrection. By conquering death and the grave, Jesus affirmed that God’s plan was always for redemption through Him. As you reflect on these truths, consider whether you have truly entrusted your heart and life to Jesus. Does your daily life genuinely reflect the faith that you profess to have?

Faith and Obedience: Inseparable Partners

In verse 5, Paul makes it clear that authentic faith is demonstrated through obedience. Faith that lacks obedience is empty and powerless. Ask yourself: Do you claim to have faith, yet hesitate to live out that faith through obedience to God’s teachings? Are there areas in your life where you justify or defend your choices, even when they clearly contradict God’s instructions?

Equality in God’s Eyes

Paul teaches that everyone stands on equal ground before God. No one is greater or lesser; we are all viewed equally by Him. As a result, we are called to pray for, encourage, and share life with one another. Reflect on your relationships: Do you avoid fellowship with people who are different from you? Do you find yourself judging others based on ethnic background, status, lifestyle, or personality traits, considering some better or worse than yourself?

Prayer and Obedience: Responding to God’s Direction

In Romans 1:13, Paul reveals that he had prayed to visit Rome, but God did not allow it at that time. This highlights that prayer is essential in our relationship with God, but it must be coupled with obedience to His answers—even when those answers differ from our desires. A true life of faith means submitting to God’s direction, regardless of our expectations. Consider: Have you ever prayed for something and sensed God leading you in a different direction than you wanted? How did you respond to His guidance?

The Challenge of Surrender: Overcoming Pride

Admitting our need for a Savior can be difficult, but we cannot save ourselves. As the saying goes, “Pride goes before the fall.” To follow Christ, we must surrender our selfish desires and die to ourselves. While believers may endure suffering on earth, we are promised eternal glory later. The world, however, encourages us to seek glory now, which stands in opposition to God’s call for self-denial and obedience. Reflect on your own life: In what ways has pride prevented you from fully surrendering and obeying God?

Living by Faith Versus Living in Unrighteousness

Scripture teaches that the righteous will live by faith, but those who choose unrighteousness will face God’s wrath. Unrighteousness blinds people to the truth, and anything that takes precedence over God becomes idolatry. The world offers many distractions—lust, sex, money, careers, material possessions, coveting others’ lives, vanity, social media, addictions—that can easily take God’s place in our hearts. Examine your life: Is there something that has become more important to you than your relationship with God? If so, it’s not too late. Turn to God, seek holiness, and let go of what you are holding onto so tightly. Embrace the life found only in Jesus, which is far more valuable than anything this world can offer.

Malachi 3-4

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 21, 2025

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Malachi 3-4. These chapters address Israel's questions about the prosperity of the wicked, promising that He will bring justice through His coming, which will purify and refine people. He warns Israel about their disobedience in tithing, showing that generosity reflects whether God is truly supreme in their lives, and calls them to return to Him with hearts of repentance. Ultimately, God promises that a day will come when He will distinguish the righteous from the wicked, and He encourages believers to prepare the way through repentance and restoration, starting in their own hearts and homes.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. In what ways can we actively reflect God’s supremacy in our financial decisions?

2. What specific actions can we take to ensure we are preparing the way for the second advent of Christ in our lives?

3. How can we cultivate a heart of generosity like God’s in response to His blessings towards us?

4. What does the call to repentance in our homes look like in practical terms?

5. How can we discern the difference between worshiping money and worshiping God with our finances?

6. In what ways can the church's mission to restore 'all things' be implemented in our local communities?

7. How can we start repairing broken relationships in our families as a step towards preparing the way?

Malachi 1-2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 14, 2025

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Malachi 1-2. These chapters focus on covenant unfaithfulness, highlighting how Israel, despite being returned from slavery and witnessing a second Exodus, remains spiritually shallow and disobedient. He emphasizes the importance of loving God above all else, as disordered love leads to unfaithfulness. Malachi calls for a return to faithful covenant living, urging individuals and leaders alike to reorder their loves, prioritize God, and spread His faithfulness throughout the community.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. What does it mean to you personally to have your love for God prioritized above all else?

2. In what ways can you practically order your loves to reflect God as the top priority?

3. How does understanding God’s choice of Jacob over Esau deepen your appreciation of God’s love for you?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you are not giving God "lazy offerings" in your worship?

5. How can the message of covenant unfaithfulness in Malachi challenge your current spiritual practices?

6. What changes might you need to make in your life to reflect a more covenant faithfulness in your relationships?

7. In what ways can you support others in your church to maintain their covenant faithfulness?

8. What specific actions can you take this Advent season to show a commitment to making Christ known in your family and community?

Joel 3

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 7, 2025

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Joel 3. This chapter shifts focus to the final days, where God will gather the nations for judgment. Despite the nations' preparations for war, they will be defeated by God. The passage highlights that the purpose of the Day of the Lord is for all to "know the Lord" and for the earth and His people to be holy, emphasizing that this call to know God and live holy lives is not just for the end times but for now.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Essential Truths from the Last Chapters of Joel

As we study the final chapters of Joel, we uncover essential truths that are vital for our lives and faith journeys. Joel’s message centers on the coming day of the Lord and the importance of being prepared. He prophesies that in the later days, God will pour out His Spirit on His people. This divine outpouring means that God will communicate directly with His people through His Word, through signs and wonders, miracles, dreams, and visions.

Reflect on your own life: Have you ever felt the presence of God or sensed Him speaking to you in one or more of these ways? Consider how you responded in those moments.

Discerning God’s Voice and Responding in Obedience

When God communicates—whether through dreams, visions, or a sense of calling—we are reminded to exercise discernment. It is crucial to pray for understanding, to seek wisdom through the Scriptures, and to consult with trusted, wise counsel. Ultimately, we must also pray for the courage and obedience to act on what God reveals. When we receive a dream or vision from God, vigilance in listening and obeying is essential.

Think back to a time when God told you to do something and you obeyed. What was the outcome? Alternatively, was there a time when you sensed God instructing you not to do something, yet you chose to ignore it? Reflect on the results of that decision.

Persevering Through Persecution and Struggle

Joel’s prophecy also warns that, before Christ’s return, God’s people will face persecution for their faith. Nations will rise up against believers, and in some regions, this is already a reality. Even in our daily lives, we may feel the enemy closing in, seeking to attack and discourage us. In these challenging times, our response must be to pray fervently, cry out to Jesus, sing, worship, and praise Him. These are the weapons of our faith.

Consider: When was the last time you cried out to God and worshiped Him, even in the midst of your struggles?

Sharing the Good News and Living as Salt and Light

Joel reminds us that some will reject the Lord, while others will embrace Him. Our responsibility is to share the good news of Christ with everyone around us. We are called to be salt and light in a dark world. To be truly effective, we must genuinely know the Lord ourselves—not just know about Him.

Reflect: Have you truly accepted Christ as your Savior, or do you only possess knowledge about Him? Do you have a personal relationship with Him? If not, consider making that commitment today. Do not delay—time is of the essence. Cry out to Him, ask for forgiveness, and invite Him to be the Lord of your life. It will be the best decision you ever make.

Pursuing Holiness and Obedience

After coming to know the Lord, our next step is to live in obedience to His will. We are called to pursue a life of holiness. While perfection is unattainable, we must strive for obedience, holiness, and complete surrender in our daily lives. Examine your heart: Is there an area where you need to repent and exchange disobedience for obedience? There is no better time than today to surrender your life fully to the Lord.

Joel 1-2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 23, 2025

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Joel 1-2. These chapters revisit the cycle of destruction in Israel’s history and calls the people to turn back to God in repentance, warning that even greater devastation, the "Day of the Lord," is coming. He emphasizes the need for prayer, fasting, and humility, promising that God will pour out His Spirit on all people. The book reminds us that from Pentecost to the Day of the Lord, God's Spirit is actively working in the lives of His people, and the key issue today is whether we are attentive to His presence and guidance.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. How has your personal history shaped your current faith journey, similar to how Israel's history influenced Joel's message?

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually to respond to God's call to humility and prayer?

3. What does it mean to you personally to 'turn to the Lord' as emphasized in Joel?

4. How can we recognize and respond to the 'Day of the Lord' in our current lives?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are listening to and paying attention to the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives?

6. What are some practical ways we can incorporate fasting into our spiritual practices?

7. What comforts in your life might you need to disrupt in order to seek God more earnestly?

8. How can we support one another in experiencing and recognizing the Holy Spirit's activity in our lives?

Zechariah 13-14

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 16, 2025

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Zechariah 13-14. These chapters point to the cleansing of Jerusalem and God's people from sin, the removal of idols, false prophets, and unclean spirits, and the coming of the Day of the Lord with Christ's second advent. The destruction of these corrupt influences is linked to the death of the shepherd (Jesus) and culminates in Christ's victorious return, where He defeats the Antichrist and establishes His reign. This vision is meant to offer both comfort and conviction, encouraging believers to find hope in God's ultimate justice and salvation while challenging them to grow.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. How does the concept of 'Day of the Lord' bring comfort to us as believers in today's world?

2. In what ways can we identify and confront idols in our own lives?

3. How should the seriousness of sin influence our interactions with others in our community?

4. How can we prepare ourselves for the second advent of Christ and remain steadfast in our faith?

5. How can we create an environment that fosters spiritual growth through challenges as discussed?

6. What role does community play in holding each other accountable for our spiritual growth?

7. How can we strengthen our resolve against the temptations that lead us away from God?