Overview
380 Episodes
On this powerful Easter Sunday, Pastor Erwin Raphael McManus invites us into a story we all think we know—but perhaps have never truly seen. We revisit the empty tomb not just as a moment in history, but as a mirror to our present, a call to ask ourselves: Are we truly alive, or just existing?This message explores the difference between knowing the end of Jesus’ story and experiencing the resurrection for ourselves. With vivid imagery, cultural references—from The Sixth Sense to John Wick—and deep scriptural insight, we’re reminded that God's purpose isn't just to make us right, but to make us alive. The resurrection isn't just proof that Jesus conquered death—it’s an invitation for you to live fully, right now.So why do we keep searching for life in dead places? And what would it mean to choose life—not just someday, but today? This is your moment to reclaim your humanity, rediscover your purpose, and step into the plot twist God has written for you. Jesus is alive. And now, through Him, so are you.
Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025
We’re kicking off a new series—not on success, purpose, or relationships—but on the person at the center of it all: Jesus. In this message, we wrestle with one of the most fundamental questions of faith: Why Jesus? Not just why believe in God—but why choose to trust in Jesus specifically?Pastor Erwin Raphael McManus takes us through a profound journey, from agnosticism and atheism to a life-altering realization about the nature of reality, love, and what it means to be human. Are we just digits in a mathematical universe, or is there something deeper at work—a divine presence calling us out of despair, into freedom?This talk confronts the illusion of religion, the myth of moral neutrality, and the seduction of shortcuts—showing us how Jesus didn’t wait for us to find our way to him. He entered the escape room of our brokenness to become the door out. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your past, lost in your questions, or unsure where to find meaning, this message is for you. Jesus doesn’t just offer answers—he is the way out.
Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025
This morning's message is a little different. We're exploring a big idea—mastery—and making it incredibly personal. There are moments in life where your choices don’t just impact your future… they shape who you become. These are pivotal human intersections, and you're standing in one now.From the raw power of talent, to the refining fire of process, to the fuel of obsession—this message dives deep into what it means to live a life of purpose and intentionality. It’s not about being the best in the world... it’s about being the best version of you—the one God imagined when He created you.Cain had a choice. So do you. Sin lurks. Discouragement is easy. Laziness, envy, fear—they’re effortless. But mastery, transformation, and becoming fully alive? That takes work. And it’s so worth it.Whether you're chasing greatness, stuck in comparison, or just tired of living a lesser version of yourself—this message is for you. It's a call to self-mastery, to spiritual depth, and to radical, obsessive devotion to becoming who God designed you to be.“The most spiritual thing you will ever do… is choose.”⏳ It’s your moment. Choose well.—👉 If this message moved you, share it. Subscribe for more messages that call you higher.💬 Let us know in the comments: What’s one area of your life where you want to pursue mastery?#SelfMastery #Faith #Purpose #Transformation #Mosaic #Jesus #Obsession #SpiritualGrowth #BestVersionOfYou #ErwinMcManus
Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025
In this powerful episode from the archives, we journey through one of the most human and raw moments in Scripture—1 Kings 19—where the prophet Elijah, fresh off a mountaintop victory, finds himself in the depths of despair. We explore the tension between spiritual triumph and emotional exhaustion, between miraculous faith and crushing fear.As Elijah flees for his life, we witness a deeply personal encounter with God—not in fire, wind, or earthquake, but in a gentle whisper. The episode challenges us to reflect on a haunting and transformative question: “What are you doing here?”This message invites us to consider if we’re truly living where God is moving, or simply drifting on the momentum of past moments. It’s a call to slow down, care for our souls, and re-anchor our lives in the presence of God—so we can say with confidence and conviction: I am here.Whether you’re in a chapter 18 mountaintop or a chapter 19 wilderness, this episode is for anyone walking through seasons of doubt, fatigue, or longing for renewed purpose. Let’s make this a year where we walk when God walks, stay when He stays, and never settle for being anywhere He’s not.
Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025
Welcome to Mosaic NYC! 🌍✨ Whether you're joining us from Los Angeles, London, Mexico City, Ecuador, or anywhere in the world, we’re so glad you’re here. There’s something extraordinary about people coming together across cultures and cities, united by the pursuit of something greater—by the pursuit of Jesus. In this message, we’re continuing our series, HUMANS: What It Means to Be Us. It’s a conversation that might seem unexpected in church—you might expect to hear only about God, but the truth is, in the grand story of creation, you are His masterpiece. When God created the universe, His “aha” moment wasn’t the stars or the mountains—it was you. That means who you are, what you long for, and the struggles you face deeply matter to Him. But being human isn’t just about our beauty and potential; it’s also about the ruins—the broken parts of us that we struggle to make sense of. We all carry wounds, regrets, and disappointments. Some of us feel like our lives have fallen into disrepair, like a city or a building left in ruins. Maybe you’ve asked yourself, How did I get here? How did I become this version of me? Or perhaps you've spent years chasing after something—success, love, validation—only to realize that even when you have it, something still feels missing.We talk about our mental health more than ever, yet our language is growing only in describing what’s wrong rather than what makes us whole. Depression, anxiety, stress—these words have become a part of our daily vocabulary, but what about words that describe healing, restoration, and hope? What if the very things that make us feel broken are actually signs that we were made for something more? Pastor Erwin Raphael McManus takes us on a powerful journey of understanding our own fragility, our pursuit of things that often leave us empty, and our deep longing for love. He reminds us that:🔹 We are fragile. No matter how strong we appear, we are easily wounded, often by the people closest to us. Why do negative emotions stick to us so much more than positive ones? Why does bitterness, anger, or fear stay with us longer than hope or joy? What if our brokenness is pointing us back to God?🔹 We chase things that don’t satisfy. Whether it’s success, wealth, or even love, we often reach for things, believing they will complete us—only to find ourselves still longing. What happens when we spend a decade pursuing something, only to look back and wonder if it was all for nothing?🔹 We are intoxicated by love. We all long to be fully seen, fully known, and fully loved. But what if the human version of love—no matter how beautiful—is just a shadow of a greater love we were created for? A love that will never abandon, reject, or disappoint us. A love that Jesus demonstrated on the cross. This message challenges us to look at our lives through a different lens. What if the pain, the longing, the sense that something is missing isn’t a flaw in us, but rather a signpost pointing us back to our Creator? What if Jesus is the one who steps into our ruins and restores us to the life we were always meant to live? If you’ve ever felt broken, lost, or like your life is in ruins, this message is for you. There is hope. There is healing. There is a new beginning waiting for you.🙏 If this message spoke to you, let us know in the comments. We'd love to hear your story.📲 Stay connected—subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a message.💡 Share this with a friend who needs to hear it. You never know how one conversation could change a life #Mosaic #Jesus #Faith #Hope #Healing #MentalHealth #Purpose #WhatItMeansToBeUs #Humans
Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025
In our first Mosaic Calabasas gathering with Pastor Erwin Raphael McManus, we explore what it means to be human, diving into the deep connection between faith, self-discovery, and our intrinsic longings. While many seek to understand God, what we’re often searching for is an understanding of ourselves—why our lives unfold the way they do and how we navigate the tension between belief and experience. We unpack the idea that faith and human interaction are inseparable; our disconnection from others often mirrors our disconnection from God. At the core of our humanity is a search for meaning, a desire to make sense of our existence and our struggles.Beyond meaning, humans are driven by an insatiable need for progress—the belief that we must keep moving forward, evolving, and becoming better versions of ourselves. Without progress, we drift into despair, feeling stagnant and purposeless. This drive, often misunderstood as ambition for status or success, is actually a reflection of our divine design. We are wired to grow, create, and transform, yet when we measure progress by the wrong standards, we can feel empty despite our achievements. True fulfillment isn’t found in external success but in alignment with who we were created to be.At the heart of it all is our deepest craving—intimacy. We long to be fully seen, known, and loved, yet fear the vulnerability it requires. This paradox shapes much of our human experience, influencing our relationships, anxieties, and sense of belonging. Jesus' message isn’t about earning love but about receiving it freely, breaking the cycle of striving and shame. When we embrace faith, hope, and love as essential to our humanity, we step into the fullness of who we were created to be—designed not just to exist, but to be deeply connected, growing, and truly alive.
Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025
What does it mean to be human? Among the millions of species on Earth, only humans have the ability to question their existence, wrestle with identity, and struggle to live with intention. Unlike animals that instinctively fulfill their roles, we face a unique challenge—we can live outside of our purpose. We are the only species that seeks meaning, longs for more, and feels the weight of the gap between who we are and who we were meant to be. This podcast is an invitation to explore that tension, to ask the hard questions about faith, purpose, and what makes us distinct in creation.Whether faith is the foundation of your life or an idea you occasionally consider, this conversation is for you. Faith is not just a religious construct; it is woven into the fabric of our existence, shaping the way we hope, dream, and create. We’ll explore how faith is not about making us superhuman, but about making us fully human. Through stories, reflections, and deep dives into scripture, we’ll unpack how faith restores our true intention, how hope anchors us in the future, and how our unique ability to imagine and build the world ahead is a reflection of something greater than ourselves.We were not made to simply exist; we were designed to create, to build, and to shape the future. This podcast is about reclaiming the essence of what it means to be human, understanding that we were made in the image of a Creator who calls us to live with purpose. Together, we’ll uncover how to break free from the limitations we place on ourselves and step into a life of intention, courage, and faith. If you’re ready to rediscover what it means to be fully alive, this is the conversation for you.
Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025
Welcome to Mosaic NYC! As we step into this new series, Humans: What Makes Us Us?, we’re diving into the fundamental question of identity—what it means to be human and why we so often struggle with who we are.The Bible is not just the story of God; it’s the story of us in relationship with Him. While we are made from dust, we are also filled with breath—divine, eternal breath. Yet, in a world where every other species instinctively knows how to be what they are, humans often find themselves in an identity crisis, searching for meaning, significance, and belonging.Through this series, we’ll explore what it means to be created in the image of God and how Jesus came to not only reveal who God is but also to restore who we are meant to be.If today’s message spoke to you, let us know in the comments. If you’re ready to step into faith and invite Jesus into your life, we’d love to connect with you.
Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025
In this week's episode form the archives Pastor Erwin explores the idea that Jesus actually makes sense—not because He answers every question, but because He brings clarity to life's complexities. We often believe we already understand life, measuring it by success, wealth, or relationships. Yet, Jesus challenges that perspective, offering a life we don’t even realize we’re missing—one filled with meaning beyond temporary highs. His teachings remind us that life isn't just about existence but about discovering the depth and purpose we were created for.Beyond life, Jesus also makes sense when it comes to love—something we all long for but often struggle to sustain. We chase moments of deep connection, only to find that human love can be unpredictable and fleeting. Jesus reveals a love that isn’t dependent on circumstances, one that is constant and transformative. The same applies to meaning—we assign significance to things like power, money, and fame, only to realize they don’t truly satisfy. Jesus presents a different equation: “What does it profit to gain the whole world but lose yourself?” His words expose our tendency to seek fulfillment in what ultimately leaves us empty.In the end, everything—our ambitions, relationships, and pursuits—only finds its true purpose when Jesus helps us bring the pieces together. He doesn’t call us to abandon our passions but to see them through a different lens, one where we live fully, love deeply, and find meaning beyond ourselves. The search for truth and purpose isn’t over—it’s an ongoing journey of asking, seeking, and discovering that Jesus truly makes sense.
Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025
In this episode from the archives, Pastor Erwin McManus shares his unexpected journey from skepticism to faith, his conviction to plant roots in Los Angeles, and the challenges of building a church that embraces the outsider. With raw honesty, he recounts battles fought—not just against societal norms, but within the church itself—while casting a bold vision for the next 20 years. This episode is more than a celebration; it's a rallying cry to step into the unknown, to embrace the giants ahead, and to be architects of a world where creativity and spirituality collide. If you’ve ever wrestled with your calling, struggled to fit into traditional faith structures, or dreamed of making an impact, this is a must-listen. The future is ours to create.
Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025
We humans are designed for risk. When we're risking with intention, we're living our lives for something bigger than ourselves. In Matthew, Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven as like treasure hidden in a field. It comes only when we're willing to risk everything for it. In the Beatitudes, when Jesus says, blessed are, he's actually saying happy are. He actually addresses negative emotions like mourning, sorrow, brokenness. The happiest people in the world embrace their sadness. It is about celebrating life all the time. The happiest people in the world are the ones who have a reason to suffer. The apostles left the Sanhedrin rejoicing, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the name. We are designed for adventure. If you begin to make choices where you're adverse, then you're not happy.
Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025
During a time of tragic loss with the fires raging in Los Angeles, Pastor Erwin McManus brought a dynamic message helping us see God’s presence in the middle of it all.  In the Scriptures, he points out that we often have a multitude of questions for God during crisis. We ask him why he doesn’t stop tragedy from happening and where he is when we’re suffering.  But instead of answering us, God comes with his own questions that challenge us to take responsibility in moments of hardship.  God asks us who he will send into the fire to be a place of refuge for others. He asks us who will have the courage to move toward the crisis. He asks us to go and be the hands and feet of Jesus.  As Mosaic, we are responding with urgency to the call. We are called to be a place of refuge for Los Angeles.  Tune into this powerful message and join us as we answer the call.
Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025
What if the beauty of Christmas isn’t found in extravagance but in simplicity? This message invites you to reflect on the story of Jesus’ birth, not as a distant tale, but as a powerful reminder of God’s love meeting us in our brokenness. From childhood memories filled with Santa and magical moments to hearing the Gospel for the first time, we explore how God’s plan unfolds in unexpected ways to bring hope and restoration. Through the lens of shepherds, angels, and a baby born in a manger, we see how God’s glory is revealed in humility. This message challenges us to move beyond religion and rituals and embrace a personal relationship with Jesus. It’s a reminder that God does not seek perfection but chooses to dwell in simple, ordinary places—just as He chose a manger to reveal His glory. If this message spoke to you, consider what it means to invite Jesus into your life. Whether you are searching for peace, purpose, or a fresh start, God’s love is available to you. Take a moment to pray, “Jesus, I give you my life,” and experience the hope that Christmas offers. Share this message with someone who needs encouragement this season, and may your Christmas be filled with the peace and love only He can give.
Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024
When you become a relational idealist, when you begin to believe in others, you're not free from wounds. Jesus was betrayed by a kiss, so don't be surprised when you are. And I can make the world better when I believe in people. Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit. When God believes in you, you start becoming what he sees in you. You have to actually learn how to celebrate with others. It's really, really easy to like people when they're doing poorly. Last year when our company collapsed, I had so many people who liked me. It's so much easier to be a friend when that friend has a world that's falling apart. But when the world thins out, the world has to celebrate your success. This is what the economy of God is like. We like people when they are in the same condition as usual or worse. But we don't like it when people seem to get what they got by working less or got more than we got by not earning it. Why is it easier to celebrate your success when someone else has failed?
Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024
Today is Foundation Sunday. The question we should be asking is what do we want for the future of humanity. How can we be a significant part of shifting the human story in the direction of what is good and beautiful and true? It's easy to spend your entire life just paying the bills rather than building something. There are very few churches that actually built a foundation to reach people who would never walk into church. This is one of the reasons tithing is such a brilliant idea from God. I am convinced there are places in the world that desperately need us to pay the price to prove that Jesus is relevant there. Mosaic has carefully crafted what it feels like to be a community of faith. That's the key that will unlock so many cities, he says. He asks you to join him in paying an absurd personal price to do what humanity desperately needs.Mosaic needs about like a 7 million dollar budget every year in LA just to do what we do. If everyone in our community titan gave 10%, we would explode past that. Would you take some time and get along with God and make a commitment to not just pay the bills, but to build a future? There's specifics about how you can give. You can go to https://mosaic.org/give Let's just take this moment and give together to build our foundation.
Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024
Every single week, we send a new message across the world. Everything we do here at Mosaic is made available to everyone in the world for absolutely free. Incredible people who give generously and sacrificially to make this possible. Go to mosaic. org give Become a Part of our support system, become one of our partners. The church matters because it's how God brings us together. If your spirituality is simply a way for you to avoid human connection, it's not very spiritual. The only thing you need to believe in God is to see God for who he really is. In the church, I am a mess. I am imperfect. Calling me hypocritical is just an upgrade. I'm just working through all the brokenness of who I am. Jesus established the church so that we wouldn't do life alone. It's through the church that God brings us together. How many of you would call yourself an introvert? Raise your hand. A huge part of your spirituality has to be you learning how to walk alone with God. You cannot fully experience who God is outside of community. Experience God more fully through the church. When you get around a lot of people with destructive characteristics, you become a destructive human being. But if you can get around people who are compassionate, you start becoming compassionate. There's something that happens in community that changes you.
Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024
This past Sunday, Pastor Erwin McManus delivered a powerful message on the barriers of authentic human connection. Drawing from John 1 and his new book "The Seven Frequencies of Communication," he explored how we can use communication to mask our true selves. He guided us through the concept of shadow frequencies and how they shape our interactions and self-perception. When we communicate with our shadow frequency, we create miscommunication and missed connections that prevent us from truly seeing one another. Pastor Erwin emphasized that transformation begins when we confront these shadows and allow the light of our authentic selves to shine through. It takes courage to face our shadows but this courage is essential to create the human connection we long for. Are you ready to step out of your shadow frequency and into the light? Catch this exciting new message and order Pastor Erwin McManus' new book today!
Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024
Pastor Erwin McManus shared a dynamic new message based on the scriptures and his brand-new book The Seven Frequencies of Communication.  After being asked what God’s frequency of communication is, Pastor Erwin shared that Jesus himself is God’s frequency of communication.  Through examples in the scriptures, we see that though Jesus is fluent in all seven frequencies, he tailors his voice to the needs of each individual.  To the broken, Jesus speaks as a healer. To those who need a teacher, Jesus speaks as a professor. To the stagnant, Jesus speaks as a challenger. To the doubtful, Jesus speaks as a motivator. To those who need vision, Jesus speaks as a seer. To the directionless, Jesus speaks as a commander. To those who need a new view of reality, Jesus speaks as a maven.  Jesus is always speaking to us in the frequency we need to hear in the moment instead of simply what we want to hear.  Are you ready to tune into the frequency of Jesus?  Listen to this powerful message today and order Pastor Erwin’s brand-new book The Seven Frequencies of Communication.
Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024
This past Sunday, Pastor Erwin delivered an impactful message on the power of self-talk. Drawing from Jeremiah 1, he highlighted the critical interruption that occurs when we speak to ourselves in the frequency of self-doubt, self pity, and self-loathing. When we allow negative self-talk to overshadow the voice of God, our lives become smaller. But when God's voice breaks through, it moves us into a miraculous life that can only be lived by tuning into his frequency. The voice of God invites you to: Accept Your Calling by trusting that God will empower you, even in your weakness. Accept Your Battle by facing the challenges ahead, knowing that God is with you. Accept Your Value by acknowledging that God created you with divine intention. Jeremiah had to come to terms with the reality that God saw him differently than he saw himself. God is always calling out the best in us even when we can't see it yet. Are you ready to let the voice of God define you?
Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024
Moses led the flock when he should have been leading people. When you are running from God and not living out his intention, you do less than you were created to do. I want God to engage in a conversation with me about my needs, where I am. It shouldn't at least be the opening conversation. Guide begins here with Moses. I am sending you to pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt. Moses, there's a calling on your life, and now it's time to step up to it. Joshua follows Moses. Sometimes when everything goes bad in our life, we actually relinquish our intention rather than embrace it. Jonah is the story of a person who knew God's intention but chose not to live it out. And here's the crazy thing about being a human. We can violate and reject the intention God gave it. Everything God creates is under his intention. Wouldn't it be better to align your life with the intention for which you were created, so the whole universe will be in your favor? Have you ever noticed how much energy we lose when we're unhappy?
Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2024
This Past Sunday, Pastor Erwin McManus delivered a challenging message on the importance of living in responsive obedience to God’s voice. Speaking from the book of Hebrews, he shared that though God has an incredible future in store for us — it is our responsibility to move into it. Pastor Erwin gave us three key insights: -You do not have the power to slow down time, but you have the power to delay your future. -Your speed of response to the voice of God is the measure of your intimacy with God. -You can fast forward your future as you close the gap between hearing God’s voice and acting on what he has spoken to you. Are you ready to move at the speed of God’s voice? Tune into this transformative message now!
Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024
As we continue our archived series Life in Color, we explore the nature of happiness. Pastor Erwin reflects on a personal story about waking up smiling, underscoring the joy found in small moments. This leads into a deeper discussion on how happiness is often elusive, but attainable when we focus on hope, awe, and living authentically. The conversation highlights that those who experience the most joy are often the ones who live with an openness of mind, heart, and soul. We delve into the significance of maintaining an "open system" in life, as opposed to a "closed system." A closed system is described as living in fear and saying "no" to new possibilities, while an open system is about embracing life with a sense of adventure, curiosity, and trust. The speaker uses biblical references, including Jeremiah 33 and the life of Moses, to illustrate the importance of being open to learning from various sources and experiences, even those outside one’s faith. The episode continues to challenge listeners to think about the balance between material wealth and true happiness, emphasizing that the possession of things often leads to a scarcity mindset, while open hands and generosity can lead to a deeper fulfillment. The speaker touches on the universal pursuit of happiness and the need for faith to lead us into a more open, exploratory, and generous life. Through powerful personal stories and scriptural teachings, listeners are encouraged to reflect on whether they are living with open minds, open hands, and open hearts, ready to embrace life and all the surprises it brings. The episode ends with an invitation to step into a life of faith, surrendering to the openness that leads to ultimate joy and purpose.
Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024
In this series from the archives we dive into the first installment of Life in Color, a series where we explore the deeper shades of life, happiness, and what it means to live fully. Each episode features a new color that represents a fresh theme, connecting the hues of our world to the vibrant pursuit of happiness. Pastor Erwin reflects on spirituality, human emotions, and personal stories, this series takes a deep dive into how happiness can shape our lives, even in a world filled with complexity and challenges. Tune in weekly for thought-provoking discussions that will inspire you to see life in every shade it offers.
Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024
Every single week, we send a new message across the world. He says Mosaic has incredible people who give generously and sacrificially to make this possible. He wants you to become a part of our support system. Allow Jesus to speak to you in a way that will change your life. In all of human history, there has never been a place where God was not at work. The question is not, is God working, but are you working with God? All God wants from you is, I am willing. In this moment, there was a simple invitation to everyone who was willing to come. Our dream was that mosaic would be the community that would commit itself to reaching the outlier. I'd like to propose that we spend the next ten years creating communities, not just in LA and in London. When God moves in history, there is an overflow of talent. We have to destroy the idea that if it's for God, all that matters is how sincere you are rather than how committed you are. You must become the best version of you. Be the measure of your life.
Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2024
You cannot live life without faith. What drives faith is that we're all looking to make sense of life. The more meaningless your life is, the more empty you will be of life, he says. Hope remains not just faith, but hope. Hope only exists in the future. The moment you get something you hope for, guess what? It's no longer a source of hope. Human beings are designed with a need for progress. Hope is not optional. It's essential. The moment you feel depressed, go, oh, my soul is telling me my life can be more. Only humans feel the depression of being less than they can see in their imagination. Everything God does is always expanding. You are designed to keep growing every moment of your life. When you love someone, you lose your mind. The best way to never put yourself in danger is to never love just before yourself. Love realigns your choices and redefines your life. Why do we even think about unconditional love? It's because our souls know we're designed for unconditional love.
Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2024
In this episode, the discussion centers on the wisdom and practical life insights shared by Solomon, particularly in the context of Ecclesiastes 11. Erwin reflects on the poetic yet gritty advice Solomon offers, highlighting the importance of integrating spirituality into everyday life rather than viewing it as something detached or otherworldly. The narrative shifts to a real-life example from a visit to Nashville, where the aftermath of a flood serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change and how possessions, memories, and hopes can be lost. This experience is used to illustrate the relative scale of personal crises and the universal challenge of perspective. Solomon's wisdom, as explored in the chapter, emphasizes the value of building a life on principles of wisdom, generosity, and long-term investment. The famous verse "Cast your bread upon the waters" is unpacked, revealing its deeper meaning about investing in the future, being generous, and not clinging too tightly to what we have in the present. Erwin challenges the listener to consider how they are using their resources, whether financial, intellectual, or relational, to create a better future. The episode also touches on the importance of understanding the cause-and-effect nature of life. Solomon’s insights encourage focusing on the causes—hard work, investment, and action—rather than merely hoping for favorable effects. Erwin drives home the message that life doesn’t happen by accident, and intentional effort is crucial for success. The closing thoughts emphasize the need to stop merely talking and start doing. Erwin warns against the allure of avoiding work and instead encourages embracing it as a vital part of life’s purpose. Solomon’s final advice to "sow your seed in the morning and at evening" serves as a reminder that consistent, diligent work is key to achieving meaningful outcomes, even when the results are uncertain. This episode offers a blend of ancient wisdom and practical advice, urging listeners to actively engage with life, invest in the future, and embrace hard work as a path to fulfillment and success.
Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024
Lead Pastor Erwin McManus shared a new message from the Seven Frequencies of Communication series teaching us how to elevate our frequency of communication. He emphasized that communicating with empathy and authenticity is the key to creating transformation. Pastor Erwin pulled a powerful insight from the book of John. He showed us that Jesus always operated with empathy that dismantled the condemnation that others try to put on us. Jesus also exemplified the power of authenticity as he called out a man named Nathanael who was seeking God not for personal gain but for a genuine encounter. And when empathy is combined with authenticity, our communication becomes an unstoppable force. Are you ready to elevate your frequency? Pre-order The Seven Frequencies of Communication today and watch this message now! Pre order: https://www.thesevenfrequencies.com (https://www.thesevenfrequencies.com)
Transcribed - Published: 13 August 2024
If the axe is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed. But skill will bring success. What Solomon is telling us is that wisdom actually translates itself into skill. Are you doing what you were created to do? I think a lot of us are living accidental lives. Sometimes we just end up doing whatever came to us first. The danger is that you stop being proactive in creating the future. There are a lot of things in life that are transitional. Have you ever noticed that you change the way you dress when you're in a funk? Are you doing what you're created to do? Have you chosen this path on purpose? Mariah wants to apply to fashion school. She designs a dress out of the LA Weekly. She didn't want any help. When she was done, I was actually really shocked. Even looks good.
Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2024
Pastor Erwin McManus shared a transformative new message on the powerful human connection available through the seven frequencies of communication. Speaking from Acts chapter 2, he pointed out that though we often use language to separate and divide — God is always finding ways to connect us. Communication comes from the root word, commune. Pastor Erwin explained that we are designed to commune with God and one another. Breaking down the seven frequencies of communication, we learned that we are uniquely designed to connect with others and bring transformation to the world around us. Pre-order Pastor Erwin’s brand-new book now and discover your frequency of communication. Tune into this message now!
Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2024
Salomon saw the difference between knowing what to do and someone who actually made their life count. In this moment, Solomon was able to see the power of wisdom without advantage. Every person who's determined to make life count is going to face an overwhelming sense of insignificance. In a sense, we're all faking it. We're all trying to act like we know more than we know. When you strip us away, we are all naked and ashamed. To live with the name Irwin is a constant reminder that I was not born for great things. I kept wanting to change my name, but my grandfather said it was the name of someone whose life will make a difference in the world. The way you overcome a sense of insignificance is understanding the significance of each individual. There's no context too small for God to do something, something really, really big. When you enter a relationship with God, he changes you at the very core. Don't be afraid to let the circumstances of life strip you down to who you really are. Look at the power of wisdom without anything.
Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2024
Solomon saw the difference between knowing what to do and someone who actually made their life count. In this moment, Solomon was able to see the power of wisdom without advantage. Every person who's determined to make life count is going to face an overwhelming sense of insignificance. In a sense, we're all faking it. We're all trying to act like we know more than we know. When you strip us away, we are all naked and ashamed. The way you overcome a sense of insignificance is understanding the significance of each individual. There's no context too small for God to do something, something really, really big. When you enter a relationship with God, he changes you at the very core. Don't be afraid to let the circumstances of life strip you down to who you really are. Look at the power of wisdom without anything.
Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2024
A lot of us live in this compulsive religious trap where we keep performing for God rather than listening to God. He says Solomon warned us that we need to stop playing with God. Greene: If you're giving because you hope that giving will somehow get God on your side, you're just wasting your money. Sometimes we just perform for God, but I think other times we're actually pretending with God. Solomon tells us not to be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. There's nothing more destructive to the human spirit than pretending withGod. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it. Much dreaming and many words are meaningless, therefore fear God. God holds us accountable for our dreams. I think it's better to make fewer promises and live on the promises. A husband and a wife made a vow to God, and didn't keep it. With his wife's full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself. When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. Great fear seized the whole church. If you're going to lie about God and pretend you're doing things for God, you have just provoked God.
Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2024
Until you change your values, you will not change how you live your life. We need to recognize that everything in life will pull away at the relationships that we have. It's what we do to nurture those relationships that really brings meaning to our lives. I think one of the greatest gifts that we have as a community is to create community and provide community for those around us. Relationships are tough. Sometimes the greatest gift you can give another human being is to invite them to come with you and serve the world together. When two or more are gathered in my name, he says, I am there in the mist. The church has not been particularly helpful in the last few decades of helping people connect to God. Don't use all the problems in the church to be an excuse for an individualistic spirituality. When we're all alone, I can't always explain it. It has been with me for 50 years of my life. The difference now is that for decades, I just carried that inside of me alone. We all are just one thin breath away from feeling as if we're alone in the world.
Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2024
Podcast Summary: "Existential Musings: Humanity and the Animal Condition" In this episode, we explore Solomon's reflections on human and animal existence. Solomon suggests that humans and animals share the same fate—both return to dust after death—highlighting life's inherent futility. Humans, unlike animals, are burdened with the awareness of their mortality, deepening existential despair and raising the question of whether it is better never to have been born to avoid life's inevitable suffering. We critique modern society's prioritization of animal life over human suffering, hinting at a deeper cultural nihilism. This observation challenges us to rethink our valuation of life and the essence of our existence. Personal anecdotes and near-death experiences enrich the dialogue, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of confronting mortality. These stories underscore the fragility of life and the impact of existential realizations on personal and spiritual growth. Ultimately, this dive back into the archives invites listeners to appreciate the present moment and redefine true living, seeking a deeper understanding of life's purpose and the interconnectedness of all beings. Join us as we delve into these existential musings and uncover deeper meanings in our shared human experience.
Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2024
Welcome to the "Reality Check: Search for the Real" podcast. In this series, we've explored Solomon’s quest for meaning in the Book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon finds that work, wealth, power, and pleasure all ultimately lead to emptiness. In Ecclesiastes chapter 3, Solomon offers hope through the passage, “There is a time for everything.” This highlights life's cycles and contrasts—joy and sorrow, birth and death. Solomon notes that while we live in time, God has placed eternity in our hearts, creating a tension between our temporal lives and our eternal longings. Paul’s New Testament writings echo this, suggesting that our experiences, both good and bad, are designed by God to draw us closer to Him. This divine orchestration aims to awaken our search for the eternal. Through our struggles and triumphs, we can find purpose and beauty, trusting that God makes everything beautiful in its time. Join us next week as we continue to explore the profound wisdom of Ecclesiastes and our search for life's meaning.
Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2024
In this episode, Pastor Erwin delves into the common dissatisfaction with work and its significant impact on our lives. He emphasizes how work often overshadows other important aspects, such as family, hobbies, and personal passions. Drawing from Solomon's reflections in Ecclesiastes, the discussion centers on the futility of labor without meaning, highlighting the emptiness of success when it's pursued solely for material gain. Pastor Erwin shares personal anecdotes about the stress and insomnia caused by work, and how our lives can feel like a cycle of unfulfilling toil. He stresses the importance of integrating passion and creativity into our work to avoid a life dominated by meaningless labor. True motivation and productivity come from having autonomy, mastery, and purpose in our roles. Pastor Erwin asserts that it is the individual's responsibility to bring meaning to their work, regardless of the job's nature. By approaching even mundane tasks with creativity and passion, we can transform work into a source of joy and fulfillment. The episode concludes with a call to action: listeners are urged to reevaluate their approach to work and find ways to infuse it with meaning. Whether by changing jobs or altering their perspective, the goal is to ensure that work contributes positively to their life's purpose and overall fulfillment.
Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2024
Lead Pastor Erwin McManus delivered a brand new message on the unlimited power of wisdom. Speaking from the book of Ecclesiastes, he shared a story of a poor man who saved a city with his wisdom. And though this man accomplished an incredible feat, he went on to be despised and forgotten. Pastor Erwin reminded us that often we look at all of the resources we do not have: fame, wealth, or power. But God wants to give us exactly what we need most — wisdom. It's time to pursue wisdom above all else and experience its unlimited potential. Check out this brand message now!
Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2024
As we continue this “Reality Check” series diving into the archives. Venture into the depths of Ecclesiastes as we navigate Solomon's quest for life's true meaning, beginning from chapter 1, verse 12. In this episode, "Too Smart for Your Own Good," we delve into the introspective reflections of Solomon, a king endowed with unparalleled wisdom, who grapples with the profound realization of life's inherent futility. Solomon's piercing insights reveal the stark reality that human endeavors, no matter how grand, may ultimately be meaningless—mere chases after the wind. His contemplations on the human condition and the limitations of wisdom serve as a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of existential despair. Engage with us as we dissect the delicate interplay between despair and hope, and examine how Solomon's profound reflections juxtapose with the enduring optimism of divine perspective. This episode promises to challenge your philosophical understanding and inspire deeper contemplation of one of the Bible's most existential texts.
Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2024
As we dive into the archives, Pastor Erwin talks about the concept of creativity being often misunderstood as exclusive to artists and visionaries. Through David and Goliath, we draw powerful parallels to modern challenges, illustrating how creativity can transcend conventional approaches to problem-solving. Highlighting a real-life scenario, we recount how Mosaic turned an unexpected venue closure into a transformative community event, showcasing the profound impact of innovative thinking. This episode is a call to action for everyone, encouraging the unleashing of creativity not just in the arts but as a vital tool for impactful change in every aspect of life.
Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024
This past Sunday Pastor Erwin McManus spoke on the importance of living connected not only to God, but to the gift of the Church. Sharing from the book of Corinthians, he gave us three essential truths from the scriptures to inform the way we relate to God and others: 1. We are a unique part of the whole. 2. We are not whole when we are apart. 3. We are strongest when we all do our part. When we out our uniqueness within the community God has given us, we become the strongest version of ourselves. Are you ready to discover the importance of living a connected life? Check out this new message now!
Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2024
This past Sunday Pastor Erwin McManus spoke on the importance of living connected not only to God, but to the gift of the Church. Sharing from the book of Corinthians, he gave us three essential truths from the scriptures to inform the way we relate to God and others: 1. We are a unique part of the whole. 2. We are not whole when we are apart. 3. We are strongest when we all do our part. When we out our uniqueness within the community God has given us, we become the strongest version of ourselves. Are you ready to discover the importance of living a connected life? Check out this new message now!
Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2024
This weekend, Pastor Erwin McManus brought new insights that challenged us to step into a new level of connection to God. Speaking from the book of Galatians, he shared that there are 3 levels of connection to God: 1: The universal good 2: The adopted child 3: The heir apparent We experience the universal good as we live our lives enjoying the blessings that God gives to all of humanity whether we believe in him or not. The adopted child has a relationship with God and experiences his grace, but the heir apparent has stepped into the maturity needed to inherit the life that God is longing to give them. Are you ready to take your relationship with God to the next level? Don't miss this message!
Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2024
Part 4 on the series of God from 2014
Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2024
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