Here is a recap of our message from this weekend...

SHINE: "Facing the Fear"

In this powerful message titled "Facing Fear," Pastor Jared teaches us how fear—especially the fear of rejection—can keep us from living out our calling and sharing our faith. Drawing from Scripture and real-life examples, we're challenged to choose God’s approval over popularity, obedience over outcomes, and to live boldly in our identity as chosen followers of Christ.

Weekly Bible Study List

John 15:18–19 (NLT) – “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first... I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.”
Galatians 1:10 (NIV) – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?”
Ephesians 1:4–5 (NLT) – “Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us...”
Matthew 26:74 (NIV) – “Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know the man!’ Immediately a rooster crowed.”

The Sunday Outline & Notes

In the ongoing Shine series, Pastor Jared confronts a common barrier to sharing our faith: fear. Specifically, the fear of rejection. Through transparent stories, Scripture, and practical challenges, this message equips believers to shine their light, even when it’s hard.

The Power of Fear

Fear often keeps us silent—not because we've been rejected, but because we’ve rehearsed rejection. We imagine worst-case scenarios and let those imagined outcomes paralyze our obedience.

1. Value Being Chosen Over Being Liked

So much of our energy goes into being liked, even when it means compromising our convictions. But Galatians 1:10 challenges us to seek God’s approval over man’s. You were chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4–5)—you don’t need to earn what God has already given.

2. Value Obedience Over Outcome

We don’t control results—only obedience. Pastor Jared compares us to Amazon delivery drivers: we deliver God’s message, but we don’t control when or if people open it. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us to be prepared, gentle, and respectful. It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to do the rest.

3. Value Principle Over Popularity

When we fear rejection, we often try to blend in. Pastor Jared draws attention to Peter’s denial of Jesus—specifically how he cursed to prove he wasn’t one of Jesus’ followers. Our compromise may seem harmless, but it often says the loudest thing about who we are.

From Sermon to Action

3 Practical Steps for Overcoming the Fear of Rejection

Identify who you're trying to please.
Remember what God says about you.
Take the Neighbor Challenge — do something kind for two neighbors this week and invite them to church.

DAILY DECLARATION SHARED: "I am chosen by God. I am seen by God. I am loved by God. So I can bring glory to God."

Worship Setlist

Another Stone
Fear is Not My Future
Reckless Love

Pastor Quotes Worth Reposting on Social Media

“Fear allows you to rehearse rejection you’ve never actually faced.”
“When we rehearse rejection, we reduce obedience.”
“You don’t need to be approved by man to be used by God.”
“God didn’t call you to manage outcomes—He called you to obey His word.”
“The more we blend in with the world, the harder it becomes for it to believe we know Jesus.”
“You can’t follow the words of Jesus if you’re led by the approval of people.”
“You’ll stop chasing likes when you understand you were created loved.”
“Sometimes the greatest way I can reach someone for Jesus isn't with my words—it's with my service.”
“The fear you won’t face is the fear you’ll always live with.”
“When God defines you, rejection will no longer stop you.”

WATCH SERMON