Genesis Church Phoenix

Pastor DJ Uithoven- “Hallelujah is a Hebrew word which means ‘Glory to the Lord.’ The song explains that many kinds of Hallelujahs do exist. I say: All the perfect and broken Hallelujahs have an equal value. It’s a desire to affirm my faith in life, not in some formal religious way but with enthusiasm, with emotion.“ - Leonard Cohen Leonard is right, Hallelujah should, and can, encompass our entire life. Jeff Buckley openly talked about the sensuality of his version of the song, but he misses the vibrancy of a life lived as if Hallelujah has staying power through it all. We will talk about what it means to truly live a life, full of ups-and-downs, like Hallelujah matters.

Kristen Lunceford- Summer Jams is back, and one of Genesis’ most anticipated series of the year kicks off this Sunday with a high-octane 80s movie anthem that nods to something deeply true about the Christian life: following Jesus will eventually lead us beyond what feels safe, predictable, and controllable. Join us as we explore what it looks like to trust God in uncomfortable places, move past a faith built entirely around comfort and self-protection, and remember that Jesus is still trustworthy when life feels uncertain.

We all live by stories we tell ourselves. Stories about who we are, what we need, and how the world works. Some of those stories are true but many are not. Over time, these false narratives can quietly shape our hearts, fueling fear, control, or shame. This time of year invites us to bring those stories into the light. Jesus promises that truth leads to freedom, not condemnation. As we give up the lies we’ve learned to live by, God begins the renewing work of reshaping our minds and restoring our hearts.

As Paul brings this epic letter to a close, he reminds the Church of something crucial: we are strengthened by a God who builds things to last. Not temporary fixes or shallow faith, but deep-rooted resilience. The same God who began a good work in you is the One who will carry it to completion. In a world where so much feels fragile and fleeting, this message calls us to trust in a strength that doesn't wear out, break down, or fade away.

As Paul wraps up his message to the Romans, he doesn’t just offer blessings—he asks for backup. Paul knows that gospel work is hard and that no one is called to do it alone. This week reminds us that while not all of us are called to preach or travel like Paul, all of us are called to link arms through prayer, encouragement, and generosity. The mission advances when the church moves shoulder to shoulder.

The Source of Hope by Genesis Church

In Christ, we’re truly free. But that freedom comes with a responsibility: not to tear others down, but to build them up. Paul makes it clear that even if something isn’t wrong for you, it might become a stumbling block for someone else. And when that happens, love chooses restraint over rights. In a world obsessed with personal freedom, the way of Jesus calls us to something deeper. It calls us to a life of thoughtful, self-giving love. This week, we’ll explore what it means to choose restraint, not because we have to, but because we care deeply about people.

Paul opens chapter 14 by urging believers to stop dividing over “disputable matters,” whether it’s dietary choices, Sabbath observance, or modern equivalents like politics, parenting styles, or personal habits. Paul reminds us that unity in Christ is more important than uniformity in practice. We’re not called to police each other’s convictions, we’re called to create space for spiritual growth. This week, we’ll explore what it means to lead with welcome, not judgment.