Isolation Is Impossible

The Birth of Missions

This sermon explores Acts 11:19-26 and the story of the early church in Antioch, one of the most immoral cities in the ancient world. Jon Welch examines how ordinary believers brought the gospel to this dark place and lived so differently that locals called them "Christians" for the first time. The message addresses what it means to truly make Jesus Lord of your life, not just in title but in daily practice. Topics include the difference between cultural Christianity and authentic faith, how to shine as a light in dark places, and practical ways to participate in God's mission through supporting church planting in Boston and missions in Jamaica.

Church People

This sermon explores Acts 11:1-17, where Peter defends sharing the Gospel with Gentiles and asks, "Who was I that I could stand in God's way?" Jon Welch examines five ways church people can become barriers instead of bridges to faith: not inviting friends, preaching rules over grace, hypocrisy, insider traditionalism, and judgmentalism. The message addresses common criticisms of the church and challenges believers to remove obstacles that prevent others from encountering Jesus. Key scriptures include Acts 11:1-17, Galatians 5:1, James 5:16, and John 1:46. This teaching is part of our ongoing series on the book of Acts and focuses on creating welcoming environments where anyone can discover a relationship with Christ.

When God Accepts, We Must Welcome

This sermon explores Acts 10:34-48, where Peter preaches the gospel to Cornelius and his household, and the Holy Spirit falls on the Gentiles for the first time. The message examines Peter's statement that "God shows no partiality" and what it means for the early church to welcome those they previously considered outsiders. The sermon addresses the cost of true inclusion in the church, including our preferences, tables, spaces, reputation, and time. It challenges us as disciples to consider who we might have written off and what barriers need to come down in order to fully welcome those God is bringing.

No One Is Beyond Reach

This sermon from Leesburg Christian Church explores Acts 10, where God orchestrates a meeting between Peter, a Jewish apostle, and Cornelius, a Roman centurion. The message examines how God used visions to challenge Peter's understanding of who the gospel is for, breaking down the barrier between Jews and Gentiles in the early church. Jon Welch walks through the account of Cornelius's prayers and Peter's rooftop vision, explaining why God had to prepare both men for this pivotal moment in Christian history. This message addresses themes of obedience, prejudice, and God's desire to reach all people with the gospel.

Come Home

This sermon explores Jesus's three parables from Luke 15—the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. Jon Welch examines how these stories reveal two different ways people can be lost: through rebellion in a distant country or through self-righteousness while staying home. The message shows how God actively pursues the lost and explains the role of Christ's death and resurrection in making reconciliation with the Father possible.