Jesus vs. Religion: Part 1

Jesus vs. Religion: Part 1

Author: Epikos Church October 5, 2025 Duration: 40:00
This message examines Jesus's conflict with the Pharisees in Mark 2, exploring how Jesus confronted religious legalism by eating with tax collectors and redefining fasting practices. Pastor Mark Deering uses the analogy of a trellis to illustrate how spiritual rhythms (like Bible reading, prayer, and worship) should support our relationship with God rather than become rigid religious obligations. Three key principles emerge: we need healthy spiritual rhythms, those rhythms must be flexible for different life seasons, and we shouldn't use our rhythms to judge others. The central challenge is to let Jesus set the rhythm of our faith so we can live out of authentic relationship with Him rather than religious duty.

Each week, the community of Epikos Church Sermons gathers in Milwaukee, and this audio feed brings those moments of reflection and teaching directly to you. These recordings capture the live messages shared from the pulpit, focusing on practical applications of Christian faith for modern life. You’ll hear thoughtful explorations of scripture that connect ancient wisdom to contemporary challenges, whether discussing relationships, purpose, or everyday spirituality. The tone is engaging and accessible, meant for both long-time believers and those simply curious about a life of faith. By tuning into this podcast, you become part of a wider conversation that extends beyond the Sunday service, offering a regular source of perspective and encouragement. Epikos Church creates these episodes as an extension of their local ministry, believing these teachings can provide a steadying rhythm and deeper understanding no matter where you are. It’s more than just a weekly recording; it’s an invitation to reflect and grow alongside a community seeking meaning and connection.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Epikos Church Sermons
Podcast Episodes
The Misunderstood Messiah (Who Do You Say I Am?) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:42
"Join us today as we explore the question that Jesus asks His disciples in Mark 8: “Who do you say I am?” What feels like faith quickly reveals our instinct to shape Jesus into something manageable, something aligned wit…
Christmas Isn't Over [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:28
Whether you’re joining us from home after Christmas or stepping into the new year with us for the first time, we’re so glad you’re here. This special at-home gathering invites our Epikos family into a long-form conversat…
The Calm Christmas Brings [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:17
"Celebrate Christmas through the lens of Matthew 1 as we step into Joseph’s story and see the quiet strength of faithful obedience in the middle of chaos. This message reminds us that the arrival of Jesus didn’t remove u…
Calm in the Chaos [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:37
Christmas is more than a season of traditions—it’s a holy disruption that reminds us who is in control. In this message, Pastor Mark invites us to name the chaos we live in, from personal anxiety to cultural disorder, an…
Understanding Jesus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:49
In Mark 8, Jesus encounters two groups who both misunderstand Him—the Pharisees and the disciples. Though they respond differently, each brings preconceived ideas about who the Messiah should be. The Pharisees demand a s…
The Compassionate Messiah [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:12
Join Epikos as we our journey through the Gospel of Mark, exploring the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000. In this message, we learn how Jesus shows deep compassion—for the disciples, for the crowd, and for each of us t…
Evangelism & Rejection [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:28
In Mark 6, we see both the beauty and the cost of following Jesus. As Jesus is rejected in His hometown and sends His disciples out with nothing but faith and purpose, we’re reminded that the gospel invites us into a lif…
Jairus' Daughter [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:35
This message invites us into Mark 5, where we see Jesus step into desperate and impossible situations with authority, compassion, and life-giving power. Through the intertwined stories of a hurting father, a woman who ha…
Freed From Bondage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:50
In this message, we look at Mark 5 and the powerful moment when Jesus meets a man bound by darkness. Through this encounter, we see that the spiritual realm is real—but so is Jesus’ authority and compassion. He brings fr…