Trusting Means Choosing

Trusting Means Choosing

Author: Epikos Church March 29, 2026 Duration: 40:57
In this message from Mark 15, we step into the tension of a Savior who is both rejected and resolute. As Jesus stands before Pilate, falsely accused and publicly condemned, His silence speaks louder than any defense ever could. While the crowd demands Barabbas and cries out for crucifixion, Jesus chooses the will of the Father over convenience, comfort, and self-preservation. This sermon invites us to wrestle with the same question the crowd unknowingly faced: will we choose what satisfies us now, or will we trust the One who saves us eternally? In a world driven by immediacy and self-interest, the quiet strength of Jesus reveals a deeper truth—trusting God often means choosing Him when it’s hardest. Through powerful storytelling and honest reflection, this message challenges us to examine where we might be choosing “Barabbas” in our own lives—opting for what’s easy, popular, or immediately gratifying instead of what’s eternal and life-giving. Jesus didn’t come to win arguments or meet expectations; He came to fulfill a mission that would cost Him everything so that we could go free. And because He chose the cross, we can choose Him—even when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or costly. This is the invitation of the gospel: to trust deeply, surrender fully, and follow faithfully, knowing that true life is found not in having it our way, but in choosing His.

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
Ask, Seek, Knock [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:10
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on Jesus's teaching about prayer in the "ask, seek, and knock" passage, emphasizing that God invites believers to come to Him continually with their requests without fea…
Don't Judge [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:13
In this week’s message, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on Jesus's teaching "Judge not, that you be not judged" explaining that while we shouldn't judge others, we should maintain a discerning spirit. Pastor Mark defines jud…
Anxiety [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:37
In this week's sermon, Pastor Tommy Hutchison preaches on Jesus's command, "Do not be anxious about your life" clarifying that Jesus is specifically addressing anxiety that stems from chasing after material possessions r…
True Treasure [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:56
In this week's message, Pastor Mark Deering explores Jesus's teaching about treasures in heaven versus treasures on earth, explaining that where we place our treasures reveals where our hearts truly are. He unpacks Jesus…
When You Fast [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:13
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski explores the spiritual practice of voluntarily abstaining from food as a means of deepening one's relationship with God. Drawing from biblical context, he explains that fasti…
When You Pray [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:59
This week's message by Pastor Jacob Michalski focuses on prayer through three key questions: should I pray, why am I praying, and how should I pray. Pastor Jacob emphasizes that Jesus expects followers to pray genuinely…
When You Give [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:58
In this week's message, Pastor Mark explains Jesus's teachings about generosity and reward, particularly how Christians should practice righteousness not for public recognition but for God's approval. The message traces…
Rise: Step into Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:39
This Easter Sunday message focuses on the concept of being "born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." Pastor Mark explains that this resurrection power gives believers three key…
Love Your Enemy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:52
In this week's message, Pastor Mark encourages us to explore who our enemies might be—spiritual, relational/social, or political—and challenges listeners to identify those they might consider enemies in their lives. A st…
Upsidedown Retaliation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:48
In this week's message, Pastor Tommy addresses how Christians should respond when wronged by others. He explains that while Old Testament "eye for an eye" laws were meant to limit retaliation, Jesus takes this further by…