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City Church OTR Messages

City Church OTR Messages

By City Church OTR

Engage the teaching that is forming our church into people who look more like Jesus. These messages are recorded live at City Church OTR's weekly services. To learn more, get connected, or support the work God is doing here, visit: CityChurchOTR.com.
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SERIES ~ Near ~ Near in Sorrow ~ December 5, 2021

City Church OTR MessagesDec 08, 2021

00:00
28:26
God So Loved: Whoever

God So Loved: Whoever

This week, Dave Workman visited us at City Church OTR and spoke on the word "Whoever." Does whoever really mean whoever? The message of reconciliation is the key. How can we, as the church, utilize the message of reconciliation to minister to the "whoevers" of the world.

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

May 12, 202426:39
God So Loved: His One and Only Son

God So Loved: His One and Only Son

This week, Brandon McCauley shared with us on the words "His One and Only Son" from John 3:16. The old testament law was only meant to cover our sin, not atone for them. That is why we needed the Messiah, Jesus Christ!

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

May 05, 202424:55
God So Loved: That He Gave

God So Loved: That He Gave

As we continue through John 3:16, Chris taught on the phrase "That He Gave" and how God giving to us paved the way for us to receive his grace and mercy, all because He is a just God who holds up His end of every promise.

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

Apr 28, 202433:50
God So Loved: The World

God So Loved: The World

This week Rob focused on the words "The World" from the most famous verse in the Bible. What exactly does "the world" refer to? How can we be in the world without conforming to it? The way we understand "the world" impacts how we live within it, and the way we love reflects God's love to those around us.

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

Apr 21, 202435:40
God So Loved: So Loved

God So Loved: So Loved

This week Chris focused on the significance of the words "so loved." Love is an action, feeling, and identity for God. The past tense of this passage doesn't contradict the rest of Scripture about God's love; instead, it provides a deeper context and understanding of His love for us.

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

Apr 14, 202429:06
God So Loved: For God

God So Loved: For God

This week, Chris taught on the first two words of the most renowned verse in the Bible. God reveals His name to us through scripture and instructs us on how we are to address Him. While we may gain knowledge of His name through those passages, there is a big difference between studying theology and knowing God.

“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing” John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.

Apr 07, 202434:24
Easter Celebration 2024: It Changed Everything

Easter Celebration 2024: It Changed Everything

This week, City Church OTR celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Chris shared how this redemption story changed the world on a cosmic level. Yet this story, that none of us are the main characters of, also changes us on a personal level. Six verses, one event; it changed everything!

Mar 31, 202432:49
Ruth: The Story of God

Ruth: The Story of God

This week, Kristen taught about the role God played in Ruth's story. God often partners with His creation in amazing and unexpected ways. Ruth and Boaz's story leads to the restoration of Israel through the genealogy of Jesus. How could God be wanting to partner with us?

The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from. J

Mar 24, 202435:54
Ruth: The Story of Boaz

Ruth: The Story of Boaz

This week, Chris shared the story of Boaz. The relationship between Ruth and Boaz acts as a great reminder of the importance of initiation in leadership and honor in response. There is so much we can learn from his story. It's a beautiful example of how we can operate more like Jesus as humans.

The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.

Mar 17, 202434:18
Ruth: The Story of Ruth

Ruth: The Story of Ruth

This week, Chris taught on the namesake of our series, Ruth. Ruth's story is one that teaches us to do the right thing, even when no one is watching!

The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.

Mar 10, 202428:57
Ruth: The Story of Naomi

Ruth: The Story of Naomi

The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.

This week, Rob Groves taught on Naomi's story. Naomi was a victim of her circumstances. We can be both inspired by her faithfulness and cautioned by her words.

Mar 03, 202430:51
Yours: The Spirit of Mammon

Yours: The Spirit of Mammon

We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.

This week, Rob Groves teaches on the Spirit of Mammon. Is money really the root of all evil? In our culture, we struggle with pride or poverty mindset surrounding money. The Spirit of Mammon could be what's stopping you from stewarding your money the way God calls us to do.

Feb 25, 202443:21
Yours: The Principles of First

Yours: The Principles of First

We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.

This Sunday, Michelle Santora teaches that from the beginning of creation, God has always been first. He deserves our first. He cannot be second, and He is unchanging. What would it look like for us to give Him our first?

Feb 19, 202438:49
Yours: Tithing

Yours: Tithing

We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.

This week, Pastor Chris Marlin addresses some common questions about tithing: Who does the first 10% belong to, us or God? Was it ever ours to begin with? And what does Jesus think about the Old Testament laws surrounding tithing? Exploring these questions can deepen our understanding of faith and generosity.

Feb 12, 202439:41
Yours: It's All About the Heart

Yours: It's All About the Heart

We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.

This week, Pastor Chris Marlin teaches on the importance posture of our hearts and how obedience can create a generous and grateful heart.

Feb 04, 202433:22
Change: Pray Until Something Happens

Change: Pray Until Something Happens

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.

In situations where we have been praying and not receiving answers from the Lord, it's easy to give up on the power of prayer. This week Pastor Chris Marlin introduces the idea of praying until something happens. As we faithfully persist in prayer, the Lord can cultivate maturity in our faith.

Jan 28, 202436:48
Change: Prayer Changes Our City

Change: Prayer Changes Our City

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.

This week, Pastor Paul Taylor of Rivers Crossing Church teaches on the profound impact of obedience and prayer. Through unity in prayer, we have the potential to spark a transformative movement for Christ in our city.

Jan 21, 202443:38
Change: Prayer Changes Our Church

Change: Prayer Changes Our Church

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.

This week, Pastor Andy Ziegenfuss from All Church shared with us about how prayer, fellowship, and keeping Jesus at the center is critical to the body of Christ.

Jan 14, 202435:07
Change: Prayer Changes Ourselves

Change: Prayer Changes Ourselves

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.

This week, Chris Marlin teaches that prayer is formative in our relationship with God and that's spending time in His presence could be the change that we need this year.

Jan 07, 202435:46
The Gift(s): Myrrh

The Gift(s): Myrrh

Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.

This week, Chris Marlin teaches on the gift of myrrh and poses the question: When did Mary know that her baby's story would be powerful and tragic?

Dec 17, 202331:49
The Gift(s): Frankincense

The Gift(s): Frankincense

Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.

This week, Chris Marlin teaches on frankincense and the power of intercession.

Dec 11, 202329:13
The Gift(s): Gold

The Gift(s): Gold

Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.
Join us at City Church OTR in December as we explore The Gift(s).

This week, Rob Groves kicks off the series teaching about the gift of gold, generosity, and giving.

Dec 11, 202330:28
Presence: “It Changes Everything!” | What Happens When God Walks in the Room?

Presence: “It Changes Everything!” | What Happens When God Walks in the Room?

What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think?

This week, during our annual Sermon Slam, Cole Martin, Jason, Bart, Lena, and Kristen share on their personal experience with the presence of God.

Nov 26, 202332:37
Presence: “It Changes Everything” | The Veil

Presence: “It Changes Everything” | The Veil

What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think?

This week, Chris Marlin teaches that we need to believe that we can go after the presence of God, and that we should be going after it relentlessly.

Nov 19, 202328:35
Presence: “It Changes Everything” | Manifest Presence

Presence: “It Changes Everything” | Manifest Presence

What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think? This week, Rob Groves speaks on manifest presence: God breaking into our present reality.

Nov 13, 202332:50
Presence: “ It Changes Everything” | How We Invite God’s Presence

Presence: “ It Changes Everything” | How We Invite God’s Presence

What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think? This week, Chris Marlin teaches on fight cynicism, choosing a position of hunger for the presence of God, and the ministry of Peter.

Nov 13, 202331:60
The Weeping Prophet

The Weeping Prophet

This week, Dwight Young talks about Jeremiah, The Weeping Prophet. Similar to Jesus’ ministry in many ways, Jeremiah’s story teaches us the power of Purpose, Passion, and Hope.


Oct 29, 202338:28
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 6

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 6

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week, Chris Marlin wraps up our Galatians series with a look at the old creation vs. new creation.

Oct 22, 202342:51
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 5

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 5

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week special guest teacher, Dave Workman, unpacks the two kingdoms at war in show in Galatians 5: the flesh vs the spirit.

Oct 15, 202332:47
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 4

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 4

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. Chris Marlin explores the tension of slave versus free in Galatians 4. A special prayer exercise follows the message by Kristin Scott of Activation Ministries.

Oct 08, 202342:60
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 3

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 3

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. Looking at Galatians 3, Rob Groves explores the opposition of grace versus the law.

Oct 01, 202334:55
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 2

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 2

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week, Chris Marlin teaches from Galatians chapter 2 where it's Paul versus Peter.

Sep 24, 202334:00
VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 1

VERSUS: A Study of Galatians | Galatians 1

In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week Chris Marlin explores THE Gospel versus the American Gospel.

Sep 17, 202339:32
Happy 3rd Birthday City Church OTR

Happy 3rd Birthday City Church OTR

As we celebrate City Church's 3rd birthday and all that God has done here, Chris Marlin reflects on who we are, where we've been, and where we're going.

Sep 10, 202315:51
For the One: Serving

For the One: Serving

Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Michelle Santora unpacks how a lifestyle and a heart of serving can be used to introduce the one to Jesus.

Sep 03, 202333:38
For the One: Testimony

For the One: Testimony

Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Rob Groves shares how our unique testimony reflects God's kindness and power and is worth sharing to reach the one.

Aug 27, 202336:02
For the One: Miracles

For the One: Miracles

Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin shows how God has used the supernatural for centuries to bring about the greatest miracle of all - our redemption.

Aug 20, 202339:15
For the One: The Gospel

For the One: The Gospel

Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin shares why and how we take courage to share the Gospel to reach the one.

Aug 13, 202332:10
For the One: Why We Care for the One

For the One: Why We Care for the One

Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin introduces this new series and shares our "why" for going after the one.

Aug 06, 202339:03
James: Chapter 5

James: Chapter 5

Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Caitlin Snyder shares from James 5 how faith empowers us to persevere through challenges.

Jul 30, 202333:20
James: Chapter 4

James: Chapter 4

Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Dwight Young challenges and encourages us from James 4 to end the wars among us, within us, and above us that ruin the testimony of our faith and our ability to love God and our neighbors.

Jul 23, 202336:29
James: Chapter 3

James: Chapter 3

Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Michelle Santora shares how the way we use our tongue exposes us, forms us, and shows us our need for healing.

Jul 16, 202333:23
James: Chapter 2

James: Chapter 2

Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Megan Baird explores James chapter 2 and what it means for us to live out a life-changing faith where mercy triumphs over judgement.

Jul 09, 202338:20
James: Chapter 1

James: Chapter 1

Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Rob Groves digs into James chapter 1 and how our faith changes the way we view and walk through suffering.

(note: there is background music playing for the first couple minutes but it will end after that. Thanks for your grace for our oops!)

Jul 02, 202344:51
Father: The Sacrificial Love of the Father

Father: The Sacrificial Love of the Father

As the Father series comes to close, Chris Marlin shows how the lovingkindness of God the Father, displayed in the sacrificing of his own Son Jesus on our behalf, allows us to exhale and breathe deep.


Jun 25, 202334:55
Father: The Protecting Love of the Father

Father: The Protecting Love of the Father

In the next edition of our "Father" series, exploring the loving kindness of God the Father, Chris Marlin shows us how we can truly exhale and rest because our Father is Jehovah-nissi, our Banner and Protector.

Jun 18, 202334:59
Father: The Father Will See to It

Father: The Father Will See to It

As we begin a new series focused on exploring the loving kindness of God the Father, Chris Marlin introduces us to the deep and incomprehensible love of our Jehovah Jireh.

Jun 04, 202332:36
Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life

Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life

In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris Marlin unpacks the scandal Jesus started when he claimed, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life."

May 21, 202336:37
Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the Bread of Life

Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the Bread of Life

In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris Marlin shares why Jesus says, "I AM the Bread of Life" and how he satisfies like nothing else can.

May 14, 202337:30
Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the True Vine

Jesus According to Jesus: I AM the True Vine

In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris explores what Jesus meant when he said "I AM the True Vine". 

May 07, 202343:38