Hope City Church
Religion & Spirituality
About
At Hope City Church, we’re passionate about helping you live out your Christian faith with purpose. Recorded in Edmonton, Alberta, our podcast shares Bible-based teachings and practical messages to encourage you to love God, grow in Christ, and find true hope in everyday life. Whether you're seeking spiritual growth or looking for hope and encouragement, join us for meaningful conversations that inspire faith and provide real-life applications of the gospel.
Episodes
- Running on Empty? God Still Meets You There | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre delivers a Mother's Day message about finding God even when feeling exhausted. Drawing from the story of the widow and the oil in 2 Kings 4, the message emphasizes that God provides, restores, and works through faith an…
- Do You Really Need Church in Your Life? | Paul Malott
Pastor Paul Malott discusses the true meaning of the church, emphasizing that it's more than a physical place or a weekly event. The message outlines three essential elements for living out the church's purpose daily, focusing on our relat…
- You Can’t Fix This on Your Own | Phil Kniesel
This message by Phil Kniesel explores the inadequacy of self-reliance in fixing deep-seated issues like sin and brokenness. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift from Jesus, already accomplished, and not something earned through self-impr…
- The Trinity… How Does That Work? | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre discusses the Trinity, explaining the biblical perspective on one God in three persons and its significance for daily life. The message emphasizes that God is love and invites individuals into this relationship through…
- Can You Actually Trust the Bible? | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses common doubts about the Bible, examining its trustworthiness and its relevance to everyday life. The message explores whether the Bible can be a foundation for life, impacting how one lives.
- What's Easter ACTUALLY about? | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses the Easter resurrection story, focusing on how the experiences of witnesses and the message of Jesus can bring about life-changing transformations, regardless of an individual's history.
- How Do We Go From Praise to Rejection
Pastor Ruben analyzes the Palm Sunday narrative from Mark 11, discussing how people can shift from praising Jesus to rejecting Him. The message encourages self-reflection on faith and a commitment to genuine surrender over superficial beli…
- When God Feels Too Late | Phil Kniesel
This message from Hope City Church examines a moment in Mark 5 where Jesus intervenes in situations that seemed final, highlighting His response to desperate faith and His ability to start anew.
- Peace in the Middle of Chaos | Phil Kniesel
In 'Peace in the Middle of Chaos,' Pastor Phil Kniesel uses Mark 4:35-41 to illustrate how Jesus calms a storm, revealing His control even in chaotic situations. The message focuses on trusting Jesus during life's difficulties to find true…
- Why Would Jesus Eat With Sinners? | Ken McIntyre
In Mark 2, Jesus shares a meal with tax collectors and sinners. Pastor Ken discusses how this moment highlights Jesus's inclusive nature, contrasting with religious systems that demand self-perfection before approaching God.
- Am I Too Broken for Jesus? | Phil Kniesel
This episode, titled 'Am I Too Broken for Jesus?', explores the Gospel of Mark. It suggests that while society avoids discomfort and brokenness, Jesus actively moves toward it, offering restoration rather than condemnation.
- What God Says About Sex | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses the pervasive influence of sex in culture and examines God's teachings on the subject, emphasizing His design as protective.
- How to Build a Marriage That Lasts | Ken McIntyre
This message from Pastor Ken explores four biblical laws from Song of Songs for building a lasting marriage, highlighting the difference between a marriage of convenience and one of commitment. The teachings are relevant for individuals at…
- Why Repentance and Forgiveness Go Together | Paul Malott
Pastor Paul Malott explains the connection between repentance and forgiveness, drawing from 1 John and Jesus' teachings. The message emphasizes that repentance allows us to turn back to God, while forgiveness enables us to move forward in…
- Why Reading the Bible Still Matters | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses the importance of the Bible, explaining that it informs faith and forms life by providing sustenance, direction, and ultimately leading people to Jesus.
- Why Faith Feels Like a Battle | Ken McIntyre
This message by Pastor Ken McIntyre addresses the struggle many feel in their faith journey, explaining that the battle between the old self and new life in Christ is part of the Christian experience. It suggests freedom is found not in st…
- What Happens When You Stop Trying to Control Everything? | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel explores how the need for control can cause stress and anxiety. He suggests that surrendering control, inspired by Proverbs 3 and Jesus, is an act of trust that leads to peace, freedom, and a closer relationship with Go…
- Where Our Strength Really Comes From | Phil Kniesel
This message by Pastor Phil Kniesel addresses the feeling of being worn down in faith. It explores the source of real strength, suggesting that simply trying harder is insufficient, and points to Ephesians 6 for guidance on standing strong…
- Does Praise Really Make a Difference? | Phil Kniesel
In this message, Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses how praise, a key aspect of loving God, helps realign hearts, combats fear, and fosters gratitude by shifting focus from problems to God's power.
- Three Ways People Respond to Jesus | Paul Drader
Pastor Paul Drader analyzes Matthew 2, presenting three distinct reactions to Jesus. The episode contrasts responses driven by fear, comfort, and control with intentional seeking, highlighting how our choices shape our spiritual path.
- Finding Room in our Hearts | Josh Moore
This message from Pastor Josh Moore examines the Christmas story, highlighting the trust and timing involved when God's plans seem inconvenient. It uses the example of Mary and Joseph to show that God is always working, even when life feel…
- When God Interrupts Your Plans | Phil Kniesel
This Christmas message by Pastor Phil Kniesel focuses on Mary's 'yes' to God, illustrating how divine interruptions can redirect lives toward a greater purpose through trust. It encourages listeners to consider what God might be asking of…
- Real Hope in a Broken World | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre's Christmas message discusses finding true hope in Jesus, contrasting it with temporary solutions. Drawing from Isaiah 9 and the Nativity story, the message emphasizes Jesus as the light who offers wisdom, strength, car…
- When Giving Feels Irrational | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel continues the Rearranged series with a message on generosity from Matthew 6. He explains that true generosity is not about being seen or being a one-time act, and it frees the heart from scarcity and fear by trusting Go…
- If Jesus Looked at Your Budget | Pastor Ken
Pastor Ken's message explores how money management reflects personal values. He examines Jesus' teachings on treasure and priorities, suggesting that financial patterns reveal what truly matters most.
- A Legacy Worth Leaving | Paul Malott
In this episode, Pastor Paul Malott explores the concept of leaving a legacy, drawing from Daniel 12. He emphasizes that true legacy is about personal transformation and reflecting Christ's character, not worldly achievements or possession…
- What If Jesus Came Back Tomorrow? | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre discusses Daniel's visions, emphasizing the eternal nature of God's kingdom and the return of Jesus. The message highlights the significance of present actions for eternity.
- Habits That Work | Pastor Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel uses the biblical account of Daniel in the lion's den to explore how discipline, consistency, and trust in God build spiritual habits that prepare individuals for difficult times. The message emphasizes consistent pract…
- Why Isn’t God Stopping This? | Phil Kniesel
In this message, Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses trusting God through difficult times, referencing the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The episode emphasizes that true faith means trusting God's presence even when He doesn't remove…
- What Daniel Teaches Us About Staying Faithful | Phil Kniesel
This episode, featuring Pastor Phil Kniesel, draws parallels between Daniel's life and modern challenges to faith. It encourages listeners to choose conviction over comfort, inspired by Daniel's steadfastness.
- What Real Gratitude Looks Like | Phil Kniesel
This episode features Pastor Phil Kniesel discussing the nature of true gratitude, emphasizing trust in God during both good and difficult times. The message suggests that gratitude anchors one's heart to God's identity rather than externa…
- When Belief Gets Uncomfortable | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre launches the 'Uncomfortable' series with a message about how faith often requires embracing discomfort, especially when following Jesus conflicts with societal norms. The episode uses the story of Daniel to discuss livi…
- My Heart for Hope City | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel shares his vision for Hope City church, referencing Philippians 1. He emphasizes that God's work in believers continues despite challenges.
- Don’t Waste What God Gave You | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil uses Jesus' parable from Matthew 25 about servants and gold to discuss how individuals have been given valuable gifts from God. The message encourages listeners to consider how they are using these gifts to positively impact th…
- What’s Your Next Step? | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre explains that faith often involves moving forward into the unfamiliar. Using the biblical story of Elisha, he highlights the necessity of trust, obedience, and courage when answering God's call to new paths.
- This is Our Vision | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel shares the vision God has given Hope City: to reach 1% of their city with the good news of Jesus. The message explores why hope is crucial, the saving power of Jesus' name, and how everyone contributes to this mission.
- How Does God Heal? | Phil Kniesel
This message by Pastor Phil Kniesel explores the biblical name Jehovah Rapha, meaning 'The Lord Who Heals.' It discusses how God's healing power is active today, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs through immediate, gradua…
- Where Purpose, Truth, and Peace Are Really Found | Paul Malott
This episode, featuring Pastor Paul Malott, delves into the meaning of "Logos" from John 1 as part of the "What’s in a Name?" series. It explains that Jesus, identified as the Word of God, is presented as the ultimate source of purpose, tr…
- Why Do We Need Jesus Today? | Ruben Valeny
Pastor Ruben Valeny discusses the significance of Jesus as a living Savior and why He remains relevant in uncertain times. This message explores the importance of faith in Jesus, describing Him as the name above all others.
- Where to Turn When Life Falls Apart | Ken McIntyre
This episode explores the meaning of "Jehovah Tsuri," meaning "The Lord is my Rock." Pastor Ken McIntyre explains how this biblical name provides stability, confidence, peace, and strength when facing life's difficulties.
- Are You Fighting Alone? | Matt Baker
Pastor Matt Baker discusses the name Jehovah Nissi, meaning "The Lord is my banner," drawing parallels with Moses in Exodus 17 to illustrate that God is present and fights alongside us in our struggles. The episode encourages listeners to…
- Will God Really Show Up in Time? | Ken McIntyre
Pastor Ken McIntyre discusses the name Jehovah Jireh, meaning "God will provide." The message emphasizes that God's timing is perfect, offering hope to those facing needs or waiting for answers, assuring them that God sees, knows, and prov…
- God Didn’t Walk Away | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel explains the meaning of Immanuel, or God with us, reminding listeners that God remains close even during difficult times and silence. This message offers hope and encourages connection with the church community.
- What If You’re Not Meant to Handle It All? | Paul Drader
In this message from the What's in a Name? series, Pastor Paul Drader explores the meaning of El Shaddai (God Almighty) and encourages listeners not to live under the pressure of having it all together, but to trust in God's sufficient str…
- Who's really in control of your life? | Ken McIntyre
This episode, part of the "What's in a Name?" series, discusses the biblical name Adonai, meaning "Lord" or "Master." Pastor Ken McIntyre explains how to fully trust God in all aspects of life and live with complete surrender, leading to a…
- "God Helps Those Who Help Themselves" | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel examines the phrase “God helps those who help themselves” in light of biblical teachings on God's help and grace. The message aims to provide freedom and clarity for those who feel they need to earn God's assistance or…
- “God Wants Me to Be Happy”… Right? | Phil Kniesel
This episode, featuring Pastor Phil Kniesel, questions the idea that God's primary wish is for our happiness. It contrasts the pursuit of happiness with living for more significant purposes, exploring Jesus's promises and the deeper fulfil…
- I Thought God Would Fix Everything… | Phil Kniesel
This episode features Pastor Phil Kniesel addressing the belief that following God ensures a smooth life. It explores the reality that difficulties can still arise and reassures listeners that God's presence and good plans remain, regardle…
- Is Your Heart Lying to You? | Phil Kniesel
Pastor Phil Kniesel discusses the biblical perspective on the heart, challenging the notion of "following your heart." The message explores why the Holy Spirit should be our true guide instead.
- What Goes Around Comes Around | Paul Drader
Pastor Paul Drader's message 'What Goes Around Comes Around' explores God's unconditional grace, illustrated by the biblical account of Mephibosheth and King David. It highlights that divine love is accessible regardless of personal flaws…