Shaking the Gates is our weekly online prayer gathering. Join Pastor Jody Sunday nights at 7:30. We invite you to engage with other Gateshakers in the text chat. The name “Shaking the Gates” comes from John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, he said:

“Give me one hundred preachers who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not whether they be clergymen or laymen, they alone will shake the gates of Hell and set up the kingdom of Heaven upon Earth.”

Watch here: https://chapinccc.org/shaking-the-gates/

Spiritual formation isn't just about personal transformation; it's about becoming like Jesus for the sake of others. From Abraham to the early church, God's pattern has always been to bless people so they can bless others. You haven't just been saved; you've been sent. This doesn't require a dramatic platform or perfect credentials; it starts with simple acts of love like texting someone to ask how you can pray for them or inviting someone to share a meal. The difference between spiritual life and death is like the difference between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea: one has water flowing out while the other keeps everything that flows in. When we become like Jesus, we naturally begin to live like Jesus, interruptible, compassionate, and focused on people.

Resources: 5-Day Devotional: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/FORMED_-Week-3_-Formed-for-the-Sake-of-Others-5-Day-Devotional.pdf

Discussion Guide: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Formed-Week-3_-Formed-For-The-Sake-of-Others-Discussion-Guide.pdf

In Episode 2 of Leading By Following, Pastor Jody sits down with Lenny Tucker (Traditional Music Minister) and Justin Dodson (Contemporary Worship Leader) for an honest and encouraging conversation about worship, leadership, and obedience.

From the early days of launching contemporary worship to the unity between styles today, this episode dives into how God moves when people are simply willing to say “yes.” You’ll hear powerful stories, practical wisdom, and a reminder that leadership isn’t about position—it’s about posture.

Key themes in this episode: • Why obedience matters more than preference • How God uses different styles to reach people • The heart behind worship and serving • Leading with humility at home, work, and church

Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just trying to follow Jesus faithfully, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.

Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this reminder: just listen to the Lord… and do what He says.

To learn more about Jody Flowers, visit: https://jodyflowers843.org/ Connect with Chapin Christian Community Church: https://chapinccc.org/

Many Christians wonder why some believers radiate Christ-like character while others remain unchanged despite years of faith. The difference lies in how we engage with God's transforming grace. Grace isn't just forgiveness that gets us to heaven—it's God's active power working in our lives to empower spiritual growth. Too often we settle for belief without transformation, confusing church attendance with true discipleship. God's ultimate goal isn't getting you into heaven, but getting heaven into you by conforming you to the image of Jesus. Transformation happens as we look at Jesus and participate with God's work in our lives, taking steps of obedience rather than resisting His ways.

Resources:

5-Day Devotional: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Formed_-Week-2_-Becoming-Like-Jesus_-5-Day-Devotional.pdf

Discussion Guide: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Formed_-Week-2_-Becoming-Like-Jesus_-Discussion-Guide.pdf

Easter reveals that the risen Jesus is actively working to transform your life today. Spiritual formation is the process of becoming like Jesus for the sake of others, happening slowly over time rather than instantly. Everything in your life is already forming you—your habits, relationships, technology use, and daily routines. The key question isn't whether you're being formed, but who you're becoming. Romans 12:1-2 teaches that transformation begins with receiving God's mercy, not trying harder. True change happens through mind renewal, where God's truth replaces the lies we believe about ourselves and life. Grace and effort work together—you're already accepted in Christ, which enables you to participate in the transformation process through small, consistent steps.

Resources: 5-Day Devotional: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/FORMED_-Week-1_-Who-Are-You-Becoming-5-day-devo.pdf

Discussion Guide: https://chapinccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/FORMED_-Week-1_-Who-Are-You-Becoming-Discussion-Guide.pdf