Refuge Church Ojai Valley

Christians are Storytellers

Every life is telling a story. The question is—what story is yours pointing to? This week, as we continue our journey through Thessalonians, we’re talking about what it means to live as people shaped by God’s mission, formed by His truth, and marked by a hope that’s bigger than our circumstances. Not perfect people. Not people with all the answers. But people whose lives and words point to what God is doing in the world. Join us as we explore what it looks like to live—and tell—God’s story together. #christians #christianfaith #sermons

Christian Are... Rooted in the Power of the Spirit

What if the Christian life was never meant to be lived in our own strength? This week, we’re talking about the Holy Spirit — not as a distant idea, but as God’s active presence teaching us, guiding us, filling us with joy, and leading us into real freedom. As we learn to listen in prayer and surrender daily, we discover a life shaped not by pressure, but by power. Join us as we open God’s Word and explore what it means to live rooted in the Spirit.

Christians Are… Submitted to God’s Word

What does it really mean to live as a Christian in today’s world? In this message we launch our series into the book of Thessalonians and explore what it looks like to stand firm in our identity without losing humility, to submit our lives to God’s living Word, and to be people who don’t just read Scripture—but listen, obey, and proclaim it. God’s Word isn’t static or outdated; it’s alive, active, and still speaking today. Join us as we open the Bible together and learn how God’s Word shapes who we are and how we live.
#sermon #sermons #christians #faith

Start Fast: Felicia's Story

As we step into this year with a renewed mission to share our story with those around us, we’re reminded that God is still moving — and every story matters.
This week, Felicia shares a powerful testimony of how God met her in moments of heartbreak and vulnerability, walked with her through years of searching, and faithfully revealed His again and again. When the world’s answers leave us performing on the outside but hurting on the inside, her story reminds us that God is the only one capable of restoring our hearts and giving us true hope.
Join us as we celebrate what God has done and look ahead with vulnerability and joy.
 
#ojai #ojaivalley #testimony

Start Fast: Rest

We all say we want rest… but do we really know what we’re asking for? This week, we slow down and listen to Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28–30 — not to escape life, but to find a different way to live within it. In a world shaped by hurry and pressure, we’re exploring what true rest actually is, why it feels so hard to receive, and what it reveals about our hearts. If you’re tired, worn down, or longing for something deeper, this message is for you.#sermons #rest #sabbath #faith

Start Fast: Repentance

What does it really mean to repent? Repentance is often misunderstood as feeling bad, making promises, or trying harder—but the Bible paints a much deeper and more hopeful picture. In this sermon, we explore what repentance truly is, what it is not, and why taking sin seriously is not about shame, fear, or earning God’s favor. Instead, we’ll see how repentance flows from God’s mercy, leads to real freedom, and reshapes our daily walk with Christ. If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of guilt or wondered how Christians are meant to fight sin without despair, this message is for you.#sermons #church #sermon #repentance

Start Fast

Three Guys… and THE Guy. In this message, we look at three reasons Scripture gives us for fasting — and why it still matters today. Mordecai teaches us to fast in the middle of real, physical need. Daniel shows us how fasting sharpens us for spiritual battles. David reminds us that fasting can be an act of repentance when sin is real and present. This isn’t about earning God’s attention or proving our devotion. It’s about being all-in with Him. And Jesus — THE Guy — fasted too. If fasting mattered to them, and to Him, it matters for us. #fasting #newyearsresolution #2026 #ojaivalley #sermons

What if I Told You He Is Here?

What if I told you… He is here?
In this message from our What If I Told You? Advent series, our Pastors, Kyle Costello and Derry Brooks, explore why the Christmas story is not just something we feel — it’s something we can trust.
Together, we look at the testimony of the Father about the Son, the testimony of Scripture, and the testimony of the Holy Spirit, showing how God has revealed Himself in real, verifiable ways throughout history.
This sermon invites us to worship Jesus not only with our hearts, but with our minds — grounding our faith in the reliability of God’s Word and the reality of His presence with us today. Christmas isn’t built on wishful thinking or emotional moments alone; it’s rooted in truth that has stood the test of time. If God is truly here, it changes everything.
 
#advent #sermons #onlinechurch #christmas

What if I Told You He Is Eternal?

What if it’s true… that He is Eternal? Today we’re diving into John 1 and the Genesis story to see that Jesus—the One who came in a manger—has been there from the very beginning. The Word who spoke creation into existence is the same One who brings life and light to us today. The Light shines in the darkness… and the darkness has never overcome Him. Join us as we explore the Eternal Jesus and what it means for our lives right now.

What if I Told You He Is King?

All Hail the King! What if I Told You… He is King? He reigns over peace… and there will be no end. What if I told you that you can experience this King today? Whether you already follow Him, are ready to start, or had no idea—this week we invite you to encounter the humble King who is: A Wonderful Counselor – offering His presence, not just words. A Mighty God – conquering evil and bringing strength where you need it most. An Everlasting Father & Prince of Peace – reigning over a peace that never ends.
What do you need conquered in your life? What do you need to be washed clean from? Come see the King today! #RefugeOjai #WhatIfIToldYou #ChristmasAtRefuge #LiveStream