Culture – Ashworth Church – West Des Moines

Wisdom

Elizabeth Pavey — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:18:39 +0000

Wisdom is more than a way of thinking. It’s demonstrated in how we live. In a world inundated with information and knowledge, wisdom tends to take a backseat to selfish ambition and boasting. Listen as we explore what Godly wisdom looks like and its importance in our communities.

The Mission and the Message

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:23:17 +0000

As Jesus continues his prayer in John 17:6-19, we find a message specifically for His disciples. Here, Jesus encourages His early followers that they belong to God, to one another, and in the world but not of the world. Listen as Pastor Brent explores the power this exhortation still holds for Christ’s people today.

The Cost of Discipleship

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:37:02 +0000

In Jesus’ final moments with His disciples, He warns them of the difficulties to come. Following Jesus is not without cost, sacrifice, and even persecution for some across the world. What does it look like to follow Jesus when the world is against you?

The Idol of Technology

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 20:40:00 +0000

Technology surrounds us. It answers our questions, makes our lives easier, entertains us, allows us to communicate across the world, and so much more. Although technology can be used for good, it can also quickly distract, depress, and control us. In this message, Pastor Brent challenges us to return technology to its proper place and lift our eyes up to the Maker of heaven and earth.

First Things First

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 20:32:29 +0000

What are you living for? Your career, money, achievements, or even your family? We center our lives around countless things and relationships that often take up more of our hearts and minds than our love for Jesus. Follow along as we explore the counterfeit gods of our age in hopes that we come closer to the one, true God.

Into the World

Elizabeth Pavey — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 17:17:07 +0000

What should the church’s relationship look like with the world? As individuals, how should we interact with the people around us? The world longs to be seen, heard, and loved. As followers of Jesus, we have an opportunity to engage in the ministry of reconciliation with our community.

The British Invasion (and Other Signs We Need Other Cultures)

Brent Clark — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 18:05:28 +0000

What is it with the current cultural fascination with all things British? THe Bake Off? Dr. Who? Downton Abby? In this message titled “The British Invasion (and Other Signs We Need Other Cultures),” Pastor Brent explores the cultural fascination with British influence and how it intersects with our faith.

From the timeless allure of the British Invasion to the impact of diverse cultural elements on our lives, Pastor Brent delves into the questions of why certain aspects of foreign cultures are embraced while others are met with resistance. Drawing from biblical teachings, he challenges us to examine our perspectives and actions toward those who differ from us.

By delving into Luke 10:25-37, Pastor Brent sheds light on Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan, revealing how our attitudes toward others and our willingness to embrace diversity reflect our relationship with God. This engaging sermon challenges us to break down walls of division and embrace God’s design for a diverse world.

The Power of Words

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 17:44:46 +0000

The game and cultural phenomenon “Worldle” took the world by storm in 2022 and continues to demonstrate the power of words in our society. Why are words so powerful? And how can we use them to bring life and encouragement rather than disunity and despair?

Seeing God All Around Us

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:20:51 +0000

Jesus is always speaking, but are we listening? God longs for us to know him both intellectually and experientially. This summer, join us as we take a look at various movies, TV shows, podcasts, and cultural phenomenons. God may have something to say, even in the least expected of places!

Diversity

Elizabeth Pavey — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 21:44:41 +0000

Whether we like it or not, our cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds have a profound impact on the way we perceive the world and Jesus. Rather than ignoring that influence, we have the opportunity to learn more about God’s heart and character through His diverse creation. Listen to a conversation between several Ashworth members about their faith and experiences in light of their cultural contexts.

COVID-19 and Faith Q&A

Brent Clark — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 18:00:00 +0000

The pastors of Ashworth Church respond to common questions they’ve seen on social media regarding faith and the coronavirus.

Christians Are Soldiers for God

Brent Clark — Sun, 22 Sep 2019 18:00:00 +0000

In the second message of the “You’ve Been Lied To (and we’re sorry about that)” series, Pastor Ryan Lenerz looks at the idea that Christ-followers should be militaristic in our approach to spreading Christian values and how the way fo Jesus shows us another way.