

The Commons Church - East Lansing
The Commons Church
The Commons Church is a church in East Lansing, MI next to the campus of Michigan State University that launched in September 2019. We are part of The Salt Network, a family of churches whose aim is to start churches in every major university context in North America. This podcast is where we post our Sunday morning sermons.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 23, 2025 • 31min
1 Peter 5:8 | Sober-Minded
Austin Wadlow wraps up a riveting discussion on sober-mindedness, highlighting four key traits: seeing straight, standing firm, speaking clearly, and staying awake. He shares a personal story of choosing sobriety in college and delves into the dangers of spiritual intoxication from worldly influences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of engaging with Scripture as a guiding light and maintaining clarity in communication. Vigilance against cultural pressures and understanding the true enemy are essential themes, wrapping up with a call to embrace the gospel.

Nov 16, 2025 • 25min
James 1:3 - 4 | Steadfast
In this thought-provoking discussion, the speaker dives into the idea of counting trials as joy, sharing personal struggles with minor challenges. He contrasts the therapeutic culture's pursuit of comfort with a biblical understanding of pain as a deeper issue. Trials, he argues, are gifts that cultivate steadfastness and mature faith. Using vivid imagery of gold refining, he explains how endurance through suffering builds character and hope, urging listeners to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them.

Nov 9, 2025 • 38min
1 Timothy 5:17 - 6:2 | Honoring Leadership
Explore the argument that elders deserve double honor, both reverent and financial, as grounded in Scripture. Delve into Paul’s teachings justifying financial support for pastors and the importance of protecting leaders from baseless accusations. Discuss the significance of addressing pastoral abuse while navigating cancel culture. Discover practical advice on confronting sin in leadership and the call for patience in appointing elders. Ultimately, the message encourages treating one another as brothers in Christ and supporting the church through service and giving.

Nov 2, 2025 • 38min
1 Timothy 4:11 - 5:16 | Old Guard and Next Up
A refreshing discussion unfolds around the challenges of youth in leadership, emphasizing that experience shouldn't overshadow the potential of younger voices. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting church methods while staying true to the core message of the Gospel. Austin passionately advocates for intergenerational leadership, urging older believers to mentor the next generation and invest in lifelong service. Attendees are encouraged to embrace their God-given gifts and foster a culture of mutual respect and collaboration within the church.

Oct 26, 2025 • 36min
1 Timothy 4:1-10 | Deceived by the Demonic
Austin Wadlow continues our series in 1 Timothy

Oct 19, 2025 • 32min
1 Timothy 3:14-15 | The Church
Jon Benz continues our series in 1 Timothy

Oct 12, 2025 • 32min
1 TImothy 3:1-13 | To the Leaders
Ben Clarke continues our series in 1 Timothy

Oct 5, 2025 • 38min
1 Timothy 2:9-15 | To the Women
Dive into a discussion about the complexities of modesty and the role of women in the church. The host contrasts worldly adornment with godly values, emphasizing how to reflect the gospel. Explore the interpretation of biblical texts and why Paul shares specific gender roles rooted in creation. Discover insights on complementary roles designed for unity, alongside the historical distortions that arose after the fall. Finally, listen as the host urges women to find strength in surrendering to Christ for true flourishing.

Sep 28, 2025 • 36min
1 Timothy 2:8 | To The Men
Dive into a compelling exploration of leadership and spiritual warfare tailored for men. The discussion emphasizes prayer as a crucial part of combat against modern cultural ideologies, particularly progressivism's impact on family and faith. Insightful reflections on lifting holy hands symbolize surrender and genuine strength. Austin Wadlow challenges listeners to overcome distractions and unite in their spiritual battles, striving to be recognized threats to the enemy. It's a call to action for men to embrace their roles within the church and the community.

Sep 21, 2025 • 35min
1 Timothy 1:18-20 | Wake Up to the War
Dive into a spiritual battle as Austin explores Paul's charge to Timothy, urging listeners to confront the darkness through church planting. He discusses how tragedy reveals Jesus' transformative message and highlights the spiritual stakes behind recent events. Austin emphasizes the need for bold action against overt evil, advocating for a commitment to the gospel despite potential sacrifice. By examining the cost of discipleship and the growth of faith amidst persecution, he inspires a collective awakening and renewed resolve in the fight for faith.


