Steps | Rev. John Ortberg | Church of the Resurrection

About this sermon

In this powerful message, Pastor John Ortberg challenges the way we think about change, freedom, and surrender. We often believe that trying harder will fix our struggles, yet time and time again, we find ourselves stuck—whether in destructive habits, toxic thinking, or deep insecurities. But the good news is, we don’t have to stay there. Jesus has the power to set us free, not by demanding perfection, but by inviting us to surrender. When we let go of control and trust Him, we step into a life that is no longer defined by our past, our failures, or our own limitations. Through the lens of the 12 steps and biblical wisdom, Pastor John unpacks a profound truth: true freedom begins when we admit, I can’t, but God can. Whether it’s addiction, fear, shame, or simply the weight of trying to be enough, we were never meant to carry it alone. The world tells us to be self-sufficient, but Jesus calls us to something greater—dependence on Him, which leads to real independence from the things that enslave us. This message reminds us that transformation isn’t about willpower—it’s about surrender. When we acknowledge our need for God, He meets us with grace, healing, and purpose beyond what we can imagine. No matter how far you’ve fallen or how stuck you feel, God is able to restore, redeem, and renew your life. If you’ve ever wondered if change is possible, this sermon is for you. Watch now and discover how surrendering to God can lead to the freedom you’ve been searching for. Highlights: [0:00] - Welcome [1:50] - Reading Of Scripture [3:20] - Introduction of Speaker, John Ortberg [5:43] - Sermon Intro [8:52] - We All Get Stuck [12:14] - We Need The 12 Steps Back! [13:15] - Welcome To The Basement [15:03] - STEP 1: I Need Help [22:49] - STEP 2: Step of Hope [24:56] - God Is Able To Do All We Ask or Imagine [28:18] - STEP 3: An Act of The Will [34:51] - Conclusion [36:49] - Closing Prayer [38:00] - Thank You For Watching Visit our website: https://resurrection.church/ Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weareresurrection Twitter: https://x.com/umcresurrection Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resurrectionumc/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChurchoftheResurrection Learn more from us at https://resurrection.church/next John Ortberg Socials: Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/john.ortberg.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnortberg/ Instagram.com/become.new X(twitter): https://x.com/johnortberg Website: becomenew.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuDv5y3cjLSvZOecE77Gkfw #ResurrectionAUnitedMethodistChurch #STEPS #JohnOrtberg

Topics

• Church & Fellowship
• Resurrection
• The Church