Best City of Durham NC Podcasts (2025)

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Durham’s Equal Business Opportunity Program (June 2025) 24:45

1d ago24:45

24:45

Durham’s Equal Business Opportunity Program Here, at the City of Durham, we are committed to equity in how we do business. One of the ways that we achieve that is through our Equal Business Opportunity Program. In this CityLife episode, Host Beverly Thompson talks with our Underutilized Business Compliance Manager Timothy Jackson III and business o…

1
Fight for Your Church | Pastor Mike Herman | Mercy Church 30:46

4d ago30:46

30:46

By Mike Herman

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Fight for Your Church | Pastor Brett Bouldin | Mercy Church 35:22

4d ago35:22

35:22

By Brett Bouldin

1
The Relationship Superpower 29:24

4d ago29:24

29:24

In the final message of our Pain Points series, Pastor Ike Miller explores how emotional and spiritual maturity go hand in hand. Through Jesus’ vulnerability in John 20, we discover that healing relationships requires compassion, courage, and the willingness to be emotionally honest—with ourselves, with others, and with God.…

1
How To Speak Truth To Lies 36:04

11d ago36:04

36:04

What if the lies the Enemy tells us aren’t even about us at all? This week, Pastor Sharon unpacks how the narratives that negatively affect us aren’t lies about us, but lies about God’s character - and the ways we can combat them.

1
Fight for Your Kids | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 46:12

12d ago46:12

46:12

By Mercy Church

1
God Does Not Waste Your Suffering 35:06

19d ago35:06

35:06

What do we do when we find ourselves in a barren season - a time of grief, sorrow, and pain? In our Mother’s Day sermon, guest speaker Molly Stillman explores how to plant our sorrows with God - and the way he can give beauty for ashes.

1
Fight for Your Marriage | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 37:14

19d ago37:14

37:14

As we pick back up in our Fight for the Family series, Pastor Spence preaches on fighting for your marriage from Ephesians 5:22-33. He emphasizes the purpose of marriage is to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church, demonstrating sacrificial love and mutual submission. He urges couples to adopt a posture of serving one another by as…

1
The Power of Humility 32:08

24d ago32:08

32:08

In our second week of the series “Pain Points,” Pastor Ike explores how biblical humility - complete and utter self-reliance on God - can be our path to true freedom.

1
Your Mountain Can Move | Pastor Bruce Frank | Mercy Church 41:06

26d ago41:06

41:06

If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.com/sermons. Mercy Church is located in Charlotte, NC, and is led by Pastor Spence Shelton. We would love for you to join us on Sunday mornings at one of our three campuses across the greater Charlotte area! For current ser…

1
Downtown Durham’s Friendly Streets (May 2025) 20:41

1M ago20:41

20:41

Downtown Durham just got a little friendlier! In this CityLife episode, Host Beverly Thompson talks with Downtown Durham Inc.’s Kenny Valenzuela about the organization’s refreshed Ambassador Program and how the team is bringing more smiles, energy, and support to our downtown streets. About CityLife CityLife, a talk show that features information o…

1
What is your Pain Pointing to? 33:39

1M ago33:39

33:39

How do the narratives we tell ourselves influence our current behaviors? This week, Pastor Ike Miller launched our new sermon series, “Pain Points.” This four-week series will explore how pain—past wounds, fears, and false beliefs—can quietly shape our lives and relationships.

1
Fight for Your Friends | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 40:02

1M ago40:02

40:02

Pastor Spence kicks off our new mini-series on the importance of relationships within the church and how they shape our lives, particularly focusing on godly friendships. Using Ephesians 5, he highlights the necessity of walking wisely through life, prioritizing godly friendships that encourage and challenge us in our walk with Jesus. He encourages…

1
Easter Sunday 2025 38:07

1M ago38:07

38:07

What if Jesus’ death wasn’t the end, but the beginning of something unstoppable? In this powerful Easter message, Pastor Sharon Miller unpacks how the cross became the seed that reshaped the world—launching hospitals, human rights, and a revolution of love. What looked like defeat on the cross was actually the planting of a Kingdom that continues t…

1
Easter Sunday | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 1:50:17

1M ago1:50:17

1:50:17

Pastor Spence's Easter sermon emphasizes the significance of the resurrection found in Matthew 28, declaring that Jesus lives and the power of that truth can change lives. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.com/sermons. Mercy Church is located in Charlotte, …

1
Good Friday at Union County Campus | Pastor Mike Herman | Mercy Church 23:35

1M ago23:35

23:35

Pastor Mikes's Good Friday sermon reflects on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.com/sermons. Mercy Church is located in Charlotte, NC, and is led by Pastor Spence Shelton. We would love for you to join us on Sunday mornings …

1
Good Friday at Providence Road Campus | Pastor Scott Urbanek | Mercy Church 24:13

1M ago24:13

24:13

Pastor Scott's Good Friday sermon reflects on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.com/sermons. Mercy Church is located in Charlotte, NC, and is led by Pastor Spence Shelton. We would love for you to join us on Sunday mornings …

1
Good Friday at Northeast Campus | Pastor Darrick Smith | Mercy Church 26:20

1M ago26:20

26:20

Pastor Darrick's Good Friday sermon emphasizes the importance of standing in awe of Jesus by reflecting on His crucifixion. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.com/sermons. Mercy Church is located in Charlotte, NC, and is led by Pastor Spence Shelton. We woul…

1
How does Jesus Confront an Empire? 31:00

2M ago31:00

31:00

On Palm Sunday, Pastor Ike Miller unpacks how Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem was a bold, subversive confrontation of empire—not through force, but through humility and peace. In this message, we explore how trust in God, not control, leads to true peace and how Jesus models a kingdom power unlike any the world has known.…

1
No Condemnation | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 41:38

2M ago41:38

41:38

Pastor Spence dives into Romans 8, highlighting the powerful promise that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus and underscoring the significance of having the Holy Spirit live within believers to empower their walk with God. He examines the difference between a mindset focused on self versus one set on the Spirit, emphasizing that the…

1
Winning the War Within Me | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 41:25

2M ago41:25

41:25

Pastor Spence emphasizes the internal struggle Christians face between desires for good and evil, as highlighted in Romans chapter seven. He explains that our union with Christ is key to overcoming sin struggles, as it allows us to bear fruit for God and live in freedom from the law's penalties. He discusses the importance of understanding our sinf…

1
Wheels Durham Roller Skating Rink Re-Opens (April 2025) 19:38

2M ago19:38

19:38

After an extensive and long-awaited multi-year renovation project, the Wheels Durham Roller Skating Rink is now open. In this CityLife episode, Host Beverly Thompson talks with Durham Parks and Recreation Director Wade Walcutt and Stuart Yeatts with United Skates of America about how this beloved community landmark is once again serving up fun and …

1
The Power of Prayer 29:43

2M ago29:43

29:43

Prayer is essential to sharing the Gospel—because evangelism isn’t about our ability, but God’s power. In this message, Pastor Abbie Thomas explores the vital connection between prayer and evangelism and how it shapes our faith, trust, and obedience to God.

1
Living To God and For God Only | Pastor Rashard Barnes | Mercy Church 36:13

2M ago36:13

36:13

Pastor Rashard teaches on the transformation that occurs in a person’s identity upon accepting Christ, paralleling it to a bride's transition into marriage. Through Romans 6:15-23, he explains that believers have been made new and are called to live differently, under grace instead of the law, which gives them the power to resist sin. If you missed…

1
Don’t Go Back | Pastor Darrick Smith | Mercy Church 33:07

2M ago33:07

33:07

Pastor Darrick uses Romans 6:15-23 to emphasize the importance of not returning to a life of sin, which he compares to eating vomit—disgusting and harmful. He presents four reasons to avoid sin and urges the congregation to recognize the emptiness of sin and the fulfillment found in Christ, encouraging them to leverage their freedom in Him. Ultimat…

1
Understanding 2025 Tax Reappraisal (May 2025) 27:44

2M ago27:44

27:44

If you’re a homeowner in Durham, you recently received notice that the tax value of your home has been reappraised. In this CityLife episode, host Beverly Thompson talks with Durham Tax Administrator Keyar Doyle about why that happened and what it may mean to Durham property owners. About CityLife CityLife, a talk show that features information on …

1
Engaging People the Jesus Way 33:11

2M ago33:11

33:11

Jesus had a way of engaging people that was deeply personal, intentional, and transformative. In this message, Pastor Ike Miller unpacks Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, showing us how He was fully present, spoke to her pain, and created space for her questions. Join us as we learn how to engage others the way Jesus did—with l…

1
Live Your Baptism | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 46:18

2M ago46:18

46:18

Pastor Spence explores Romans 6, highlighting the importance of baptism as a symbolic act of dying to sin and being raised to a new life in Christ. He encourages everyone, whether they have been baptized or not, to connect their baptism to a life fully dedicated to God. He urges us to consider baptism on Easter Sunday as a public declaration of fai…

1
As The Father Sent Him... 37:56

2M ago37:56

37:56

Join Pastor Alex Regalado as he kicks off our new series, Sent, exploring what it truly means to live on mission for God. Through personal stories and the Gospel of John, this message challenges us to embrace our calling as sent individuals, not out of obligation, but out of love for our neighbors and for God’s glory. Don’t miss this powerful start…

1
Jesus Is Greater Than My Sin | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 42:58

3M ago42:58

42:58

Pastor Spence emphasizes that understanding the biblical stories of Adam and Jesus reveals our sin nature and the hope found only in Jesus, who offers grace that surpasses our sin. The sermon highlights that while sin entered the world through Adam, Jesus provides justification and eternal life, emphasizing the abundant grace that transforms lives.…

1
When Religion Becomes Hollow 32:35

3M ago32:35

32:35

Are we holding on to something that keeps us from fully following Jesus? In Matthew 19:16-23, a rich young ruler walks away sorrowful because he wasn’t willing to give up what he treasured most. This message challenges us to examine our hearts, break free from a shallow gospel, and recognize that true life is found in surrendering everything to Chr…

1
Before and After | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 33:09

3M ago33:09

33:09

Pastor Spence discusses the transformative concept of how faith in Christ changes our lives using a "Before and After" explanation from Romans 5:1-11. He emphasizes that true fulfillment and peace cannot be found in worldly desires or achievements but only in a relationship with Jesus, who provides justification and access to God's grace. The sermo…

1
How to Steward What God Gave You 35:10

3M ago35:10

35:10

Everything we have—our money, time, education, and opportunities—was given to us by God, not to own, but to steward. In this sermon, Pastor Sharon Miller unpacks the Parable of the Ten Minas, showing how Jesus calls us to be faithful managers of what He has entrusted to us. Discover what it means to live with a stewardship mindset and use what you’…

1
Hope for the Hopeless | Pastor Scott Urbanek | Mercy Church 35:54

3M ago35:54

35:54

Pastor Scott centers on the theme of hope, emphasizing that while hopelessness can lead to despair, it can be countered through faith in God's promises. He illustrates this through the story of Abraham, who maintained his faith despite tremendous obstacles and delays, reminding us that hope is not merely a wish but a certainty rooted in God's chara…

1
Trust God | Pastor Mike Herman | Mercy Church 38:59

3M ago38:59

38:59

Pastor Mike emphasizes that salvation is always through faith, as illustrated by the lives of Abraham and David. He reassures us that even in moments of doubt and unfulfilled promises, God invites us to trust Him to provide a way forward. He encourages the congregation to celebrate the joy of forgiveness and to understand that righteousness comes n…

1
Why Works Don’t Work | Pastor Darrick Smith | Mercy Church 35:40

3M ago35:40

35:40

Pastor Darrick answers the question, "How does man get right with God?" He explains why good works don't work to justify us before a righteous and holy God and instead implores us to grasp that true salvation is by faith alone in Christ alone. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermo…

1
Meet New City Manager Bo Ferguson (March 2025) 39:37

3M ago39:37

39:37

The right leader to guide Durham’s future. That’s how new Durham City Manager Bo Ferguson has been described by our city’s elected officials. In this CityLife episode, Host Beverly Thompson talks with him about his vision for city operations and what challenges he expects to face. About CityLife CityLife, a talk show that features information on cu…

1
How to Know When You Have Enough 19:52

3M ago19:52

19:52

Greed keeps us chasing more, but true contentment sets us free. In this message, Pastor Ike Miller unpacks Jesus’ warning about the deceitfulness of wealth and the false promises it makes. Discover what it means to be “rich toward God” and find lasting security beyond material possessions.

1
Faith in Jesus Over Faith in Self | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 43:47

3M ago43:47

43:47

Pastor Spence teaches that pride is the root of all sin and the greatest threat to our relationship with God. He highlights three ways life changes for the better when our faith in Jesus is greater than faith in self - unity in the church is strengthened, peace in our hearts is strengthened, and relationships are strengthened. If you missed previou…

1
The Illusion of More 32:33

3M ago32:33

32:33

In this sermon, Pastor Sharon Miller challenges us to rethink the promises of money and possessions. Just like children who believe the next toy will bring lasting joy, we often fall into the same trap—thinking that more will finally satisfy us. As we begin our series on the spiritual discipline of generosity, we’ll explore how giving shapes our fa…

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The Gospel in Four Words | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 43:05

3M ago43:05

43:05

Pastor Spence explains the Gospel using four keywords found in Romans 3, and highlights the importance of first understanding that we are sinners who need redemption before receiving the grace offered to us through Jesus. If you missed previous weeks’ sermons, you can listen to them here! You can also watch videos of the sermons at mercycharlotte.c…

1
How to Handle Criticism 32:41

4M ago32:41

32:41

Nobody loves being criticized, but what if we could handle it in a healthier way? In this sermon, Pastor Ike Miller unpacks how to handle criticism wisely—shifting our self-worth to God's truth, finding the kernel of wisdom in feedback, and responding relationally rather than reactively. Discover practical, biblical life hacks to navigate tough con…

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The 3 Scenes of Grace | Pastor Jason Gaston | Mercy Church 35:56

4M ago35:56

35:56

Guest speaker Jason Gaston from Biltmore Church in Asheville, NC teaches from John 21. He highlights three scenes of grace between Jesus and Peter. Pastor Gaston highlights that no past failures can separate us from God's mercy and reminds us to embrace God's provision and come back to Him. He finishes with an exhortation that we are called to foll…

1
How to be Honest with Yourself 25:43

4M ago25:43

25:43

How do we cultivate honesty with ourselves in a world that encourages self-deception? In this message, Pastor Abbie Thomas unpacks biblical wisdom on self-awareness, accountability, and humility before God. Through Proverbs and Genesis 3, we explore how listening to wise counsel, surrounding ourselves with truth, and humbling ourselves before God c…

1
Accept Your Diagnosis | Romans 3:1-20 | Pastor Mike Herman | Mercy Church 34:19

4M ago34:19

34:19

Pastor Mike discusses the diagnosis of humanity's unrighteousness as outlined in Romans 3:1-20, emphasizing that true healing comes through faith in Jesus Christ. He highlights three common but incorrect ways people attempt to address their sin: relying on their upbringing, rationalizing their sinful behavior, and believing that good behavior can s…

1
All Have Sinned | Romans 3:1-20 | Pastor Darrick Smith | Mercy Church 38:04

4M ago38:04

38:04

Pastor Darrick emphasizes the importance of recognizing humanity's unrighteousness and believing in God's righteousness. From Romans 3, he illustrates how everyone is guilty of sin and subject to God's judgment. He stresses that there is a penalty for unrighteousness, explaining that while we deserve punishment, Jesus serves as our mediator who tak…

1
Accept Your Diagnosis | Romans 3:1-20 | Pastor Scott Urbanek | Mercy Church 36:06

4M ago36:06

36:06

Pastor Scott preaches on our need to recognize our sinful nature and encourages us to accept our diagnosis of sin rather than ignoring it or relying on false remedies such as parent's faith, self-justification, or good works. He highlights that true salvation comes only through accepting God's remedy for sin, which is Jesus himself. Regardless of o…

1
Waste Reduction Initiatives in Durham (Feb 2025) 33:25

4M ago33:25

33:25

Have you ever wondered whether tossing that soda can in the blue bin actually helps to save energy? Or how your banana peels could be the secret to reducing pollution? If so, this CityLife episode is for you. Host Beverly Thompson talks with Casey Harris-Pratt and Muriel Williman about how these simple acts aren’t just saving our landfills, they’re…

1
How To Build Self-Control 26:42

4M ago26:42

26:42

Self-control isn’t just about resisting temptation—it’s about seeing the full story of our choices. In this message, Pastor Ike Miller unpacks Proverbs 25:28 and Proverbs 7 to reveal how self-control protects us from the deception of short-term thinking. When we pause to consider the long-term impact of our decisions, we gain the wisdom to choose w…

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Symptoms of Empty Religion | Romans 2:1-29 | Pastor Spence Shelton | Mercy Church 42:01

4M ago42:01

42:01

Pastor Spence covers all of Romans Chapter 2, specifically addressing the early church's struggle with hypocrisy and criticism. He warns that empty religion, which judges others while failing to recognize one's own sin, hardens hearts and misrepresents God to the world. He highlights the importance of true repentance and a transformed heart, rather…

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