Category: Pastor Mike Santiago

Vision Sunday

In Pastor Mike Santiago’s “Vision Sunday” sermon, he outlines a three-part message focusing on who the church is, where they have been, and where individuals fit into the vision. Rooted in Habakkuk 2:2, the vision is to witness life change through Christ, encapsulated in the “FOCUS FIVE” mission encompassing encountering God, forming real relationships, leaving a legacy, change the world through our outreach & generosity, and discovering one’s purpose through serving.

The church’s strategy involves multisite, multi-generational, and multi-ethnic approaches with a campus within a 15-minute drive everywhere in Raleigh. Reflecting on past achievements, including baptisms, growth percentages, debt-free status, and mission initiatives, Pastor Mike emphasizes the importance of not getting stuck in past successes but seeking God for more. Using the analogy of a speck in the eye, he addresses avoiding vision drift through confession, claiming promises, following examples, obeying commands, and deepening knowledge of God.

The final part encourages individuals to embrace their gifts, pursue growth in leadership and discipleship, and anticipate experiencing God’s glory in power and demonstration. Pastor Mike’s sermon provides a comprehensive vision for the church and challenges individuals to actively participate in its realization.

How to use the Old Testament to pray New Testament Prayers

In Week 3 of the “First Things First” series, Pastor Mike Santiago delivers a compelling sermon titled “How to Use the Old Testament to Pray New Testament Prayers.” Anchored in Ephesians 6:18, Pastor Mike emphasizes that prayer is not confined to specific moments but is an ongoing conversation, an overflow of our relationship with God. He delves into the Old Testament, specifically the design of the Tabernacle, and unveils spiritual patterns for effective prayer. The Outer Court represents gratitude, where believers express thanks to God before presenting requests. The Brazen Altar signifies focusing on the cross, recognizing the sacrifice that grants access to God. Moving to the Laver, Pastor Mike highlights the importance of offering every aspect of life to God. The inner tent, symbolizing the Holy Place, features the Candlestick, inviting the work of the Holy Spirit, and the Table of Shewbread, encouraging feeding on God’s Word. The Table of Shewbread leads to an exploration of using the Bible as a weapon against the enemy, drawing parallels between spiritual nourishment and the Armor of God from Ephesians 6. The sermon progresses to the Altar of Incense, where worship magnifies God’s name. Finally, the Ark of the Covenant becomes a focal point for intercession, and Pastor Mike emphasizes the biblical protocol to God’s presence, urging believers to approach with humility and purified hearts. This insightful message provides a comprehensive guide on incorporating Old Testament principles into contemporary prayer practices, enriching believers’ spiritual lives.

How to Pray Everyday

In Pastor Mike Santiago’s series “First Things First,” focusing on “How to Pray Everyday,” he explores the plan of prayer based on 2 Chronicles 7:14. Pastor Mike outlines the five components of prayer: Priority, Place, Plan, Power, and Persons. Specifically addressing “The Plan of Prayer,” he introduces the model of the prayer of Jabez from 1 Chronicles 4:9-10. Emphasizing the importance of not letting pain hijack prayer and not allowing names to become limitations, he delves into the prayer of Jabez, who asked God for blessings, an enlarged border, His hand to be with him, and protection from harm. The sermon highlights the need to pray for blessings, influence, God’s presence, and protection, encouraging believers to have a bigger vision and an abundance mindset. Pastor Mike stresses that God desires to give more than needed so that individuals can be a blessing to others and make an eternal impact. The sermon concludes with prayers for influence, God’s presence, and protection, urging believers to seek God’s hand in their lives.

The Priority of Prayer

In Pastor Mike Santiago’s sermon on “The Priority of Prayer,” he underscores the importance of making prayer a central focus in our lives. Grounded in Luke 11:1-10, he explores the components of prayer, emphasizing its priority, the significance of praying first and not as a last resort. Drawing inspiration from 2 Chronicles 7:14, Pastor Mike encourages humility, prayer, seeking God’s face, and turning from wicked ways, promising forgiveness and healing. Analyzing the parable in Luke 11:5-10, he imparts lessons on praying in dark moments, seeking God when hungry or in need, and praying when God seems distant. The sermon challenges believers to ask big prayers, emphasizing shameless audacity and the transformative power of bold prayers. Throughout, Pastor Mike stresses the need to activate faith through prayer, highlighting its role in unlocking God’s power in various life circumstances.

Why Was Jesus Born?

In this insightful message on “Why Was Jesus Born?” based on Isaiah 9:6, Pastor Mike Santiago breaks down the profound simplicity of the Christmas story. Amidst the complexities we often attach to the season, he highlights the three fundamental reasons for Jesus’ birth. Firstly, Jesus came to dispel misconceptions about God, emphasizing a new kingdom rather than conforming to human structures. Secondly, His birth was the ultimate expression of God’s boundless love, a direct and personal act without intermediaries. Lastly, Jesus was born to facilitate a relationship with God, underscoring the purpose of our existence. Pastor Mike invites the congregation to see God through the lens of Christ and experience a transformative connection with Jesus.

He’s In The Room

Welcome to Christmas at Focus. In Pastor Mike Santiago’s sermon, “He’s In The Room,” he explores the birth of Jesus through the lens of Luke 2:1-20, drawing parallels to different life situations. He highlights the waiting room, emphasizing the value of patience and trust in God’s sovereignty, and the situation room, likened to life’s complexities and the need for a supportive community. The dark room is presented as a season of development and discovery, and the delivery room signifies a time of deliverance and protection. Pastor Mike encourages the congregation to make room for God in every aspect of life, whether in waiting, challenges, development, or deliverance, connecting these metaphors to the Christmas season and underscoring a call to generosity and open-heartedness.

Cultural Tendencies and Kingdom Realities

In the 3rd week of our Kingdom Builders Series, Pastor Mike Santiago delves into the intersection of “Cultural Tendencies and Kingdom Realities.” With clarity and conviction, Santiago addresses five key financial tendencies prevalent in culture, contrasting them with eternal truths. From debunking the notion that “It’s My Money” to emphasizing the enduring principle of tithing and the eternal return on investment, Santiago navigates the delicate balance between wealth and godly stewardship. Rooted in biblical passages such as Psalm 24:1, Deuteronomy 8:18, and 1 Timothy 6:10, he underscores the need to align financial practices with spiritual principles. The message culminates in a call for a Kingdom Builders offering, urging the church family to prayerfully consider contributing, affirming faith in God’s prosperity for individuals and the collective church body. The concluding prayer manifests a collective commitment to financial abundance, a shift from fear to trust, and a dedication to passing down Godly principles of prosperity to future generations.

How To Be Ready For The Rapture

In this week’s sermon, Pastor Mike Santiago explores the theme “How to be Ready for the Rapture” using the parable of the Ten Bridesmaids from Matthew 25:1-13. He emphasizes the importance of having both the lamp of profession and the oil of passion, differentiating between outward appearances and being genuinely filled with the Spirit. The sermon outlines the characteristics of readiness and highlights the perils of spiritual depletion, distraction, and distance. It’s a compelling call to ensure believers are prepared for the imminent return of Christ.

Living With Integrity

In Week 3 of our “Life of Joseph” series, we focus on integrity. Joseph’s story in Genesis 39 showcases his unwavering integrity, emphasizing the importance of being consistent in character across all areas of life. His refusal of Potiphar’s wife’s advances demonstrates the cost of sin and the need to avoid compromising situations. Joseph’s choice to flee from temptation, seeking God’s way out, exemplifies how integrity leads to a meaningful and consistent life.

How to Recover From Rejection

In Week 2 of our “Life of Joseph” series, we’re tackling the theme of rejection. Rejection is a common part of life, and it’s essential to respond to it in a healthy way. Joseph’s story teaches us to recognize God’s presence in the midst of rejection, move forward with a positive attitude, trust that God has a plan even in setbacks, and choose forgiveness over bitterness. Rejection can be tough, but it can also lead to unexpected opportunities and growth if we handle it well.