The Peak Church – An Inclusive Methodist Church in Apex, NC
The Peak Church – An Inclusive Methodist Church in Apex, NC
"Gathering all who feel disconnected"
Episodes
Wake Up
Kyle Meier | Revelation 3:1-6 | Dear Church Topics: Awakening, Spiritual Discipline, Revival, Baptism
Stayin' Alive
Today's episode is jam packed with content we didn't get the chance to cover on Sunday! For example, did you know that Jesus might have a middle school sense of humor? #poopjokes Jokes aside, Kyle takes us deeper into the somewhat controversial moment where Jesus calls himself a "thief." What does that mean for how we ought to anticipate his second coming? He also offers some very practical advice for keeping your faith alive and well. Kyle shares what he believes to be some of the key dietary components of a "living faith" that you can monitor on a regular basis. Finally, we discuss if/when spiritual death becomes final? Is it in this life or the next? How do we honor what scripture has to say about eternal life, while also making room for the possibility of God moving, redeeming and saving even after death? Is there even biblical precedent for something like that?
Waiting = The Worst
Kyle Meier | Revelation 2: 19-29 | Dear Church Topics: Heart, Sin, Patience
Disney Rankings + Satan's Secrets
We're so back! After a week off, we are back with another episode to discuss Jesus' letter to church in Thyratira. This is a juicy one! First, what did Jesus mean that some people were falling for the "deep secrets of Satan?" Should we be concerned?! But seriously, Kyle discusses what role reason and intellect should play in our faith. How do we protect ourselves from being "spiritual know-it-all's?" Additionally, Kyle talks shares his concerns with the Deconstruction Movement. Is it possible to question too much? To refute too much? In other words, if our faith has no room for mystery, is it even faith anymore? Plus, you can enjoy (or fast-forward through) Kyle's Top 5 list of attractions while he was away at Disney World last week.
Be Careful with Compromise
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Revelation 2:12-17 | Dear Church Topics: Beliefs, Heart, Nature of God
I Know You Are Hurting
Kyle Meier | Revelation 2:8-11 | Dear Church Topics: Suffering, Comfort, Hardship
Labor Pains, Alcoholics Anonymous, and the Conflict in the Middle East
Today, we continue our conversation on Revelation 2:8-11! In this episode, Kyle explores what Jesus meant when he said their suffering would only last "10 days." Was he being literal or symbolic? Then, Kyle discusses the importance of finding others who have suffered the same things we have. Apparently, "misery loves company" is the Christian thing to do? Finally, Kyle talks more about comparative suffering and how disastrous it is both personally and politically. He opens up and shares his struggles with the Israel/Palestine conflict. Further, he invites us to consider what role suffering plays when we try to justify our own violence and destruction.
Not Feeling It
Kyle Meier | Revelation 2:1-7 | Dear Church Topics: Order, Commitment, Passion
Is The Terminator Real?
In today's episode of Footnotes, we continue the conversation about our brand new series on the Book of Revelation. Kyle starts with some interesting tidbits on when/how we ought to interpret the Bible symbolically, rather than literally. For example, we learn why Jesus is obsessed with lamps and what that has to do with the Christian life. Then, we talk a little more about the importance of spiritual mentorship. In case you don't know, The Peak offers a mentor ministry! Simply go to the link below to find more information. Finally, Kyle digs into the recent news story around AI and the dangerous road we are currently traveling. He opens up about whether he would change parts of his previous sermon on Artificial Intelligence (see April 27) and how Christians should tread lightly when using tools that might be bearing deadly fruit.
I Don't Want Advice
Kyle Meier | Numbers 22:21-31 | Recalculating Topics: Curiosity, Certainty, Wisdom, Listening
That'll Do Donkey
In today's episode, we continue our discussion on the somewhat comical story of Balaam and his donkey. First, Kyle takes us deeper into Balaam's background as a non-Israelite prophet. What does it mean that God speaks to and through non-believers? Is this still happening today? Additionally, Kyle offers us some tools for what he calls "sequential discernment." For those of you wrestling with very BIG life-decision right now, this section is for you. Finally, we discuss another way that Kyle has tried to manipulate God's guidance...through the art of negotiation. What is the difference between processing God's guidance and trying to get out of it? How can you tell which one you're doing?
Bondage of Bitterness
Kyle Meier | Luke 17:3-5 | Recalculating Topics: Forgiveness, Reconciliation, Grudge
Marriage Advice and Pumpkin Spice Lattes
On this episode of Footnotes, we keep the conversation going on bitterness, resentment and how often we have to extend forgiveness. To start, Kyle digs into some of the special numbers found in scripture (7, 12, 40, etc.). Did you even know there are special numbers found in our Bibles? What do they mean? And what does it have to do with forgiveness? Then, we dig a little bit more into the research coming out of the Gottman Institute. We learn how to fight back against contempt and save our marriages. Finally, Kyle opens up about whether reconciliation is possible in every relationship. What is required for genuine reconnection? Does the Bible offer us any tips here?
Mine or Ours?
Kyle Meier | Acts 2:42-47 | Recalculating Topics: Sharing, Possessions, Generosity
What's Mine is Yours/His/Not Mine
In this episode, we continue the conversation on how should Christians relate to their stuff. Kyle kicks things off with a discussion about St Augustine and his view that evil doesn't actually exist...or does it? Additionally, Kyle shares more about the 70-10-10-10 rule for financial stewardship. Finally, we wade into the somewhat tricky conversation about whether Christians should be capitalists or socialists? Or is it neither?
No Help Wanted
Kyle Meier | Exodus 18:13-23 | Recalculating Topics: Interdependence, Community, Assistance
I Have Too Much Stuff in My Hands
Justice for Zipporah! That's right, in today's episode, we learn more about Moses' wife. Did you even know he was married? We don't hear much about Zipporah in the Bible, but what we do know is she is a baller. Then, Kyle goes into a conversation on his own personal responsibility system. Kyle has a system for something?? Shocker to no one. But seriously, how do we know when a particular responsibility is ours to hold versus someone else's? If you have ever felt like there is too much weight on your shoulders, this is the episode for you. What if it is not only wise, but faithful to put some stuff DOWN?
What Is Driving You?
Kyle Meier | Colossians 3:23-24 | Recalculating Topics: Humility, Faith, Empathy, Mercy
Who Am I?
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Galatians 2:15-16 and 20 | Recalculating Topics: Identity, New Creation, Jesus Christ
Aren't You Tired?
Kyle Meier | Hebrews 4:9-11 | Summer Streaming Topics: Rest, Stillness, Sabbath
No Rest for The Weary
In today's episode, we dig into the mystery behind who wrote the book of Hebrews. Here is a hint...they may or may not have something in common with a popular Disney character. Kyle also explores what rest looks like for those of us with very little margin. If you work a demanding job or you are a caregiver, do you get to rest? What kind of rest is even possible? Finally, we talk about how Jesus navigated the need for rest and the needs of his neighbor. How do we know when to hold to our boundaries vs break them for the sake of the person who needs our help?
Relational Evangelism
Kyle Meier | Romans 12:9-17 | Summer Streaming Topics: Love, Passion, Understanding, Curiosity
Savin' Souls
Before we dig into this episode, we would just like to know...do you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? Do you know where you'd go if you were to die tonight? That's right! In today's episode, we dig into EVANGELISM. First, Kyle unpacks whether putting the 10 Commandments in schools is an effective strategy in making new disciples. Additionally, we explore the practice of reading scripture "inside out." Finally, we have an honest conversation about how to avoid treating other people like projects and acting with ulterior motives.
Does Integrity Matter?
Kyle Meier | Ruth 1:8, 16-18 | Summer Streaming Topics: Doing Good, Conviction, Planting Seeds
Polygamy, Brain Stories, and Personal Boundaries
In today's episode, we dig into the story of Ruth. For starters, we unpack what the Bible has to say about widows. Is there a reason for why male family members are instructed to marry them? Isn't that...weird? Kyle also digs into the fact that our brains are masterful storytellers, but are we aware of which stories we believe? Do we know which stories are controlling our actions? Finally, we wrestle with the tension of being hopeful, while also having boundaries? Is there such a thing as toxic or unhelpful positivity? Kyle opens up about how he, personally, navigates this struggle.
The Gift of Today
Guest Preacher Tim Russell | Psalm 118:1-4, 24 | Summer Streaming Topics: Present, Thankful, Memories
Is Life Fair?
Kyle Meier | Habakkuk 1:2-4 and 2:1 | Summer Streaming Topics: Suffering, Theodicy, Presence
Does Everything Happen for a Reason?
We continue the conversation with a brief discussion on biblical authorship. Should we be concerned that very few books of the Bible are named after their actual authors? Additionally, Pastor Kyle walks us through some of the BEST vs WORST things to say to someone whose life feels really unfair. Apparently trying to explain other people's suffering back to them is not a great move. Finally, Kyle opens up about a couple of periods in his life where life has felt very unfair and how it impacted his faith. If you have ever felt angry or needed some space from God during a really difficult time, you are not alone.
Discernment
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Philippians 1:9-11 | Summer Streaming Topics: Insight, Decisions, Change
God in Our Grief
Kyle Meier | Lamentations 3:17-24 | Summer Streaming Topics: Process, Presence, Honesty
There Is Grief in My Chocolate Milk
You can run, you can hide, but grief comes for us all. In today's episode, Kyle does a deeper dive into his sermon on the topic of grief. For starters, we learn some really important background on some of your favorite worship songs. Spoiler alert...some of these stories are super sad. Then, we explore several strategies for actually dealing with our losses. Some people like to listen to music; some consume a lot of dairy apparently. And finally, Kyle opens up about one of the grief journeys he is currently navigating in his own life.
Severance Strategies
Kyle Meier | Ephesians 4:17-24 | Summer Streaming Topics: Identity, Mental Health, Made New
Can Faith Be a Coping Mechanism?
Today, we are jumping into our brand-new series, "Summer Streaming" where will explore how God is showing up in our favorite TV shows! In this episode, Kyle discusses his love for Severance and how this show connects therapy and theology. Kyle shares about a pretty vulnerable encounter he had with his spiritual director several months ago. Finally, we wrestle with the question posed at the start...is it possible for spirituality to end up being an unhealthy coping mechanism? How do we know if we are using our disciplines faithfully or to escape the reality of our lives?
Youth Sunday 2026
Lily Eddy, Siena Reddy, Cale White, and Caitlyn Polasik | Isaiah 43:1-2 | Youth Sunday 2026 Topics: Waiting, Passion, Weird, Hardship
All Things in Common
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Acts 2:1-4 | Pentecost Sunday 2026 Topics: Connection, Conversation, Holy Spirit
What Would Jesus Say About The Political Divide?
Kyle Meier | Matthew 5:13-16 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: Salt, Light, Politics
Preachers Talking Politics
In this episode, we look back at yesterday's sermon, "What would Jesus say about our political divide?" Naturally, this leads to a conversation on the different uses for salt in the 1st century. But seriously, Kyle explains why Jesus thinks Christians should be the LEAST boring person in the room. Additionally, they should be the LEAST problematic in the room, so we move on to talk about practical strategies for not adding to the problem of divisiveness in this country. Kyle offers a couple of tips for how we can be instruments of peace, not demonization, in this polarizing world. Finally, have you ever wondered if preachers even like talking about politics? Well, the answer is complicated.
What Would Jesus Say About Burnout?
Kyle Meier | Mark 6:30-32 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: Rest, Passion, Challenge
Did Jesus Ever Feel Guilt?
Kyle is back this week to continue the conversation around BURNOUT! Returning to Mark 6 once more, we open the possibility that what if in addition to exhaustion, grief, and rejection...Jesus felt guilty about what happened to John the Baptist. Additionally, Kyle offers some tips for how we might aim for rhythm (not balance) for our everyday lives. Finally, we open up a major can of worms asking whether rest is even possible for some of us. What does this conversation mean for the single-mom, the person working 3 full-time jobs, or the adult child responsible for supporting their aging loved ones?
What the hell?
Today's topic is a hot one. As a follow up to her sermon on Luke 18, Katie does a deep dive on Judgment Day. What does the Bible actually say about hell? Where do our ideas about heaven and hell come from? And why does the afterlife matter for this life right now? Katie also suggests a prayer practice that involves making God the main character of your prayers instead of you. Finally, Katie wrestles with how to find the balance between being judgy (which Jesus says not to do) and being discerning (which Jesus says we have to do).
What Would Jesus Say About Judgment?
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Luke 18:9-14 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: Heaven, Hell, Prayer
What Would Jesus Say about Artificial Intelligence?
Kyle Meier | Matthew 12:33-37 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: AI, Fruit, Technology
AI Worship Leaders?
Today, we dive into a topic that is on everyone's mind...artificial intelligence. Following up from Kyle's sermon, we take a look at what God thinks about technology in general. We revisit the story of the Tower of Babel to gain some insight on what versions of technology God can and cannot support. Additionally, Kyle gives some tips for how Christians should use AI in their own spiritual life. Finally, we confront the fact that there are even AI Worship Leaders now! What does this mean for the church, for Christianity and can God use methods like these to reach and minister to us?
What Would Jesus Say to The Baptized?
Kyle Meier | Luke 3:21-22 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: Generations, Baptism, Confirmation
Original Goodness
This past Sunday was Baptism Sunday at The Peak, so this episode is packed full of questions and topics that emerged out of our story from Luke 3. For starters, it makes sense why WE get baptized, but why did Jesus get baptized? What was the point? Isn't he God after all? We also get into some practical advice for those of us who feel overly burdened and worried about our lives lately. Finally, Kyle opens up about his struggle with the doctrine of Original Sin. In some churches, we are told that because of Adam and Eve's transgression, all of humanity has been cursed and subject to judgement. Kyle opens up about why this is such a hard thing for him to believe and goes on to provide us with alternative interpretations and explanations of The Fall. [Link that Kyle mentioned: thepeakchurch.org/spiritual-gifts]
Deconstruction and Doubt
Kyle Meier | Matthew 28:16-20 | What Would Jesus Say 2.0 Topics: Belief, Foundation, Jesus
A Little Bit of Blasphemy
To the person who has ever gone through doubt, questioned their faith or reconsidered what they believe in, this episode is for you. Kyle sits down to discuss his sermon from April 12 where we are told that even after the resurrection, "some believed, but some doubted." Is all doubt bad? Is doubt the same thing as "blasphemy?" We also discuss how to remodel our relationships with others and with God after theological reconstruction.
Seeds That Live (Easter 2026)
Kyle Meier | John 20:11-18 | Easter 2026 Topics: Resurrection, Love, Value, Purpose
Letting Go of Fitting In
Katie Distefano Culpepper | Matthew 21:1-11 | Influencers (Lent 2026) Topics: Palm Sunday, Approval, Being
Letting Go of Lies
Kyle Meier | 1 Samuel 15:13-24 | Influencers (Lent 2026) Topics: Honesty, Truth, Provider