Episode 108 - A city on a hill - Part 1

In this episode of For Your Journey, District Apostle Schnabel discusses the meaning behind Jesus’ image of “a city on a hill” from Matthew 5. Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, he explains that believers hold a “dual citizenship," they belong first to the city of God while living in the world today. As citizens of this heavenly city, Christians are called not to hide their faith but to let their light shine visibly, reflecting the gospel through their actions, relationships, and daily lives. This means showing that the gospel of Jesus Christ can be lived authentically and joyfully “here and now,” influencing our neighborhoods, workplaces, and social circles with love, humility, and consistency.

District Apostle Schnabel emphasizes that being “in the world but not of it” is a delicate balance: faith should neither retreat into isolation nor disappear through conformity. Instead, believers are to embody the love of Christ in tangible ways; making decisions that may seem unusual in a self-centered culture but align with eternal truths. He reflects on the evolution of the New Apostolic Church’s leadership in the USA district, from earlier eras of strong internal identity to today’s outward engagement with the world. Now, he says, the Church is positioned to make a meaningful difference by living and demonstrating the gospel so that others can experience genuine care and love without ulterior motives. The episode concludes by previewing part two, which will explore how the early church lived out this same calling and how we can apply this in our lives.