The Canvascast

S3E10 When Prayer Gets Real

Thu, 28 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

What if prayer was never meant to sound polished? In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack the raw, honest, and deeply personal side of prayer — the kind that happens in frustration, desperation, silence, and intimacy with God.

Pastor Mark opens up about difficult seasons in ministry, planting Canvas Church, and the moments where his prayers sounded less like church language and more like honest conversations with a loving Father. From bold prayers and spiritual discipline to prison ministry, baptisms, and trusting God through uncertainty, this episode is a powerful reminder that prayer is less about performance and more about presence.

Whether your prayer life feels strong, messy, silent, or inconsistent, this conversation will encourage you to come honestly before God and discover the intimacy He offers.

Listen now to Episode 10 of The Canvascast and lean into a deeper, more authentic conversation with God.

S3E9 Broken But Chosen

Thu, 14 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This week on The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack one of the most unexpected Mother’s Day messages we’ve ever had at Canvas Church.

Starting in 1 Kings 3 with the story of two prostitutes standing before Solomon, this conversation dives into identity, surrender, prayer, wisdom, and the reality that God works through imperfect people. In this episode we’re getting honest. If you ever wondered if your past, failures, or imperfections makes you unusable, listen to this episode today!

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E8 Beyond The Vows

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel talk about the reality that marriage isn’t always easy—it’s layered, stretching, and at times, messy. But it’s also deeply meaningful when viewed through the lens it was designed for.

Building off the idea of God First Marriages, this conversation explores how marriage is more than just two people coming together—it’s a reflection of something greater. From navigating differences in personality and background to understanding the deeper purpose behind covenant, we unpack what it looks like to stay committed when things aren’t simple.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E7 Living With The Spirit

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel take a deeper look at the early church in the book of Acts—what changed in the disciples, where their boldness came from, and how the Holy Spirit transformed ordinary people into powerful witnesses.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about who the Holy Spirit is or what He does, this conversation breaks it down in a clear and practical way. This isn’t just theology—it’s about how God still works in and through us today.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E6 Failure Is Not Final

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel keep the conversation going around spiritual warfare—specifically how failure can quietly become a foothold in our lives. It’s not just about messing up. It’s about what happens next. The discouragement, the lies we start believing, and the way those moments can shape how we see ourselves and God.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E5 Seeing The Bible Clearly

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

S3E4 The Unseen Battle

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast! Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack the reality of spiritual warfare—what it is and what it isn't, and why understanding the unseen world changes everything.

The real battle isn't flesh and blood. It's deeper that circumstances, emotions, or surface-level problems.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E2 How We Love God

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, we continue the ongoing conversation around what it truly means to love God with all of who we are. Building on recent teachings, the discussion unpacks the biblical call to love God with our heart, soul, strength, and mind—not as abstract ideas, but as lived, practiced faith.

Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel reflect on recent sermons and gatherings, breaking down how soul connects to knowing God’s ways, while strength is revealed through obedience, discipline, and action. This episode challenges listeners to move beyond belief as knowledge alone and step into faith that is embodied, intentional, and transformative.

Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S3E1 Making God First

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

For this episode of The Canvascast! Centers on the power of prayer and the importance of God-ordained relationships. Through personal stories and ministry reflections, the message reveals how God brings the right people together across seasons of life and leadership. It emphasizes that spiritual growth often happens through shared journeys, faithful friendships, and trusting God’s timing. We are reminded that God is intentional with relationships and uses them to strengthen faith, calling, and purpose.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S2E8 Following Through Fear

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S2E7 When God Feels Silent

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, we talk about what it really looks like to follow Jesus when it would be easier to quit. Sometimes faith doesn’t feel big or loud — sometimes it’s quiet, ordinary, and difficult. But it’s in those moments that God is forming something deeper in us. If you’ve been tired, discouraged, or tempted to give up… this conversation is for you. You are not alone, and your progress is not wasted.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S2E6 Built To Stand

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, the team dives deep into what it truly means to live out a faith that stands not just during events or mountaintop moments, but in the everyday challenges of following Christ.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S2E5 Rooted In Reflection

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore what it means to find meaning in the quiet moments of life. The conversation dives deep into purpose, reflection, and how slowing down can awaken something spiritual within us. From childhood influences to discovering peace in discipline, this talk reveals how growth often comes through patience and presence.

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Key Takeaways

Stillness brings clarity and purpose.

Discipline can shape spiritual growth.

Reflection leads to stronger identity.

Connection creates deeper fulfillment.

Purpose is often found in simplicity.

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Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida.

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For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media

For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com

To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

S2E4 Knowing The Whisper

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive into practical ways to hear God’s voice, highlighting personal stories and biblical principles. Discussing why slowing down, paying attention, and creating space for God’s whisper can transform your spiritual journey. Real-life examples illustrate how God speaks in unexpected moments—reminding us that His guidance is always near when we take time to listen.

Key Takeaways:

- God speaks in subtle, quiet ways.

- Listening requires intentional stillness.

- Personal stories reveal divine guidance.

- Spiritual growth begins with attentiveness.

- God’s voice brings peace and direction.

S2E3 Surrounded by Strength

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we close out with a powerful conversation about the role of community, accountability, and wisdom in shaping your walk with Christ. This episode dives into how correction is really an act of love, why isolation is dangerous, and how living connected to God’s people helps us leave a legacy that glorifies Him.

Whether you’re walking through correction, searching for deeper fellowship, or wanting to grow in faith, this conversation will equip and encourage you to keep going.

Key Takeaways:

- Correction is love (True friends in Christ hold you accountable.)

- Isolation is dangerous (Spiritual growth requires support and fellowship.)

- Ordinary people, extraordinary purpose (God uses community to empower believers.)

- Legacy matters (How you live and respond to correction shapes your witness.)

S2E2 Leadership Through Surrender

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we dive into how Jesus transforms ordinary people into extraordinary leaders. Through the story of Nehemiah and the call to build, we see that God doesn’t look for the most qualified—He empowers the willing. True leadership begins with surrender, courage, and faith, and it leads to change that impacts families, communities, and future generations.

We’ll explore how ordinary believers can step into extraordinary purpose, take ownership of their calling, and lead with the strength that only comes from Christ. Whether it’s in your home, church, or workplace, Jesus equips you to rise up, lead boldly, and make a lasting difference.

S2E1 Your Ordinary Matters

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This episode dives into the heart of our “Ordinary World Changers” series — celebrating how God uses everyday people to make an extraordinary impact. From an eventful summer in Canvas Church to powerful worship moments, salvations, and baptisms, we share stories that prove you don’t need a platform to change the world.

Hear personal testimonies, including moving family faith stories, that show how simple obedience, community involvement, and worship can transform lives. Whether you’re serving behind the scenes, leading in your home, or stepping into new faith challenges, you are part of God’s bigger story.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

– Recap of a record-breaking summer at Canvas Church

– Inspiring moments from the Ordinary World Changers series

– Baptisms and life transformations

– The power of worship and community

– How God calls ordinary people for extraordinary purposes

"You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful — you just have to be willing."

Faith-Fueled Action

Thu, 29 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In the final episode of season one of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel reflect on the incredible journey of the past five months, walking through the life-changing God First Series. This episode dives into the importance of obedience over comfort, living with purpose, and keeping Jesus at the center of everything.

Key Takeaways

- Comfort never produces calling

- Put God first in everything

- Obedience is greater than convenience

- Lead with Jesus at the center

- Your legacy should glorify God

Faith Needs Community

Thu, 15 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What does it really mean to be connected to the church—and why does it matter?

In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel explore why believers are called to more than just showing up on Sundays. They discuss the deeper purpose behind regular worship, giving faithfully, and being actively involved in the life of the church.

Key Takeaways:

- Why spiritual growth is stunted when you're disconnected from the local church

- The biblical and practical reasons for consistent tithing

- How worship isn't just music—it's a lifestyle of alignment with God

- What happens when we stop seeing church as a place we go and start seeing it as a family we serve

If you’ve ever wondered why your presence, your giving, and your engagement really matter, this conversation will both convict and encourage you.

A Legacy That Lasts

Thu, 01 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dig into a bold and deeply relevant question: What difference can I make if I’m the only one trying to make a difference? Inspired by the story of Noah in Genesis 6:5–9, they unpack what it means to live with God First Boldness—even when you stand alone. This conversation reframes how you see your role in a culture often going the opposite direction.

Episode Highlights:

- Why most people don’t see themselves as leaders—and why they’re wrong

- The subtle but significant difference between having influence and being influential

- How Noah’s faith in a godless generation still speaks to us today

- What it might look like to visibly celebrate baptisms across campuses in real-time

👉 Listen now and share it with someone who needs boldness in their faith journey.

The Canvascast is a podcast from Canvas Church that exists to further your relationship with God through genuine conversations about life, faith, leadership, theology, and more. Canvas Church is led by Pastor J. Mark Johns in North Florida. We believe that humanity is God's masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10 NLT) and that because of Jesus, everyone gets a second chance.

To learn more about Canvas Church, visit canvasfl.com

How Do We Live In A Lost World?

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Pastors J. Mark Johns and Robby Rassel explore how Easter creates a unique window to reach people who might otherwise ignore church. Drawing from John 4, they unpack Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman and its ripple effect on a whole community. They also discuss why the Gospels differ and how those differences deepen our understanding of Jesus. Whether you’re inviting someone to church or just seeking clarity, this conversation will inspire you to lead with love, share your faith, and live with eternal purpose.

Key Takeaways:

- Putting God First is a lifelong pursuit, not just a seasonal message—true transformation begins when every area of life is surrendered.

- Jesus meets people where they are, as seen in His interaction with the Samaritan woman—proving no one is too far gone or too overlooked.

- Differences in the four Gospels are intentional, offering unique perspectives rather than contradictions—they provide a fuller picture of who Jesus is.

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To learn more about Canvas Church, visit canvasfl.com

Aligning Life with Faith

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, we continue our journey in the God First series, exploring what it truly means to prioritize God in every aspect of life. The conversation dives into the areas where people often struggle to put God first, why this happens, and practical ways to shift our mindset and habits. Whether it's in our relationships, finances, or daily decisions, this episode provides thought-provoking insights and actionable steps to align our lives with faith. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that challenges and encourages you to live with a God-centered perspective.

Key Takeaways:

- Common areas where people struggle to put God first and why.

- The impact of prioritizing faith in daily life.

- Practical ways to make God the center of relationships, finances, and decisions.

- How small, intentional choices can lead to spiritual growth.

- Encouragement and motivation to live out a God-first lifestyle.

Building Stronger Marriages

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What makes a strong and lasting marriage? It’s not perfection—it’s two flawed people relentlessly committed to God and each other. In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive deep into what it means to build a God-first marriage and family.

Living A Character-Driven Life

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What does it truly mean for a man to lead his family in a God-honoring way? In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive deep into the biblical foundation of male leadership in the home.

Drawing wisdom from Psalm 128, they break down what it means to be a man of character, integrity, and faithfulness—one who sets the spiritual tone for his household. The conversation sheds light on the misunderstood concept of “fearing the Lord” and how a man’s personal walk with God influences his family’s spiritual health.

Tune in as we discuss:

• Why character and integrity are central to a man’s leadership

• The difference between fearing God and living in terror of Him

• How a man’s obedience to God impacts his marriage and children

• Practical steps for leading a household with love, wisdom, and faith

This is a must-listen for any man seeking to grow as a spiritual leader in his home—and for anyone who wants to understand the role of godly leadership in the family.

Listen now and take the first step toward a stronger, God-centered home! 🎧

Love In Leviticus

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Canvascast, we dive deep into the book of Leviticus 14 and explore its profound spiritual significance. We also breakdown how the physical cleansing of a leper in the Old Testament mirrors the spiritual redemption we receive through Christ.

Join us as we discuss:

• The six parallels between Old Testament cleansing and salvation in Christ.

• How God speaks to us today—through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and people in our lives.

• The barriers that keep us from hearing God’s voice and how to overcome them.

• What it truly means to serve in the Kingdom of God in our everyday work and life.

• How faith guides our steps, using Joshua’s journey as a powerful example.

• The significance of oil over the blood—how the Holy Spirit keeps our faith fresh and alive.

Key Takeaways:

• The Old Testament is rich with spiritual symbolism pointing to Jesus.

• God’s voice is clear and always aligns with His Word.

• Distractions and past hurt can block us from hearing God, but He still pursues us.

• Whatever our job or role, we are first and foremost disciples of Christ.

• The Holy Spirit convicts and guides us, keeping our faith vibrant.

Putting God First

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In the first episode of The Canvascast, the Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel introduce our podcast's purpose: to explore faith, discipleship, and spiritual growth beyond Sunday sermons. They discuss the God First initiative, its origins, and how it will shape our church community.

Key Topics Covered:

Why This Podcast? – Expanding on sermons, diving deeper into topics, and fostering spiritual growth.

The "God First" Initiative – How COVID reshaped church culture and the shift from entertainment-based church experiences to deeper discipleship.

The Role of Scripture in Discipleship – Overcoming intimidation, developing discipline, and fostering a love for God's Word.

Understanding Context in Bible Study – How to properly interpret scripture and avoid misapplying verses.

The Power of Spiritual Growth – Transitioning from a surface-level faith to deeper commitment.