Story Church

We are a collection of people with stories imprinted by brokenness and the redemption of Christ. We have a STORY to tell; a narrative of REDEMPTION.

Our hearts break for the broken lives and broken families of the Springfield area. While we recognize we cannot single-handedly "fix" our community, we believe we can be a catalyst for change by loving well the community where God has placed us. Just because we can’t do everything doesn’t mean we can’t do something. Let the Redeemed of the Lord tell their STORY...
— Psalm 107:2

06/21/2026

Happy Father's Day! Gather with us this morning for ONE GATHERING at 10:00am at 203 Jamestown Blvd. as we continue in our study of the Gospel of Luke. If you can't join us in person. you can watch live with the link below. We can't wait to worship with you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBdoLPpxGBo

“Seeds, Soil and Good News”
Luke 8:1-15

Sometimes simple things are difficult to understand, especially when it's a message we’d rather not hear. Do you have “ears to hear” about “the secrets of the Kingdom of God”? We are all called to proclaim the good news of God’s Kingdom, but the seeds of the gospel will not be received by everyone. But those hear the word and “hold it fast in an honest and good heart,” will “bear fruit with patience.”

06/18/2026

Dallas Willard often used this humble, preemptive disclaimer during his lectures: "I don’t have time to tell you everything I DON’T mean when I say that…" He would use this phrase in an attempt to avoid common theological misunderstandings, clouded by his students’ presuppositions. Especially before diving into deep, counter-cultural teachings concerning the Kingdom of God. I feel this urge every time I preach. After all, I know what I mean when I speak, but I have limited control over what is heard by each person in the congregation.

However, I don’t think this problem is unique to preaching and teaching. Everyone knows what it feels like to be misunderstood; to misunderstand, and consequently, to be misunderstood, is to be human. But there’s a difference between making a mistake and lazy listening. Some people simply don’t want to understand. So how do we deal with this frustrating fact of life? Well, we should never waste our time and energy trying to explain ourselves to people who are committed to misunderstanding us. No matter how clear we attempt to be, they will inevitably muddy the waters. No matter how many times we try to bring clarity, their poor attitude and commitment to being obtuse, will always bring frustration. So instead of giving them more words, remain silent. Jesus said it this way, “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. (Matthew 7:6, ESV)

When you are feeling misunderstood, say fewer words. Truly in that case, less is more. But on the other side, when you are misunderstanding someone, seek clarity. Ask more questions. Try to understand what they are saying before filtering their message through your presuppositions. [3] yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, [4] if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, (Proverbs 2:3–4, ESV) You may not find agreement with everyone, but at least seek to hear what they are actually saying…not what you think they mean by what they are saying.

-Chris Ballard

06/14/2026

Gather with us this morning at 10:00am at 203 Jamestown Blvd. as we continue our study in the Gospel of Luke. If you can't join us in person, you can watch live with the link below. We can't wait to worship with you!

https://www.youtube.com//streams

“Forgiveness, Faith...Much Love”
Luke 7:36-50

Luke 7 began with a couple stories of amazing miracles by Jesus. The crowds were astonished and their faith was increasing as a result. However, the Pharisees and the legal experts were becoming more incensed. Jesus said this was becasue they had rejected the baptism of repentance offered by John the Baptist (v.30). All of this sets the scene for conflict between the faithful acceptance of God’s purpose by this “woman of the city”, and the rejection of the pharisee’s cold hearts. The woman of ill-repute was blessed, because she was not offended by Jesus (v. 23). She was called “faithful” and “forgiven” and found true peace (vv. 47-50)

06/12/2026

We are beyond excited that construction for Storytime Park has begun. That comes with some challenges, though. We have 2 at this moment.

1. The landscaping at the drive thru loop will be removed so the equipment can move around. We would like to salvage the rocks and brick. This has to be done by MONDAY. If you have a tractor, a skid steer, or you are able bodied and willing to move the bricks, get a hold of Pastor Chris or Lana and they can get you details.

2. Construction will temporarily close the Storytime Coffee Co. drive thru. We want to keep that convenience for customers. So, we are asking for volunteers to come for the next 2 weeks (give or take). We will mark off parking spots for people to pull in, and the volunteers will take their order and bring it out to them. We will have a sign up on the Church Center app for this.

We are so thankful for everyone at Story Church and the community. It is taking everyone to make this vision come to fruition for the community!

06/11/2026

Wow! What a week! Church, I’m so pleased with the journey we’re on together. This week reminded me why I love what our church is up to. Let’s recap:

1. Storytime Park Groundbreaking - This was an amazing celebration with our community. The mayor, Jack Cole said a few words. Darin Chappell, our state representative showed up. The Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of schools made an appearance. The Fire Chief and City Administrator were also present. Many business owners and residents came out to celebrate the event as well. Surely I'm leaving someone out, but the point I’m trying to make is, our city sees what we’re doing and have fully supported this community-wide project. Seeing so many folks come together to celebrate this momentous occasion gave me a glimpse of the joy this park will bring to so many. God be praised!

2. Sermon writing/coaching with my son, Rylen - After the groundbreaking, I rushed home to load the truck for an overnight camping trip on the river with Rylen. This is something I started with he and Sage when they were little. Discipling them in the ways of Jesus was something we brought into every aspect of their lives. Deuteronomy 6:7 - [7] You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. (ESV) I found these camping trips accelerated the conversations about Jesus as we “lied down” under the stars. This overnight experience was one last camping trip before his wedding next month; we needed a few more important father to son conversations. It was also an opportunity to workshop his sermon and discus life as a pastor in preparation for his future ministry. Time flies, parents! Be intention with your time.

3. Rylen’s 1st sermon and commissioning - Sunday was an incredibly special moment for Shana and I. I’m grateful to the Elders for affording Rylen the opportunity to preach. Even more so for the church’s response to his preaching. You were so complementary and encouraging to my son. Thank you! Rylen and Sheriana were blessed by your prayers as we sent them out, commissioning them to their future ministry.

4. Prayer walking Storytime Park - It touched my heart to see so many of you walking the future site of the park while praying over it. I love the way our church prayed for God’s favor and provision. This is truly a park built for His glory.

5. Potluck and Bolivia Fundraiser - When I didn’t think the day could get any better, sharing a meal with the people of Story Church was amazing. Let me give a huge shoutout to everyone who made a dessert, and those who purchased a dessert at the auction. Nathan Matney did a great job as the auctioneer. We raised over $1500 and now only lack $4100 for our mission team! Thank you for your continued generosity!

6. Storytime Construction is under way - After 3 days in Topeka, KS with Mattox for pole vault camp (I did not participate), I pulled up to the office this morning to see dirt moving on the park site. And if I wasn’t excited enough about the opening ceremony of the World Cup…now I feel like a kid on Christmas morning!

All of that in a week’s time. What a week! I hope to see you this Sunday. After 2 weeks of not preaching, I’m looking forward to being back in the pulpit…uh hmmm…the music stand. We are taking communion this Sunday; it just seems fitting to come to the Lord’s Table together.

- Chris Ballard

06/10/2026

https://thestory417.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3527324

This is the last week to register your teenager for SUPER SUMMER! Click the link, and follow the instructions to secure your spot!

06/07/2026

Gather with us this morning for ONE GATHERING at 10:00am at 203 Jamestown Blvd. as we continue our study in the Gospel of Luke. We will also have the Storytime Park Groundbreaking Potluck, park dedication, and dessert auction to benefit the 2026 Bolivia missions team. If you can't join us in person, you can watch live with the link below. We can't wait to worship with you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3GhIy5vmsc

“Going to the Source”
Luke 7:18-35

This week's texts shows us how to respond to our doubts by reminding us the answer is always found by approaching God directly. John the Baptist shows a moment of weakness that causes “the greatest among those born of women” to come to Jesus with doubts in the midst of his trial. Through John, we learn true wisdom is gained through faithful obedience and humbly approaching God as the ultimate source of wisdom. We consider what a great privilege it is to have access to the written Word of God.

06/06/2026

What is all this talk about Bolivia and why are we asking you to pray and raising money for it? I am glad you asked. Story Church partners with Love In Action.

In response to the gospel, Love in Action rescues orphaned, abandoned, abused, and extremely poor children in Latin America, introduces them to Jesus Christ, nurtures them in a loving family home environment and equips them through education and discipleship to impact the world.

Each year Story Church sends a team to help with projects in Bolivia. Some of the projects this year will be maintenance at the new orphanage in Riberalta. Also at Andrea's House which is for the kids that are aging out of the orphanage.

We are asking that you would be in prayer as this year's team prepares to leave later this month. We are so thankful for the people that have been obedient and answered the call to go. You can help by praying, giving financially, or making a dessert to auction off this Sunday, June 7th. Thank you for all of your support!

Address

203 Jamestown Boulevard
Rogersville, MO
65742

Opening Hours

10am - 12pm

Telephone

+14178128888

Website

http://thestory417.com/

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