Calvary Chapel South Messages

Pastor Gerrit teaches from 2 Samuel 4–5, showing David's rise as king over all Israel. The message highlights David's integrity in refusing to gain power through violence and his reliance on God's timing. His leadership is marked by mercy, unity, and faithfulness, pointing to the kind of character God desires in those who serve His people.

In this study from Ruth 3, Pastor Kevin teaches on God's redeeming love, seen through the relationship between Ruth and Boaz. Naomi prompts Ruth to seek security through Boaz, the kinsman redeemer, who represents Christ as the one who rescues and restores us. The message highlights trusting God's prompting, trusting the Redeemer Himself, and trusting His promises. Pastor Kevin reminds believers that the Holy Spirit always points us to Jesus, that true love involves faith, humility, and commitment, and that redemption is a work of grace accomplished by Christ for all who choose to come to Him.

In this message from 2 Samuel 2:8–3:21, Pastor Gerrit traces the unfolding tension between Abner, Joab, and David during the early days of David's rise to kingship. Through the political struggles, personal rivalries, and civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David, we see lessons on waiting patiently for God's timing, recognizing the futility of resisting His will, and the harm caused when God's people fight among themselves. The account also reveals David's human flaws, yet underscores God's faithfulness in strengthening his kingdom according to His purpose.

In this study from Ruth chapter 2, Pastor Kevin teaches on Ruth's faithful obedience and God's quiet providence as she goes to glean in the fields. Her encounter with Boaz shows how God works through everyday circumstances to provide and guide His people. The message highlights the steady faith, kindness, and integrity seen in Ruth and Boaz, and how these qualities reflect God's own care and faithfulness toward His people.

Pastor Gerrit begins the study of 2 Samuel, tracing the continuation of God's unfolding plan for His people through David's rise to leadership. With Saul's death and David's ascension to the throne, the passage reveals David's remarkable response, not of celebration, but of mourning and honor toward Saul and Jonathan. Pastor Gerrit reflects on how David avoided bitterness by trusting God's sovereignty, showing radical patience, and refusing to speak evil of those who wronged him. The message encourages believers to guard their hearts from resentment and to trust that God's purposes prevail even through hardship.

Why do you believe what you say you believe? For many years Jon would ask his believing friends that very questions. The answers he got were not persuasive and usually he left the conversation more affirmed in his atheism. The reason we should believe something is because it accurately reflects the way the world really is. In this talk Jon explores his past as an atheist and shows why he had to make the worldview change he did as his atheism started bumping him into reality. Some bumps were harder than others. Learn more about Stand to Reason: https://www.str.org/

Pastor Gerrit closes the series through 1 Samuel with a message from chapters 30–31, contrasting how David and Saul respond to despair. When faced with loss, David seeks the Lord's strength and guidance, while Saul turns away from Him. Through this contrast, Pastor Gerrit reminds believers that the way forward in hardship is to trust God's promises, seek His direction, and walk in faithful obedience.

In this opening study of the book of Ruth, Pastor Kevin reminds us that God is at work in the ordinary events of life, accomplishing His redemptive purposes even in seasons of loss and sorrow. Through Naomi's bitterness and Ruth's loyal love, we see a portrait of Christ's redeeming grace, God's love shining against the dark backdrop of a broken world. God's providence is never absent, His redemption is complete through Jesus our Kinsman-Redeemer, and His love can transform even the most painful past into hope and new beginnings.

In this teaching from 1 Samuel 28–29, the focus turns to Saul's final days as he seeks guidance apart from God, consulting a medium at Endor after the Lord's silence. Through Saul's tragic choices and David's difficult circumstances, the message contrasts desperation without faith and trust rooted in God's promises.

Guest speaker Pastor Matt Kessie of Calvary Chapel Tri-Cities shares from Mark 12 for Mission Sunday. In this passage, Jesus responds to a series of questions meant to trap Him, yet each answer reveals the heart of God and what He values most. Pastor Matt reminds us that our highest calling is to love God with all our heart and to live that love out in obedience and compassion toward others. He concludes by urging us to see mission not as a distant effort, but as a daily expression of God's love through our lives, wherever He has placed us.

In 1 Samuel 26 and 27, David is once again pursued by Saul and faces another opportunity to take his enemy's life. Instead of acting in vengeance, David chooses to trust in God's justice and timing. The message reflects on what it means to live for the chief end of man: to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. It also considers how this truth shaped David's restraint and his relationship with the Lord.

In this message from Judges 19–21, Pastor Kevin reflects on one of the most difficult sections in Israel's history, when “everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” Beginning with the account of the Levite and his concubine, the sermon shows how neglect of God's word led to moral decline, brokenness in families, and conflict among the tribes. The near-destruction of the tribe of Benjamin illustrates both the seriousness of sin and the limits of human solutions. Yet this message also emphasizes hope: in Christ we are washed, sanctified, and justified, and through the Spirit we find the strength to walk in God's ways.

In this study from 1 Samuel 25, we see how David's presumption and frustrated expectations led to anger and a desire for vengeance. Through Nabal's insult and Abigail's wise intervention, the passage shows the danger of pride and wrath, and the mercy of God in keeping His servant from sin. The lesson calls us to lay down presumption, overcome evil with good, and walk in the Spirit rather than in anger.

Guest speaker Pastor Lloyd Pulley from Calvary Chapel Old Bridge shares a message on God's steady faithfulness through the joys and challenges of ministry, family, and everyday life. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 4–5, he considers Paul's reminder that our earthly bodies are only temporary, like tents, while God is preparing an eternal home for us. In light of this promise, believers are encouraged to walk by faith rather than sight, to hold on to the hope of Christ, and to make it their aim to be pleasing to the Lord. The perspective of eternity gives purpose to our daily struggles and confidence that God is at work in us for what is lasting.

In this message from 1 Samuel 23–24, we follow David as he flees Saul and hides in the wilderness. David shows wisdom by seeking the Lord's direction before acting, courage in rescuing the people of Keilah despite danger, and deep conviction in refusing to take Saul's life when given the chance in the cave at En-gedi. Instead of seizing the throne, David entrusts vengeance and justice to God, respecting Saul as the Lord's anointed.

In 1 Samuel 21–22, David is forced onto the road as a fugitive, facing fear, danger, and betrayal. He seeks food and a weapon at Nob, where Doeg the Edomite sees him, and then escapes to Gath, where he pretends madness to survive. Hiding in the cave of Adullam, David pours out psalms of trust in God, even while surrounded by distress and uncertainty. There, God begins to shape a band of outcasts into David's loyal followers. Meanwhile, Saul's jealousy erupts in the slaughter of the priests at Nob. Through David's trials, we see how faith can rise above fear, how love for God sustains in hardship, and how loyalty to Him directs our path even when life feels out of control.

Judges 19 tells one of the darkest stories in Israel's history, showing the collapse of morality when people reject God's authority. The sin of Gibeah mirrors Sodom and Gomorrah, with rampant homosexuality, violence, and the abuse of hospitality. This passage shows how corruption spreads from priests to homes to government, leaving a nation without a moral compass. The warning is clear for today: when family breaks down, conscience is ignored, and sexual sin is normalized, society crumbles. Yet the message of hope remains—through Christ, even those bound by sin can be washed, sanctified, and made new.

In 1 Samuel 20, David finds himself truly “between a rock and a hard place.” King Saul's jealousy has escalated into rage, and David must choose between life on the run or certain death if he stays. At the same time, Jonathan faces his own painful dilemma—loyalty to his father or faithfulness to his friend. This message explores how both men navigate betrayal, fear, and costly decisions, and how Jonathan's sacrificial love points us to Christ.

Pastor Kevin teaches from Judges 17–18 on the dangers of apostasy. Micah's idols and the tribe of Dan's search for an easier inheritance show what happens when everyone does what is right in their own eyes. True security is only found in God's word and presence, not in substitutes we create.

Pastor Gerrit Hoeks continues our study through 1 Samuel with chapters 18 and 19. In this message, we see the contrast between King Saul and David. Saul becomes the “rotten king,” consumed by jealousy, pride, and fear of losing his throne. David is the humble servant who trusts God, serves faithfully, and is protected by the Lord even when Saul seeks his life. This teaching highlights how envy leads to destruction, how humility leads to blessing, and how God's presence gives courage and victory.

In Judges 17–18 we see a picture of apostasy in Israel, where “everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” Pastor Kevin unpacks how idolatry takes root when God's law is mocked, when religion becomes a means to an end, and when people are left powerless and empty apart from Him. Through the story of Micah and the wandering Levite, we are reminded that God's word is our true standard, that He alone is good, and that only in Him do we find life and blessing.

In this message from 1 Samuel 16–17, Elliot Hoeks walks through the account of David and Goliath, one of the most well-known stories in Scripture. Rather than being about self-confidence or “facing our giants,” the passage highlights David's trust in the faithfulness of God. While Saul and the army trembled in fear, David stepped forward with courage rooted not in himself but in the Lord who delivers His people. This story also points us to Jesus, the true Champion who has already won the victory over sin and death. As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded to look back on God's past faithfulness so we can walk forward in confidence that He will be faithful again.

Pastor Kevin teaches through Judges 13–16 and the life of Samson. From his birth to his downfall, Samson's story shows both the power of God's Spirit and the danger of giving in to pride and temptation. Though remembered as a man of faith, his life is also a warning to walk in discipline and dependence on the Lord.

Pastor Gerrit shares from 1 Samuel 15 and 16, highlighting the contrast between a heart far from God and a heart fixed on Him. Through Saul's pride, disobedience, self-deception, insecurity, and troubled spirit, Scripture shows the consequences of drifting from God's will. In contrast, God chooses David, a humble shepherd boy, because He looks at the heart rather than outward appearance. This message invites us to honestly examine where our own hearts are before the Lord and to walk in humility, obedience, and trust in Him.

Pastor Kevin teaches from Judges 12 on the conflict between Jephthah and the men of Ephraim, showing how pride can take root and cause division. Through biblical examples from both the Old and New Testaments, we see how an inflated view of ourselves damages relationships with God and others. The call is to stop complaining, start working faithfully with what God has given, and humbly seek His help to remove any pride that hinders us from reflecting His character.

In this message from 1 Samuel 14 and 15, Pastor John looks at how King Saul's heart drifted from God through a series of poor choices that became increasingly serious. From making foolish and provoking commands to sparing what God had commanded him to destroy, Saul's story shows the danger of doubling down on disobedience. Through his example, we are challenged to trust God's timing, guard our hearts from pride, and deal decisively with the sin nature that seeks to draw us away from Him.

This message examines Judges 11 and the story of Jephthah, a skilled warrior rejected by his family but called to lead against the Ammonites. It highlights his trust in God, his attempt to seek peace, and the serious vow he made before battle. The sermon emphasizes the importance of integrity in speech, the role of peacemaking, and the weight of promises to God. Jephthah's story reminds listeners that true devotion is shown more in actions than in words alone.

Guest speaker Joe Cepeda teaches from 1 Samuel 13 and 14, where Saul's disobedience contrasts with Jonathan's bold faith. As Saul fails to trust God's timing, Jonathan steps out in faith, showing that the Lord can save by many or by few. This message highlights key themes of obedience, faith in action, and trusting God in uncertain circumstances.

In this message from Judges 10, Pastor Kevin explores Israel's cycle of sin, idolatry and repentance. As the people turn to false gods, God says enough, revealing His justice, commitment and compassion. This teaching highlights God's call to wholehearted worship and the power of true repentance. A timely reminder of God's mercy through Jesus Christ for anyone ready to return to Him.

Pastor Ronald Warren walks through Genesis 32:22–31, where Jacob wrestles with God in a moment of crisis and transformation. This Youth Sunday message reflects on what it means to truly wrestle with faith, identity, and God's purpose, and encourages believers to engage with the hard questions of life, trust God in the struggle, and grow through the process of sanctification.

In this teaching from Judges 9, Pastor Kevin Day explores the life of Abimelech, a man driven by bitterness, anger, and selfish ambition. Drawing from the tragic story of Abimelech's rise and fall, we examine how unchecked emotions can lead to destructive decisions—not only for ourselves, but for those around us.

In this message from 1 Samuel chapters 11 and 12, Pastor Gerrit Hoeks shares on Saul's first major test as king and Samuel's farewell to the people of Israel. The sermon explores Saul's unexpected courage in defending Jabesh-Gilead, the importance of godly leadership, and Samuel's reminder to the nation of God's continued faithfulness—even when they chose their own way. We see how righteous anger, when shaped by God's Spirit, can lead to meaningful action, and how Samuel's life of quiet integrity and consistent service provides an example for us today.

Pastor Kevin takes us through Judges 8, exploring how Gideon's anger, greed, and pride led to sinful compromise later in his otherwise faithful life.

Ron Ciraulo teaches through 1 Samuel 9–10, where Israel rejects God's rule and asks for a king—and God responds in mercy by choosing and equipping Saul. Though Saul's reign begins with humility and promise, this marks a major turning point with lasting consequences for the nation.

Pastor Kevin continues our study through Judges.

Returning to the Lord with all of our hearts requires authentic repentance that forsakes sin and  turns from idolatry and makes an  honest confession that flows from godly  sorrow.  As Samuel interceded for the Israelites during their repentance , Jesus intercedes for us.

What does it look like to love God with your whole life? In this conclusion to our Philippians series, Pastor Gerrit walks through Philippians 4 with the lens of—Jesus' greatest commandment from Mark 12:30: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” This message challenges us to become Full Body Believers—engaging every part of our being in wholehearted devotion to God. You'll be encouraged to:

In this message, Mark Bergquist teaches from 1 Samuel 5–6, looking at how God's holiness confronts both Israel's superstition and the Philistines' idolatry. Mark highlights the deep contrast between human assumptions and God's purposes, reminding us that true worship means reverence, obedience, and humility.

Celebrate dads and dig into the high calling of fatherhood with a special message by Pastor Gerrit for Father's Day. In a culture that often muddles masculinity, Scripture gives a clear portrait of a dad who leads by example, speaks with purpose, and aims for eternity!

In this teaching, Elliot Hoeks walks through 1 Samuel 3–4, where God calls Samuel during a time of spiritual darkness in Israel. The message highlights the contrast between faithful obedience and empty religion, the seriousness of God's judgment, and the hope found in truly knowing and hearing Him.

In Philippians 3, Paul exhorts us all, as the people of God, to rejoice in the Lord all the time.  We, however, are prone to rejoice in so many other things that are worldly and temporary.  Using his own testimony and spiritual journey, Paul explains in this chapter how to live the Christian life that is marked by joy and in the Lord. 

In this message from 1 Samuel 2, we see a stark contrast between the corrupt sons of Eli—who abused their spiritual position—and young Samuel, a child faithfully serving the Lord. We'll explore: The curse on spiritual leaders who do not truly know God The blessing on those who serve Him with sincerity The righteousness of a God who gives... and takes away This passage reminds us that titles and roles mean nothing without relationship. God is not mocked. He honors those who honor Him—and raises up the faithful, even from the most unlikely places.

Sincere care for people versus the appearance of being a caring person and what it means to take bold risks for God.

When God asks you to do something you don't want to do.

Let's live worthy of the Gospel by standing together against opposition and by serving one another in humble compassion.

Sam Vargas shares the story of Hannah's deep pain and God's faithful plan, how unfavorable circumstances can lead to God's greatest interventions. Whether it's barrenness, heartbreak, or long seasons of waiting, God is always working — often using trials to shape deeper trust, surrender, and purpose.

What does it mean to live a life where Jesus is magnified? In this message from Philippians 1, we see Paul's unshakable joy, even in chains, and his deep desire to honor Christ in life or in death. We'll walk through: ✅ Identity & Security in Jesus Christ (v1–2) ✅ Joyful Fellowship in Jesus Christ (v3–11) ✅ Chains and “Things” in Jesus Christ (v12–18) ✅ Life and Death in Jesus Christ (v19–26): To live is Christ, and to die is gain” If you're longing to live with purpose, peace, and joy no matter your circumstances—this message is for you.

In this Mother's Day message, Pastor Paul encourages us to honor mothers — not just because it's right, but because God Himself honors them. He highlights how God honors those who trust Him, serve Jesus, and pass on genuine faith — like Mary, Eunice, and many unseen moms today.

Greg Parker shares from Matthew 28 on Jesus' assignment for all believers until He returns - The Great Commission.

Pastor Gerrit teaches from Matthew 14.

Melisa Aydelotte shares what real unity in the church looks like — not just getting along, but laying down pride, letting go of offense, and loving like Jesus. Through Scripture and personal stories, she shows how true unity costs us something but brings joy, glorifies God, and shows the world His love.