Church on The Rock Homer

It gets messy. And complicated. “What about this?” “What about that?” And “Oh wow, didn't expect that!” Look around, take a poll, everyone seems to agree, the world is broken and is inhabited by broken people. But few agree as to why. According to the Proverbs, “Where there are no oxen, the stalls are clean.” You want a clean home? Get rid of the inhabitants. Scrub until every surface shines and make every effort to ensure that nothing is soiled by the careless presence of other people!Over the years I've heard many express the sentiment, “I prefer church on the Bay.” Or the beach, or the woods, or the mountain tops, somewhere away from everyone else. “I prefer family reunions… without the family.” Some feel this way because of past hurt. Some feel this way because other people are just too much. And some feel this way because of self-righteous pride. Paul didn't feel this way. His church family in the city of Corinth was a hot mess. And yet he consistently refers to them as his brothers and sisters, his family. He expresses genuine love and affection for this young little church full of people problems. And they had PROBLEMS. This Sunday we will tackle chapters 5 and 6 where Paul addresses church members who were celebrating sexual deviancy, suing each other, and practicing prostitution. Like I said, a hot mess. But there is something so hopeful in Paul's message, a grace that is profound. My heart has been encouraged by his words and look forward to studying further with you.Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

You know what it's like to go to a new church as an adult not knowing what to expect. There are so many variables to consider especially if you're exploring or new to faith. What will they talk about, who will be there, will they ask anything of me, how much will I have to donate, will there be snakes on stage…etc. Coming to church as an outsider is a scary thing, especially when the church is such an obviously broken place, come on we should be able to admit it by now. We're kinda messed up!Many people, believers and non believers, look at the church and think to themselves I could never be a part of that and yet the Church is supposed to be a display of God's glory that is attractive to those who are hurting and broken. This weekend we start a new series in 1st Corinthians that will help us be honest about ourselves and bring unity to what we believe, namely Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. So if you know someone who is confused by the church, tell 'em that we are too sometimes and that they should give it a try. Can't wait to see you Sunday. If you wanna read ahead, we'll be covering 1 Corinthians 1-4.Pastor Matt McCarter

Isn't it interesting that we sing “O come O come….. Emmanuel?” Do you remember what Emmanuel means? It is a title given to God that means “God with us.” In other words, He is the God who is with us. And to the God who is with us, we sing “O come O come.” To the God who is already with us, please come CLOSER! Please engage! Please get involved in all of the nitty gritty details of our human affairs. Invade everything we do. O come O come Emmanuel. Well, I have some good news. No, GREAT News. He has come. He is alive and present. He left heaven and showed up here, smack dab in the middle of our mess, as a Savior. Now that He has come to us, how will you move in relation to Him? Matt and I will lay out this invitation on Sunday morning as we examine the resurrection. Looking forward to celebrating our Savior with you,Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Before Maranatha and I were dating, our friend group liked to attend Christian concerts. One evening, we went to see Jake Hamilton, and after standing next to me and hearing me belt out every song, she told me that I have a good voice—but I can't carry a tune. That was news to me.My wife is talented and gifted musically, and many of you have experienced her leading us into worship. For me, it is awe-inspiring to watch and listen to her operate in her gifting. I, on the other hand, am not gifted musically.However, whether or not a person has talent does not impede their ability to worship. You've all seen it—the person who can't carry a tune to save their life but is worshipping their heart out. You've probably also witnessed someone with immense talent singing, but who isn't worshipping. Their heart isn't in it.The difference is not in ability, but in passion, adoration, and affection. You can see it in a person when talent—or lack thereof—takes a backseat to the sheer loving devotion one's heart has for God. It's what made my wife stand out above all the rest: her heart, not her talent. The same is seen in David, a man who dances wildly in the street as he walks with the living God.This weekend, we prepare our hearts for worship as the King approaches His divinely appointed task—to pour out Himself and His love for God the Father and His people on the cross.Pastor Matt McCarter

It's human nature. We judge others by their actions yet we want to be judged by our intentions. You need to DO well. I need to MEAN well. “I didn't mean it that way.” “I was planning to do that… I just forgot.” “I know I did, but that doesn't mean I don't care.”This week we're going to crack open the book of James. Here's a preview: Faith is more than meaning well. The life of following Jesus requires a mind shaped by divine truth, a heart transformed by divine love and actions driven by divine purpose. Faith in Him leads me to think like Him, want like Him and act like Him. And we easily agree with 2/3's of this premise. My mind says “Yep!” My heart says “Yes!” And my actions remain unchanged. If you were to hold your core Christian beliefs in one hand and your life history in the other, do the two match? Are your experiences as a follower of Christ aligned with your expectations of the Christian life? These discrepancies can be hard to look at. What does it say about me? What does it say about my faith? Let's take an honest look at ourselves. Pastor Dr Aaron Weisser

You know that moment as a parent, where you walk into the room without your kids noticing and you catch them in a moment of weakness. Hitting, biting, scratching, shoving, and on and on. All kids are sinners, even the pastor's kids… For a moment they thought they could get away with it, but this time there's no opportunity for defense, no need for an accuser. I saw it with my own two eyes and as the realization that their outburst wasn't in secret fear creeps over them, excuses begin to fly, and the need arises for them to cover up their mistake. With each kid I've come to realize that all punishments are not the same, but all their corrections include extended group hugs. The goal is very simple, instead of seeing and treating a sibling like Mike Tyson used to treat a punching bag, you must see them as a person, made in God's image. As a parent my job is to reconcile my children to each other, softening their hearts towards each other and the Lord!In this message, we take a brief look at Paul's letter to Philemon and the ministry of reconciliation. I'd encourage you to read it a few times before you watch. Pastor Matt McCarter

Ever had someone say somewhat dismissively “Well, you're on your own.” In other words, I can't join you where you are going. Or, I won't join you. Sometimes this means I can't support you in what you're about to do. Like when someone says to me, “I'm trying to stop drinking coffee.” Well, you're on your own.There is another more complex situation in which I say something like “I want to join you but I'm not sure that's a good idea.” Like if I had just recently broken my deep and meaningful connection with/dependence on coffee and someone said “Can you help me perfect my espresso grind?” I want to join you, but I'm not sure that's a good idea.This Sunday we're going to look at the little tiny book of Jude. Jude has some instruction for followers of Christ who want to serve a role in rescuing others from the power of sin but who are also susceptible to the temptation of sin. It's a tricky pathway of navigating helping relationships while avoiding self-harm. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

The memory of his booming voice still rings loud and clear in my mind. During my single digit years while living in Homer, I remember Ray Arno closing out many an evening service with the Eliza Hewitt hymn refrain:When we all get to heaven,What a day of rejoicing that will be!When we all see Jesus,We'll sing and shout the victory!As an eight-year-old, I found myself both inspired by the air of unity, celebration and triumphalism as the voices rang out, and also a little nervous about the whole notion of a life hereafter. Jesus sounded like a wonderful character and yet the thought of meeting him face to face on the other side of death in the eternal state of resurrection… was a lot to digest. In this message, we'll wrap up our series with Peter the friend of Jesus. I would ask that you take some time and read the second letter from Peter start to finish. If you really want to get fired up, read it out loud. I put up the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my office door this week and did just that. I so appreciate Peter's fervent effort to point us toward our eventual reunion with Jesus. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Spring is in the air; can you feel it? Typically, I know Spring is around the corner because conversations about Little League begin. I played baseball as a kid and have fond memories of it. For the past five years I have coached T-ball, starting with our oldest at the age of 5. I calculate that I have three more years of coaching until our youngest moves up to coaches pitch. That will most definitely make me the most seasoned T-ball coach in the world, for those of you who have coached, you understand my plight. While my kids keep bringing me back to the ball field, there is another reason I have been motivated to coach. Two years ago we had a stacked roster, with tons of Rockers' kids on the team. One of those kids had not touched a baseball or a bat. I had the distinct privilege of introducing him and by the end of the year he stepped up to the plate and smacked an infield home run. Seeing him progress in his competency and skill is a joy and makes up for all the other kids building sandcastles. This weekend we finish our series in 1 Peter and get to take a look at how Peter went from striking out to coaching others on how to hit Homers. Coaching the church in how to progress from failure to walking with God.Pastor Matthew McCarter

I wrestled in high school. It was my main sport. However, I went to high school overseas where wrestling was not a competitive sport at the high school level. As a result, our entire season was spent preparing for one tournament that put us up against all the American military schools scattered throughout Southeast Asia. Our wrestling coach was very big into conditioning. His assertion was that if we were better conditioned than our opponents, we could beat better and stronger wrestlers. As a result, we did a whole lotta running! And sprinting. And jump roping. Toward the end of the season, leading up to our one and only tournament, I would get real serious about getting ready. As part of my conditioning routine, I would get up at five, leave the house early, and run the final few miles to school, book bag and all. Honestly, its exhausting even remembering it. I don't even like running. And I didn't like it then. But I liked winning. And I really, really, really wanted to win. And to be known for winning. At that very same time in my life, I would have told you that God was the most important thing to me. Even more important than wrestling. But I was self-deceived. Because for the one, I would endure just about anything. And for the other…I would endure nothing. This week we continue our study of Peter's letter. I would encourage you to reread the first three chapters. What was Peter willing to endure in order to follow His Savior? We'll unpack Peter's perspective transformation in this message. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Isn't it funny how certain people who dislike something are confronted about their choice by others who love the same thing. I often am confronted about my disdain for mayonnaise, especially by my parents. I eat salads dry, and admittedly not that often. But anytime I do, it never fails that I hear the remark, you'd like that better with dressing. Actually no, I wouldn't. Or someone upon becoming aware of my hatred will say, it's just eggs and oil, what's not to like? Everything, the smell, the taste, the consistency. As I study 1 Peter I keep seeing him in the same light as the mayonnaise lover, except he isn't trying to convert me to the devil's condiment, he's inviting me into God's grace. Peter's invitation is to come and taste that the Lord is good, gracious, and kind. Peter's hope for the exiles he writes to is that they would know this grace and experience the fruit of it. Pastor Matt McCarter

Imagine being a complete and utter failure. But not just by some arbitrary standard. Imagine simultaneously failing every commitment you made to yourself and every commitment you made to others. Now imagine that someone had rudely predicted you would fail your own commitments and you forcefully assured otherwise. “I will not fail. I cannot fail. I must not fail. I PROMISE YOU, under no circumstances will I fail.” Now imagine you failed anyways. For most of us, imagining this scenario isn't too difficult… we have lived it. We don't have to imagine, we just have to remember. Remember that time when you knew that you had it in you to do the thing? And then you fell short. And in falling short, you hurt others. And in hurting others, you wounded relationships. And in wounding relationships, you completely lost your confidence and could not imagine a way forward...?This Sunday is for you. If you get a chance, read the first chapter of Peter's first letter to the church. And then reread it a few more times like I have these past few weeks. Looking forward to our time together,Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

I remember the moment I laid eyes on the woman with her hair put up under an ascot cap. We were both in a bar called The Whig in downtown Columbia, S.C. Our church used social events like this to draw in people who would not grace the doorway of a church building. We were there with separate groups who attended the same church. As I was introduced to her, I could not help but notice that she is a fine looking lady, followed by the second thought, she is way out of my league.Fast forward a few years, and butchering this story, I stood on the doorsteps of the church with a nervous anticipation of our nuptials. Only God could have arranged this marriage, I wasn't worthy, am not worthy, and yet I stand here now, ring on finger, and have wifed up the belle of the ball!The same story is playing out in God's redemptive plan, I was not worthy and am not worthy apart from His gift of grace and righteousness and yet Almighty God has arranged a Day for Christ to be united with His Bride, the Church, you and I made whole in the presence of our God for eternity. Oh how we are too long for that day!Hebrews 12:1b-2a let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.MARANATHA, COME LORD JESUS!Pastor Matthew McCarter

While living with my parents, sometime in early teens, we attended one of the oldest churches in the south. We'd dress in our Sunday finest, traverse the winding country roads, and find “our pew.” After a few stares from my parents, a pinch or two under the thigh, and some monotone words from the pulpit, we were free. The church would empty and we'd head to the car, ready to ditch the Sunday best and get on with life. Every Sunday, no matter what…my dad would strike up a conversation while the three of us sat in the car…waiting! We would glare, roll the window down and motion, one time a horn was used in efforts to get things moving. Waiting was for the birds! We always asked, what is the hold up!?!? This weekend, we explore the same question about God's seeming delay in His return! If you're keen, read ahead in 2 Peter 3. Pastor Matthew McCarter

For Thanksgivings in Homer I have been labeled the Mac n Cheese guy, according to my family. I have become the authority on noodles, spices, and cheese. Rightfully so, although I make it a little different than Pauline, my grandmother, it's pretty delicious. For a few hours on Thursday morning I spend my time at the stove stirring a pot of delightful dairy products. It is not possible to walk away from it, the mixture must be in constant motion due to the threat of the sauce breaking, the oil separating and becoming something rather unsightly and not at all pleasing to the senses of a thanksgiving attendee. It takes time and if one doesn't stick it out and keep stirring the final product will be worthless. Some say that I like to stir other types of pots, proverbial pots. They aren't wrong, but I tend to think about it in other terms. This weekend we're going to launch into a series on Eschatology, an often difficult topic that many Christians have strong convictions about and yet if we don't talk about it, if we don't stir the pot, our once smooth and buttery consistency becomes broken.  Pastor Matthew McCarter

Does anyone know what the bicyclist hand motions actually mean?  I feel like blinkers are commonly understood and fairly self-explanatory; left side, left turn, right side, right turn.  But despite my many years of experience on the road, I still don't know what the left arm, straight out at the shoulder, bent 90 degrees at the elbow and hanging downward means about the bike operator's intentions.  Some of you who are new to church or new to faith and relationship with Christ probably feel the same way a lot of times about stuff you hear at church.  Sometimes it feels like a lot of ideas spoken in an unfamiliar language.  And that's ok. It has been my goal these past two weeks to push through the confusion with RARE CLARITY as we examine what it means to follow God.  Here is the review, or the preview for some; To live is Christ.  So live as Christ.  That is my most efficient summary of Philippians 1 and 2.  And as simple as that is, many well-meaning people completely misunderstand what that means.  Which is why I am thankful for the clarity of scripture.  In Philippians chapter 3, Paul warns us against missing the whole point by sharing his testimony of missing the whole point. 

If you're over the age of 30, you've probably done the limbo. Or at least tried. The once party favorite has slowly faded from public life but I remember a time when the Limbo ruled social events of all kinds. Yes, I did it too. Honestly, even the recollection of what was required of my back muscles to get under that crossbar makes me hurt today. As we continue our study in Philippians and the theme of Joy, we're going to try something similar this Sunday. The question is, how low can you go? It will help your own growth if you read Philippians chapter two in advance. This could be life changing. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

When life gives you lemons… I guess you're supposed to slice those lemons, squeeze those lemons, filter out the seeds, add water and plenty of sugar, mix in a pitcher with some ice, pour it into a glass and DRINK LEMONADE!  It is a very practical bit of advice about turning something bad into something good, even something delightfully refreshing. Thankfully, I think everyone knows about lemonade and where it comes from.  What about nettles. What do you do when life gives you nettles. I'm told they're edible. But that doesn't help much when my skin is on fire because I wasn't careful tromping through the tall grass and stumbled into a big ol' patch of nettles. Maybe I could pour some cold lemonade on my nettle burns. If only life had given me lemons.  For the next three weeks we are going to be studying the topic of Joy as Paul discusses in his letter to the church in Philippi. When life gives you an undeserved jail sentence… what better time to write about Joy in everything! I'm am so looking forward to this series! Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Spring 1999. I was walking down the hall of my parents ranch home, past the collage of pictures on the wall and a feeling of dread fell over me. My plans for the coming year had fallen through. I would graduate high school in a couple of months, with no real plan for the next chapter of my life. Everyone I knew seemed to have it together, plans for college, a career, a life beyond their childhood home. At a critical time in life I was supposed to take a step forward, but I felt stuck and needed a push, a jumpstart, a new way of seeing my future.    As we've studied Ephesians, Paul is writing to a church that he greatly loves and hopes will not remain frozen in time. Their faith must continue to blossom because of the grandeur of the one they worship. His desire is that they would know the majesty of God and in very practical ways, this knowledge would change their lives. In Paul's final remarks, he urges the reader not to be a bystander, but to actively engage in the will of God through spiritual warfare. Our goal this weekend will be to address where our power comes from to engage in this warfare. If you want, read ahead in Ephesians Ch. 6.    Pastor Matt McCarter

It was November and I was in the Philippines enjoying the beginning of the cool season and the end of the rainy season. In Manila, cool temps are in the high 70's and low 80's and November is when the monsoon rains subside and the season turns toward the dry and cool part of the year. On that day the temps were tolerable but scattered rain showers threatened outdoor activities. The outdoor activities we had planned for Sunday afternoon were very, very important. It was my wedding day. Like a gift from God, just before our outdoor ceremony began, the rain stopped and the clouds parted revealing a rainbow overhead. And there in the wet grass, before my family and friends, I said that I would love Jenny with my whole being, for as long as I was alive. In sickness and in health, whether rich or poor, forsaking all others, til death do us part. In Ephesians 5, Paul connects our understanding of marriage to the boundless riches of grace and mercy in the premeditated gift of God in His Son. I have been reflecting on this passage for over 26 years of marriage and I look forward to exploring Paul's instructions with you. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

It's the dead of night. The wind is still and Jesus is bowed on the ground. The silence can be cut with a knife as the trees of the garden stand still. His tears have covered the ground beneath Him, tinged red by the blood they contain. As he stands, his knees feel feeble from the exertion poured out seeking His Father. He moves towards the disciples, His friends, and finding them asleep a sound emerges in the distance. At first it is the clanking of a solitary sword. Then a crack as something moved through the brush. The clamor grows louder as one, two, three torches emerge in the darkness and eventually become many. As the crowd surrounds Jesus, the suffering servant, is sure of mission, this will be the moment where He relinquishes all of Himself for the will of the Father, and the plan set in motion long ago.  Jesus knew what to expect in the hands of men (John 2:25).  Death, pain, shame, tribulation.  Paul now writes that this same Jesus who lowered Himself, has been established in ultimate power on high. Now that the odds have changed, what can man expect from the God we've executed?  This is the question we'll seek to answer in this message. Hint, for those who believe, you will be pleasantly surprised!  Pastor Matt McCarter

During my initial foray into the home construction realm, I had the pleasure of being invited to the open house of a very nice home that I helped to build over the course of a few months.  To my 18-year-old eyes, this particular home was dressed to impress. The highlight of my tour through the home was the “home theater” room.  Yes.  A whole room of the house designed for visual entertainment.  It was amazing; leather acoustic paneling, surround sound, mood lighting, and in the middle of the room, a giant over stuffed chair upholstered with blonde Yak fur.  I couldn't help myself but to climb into that yak-furred chair and bask in the opulence of my surroundings.  This Sunday we start a new series in the book of Ephesians.  Paul wrote a prayer on behalf of His readers right at the outset, “I pray your eyes would be opened to the RICHES” of what you have through Christ.  Read through the first chapter before you dig into this message and we'll dive into a further exploration of the expansive abundance of God's goodness towards us.  Dr. Pastor Aaron Weisser

My dad loves fishing! In the south, fishing looks a little bit different than here in Alaska. Back home, fishing is grabbing a cooler, a bucket of crickets, a lawn chair, and rod and hanging out on the edge of a pond back in the woods. My dad was and still is a little more serious, waking up in the wee hours of the morning and putting the bass boat in the lake. As a boy my dad would tell me the night before, right before bed, to be ready to go fishing in the morning. That meant, waking up at 2 or 3 AM driving an hour, and being on the water before the rooster crows. The first word out of my mouth was always, WHY!?!?! Why do we have to be up so early? The why! I have often heard it said that we should not ask God why questions. However, most of the time these are the questions we find ourselves asking the most. Why do I have to deal with this hardship in my life? Why did this event have to happen to me? I refuse to believe that asking any question of the Lord would be fruitless and at the same time I realize that God's answer may not relieve my circumstances or my anxiety about life. In this message, we are going to ask the why question. Why should the Galatians trust Paul and his conveyance of God's truth? Why should they trust in faith not works? While we may not be able to answer some why questions this Sunday, we can come to an understanding of who God is and what He offers us after placing our trust in Him. Pastor Matt McCarter

I have a very distinct memory related to my life as a young blonde Alaskan of German-Norwegian descent amidst a literal sea of dark-skinned, black-haired Filipinos. Growing up overseas in the city of Manila forced a superficial but sharp contrast of appearances that triggered an existential question in my young brain: “Why am I like me and not like them?” Why was I born to Randy and Marla Weisser? Why was I born in America? Why was I born with my specific color and complexion? Why was I born with my specific set of traits? Why was I born into a Christian home? My still developing brain began to wrestle with this truth; I didn't have much say in choosing the life that I was given. I began to wonder about the ways of a God who made decisions about me before I even was. I began to question the methods of a God who decided about my life without consulting me. Seems like a lot of power. And then somewhere along the road of my life, those feelings and thoughts began to shift. I went from wrestling with a God who dictates my very existence, to wrestling with the responsibility of creating the life I wanted. Somehow, without conscious awareness, I shifted from a deeply felt and fearful awe of God who is in control, to a sense of dread and defeat. Why? Because it was now up to me. I don't know that I thought this so much as I felt it, as I gradually agreed to carry the weight of my own merit, my own worth. I have heard the same experience described to me many times by others. “It's up to me.” In this message, I have some good news for you if you are carrying this kind of weight. Read Galatians chapter 3 and 4 before you listen. I pray that God will meet you and that you will hear His kind promise; “You are FREE.” Pastor Aaron Weisser

I recently found a corner of a rock at the edge of my property. This had happened before and I'd dug up a decent sized rock to use in landscaping around the house. This particular rock proved to be quite difficult to move. As I dug deeper, the rock revealed itself to be more of a boulder in size. What I thought would be a quick project turned into an all day affair that tested my stubbornness. (Hint: I won…sort of) As Paul opens his letter to the Galatians he addresses a similar situation. The Galatians have found The Rock and heard of Jesus' Gospel, and in a similar fashion are now adjusting the message of the Good News, the foundation of Christian belief, to incorporate their own efforts in being righteous before God. It's a lie as old as time, that mankind can do a little better than what God offers, nothing could be further from the Truth! In this message, we'll look at Paul's letter to the Galatians and be encouraged to remain adamant toward The Truth of God's Good News towards us! If you'd like to read ahead, we'll be looking at Galatians 1-2. Pastor Matt McCarter

I am so thankful for our church.  So many of you have encouraged me.  So many of you have built up my faith.  So many of you have pointed me toward Christ through your own faithful pursuit of Him.  It is such an awe-inspiring thing to be in true community with each other and to experience a fellowship that is built on the foundation of God's love for us.  As my own understanding of His goodness grows, I find myself more motivated toward the mission of making His goodness known to the others.  As I experience His kindness and learn to trust in the abundance of His promises, I find myself more at peace and with a greater joy.  This Sunday I want to look to Him together.  I want to link arms and remember; we are His body, the bride of His choosing.  I look forward to worshipping together with you. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

I spent a while in the woods recently.  The woods has been a wonderful place for me to sit and think, especially when the moose are quietly napping and minding their own business.  The woods where we hunt is far beyond the reach of cellular service which, as it turns out, is also beneficial toward the goal of reflecting on my life and relationships. While sitting in my Muddy: The Boss XL tree stand straining my ears and eyes for any sign of ungulates, I was hit with this thought: I think I have significantly underestimated the goodness of God.  For most of my life I have fallen far short of a clear understanding of the benevolent, beneficent, bountiful good intentions and actions of God on my behalf.What triggered this realization?  I have been reading through the book of Acts, and particularly Acts chapter 10.  There was something in the story that hit hard, a feature I had not noticed before.  Then, I realized this narrative feature was in other places as well.  And there I was, in the woods, all alone with the Creator of this beautiful world, in awe of His goodness towards me. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

One of our kids got their blood drawn this week at a Dr's appointment. I anticipated my wife returning with a story of rebellion. After the check up her words were “killed it." I am thankful that I didn't have to attend the doctor's visit. Over the years I have increasingly grown uncomfortable at the thought of blood, other people's blood isn't as bothersome as my own, but just imaging open heart surgery makes me queasy. I'm not sure how doctors do it, cutting through bone, vacuuming liquids, opening organs. There are moments in my life where I am just as squeamish about what God is doing in my heart. What medical doctors do for physical men, the God of heaven achieves for spiritual men, taking broken hearts, removing what's broken, and equipping us with new life. In the story we'll examine this week it is the case that most of it's subjects rebel against the will of God and yet are unable to do anything in opposition to His plan. God achieves open heart surgery when, where, and how He wishes. Pastor Matt McCarter

Church on the Rockers,  What do Peter, Rocky, Elle, Rudy, Jamal, Forrest, and Samwise all have in common? They are the underdogs of the story. (Bonus points if you can name the movie they're in) They are the unlikely characters who come out on top at the end of the story line. The below average men and women of the story who are seen as unintelligent, unskilled, and unable to do great things.  This weekend we're going to hear the story of Philip, one of the Helenist complainers elected to service, filled with the Holy Spirit, and SENT by God to build His Kingdom. What we're going to see in the story is not the will power and effort for human success, but the power of God at work in the lives of those who repent, submit, and give their lives to a Wonder Working, Miraculous Savior who was also the underdog and came out on top! Pastor Matt McCarter

When we are full of Holy Spirit, love, faith and power there is no room for fear, because the perfect love of God casts out fear. When we know our assignment from God, and know who are, we become unstoppable…even in the face of flying stones.In Acts 6-7, Stephen and six other apostles are chosen, blessed and sent to meet the needs of a church that is growing daily. Stephen, doing the common work of meeting the needs of widows and orphans, finds himself doing the uncommon. God's power begins moving through him in signs and wonders. Seeing this, self-righteous religious leaders grow jealous and conspire against Stephen. Stephen doesn't shrink back. Full of the Holy Spirit and without fear He begins to share the indisputable truth in God's word that is usually only known by years of study. The self-righteous religious leaders are infuriated. Stones begin to fly even though they see Stephen with the face as an angel. Stephen fearlessly and lovingly continues to share God's word until his last. When we truly know God, we are full of the Holy Spirit. When we are sent by God, the reality of our mission is greater than any challenge we might face.Paul writes in Philippians 1:21, maybe even inspired by Stephen, “For me to live is Christ, for me to die is gain.”If we are true believers, full of Holy Spirit, faith and power, we know we overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. When we are totally full, we won't even shrink from death.Stephen's fearless act of faith becomes contagious. The church continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Today, the promised Holy Spirit gives us the power to become His witnesses in the face of the world's current wickedness. Get filled with Holy Spirit so that you, like Stephen, can with peace and power confidently say, “Hit me with your best shot."Guest Speaker, Bill Pagaran

Most men can relate to the following scenario. You're working on a project, maybe doing some home repair and you come to a part of the project that requires a particular tool. Maybe the tool has more power, reach, or a specific niche purpose. When we come to this point, we make one of two decisions. Either we take the cheap route and use what is available to us, often resulting in more labor and sometimes a less than desirable outcome, or we pony up and buy the tool, use it once, and relegate it to the back of the garage to collect dust, but we did it right.  For those who land in the second camp, the steady movement of technology has created a vast array of tools, which require larger and larger garages to store the tools we purchase and keep on hand for the just in case project.  For the wives, don't go berating your husbands just yet. In this message, we are going to see that having the right “tool” for the job is actually a design instituted by God and displayed in His church.

I fell and hit my head last night. I took my two younger kids out to the homestead to do some evening dolly fishing. We parked the truck, grabbed a couple rods and a bottle of mosquito dope, and hiked up the trail to our favorite fishing spot. As I was walking along the trail, three fishing rods in my hand, I tripped on a root and fell forward. My forehead made contact with another root jutting out of the ground in front of me. Typically when I fall, I try to slow down before my forehead makes contact with the ground. This time, I tried something new. It really hurt. Once I was back on my feet and had regathered the many items in my hands, head spinning, we continued our walk. My five year old, who is the cutest ever, took it upon herself to point out and warn me about every subsequent root on the trail. “Daddy, look out, here is another root. Make sure you step over it.” Somehow I felt both cared for and condescended to. In the midst of the evident work of God that is happening right now at Church on the Rock Homer, I want to warn you of the upcoming tripping hazard. In this message, we look at Acts 5, which you should check out in advance. It's a pretty tough warning to the church. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Let me paint the picture for you! It's 97º and you're sitting on a wrap around screened porch in a white rocking chair. The warm breeze rustles in the leaves of a 100 year old oak, squarely in the middle of the horseshoe driveway. Grandma's crystal pitcher is full of iced lemonade with large lemon circles. You can hear the ice clinking the crystal glass as she pours the golden nectar. There are probably two cups of sugar in that pitcher, but no one cares, because it's so HOT, even in the shade of the porch! After a moment of silence the stories begin. There is no TV or screen to arrest your attention. The story captivates you and elicits your imagination of what was, and you begin to imagine yourself in the hero's shoes. A good story has the power to move you, encourage you, strengthen you, and assure you that you CAN! Luke, the writer of Acts, is doing just that. The setting of Grandma's porch is exchanged for the 70 AD Middle Easterner, Theophilus' home. The story of Jesus Christ has flooded the world and Theophilus is hungry for the sequel. Luke is now recording in detail the acts of Jesus through His people so that they might be encouraged to continue telling the story!For us, the objective is no different. Jesus, Luke, and myself all have the goal of spurring us onward to tell the story of Jesus, His death, resurrection, ascension, and His ongoing miraculous power to shape our lives and our world today!  Pastor Matt McCarter

Jesus, the one for whom and by whom I was created, has good intentions for me and intends for me to secure a grand reward that will be enjoyed for all of eternity. The greatest threat to my ability to lay hold of the reward that he has reserved for me is my own flesh. But Jesus, in His wisdom, decided not to rest my opportunities on the foundation of my abilities. He decided to intervene with a power that is His own. And it is available to you. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

“But, how?”  That is the question that I have been asked several times since teaching this past Sunday.  And it is a question I have asked many times myself.  I urge you some caution as you ask this.  Many ask this as a rhetorical thought experiment without any real intent to find the answer and to live the answer.  Last Sunday I talked about the wide and narrow path and those of whom the Lord will say, “I never knew you.”  This week I want to answer the question “What, then, is a life lived for Jesus?”  What does it mean to live with Him, for Him, and by Him?  In the midst of the mad-dash schedule that is your life, do you feel the weight of these eternal questions pressing in?  The answer to this question has profoundly shaped nearly every aspect of my life.  And I want to share with you this Sunday in a way that you can hear, receive, and be moved toward Him.  Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

In this message, we examine what I consider to be one of the most troubling passages in all of scripture. I say this fully understanding that ungodly fear has no place in the Christian life. I say this fully understanding that Christ does not intend for me to feel unstable and uncertain of His love for me. With that said, here are the troubling words; “And I will declare to them, I never knew you.” There are those who profess faith in Christ who do not know God. This Sunday, with GODLY fear and trembling, we will examine the words of Christ and our own hearts and answer the question, do I know Him? Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Some PEOPLE! Some people's KIDS! We say these phrases jokingly, but often behind the joking is a sentiment of criticism. Every man and woman has a sense of right and wrong, which becomes their moral compass. It is not quite clear to me why, but that compass becomes the standard to which we hold all others. We judge without thinking and it comes so naturally. We pettily discuss hair, speech, clothing, driving styles, diets, but most of all rearing children, often accompanied by the phrase, “I WOULD NEVER!” We judge the lowest members of our communities to the highest governing bodies without prejudice and do it to our own detriment. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the dangers of judging others and this in message we will spend some time unpacking Matthew chapter 7:1-12. So, if you find yourself a judge over others, don't worry. Our goal wont be to judge you, but to find freedom together! Pastor Matt McCarter

God wants to set your heart free of everything that is contrary to love. This week we move into the end of Matthew 6 and examine the ways that fear wrecks our lives and drives us away from God. Here is my confession: I have, for many years, been largely unaware of the way that fear rules in my own heart and drives my behavior. Honestly, I didn't see it. If you were to meet me and engage in casual conversation you would not walk away thinking “that guy has anxiety.” And yet the Lord has been revealing and DELIVERING even me. God wants your heart. He wants you free. He wants you to experience love without hinderance or interruption. He will do the work as you open yourself to Him. This Sunday, let's stop denying our fears, let's stop defending our fears, let's stop giving into our fears as we look to Him together. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

As we continue in our Sermon on the Mount series and will examine the comparison between pride and love. Pride takes on a different shape in light of faith and trust in Christ and this weekend we look at what Jesus says about our efforts to be seen and acknowledged by men vs God.  Pastor Matthew McCarter

I still remember the day when I realized I did not want to be married anymore. My relationship with Jenny had been so gratifying and satisfying up until that point. But a couple of years into marriage and our selfish tendencies were degrading our capacity for meaningful intimacy. We could no longer mask our issues. What had been a fun friendship was being overshadowed by failure. There is a line I have heard often used in PR statements put out by celebrities when they announce the end of a marriage: “The relationship has run its course.” In our case, the relationship was just beginning to run its course. What I didn't understand at that time is that my Father in heaven, committed to my ultimate good, had hand selected Jenny to facilitate the death of selfish nature. You see, God created me for a good purpose that I was meant to enjoy now and for eternity. And my selfishness is one of the greatest threats standing in the way. When that part of me began to suffer, I felt like I wasn't going to make it. The death of my pernicious, monstrous and relentless self-serving tendencies felt like…. dying. But without a death, there can be no resurrection. My marriage was accomplishing exactly what it was meant to. God was setting me free. God was liberating me from my lower appetites so that I could learn the infinitely superior joy of being satisfied in him. And once satisfied in Him, I was free to love Jenny like never before. I could see her as the gift that she truly was. In this message, we will continue in Matthew chapter 5 and look what Jesus has to say about marriage and divorce. Regardless of your past or where you are at today, remember, God has your good in mind. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

“God is working even when we don't see it!!” This week I posted that message on our Facebook page. God has been reminding me of His power and wisdom and control over the happenings in our lives. Remembering that powerful message can really help us in times of struggle and persecution. In baseball my father always taught me to keep my eye on the ball. That same wisdom applies to our lives. Keeping our eye on our God can give us the victory we need and keep us from feeling like victims. Guest Speaker: Bill Wilkinson

“I pity the fool!” Can you see it? The mohawk! The gold chains! The black van with the red accent! Mr. T's line was a mainstay during the A Team series. I had not realized until this week that Mr. T's statement is an oxymoron. Mr. T did not pity anyone, in fact, he did exactly the opposite of pitying his enemies, he delivered justice with brute wrath and we all cheered him on. Mr. T, while rough around the edges, is a very likable guy but you would never want to be on the other end of the sentence, “I pity the fool,” because you would receive no pity, no reprieve, no mercy from the strong man. God on the other hand is different, mercy is one of his greatest attributes and one that we seek to receive in abundance. In this message we are going to look at the blessing of receiving mercy and seeing God. Pastor Matt McCarter

Some of the most painful losses I have experienced in this life have been losses mostly suffered in silence. Not every loss, but many of them. This grief is one you are probably familiar with, mourning over the life that could have been. Hopes unrealized. Faded friendships. Love lost. Dreams forfeited. Surprise hardships. As a follower of Jesus, some of these losses seemed at the hand of God and some were at my own hand. I made a decision in obedience to my Savior and King and in that decision chose to let go of something very dear, something very precious to me. And it hurt. According to Jesus in His teaching on the mount, I am blessed. I am a fortunate and privileged person because there is a greater reality that supersedes my temporal experience. There is a greater good that will add up to something exceedingly more than my loses. Pastor Aaron Weisser

Finish the sentence, I'll have the good life when… I truly believe that one of Satan's greatest deceptions is to fool us into comparing our lives to some future reality that may not ever come. We practice this deception by entertaining the thought that when this season passes, life will be good. When I don't have to change diapers anymore, life will be good. When I have enough money, life will be good. When I retire, life will be good. When this dynamic changes in my relationship, life will be good. Your ability to experience the good life is not based on a set of circumstances, but the reality of God's blessing in your life. In this message we dive into a new series on the Beatitudes and God's ability to bless us. Pastor Matt McCarter

While there are many hero's of the faith, few stand as tall as the one I call my mama. This Sunday I have the honor and privilege of inviting my own mother onto the stage at Church on the Rock. As far as mothering goes, she has mothered with the best of ‘em! For those who don't know, I am the third of thirteen kids and my children are eight of the 52 kids my mom calls grandkids. (I think its 52 but that number is climbing rapidly!) The daughter of Alaskan homesteaders who moved overseas to reach the lost in the Philippines, my mom has lived a life of faith. This Sunday her and I will discuss the unique challenges and insights relevant across the seasons of parenting. I am so looking forward to sharing her wisdom with you! Pastor Aaron Weisser

Someone recently said to me “I just always thought there were the good people and the bad people and I was one of the bad people.”  Are you still struggling under the burden of failure or the burden of proving their own goodness? Are you still struggling to see the goodness of God as displayed by the cross? Then this message is for you. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Is it too soon to talk about Christmas? My son has asked several times in the last week if we can put the tree up again. I don't think he's mentioned it to my wife or it would be up again already. How often is it during a holiday season that you forget to intentionally connect with the purpose of the holiday? Thanksgiving is about tryptophan and naps, not people. Memorial day is about a fun day to travel in summer, not honoring the ultimate sacrifice of those who serve. Christmas is about that one thing I hope is under the tree and not the incarnation of Jesus. It happens quickly in the hustle of life that we fail to slow down and see things as they truly are.  That is the story of the Triumphal Entry and Palm Sunday. We too quickly rush to assume what God wills or purposes upon the foal of a donkey. Today, we have the benefit of hindsight on our side. Pastor Matt McCarter   

Have you ever painfully watched as someone in charge got it all wrong?  Ever had a supervisor care intensely about all the wrong things while neglecting what was important?  Ever watched someone in power exercise that power in wasteful ways and miss the opportunity to bring about meaningful change?  Ever had someone with the power to make a decision on your behalf, delay the decision in a way that cost you dearly? It's frustrating when those with power don't use their power in ways consistent with how we see fit.  In fairness, they probably have some perspective that we lack.  But that doesn't make it less maddening. What about with God?  Ever been frustrated, disappointed, or confused by the way in which He wields or seemingly fails to wield His unlimited power on earth?  I have. In this message, we will look at John 11.  It is the story of an astonishing miracle.  And every single character takes issue with the way Christ gets it done. 

When is the last time you got knocked off your feet with an illness? Mine was about a year ago, after a couple of days without improvement I headed to the Doc, only to find out that I just had a virus and needed to wait it out.  As I get older, there more and more comes a period where the recovery process turns from helpful to painful. My body stiffens while at rest and what once brought me comfort is now what causes me additional pain. How often do we remain in pain seeking healing while the answer is elsewhere?In this message, we take a look at John 5, Jesus healing the Lame Man at Bethesda. My hope is the same as John's, that we will again encounter a wonderful healer, a mighty savior!

Pastor Aaron Weisser dissects Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well and the miracle of God's grace.

Do you remember the first time you heard some old man tell you that life gets faster as you get older? How about the statement that life is too short? The best things in life, money can't buy?  Are you old enough now to know the truth of those statements? For most of us there is an initial disbelief when the aged and wise come along and share their knowledge. However, with time there comes a realization surpassing the knowledge, or gumption, we previously held.  The same was true for Nicodemus, when Jesus uttered the words, you must be born again. Nicodemus cannot fit the notion into his understanding of the world and yet it would prove to be true in time.  In this message we examine Jesus' life changing interaction with the esteemed Pharisee. My hope is that by the power of God's Spirit we will know and rejoice in the second birth.  Pastor Matt McCarter