OAC Vancouver

Valentine's Day on Sabbath only comes around every seven years — and this week at Oakridge Adventist Church in Vancouver, we leaned into it.Continuing our Wanted series through the biblical book of Song of Songs, this message explores a powerful truth: our human desire, attraction, and embodied love are not accidents of biology — they are sacred design.Often misunderstood or over-spiritualized, Song of Songs reminds us that intimacy carries theological weight. From eye contact that bonds us… to the calming power of a loving voice… to the science behind touch, scent, and even a kiss — this message unpacks how modern neurobiology beautifully affirms what Scripture has always celebrated: we are fearfully and wonderfully made.Rather than separating body and spirit, this sermon reveals how our biology actually points to theology. The God who created galaxies also created goosebumps. The One who formed the universe formed the chemistry of connection within us.Whether you're single, married, grieving, celibate, or somewhere in between — this message invites you to see your whole self as sacred and designed for covenant love.✨ Attraction. Attachment. Covenant. ✨ Not lust, but wholeness. ✨ Not shame, but sacred embodiment.Listen now and rediscover the holy purpose woven into your very design.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

How would you fill in the blank?Loves? Wants? Or, if we're honest… tolerates? Is disappointed with? Ignores?In this opening message of our new series Wanted, we begin an unexpected journey through one of the most poetic — and often avoided — books of the Bible: the Song of Songs. Far from being just romantic poetry, this ancient text reveals something startling about the heart of God.Through the voice of a marginalized, sun-darkened working woman boldly declaring, “I am dark and beautiful,” we discover a gospel reversal: the King desires the overlooked. The Beloved chooses the one the world devalues. This is not love rooted in status, image, or perfection — it is love that pursues, affirms, and delights.In a culture obsessed with comparison, hustle, and curated worth, this message speaks directly to the ache so many carry: Am I truly wanted?The answer of Scripture is clear.You are not tolerated. You are not an obligation. You are desired. You are beloved. You are wanted.Join us as we explore how God's love meets us in the middle of our story — and how receiving that love transforms the way we see ourselves and others.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

What does it mean to be made new?In this deeply moving message, we explore baptism as a sacred renewal ritual—one that speaks to a universal human longing for cleansing, rebirth, identity, and belonging. Drawing from ancient faith traditions, Indigenous practices, and the shared human story of water as a threshold, this message reveals how Christian baptism builds upon a timeless instinct: the desire to leave something behind and step into new life.Through Scripture, story, and lived testimony, we are reminded that baptism is not a declaration of perfection—but a declaration of direction. It is the beginning of a journey shaped by surrender, trust, and community.This episode features two powerful baptism stories, including a spontaneous decision prompted by the quiet persistence of the Holy Spirit, and a young woman choosing baptism on her birthday—marking both a birth day and a rebirth day.Whether you are exploring faith, returning after a long season away, or wondering if you're “ready,” this message invites you to see baptism not as an ending—but as a courageous first step into a life being continually made new.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

What truly holds first place in your life?In this message from our Renewed series, we explore what it means to be renewed through praise. Drawing from Philippians 3 and Paul's letter to the church in Philippi, we're reminded that renewal doesn't begin when our circumstances change—it begins when Christ takes His rightful place at the center of our lives.Through honest reflections on social media, identity, achievement, and spiritual exhaustion, this message invites us to pause, reevaluate what we value most, and rediscover joy that isn't anchored in performance, control, or success—but in knowing Jesus.Praise, we learn, is more than music or routine. It reveals what we treasure, reshapes our prayers, and leads us into a peace that surpasses understanding.If you're feeling spiritually tired, distracted, or off-center, this message offers a gentle and hope-filled call to recentre your heart on Christ—and experience true renewal.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

Renewal was never meant to be a solo journey.In this message from Oakridge Adventist Church's January teaching series Renewed, we explore what it means to experience spiritual renewal together. Building on the themes of personal prayer and renewed mission, this teaching invites us to rediscover discipleship as something formed and sustained in community.Drawing from James 5, Acts 2 & 4, and the lived experience of our recent Ten Days of Prayer, this message highlights how honesty, intercession, and shared prayer create space for healing, unity, and spiritual growth. You'll hear why prayer is more than a private coping mechanism—it's a lifeline that shapes individuals and renews the church.If you're longing for deeper connection, authentic faith, and a community where you don't have to walk alone, this message is for you.Listen and be encouraged to step into a faith that is practiced, formed, and renewed—together.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

Is the church meant to be a private club—or a force for public good?In this compelling message delivered to the Oakridge Adventist Church community, we're challenged to re-examine what it truly means to be the church in a modern, urban, Canadian context. Beginning with an unexpected conversation at airport security, this message unfolds into a powerful reflection on public benefit, faith, and the radical mission Jesus entrusted to His followers.Drawing from Scripture, Canadian public policy, and Adventist history, we're reminded that the church was never meant to exist only for its own comfort. From the Great Commission given in a war zone, to Adventist pioneers who practiced civil disobedience for compassion's sake, this message calls us back to our courageous roots.What would it look like for the church today to take holy risks again—serving single parents, welcoming the marginalized, and spending ourselves for the good of our city?This episode invites you to wrestle with hard questions, rediscover gospel-centered courage, and imagine a church that exists not just for its members—but for the flourishing of the whole community.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

What if the most powerful change you could make this year wasn't another goal—but a deeper rhythm?In this message, we begin 2026 by rethinking resolutions through the lens of upstream practices. Drawing from current health research, Scripture, and the life of Jesus, we explore why sleep is the most influential habit for physical health—and why daily prayer is the most formative practice for spiritual renewal.Prayer isn't about adding more religious effort. It's about anchoring your identity, quieting anxiety, and allowing God's grace to shape everything that flows downstream—your choices, reactions, peace, and purpose. Just as sleep restores the body, prayer restores the soul.Whether you're feeling spiritually dry, overwhelmed, or simply longing for a more grounded faith, this message invites you to begin again—not with striving, but with abiding.Listen and discover why prayer isn't just one discipline among many—it's the priority that transforms the rest.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

What is the point of this season—and why does it still matter today? In this special message from Oakridge Adventist Church, Evergreen Grace invites us to walk through the entire story of the Bible with a renewed focus on grace: God's unchanging, ever-present gift to humanity.Told through the lens of a family not unlike our own, this story helps us see ourselves within God's greater narrative—a story marked by love, redemption, and hope that never fades. As the season reminds us of what we celebrate, Evergreen Grace calls us to reflect, rejoice, and remember that this story is not just for us, but for the glory of God.Be encouraged, lean in, and discover how grace continues to grow—evergreen—in every season of life.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace. Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

What if the sound you're waiting for isn't louder effort—but quieter trust?In this week's message from Oakridge Adventist Church, we continue our December teaching series Tales of the Trees by stepping into an unexpected Christmas text: 2 Samuel 5. Through the story of David, the Philistines, and the mysterious sound of marching in the treetops, we're invited to reconsider how God leads, how breakthroughs happen, and whose battles we are actually meant to fight.This message explores powerful parallels between King David and King Jesus—one who rose from shepherd to king, and the other who laid aside kingship to become our Shepherd. We reflect on waiting instead of rushing, listening instead of striving, and trusting God's timing over our instincts.If you're facing uncertainty, conflict, or a season of waiting, this message invites you to pause beneath the trees, lift your eyes, and listen closely—because God may already be moving ahead of you.

Pastor CL Garilva takes us on a journey from the hills of Hebron to the valleys of Sodom, unveiling one of Scripture's most sobering contrasts—Abraham under the oaks of Mamre and Lot drifting toward the cities of the plain.He weaves together the ancient narrative with modern life through the story of a young neurosurgeon named Larson—brilliant, successful, yet quietly drowning in despair.Through Abraham, Lot, Sarah, Ruth, and ultimately Jesus, Pastor CL highlights the God who climbs down from heaven's heights to walk with us in our humanity.

In a culture obsessed with looking strong, confident, and in control, what happens when the mask finally cracks? In this message, “The Battle of Bravado,”  Kendal closes out the War & Peace series by contrasting empty bravado with the real, transformative power of Christ.Walking through the story of Samson in Judges 13–16, Kendal shows how someone blessed, called, and empowered by God can still be sabotaged by unchecked desires, toxic relationships, and a misplaced sense of strength. Samson's life becomes a mirror for our own battles with pride, performance, and hidden weakness.

Pastor Rhoda walks us deep into one of the most misunderstood themes in Scripture—God at war. Is He violent? Angry? Unpredictable? Does the Bible portray a Warrior God who contradicts the loving Jesus we worship?Through a powerful exploration of John 2, Revelation 19, and the Lamb imagery woven throughout Scripture, this episode reframes the battlefield entirely.

Pastor Jess continues our War & Peace series by exploring one of the most difficult, yet most freeing practices of the Christian life: forgiveness.From childhood memories of keeping score with his siblings to the powerful biblical narratives of Joseph and Peter, He unpacks how easily we hold on to hurt, tally wrongs, and justify our bitterness. But Jesus calls us to a different way—a way where forgiveness isn't math, but mindset; not a tally, but a transformation.Discover why forgiveness breaks the cycle of inner war, restores the peace only Christ can give, and is the very heart of the Kingdom Jesus came to build.

In a world torn by conflict, what does it mean to live as a peacemaker? In this message, Pastor Rhoda reflects on the incredible story of Desmond Doss — a man who went to war without a weapon and saved 75 lives armed only with faith and conviction. Through Doss's example and the teachings of Jesus, we're invited to see that true courage isn't found in force, but in faithfulness.Discover how living by conscience and compassion allows us to overcome evil with good, not only in global crises but in the daily battles of our own hearts.

In this compelling message from Oakridge Adventist Church, our guest speaker invites us to breathe, unclench, and enter the Sabbath the way Jesus intended—rest for weary souls (Matthew 11:28). From the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13), to Eden's first “appraisal” in Genesis 3, we're reminded that we are constantly assigning value to things—and that the gospel reorders our values from the inside out.

When October gets spooky, what should disciples of Jesus do with the pull toward the paranormal—and the pitfalls of superstition? In this sermon, we unpack some of Jesus' scariest warnings and most hope-filled truths. From the wilderness temptations (Matthew 4) to the sobering “I never knew you” (Matthew 7) and the “empty house” warning (Matthew 12:43–45), we explore why counterfeit goodness, performative spirituality, and power without surrender are more dangerous than jump-scares.

Have you ever wondered where the line is between faith and superstition? In this week's message, Kendall explores the story of Paul and the slave girl in Acts 16, where a young woman is trapped—spiritually and physically—by those who profit from her bondage.Kendall challenges us to see how superstition promises control but delivers captivity, while true spirituality in Christ offers freedom and relationship. From ancient oracles to modern fears, we're reminded that only Jesus can break the chains that hold us—externally and internally.

When life feels like a mix of celebration and sorrow, how do we genuinely give thanks? In this Communion message, Pastor Rhoda walks us through the transforming practice of gratitude—rooted not in perfect circumstances but in a Person. Drawing from Exodus 6:6–7, Luke 22, and 1 Corinthians 10:16, she unpacks the four “I will” promises behind the Passover cup—Rescue, Recovery, Redemption, and Reunion—and connects them to Jesus' table as our “cup of thanksgiving.”

This sabbath's service was extra special as two of our young speakers, Eli and Ciara, led us through the inspiring story of Elijah. Together, their messages reminded us that God is our Rock and that when we anchor ourselves in Him, we find courage, peace, and direction even in life's toughest climbs.

What does worship look like when the music stops? In this message, Pastor Jess brings our “This Is Worship” journey to a pivotal truth from Romans 12:1—worship is the everyday surrender of our whole selves to God. Drawing from Micah 6:8, 1 Peter 4:10–11, and Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), we explore how the rest of worship shapes a life of worship, forms the heart of worship, and naturally flows into the sacrifice of worship: service.You'll hear how offering our gifts isn't about losing what we love—it's about giving what we've been given back to God for the good of others. When we act justly, love mercy, walk humbly, and steward our talents, our worship becomes real and transformative.

In this week's This Is Worship teaching series, Pastor Rhoda takes us into the book of Micah and shows us how worship is deeply tied to justice, mercy, and humility. Micah's words from nearly 3,000 years ago still cut to the heart today—calling out corrupt leadership, exploitation of the vulnerable, and empty religion that ignores the weightier matters of the law.What does it really mean to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8)? And how do we avoid separating our worship from our ethics? In this timely message, we're reminded that true worship isn't found in rituals alone, but in how we treat people—especially the marginalized, oppressed, and overlooked.

What comes to mind when you hear the word worship? For many of us, it's music, singing, or a weekly church service. But worship is far more than an event—it's a lifestyle that shapes how we live, love, and serve throughout the week.In this message, Pastor Jess continues the This Is Worship series by unpacking what it means to move from Sabbath rest into a daily life of worship. Looking at the early church in Acts and Paul's call in Romans 12, we discover that true worship overflows beyond the walls of the church. It shows up in how we treat our neighbors, in the way we extend selfless love, and in how we reflect Christ to a world that desperately needs Him.

Worship isn't just about singing songs or attending church—it's any response of surrender to God. In this message from our This Is Worship series, we explore the true heart of worship: a posture of trust, surrender, and rest.From Abraham's obedience on the mountain to Jesus' own unhurried presence, Scripture reminds us that worship is not primarily about activity, but about relationship. Sabbath rest is God's invitation to stop striving, to trust Him as Creator and Provider, and to declare that Jesus is enough.

In this week's message, Jesse opens his heart to share a testimony that doesn't fit the “dramatic conversion” mold we often hear in church. Instead, his story is one of God's long game—a journey of small, consistent steps, quiet nudges, and unexpected turns that brought him to the realization: “I think I love God.”Listen in and discover how forgiveness, even for the same sin again and again, transforms us into people who can stand faithfully at the cross and at the resurrection.

In John 8, a woman caught in adultery is dragged before Jesus, shamed, and condemned by religious leaders eager to trap Him. But instead of responding with anger or judgment, Jesus stoops low, writes in the dust, and speaks words that echo through history: “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”Join us as we reflect on the scandalous grace of Jesus — the Judge who becomes our Advocate, the Author of the Law who writes mercy in the dust, and the Savior who offers every heart a fresh start.

Have you ever felt like life's distractions make it hard to truly focus? From constant notifications to endless scrolling, our attention is often pulled in every direction. But what if focus is exactly what opens the door to life-changing encounters?In this message, we follow the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19—a man who climbed a tree just to catch a glimpse of Jesus. Despite the noise of the crowd and the weight of His mission, Jesus stopped, noticed him, and changed his life forever.Listen in and be inspired to shift your focus from distraction to presence, and from noise to Jesus.

Have you ever felt invisible or, worse, defined by your worst moments? In this episode of Meeting Jesus, worship leader Kimmy Arnesto shares the unforgettable encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well.Through Scripture and real-life insight, we see Jesus meeting her in the heat of the day, breaking cultural barriers, naming her story without shame, and offering her “living water” that transforms her life. She goes from hiding in isolation to boldly inviting others to meet Him.

Peter was bold, brash, and broken. In this powerful episode of our Meeting Jesus series, we explore the journey of Cephas, the disciple whose greatest failures paved the way for his deepest transformation.From confident fisherman to conflicted follower to commissioned preacher, Peter's story reminds us that Jesus sees our potential beyond our flaws. Through real-life reflections and rich biblical context, we examine what it means to walk with Jesus through doubt, repentance, and renewal.Episode highlights:Why Peter's confession was divinely inspiredThe real reason Jesus rebuked him with “Get behind me, Satan”The power of love and restoration at the Sea of GalileeWhy your personal story with Jesus is the most powerful gospel you can shareListen in and be reminded: Jesus doesn't give up on us. He calls us, shapes us, and sends us, just like He did with Peter.

What does it mean to have a childlike faith, but not a childish one? In this uplifting message, we learn from Andrew, the first disciple, whose joy and bold trust led him to follow Jesus and invite others.Using the timeless tale of The Emperor's New Clothes, we reflect on how childlike honesty, excitement, and openness reveal truths adults often miss. We also dive into Andrew's story, from meeting Jesus to bringing his brother to Christ, to trusting in miracles even when the odds seemed impossible.Highlights from this episode:How to recognize and cultivate true childlike faithWhy Andrew's example matters for modern believersWhat Jesus meant by “Let the little children come to me”A reminder that small acts of faith can lead to big impactTune in and be inspired to follow Jesus with a heart full of wonder and courage.Visit oakridgeadventist.ca to learn more or join us in person.

When head knowledge isn't enough, what then? In this heartfelt message, Oscar Cruz shares how a personal encounter with Jesus transformed his faith from information to transformation.Through the story of Nicodemus in John 3, we explore:The difference between knowing about Jesus and truly knowing HimWhy being “born again” is more than a phrase, it's a way of lifeHow Jesus meets us in our questions, doubts, and hidden placesThe quiet journey of Nicodemus, from secrecy to public devotionThis is a must-listen for anyone raised in the church or searching for deeper meaning in their faith walk.Follow our podcast for more inspiring reflections. Visit oakridgeadventist.ca for upcoming messages.

In this intimate episode, Rhythm Tang invites us into the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10 and into her own story of breaking free from the idol of busyness and achievement.Through personal testimony and deep biblical reflection, she shows that following Jesus isn't just about obedience, it's about trust, surrender, and relationship. You'll hear how a Google search for “what is love” led her back to God and how daily surrender turned her entire life around.What you'll learn:How Jesus gently identifies the one thing we lackWhy wealth, work, and even relationships can become spiritual strongholdsHow to experience “Zoe” life—the fullness of joy God offersWhy confession, community, and rest are part of deliverance

Ever wished you could press “reset” on life? Pastor Jess's sermon “Never Too Late” proves that one honest sentence to Jesus can flip the script from despair to destiny.Experience the life-changing power of grace through the repentant thief who meets Christ minutes before death. Expect biblical insight, relatable stories, and a roadmap for reclaiming purpose when you think the clock has run out. 

In this episode, Kendall unpacks a hope-filled homily proving that God's dream is bigger than our cultural boxes. You can expect a fresh biblical lens that celebrates diversity, confronts segregation, and empowers listeners to build inclusive faith communities from Monday to Sabbath.Episode rundownRevelation 7:9 heaven's multi-ethnic preview and why it matters nowThe upside-down reenactment of Babel at Pentecost and how languages became a bridge, not a barrierCandid stories of churches that split and healed along racial lines, illustrating both the wound and the remedyActionable “Bridge Steps” you can start this week: learn a greeting in another tongue, share your table, and pray for unity

A story of truth, trauma, and transformation. In this episode, Suzette Amaya opens her heart to share her family's experience with colonization, the residential school system, and the Sixties Scoop and how faith and friendship brought healing.Listeners will be deeply moved by:Real accounts of systemic injustice faced by Indigenous families in CanadaThe power of Adventist community support in the Downtown EastsideA call to action for churches to become safe spaces of reconciliationHow Suzette's family overcame generational wounds to find faith and strengthLet this episode spark your journey toward empathy, understanding, and action.Subscribe, share, and leave a review to spread this vital message.Learn more or connect with us at oacvancouver.ca.

What truly makes a good father? In this heartfelt and inspiring Father's Day interview with Alston Jacobs and Joey Aguilar, Kendal dives deep into fatherhood, faith, and the real challenges dads face today.In this episode, we explore:What truly makes a good fatherBalancing authority with compassionHow parenting deepens our view of GodWhy humility and presence matter more than perfectionYou'll hear personal stories, biblical reflections, and practical wisdom that uplifts and challenges every listener, whether you're a parent or simply navigating family life.

Feeling too ordinary to make a difference? This episode reminds you that you're exactly who God wants to use. Discover how Jesus meets us in our weakness to lead us into purpose. Be encouraged by real talk, honest faith, and a Savior who sees you. Listen now, and remember: you're never too broken to be used by God.

What's the price of true spirituality? In this message from Oakridge Adventist Church, we explore Acts 8 and the contrast between Simon's power-hungry motives and the eunuch's genuine pursuit of God.You'll learn how to spot spiritual counterfeits, how joy follows surrender, and how God still calls us to the roads less traveled. This episode encourages deep reflection and bold action as we ask, "Are we following the Spirit or chasing status?"Listen in to explore:The marketplace of mysticism vs. the gift of graceLessons from Simon and the Ethiopian eunuchHow to live a mission-driven life led by the Holy SpiritDon't forget to follow, leave a review, and share this episode with someone seeking something real. Let's keep the conversation going!

This week, we continue our “Acts” series with a powerful message from Acts 3–5. From miraculous healing to the sobering story of Ananias and Sapphira, we explore the tension between real faith and reputation.You'll be encouraged to trust God's timing, reflect on your spiritual honesty, and rediscover how the early church lived with generous, Spirit-led boldness.Key takeaways:The healing at the Beautiful Gate and its deeper meaningWhy honesty opens the door to transformationHow love, not fear, is the core of God's characterThis message challenges us: Are we dancing in grace or dying in pride?Subscribe to stay encouraged. Learn more or watch the full service at oacvancouver.ca#acts #earlychurch #christianpodcast, #faith #Godslove #oacvancouver

Have you ever wondered what made the early church so impactful? This episode unpacks the radical way the first Christians lived—and what it means for us today.Join us as we revisit Acts 2 and discover how a church built on devotion, generosity, and shared life became a powerful movement. You'll be encouraged to reflect on what church means to you and how your life can reflect Jesus in everyday ways.The egg-crack challenge and what it reveals about appearances vs. purposeHow the early church practiced “devotion” and what that looks like in 2025The countercultural generosity that challenged the Roman EmpireHonest reflections on growing up in church and finding deeper meaningAn invitation to live a life that points others to ChristFollow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement. Let's rediscover church as a Spirit-led movement, not just a weekly gathering.

What if motherhood could help you understand God's love in a whole new way? In this powerful episode, we explore how nurturing a child reveals the very heart of God's compassion and patience.Value Proposition: You'll hear personal reflections from mothers who share how parenting transforms their view of divine love, healing, and identity. This honest and uplifting conversation reminds us that God's love remains steady through every season of life.Key Highlights:Insights on how parenting mirrors God's love.Honest experiences of emotional healing and forgiveness.Lessons on trusting God through identity shifts.Encouragement for navigating motherhood with grace.Real-life advice for embracing daily new beginnings.

This episode explores how the early church's waiting turned into a world-changing movement—and what that means for you in 2025.We unpack Acts 1–2 and the power of Pentecost to reveal God's desire to fill every person with His Spirit not just leaders or saints. You'll hear how the flame that once rested on a temple now rests on you, empowering you to be a light wherever you are.In this episode:Why Pentecost matters more than everHow God speaks through your unique “language”Lessons from Babel, fire, and prophecyWhat it means to carry God's presence todayListen, reflect, and be reminded: you are not alone, and your voice matters.

In today's episode, we explore the profound moments after the resurrection of Jesus and His ascension into heaven. Far from being the end, this event invites us into a story still unfolding—a story of mission, faith, and eternal hope. You'll hear how the early disciples processed this shift and what it means for us as believers today.Key Highlights:Why Jesus' departure empowers us rather than leaves us behindThe promise of His return and the comfort it bringsHow to wait actively—with purpose and hopeReframing “the end” not with fear but with faithThe beauty of restoration and reunion that awaitsListen now and be reminded that the best is yet to come.Follow, rate, and share to help spread this message of hope!

What if every breath you take, every beat of your heart, points to a Designer?In this episode of “Good News for Vancouver,” we take a thought-provoking journey through history, science, and Scripture to explore our origin story. From Peru's Nazca lines to molecular biology, we'll challenge the worldview of chance and present a Creator who intricately formed you—and is still restoring hearts today.You'll hear:Why your beginning matters to your purposeStories of humanity reaching out for meaningThe staggering mathematical odds against random lifeA message of hope in a world filled with uncertaintyWe wrap with a beautiful reminder: If God created you, He can recreate you.Like what you hear? Follow our podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone longing for deeper meaning.

Feeling drained by the constant grind? What if rest wasn't just a break—but a bold act of freedom?This eye-opening message from our Good News for Vancouver series explores how the Sabbath offers a radical, life-giving alternative to burnout culture.You'll discover:Why modern work-life balance is broken and what God's Word says about itHow Sabbath rest can heal your body, mind, and soulThe surprising science behind rest and longevity What Jesus taught about rest, resistance, and restorationHow embracing the Sabbath can transform not just your life but your whole cityWhether you're exhausted from the hustle, longing for a deeper connection, or just curious about Sabbath practice—this message is for you.

Dan shares a heartfelt reflection on faith, planning, and the unpredictability of life. Through personal stories—from childhood experiences with technology to his father's illness—he explores how spiritual gifts, personal strengths, and God's unwavering presence shape our journey. Ultimately, he emphasizes that love is the foundation of all spiritual gifts, grounding us in faith no matter what challenges arise.

The world constantly tells us we're not enough—not rich enough, not popular enough, not successful enough. But in Christ, you are more than enough. You are valuable, gifted, and deeply loved. When we embrace our identity in Him, something shifts within us—our thoughts, our hearts, and even our very being. This is a message we don't talk about enough, but today, let's change that. Join us as we dive into the truth that God speaks over us: You are more than enough.

Christ chose to serve us, even when we didn't deserve it. He left heaven to become a servant to all, showing us that serving isn't a burden—it's a blessing. In this message, we reflect on how Jesus' example calls us to serve one another with grace, love, and mercy. True love is found in action, and perhaps the best way to love is to serve. Join us as we explore the heart of servant leadership and the power of selfless love.

Join us for another heartfelt and inspiring interview with Kerhys Sterling! This time, we welcome special guest Leanne Ho, an exceptional educator with a passion for teaching children. Leanne's mission goes beyond academics—she inspires kids to have fun, excel, and grow in their walk with Jesus. Don't miss this uplifting conversation about faith, education, and the impact of guiding young hearts toward Christ.

Thank you, Malachi Watson, for last Sabbath's inspiring message! He challenged us to step out of the crowd and choose to follow Jesus, even when it's hard. Too often, we let fear of judgment or labels keep us stagnant in our faith. Malachi reminded us that while it's easy to blend in, true transformation comes when we choose to stand out for Christ. The question we must all answer: Does He know your name? Join us as we reflect on the power of stepping out in faith and the life-changing experience of being known by the King.

Our series "A Home for Your Heart" concludes our 15 days in prayer. We delve into the petitions for our past, present, and future needs.

Pr. Jess dives into the topic of generosity from a unique and meaningful perspective. Generosity isn't always about giving money or material things—it's about sharing the best of what we have with those who need it most. Whether it's our time, talents, kindness, or support, generosity is an expression of love and care that can make a profound impact. Pr. Jess will inspire us to see how we can practice generosity in ways that go beyond finances, offering hope and help to others in meaningful ways