Redeemer Church in Fremont, CA

The transformational impact of embracing the resurrected life is that we become so heavenly minded that we are finally earthly good. Because of the resurrection, we can love the way we ought to love, forgive rather than slander, and become the kind of people God intended us to be in this world.• The phrase "so heavenly minded that you're no earthly good" speaks of someone disconnected from reality• Real transformation begins when we are raised with Christ and learn to live out the resurrected life• We can't live heavenly lives with earthly minds and methods• The mindset of the resurrected life means seeking things that are above, where Christ is seated• We must "put to death" earthly things: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness• We must "put on" compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience• Above all, we should put on love which binds everything together in perfect harmony• The resurrection transforms our relationships at home and work—with spouses, children, parents, employers, and employees• Our speech should always be gracious, "seasoned with salt"• Like Rosaria Butterfield's story shows, seemingly simple acts like hospitality can powerfully demonstrate the resurrected lifeContinue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray for us that God may open to us a door for the word to declare the mystery of Christ.

What if the most pivotal event in human history wasn't just a spiritual metaphor, but actually happened? During this powerful Resurrection Sunday message, we confront the audacious claim at Christianity's core: Jesus Christ physically rose from the dead after his crucifixion.Through Paul's letter to the Corinthians, we explore why the resurrection isn't a peripheral doctrine but the very foundation of Christian faith. "If Jesus didn't rise, then nothing matters, but if he did, then nothing matters more." The evidence is compelling—over 500 eyewitnesses, transformed lives of former skeptics, and the inexplicable birth of a movement that should have died with its leader.Consider a man who works his entire life for a pension that vanishes just before retirement—worthy of tremendous pity. Similarly, Paul argues that without resurrection, Christians would be "of all people most to be pitied," having built their lives on a false hope. But the empty tomb changes everything. Christ's resurrection isn't just his victory but the guarantee of our own future resurrection. He is the "first fruits," proving more resurrection is coming.The resurrection presents each of us with a decision. While compelling evidence exists, ultimately what you believe requires faith. Yet this isn't blind faith but reasonable trust built on historical testimony. If Jesus truly conquered death, you don't have to carry your sins or fear the grave. His resurrection offers the unshakable hope that death, suffering, and injustice don't get the final word. Because he lives, our hope is secure.Is your faith built on the solid foundation of the resurrection? How might embracing this reality transform your approach to life's challenges today?

What if the essence of Christmas was more than just peace and joy, but the ultimate victory of light over darkness? Join us on a captivating journey as we unravel the cosmic battle of good versus evil, examining the nativity story through a thrilling new lens. Drawing from the vibrant imagery in Revelation 12, we'll share personal memories of epic Saturday morning cartoon battles and iconic movie moments that parallel this eternal struggle—revealing how Jesus's birth marked a pivotal clash against evil.As we navigate the profound spiritual significance of Jesus's arrival, you'll discover Him as the "serpent crusher" and "dragon slayer," fulfilling the ancient promise of Genesis 3:15. This episode emphasizes Jesus's decisive role in God's grand plan, triumphing over the devil's schemes not just through His birth but from conception to resurrection. We'll explore these powerful themes through biblical theology, underscoring the assurance and protection that Jesus's victory provides for believers, celebrating a story of cosmic resilience and hope.Experience the transformative power of Christ's triumph in our lives today, as we highlight how His life, death, and resurrection empower us to live victoriously amidst the world's brokenness. Embrace the relief and joy that stem from rejecting false accusations and embracing our full acceptance in Christ. Our conversation invites you to relish the profound peace and confidence that come from knowing Jesus has conquered our greatest enemy, inspiring a life filled with gratitude and anticipation for His return.

Ever found unexpected relief in the middle of a desert? Imagine camping without the buzzing annoyance of bugs—a brief respite that might remind you of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. In this episode, we unravel how the Exodus narrative offers us a glimpse into themes of divine protection and faith. God's intriguing use of hornets to scatter Israel's enemies reflects a deeper message of trust and assurance, one that speaks to our own lives today.Join us as we contrast different journeys of faith, sparked by a story from Daniel about a coworker who left her faith behind. While she found freedom in stepping away, we examine the Christian perspective of carrying a lighter burden through Christ's grace. The angelic guidance promised to the Israelites serves as a metaphor for God's ever-present orchestration in our lives, gently leading us toward His promises. Our discussion bridges the Old Testament stories with the hopeful anticipation of Christ's return, encouraging a steadfast journey of faith.The challenges we face today may seem daunting, but like the unseen spiritual battles in Exodus, we are reminded of the divine protection we have. Drawing inspiration from stories of courage in the face of fear, this episode encourages you to identify where fear might be holding you back. Whether it's sharing your faith or making life changes, we reflect on God's unwavering commitment to His promises. Embrace the Advent season with renewed confidence, knowing that we serve a risen Savior who guides us toward fulfillment with the presence of angels.

Experience the rhythms of ancient worship and rest through Exodus 23 as we explore how these timeless practices resonate in today's fast-paced world. Have you ever wondered how to truly live out the Ten Commandments in community? Join us as we promise to uncover the deeper values behind these divine instructions, emphasizing the importance of genuine love for God that transcends mere rule-following. Through personal stories of fatherhood, we highlight how to instill these meaningful values in the next generation. As technology continues to shape our daily lives, we challenge the tension between advancement and the spiritual need for rest and reflection. Discover how biblical principles call for intentional rest and trust in natural processes, reminding us that growth and renewal often occur outside of our constant intervention. With examples from nature and personal experiences, we'll reflect on the power of Sabbath as Jesus taught, prioritizing rest over legalistic obligations and fostering a healthier balance for our bodies and minds.Looking forward to the rhythms of the church calendar, we invite you to embrace the gospel story throughout the year. By participating in church traditions, from Christ's birth to his resurrection, we remember our identity in Christ and align our lives with His teachings. As Thanksgiving approaches, we encourage a lifestyle of gratitude and remembrance, recognizing God's sovereignty and mighty works. Join us in planning for rest and prioritizing worship, ensuring that our lives actively honor God as the sole recipient of our praise.

As we continue through the Gospel of John, we saw the transformation of water into wine, we encounter a pivotal moment: Jesus cleansing the temple. We draw connections between our understanding of sacred spaces and how cultural and scriptural influences dictate our conduct within them. Our discussion takes us deep into the heart of what it means to honor the divine presence among us.As we unpack Jesus' bold confrontation with the temple's commercialization, we navigate through a trifecta of compelling themes: humanity's inclination to tarnish the divine, Jesus' power to purify, and the promise of resurrection that rebuilds from our ruins. The narrative transcends a mere historical recounting, inviting us to ponder Jesus as the mediator, guiding us from the confines of a physical temple to himself, as the ultimate beacon of connection with God. This  isn't just about exploring a story; it's about revealing how Jesus' actions invite us to reflect on our intentions and the way we engage with the divine.We contemplate Jesus as the true temple, the incarnation of where God meets us. We reflect on the spiritual disruption Jesus introduces to our lives, disruptions meant to foster a deeper communion with God. It's here that we find the essence of communal worship and the hope it embodies. Together, let's embrace the call to live in holiness, humility, and contrition, aligning our lives with the glory of God. This isn't just another Bible story rehash—it's an invitation to transformation in your own spiritual walk.

As we continue our series in the book of John, we revisit the wedding at Cana, where water became wine by Jesus' hand. The telling of Christ's first miracle is a narrative laden with symbols of the new covenant, foreshadowing His redemptive work. We unpack Jesus' interaction with Mary and that enigmatic remark about His hour, considering its cultural context and theological significance as the beginning of the coming Kingdom of God. Witness how a mundane request gave rise to a demonstration of abundance and grace, as Jesus not only saves a celebration but signals the lavish blessings of His coming kingdom. The tale of the Cana wedding serves as an invitation to see beyond the miracle to the heart of Jesus' mission, with jars of purification water hinting at the transformative new covenant He would establish. We delve into this story with reverence, uncovering layers of meaning in Mary's unwavering faith and the servants' obedience—a testament to the power of trust without full understanding.We affirm that the transformative power of belief in Christ is not confined to scripture but is alive in our daily lives, ready to guide us to a reality marked by His presence and providence. 

Have you ever felt like your greatest achievements just weren't enough? Like Tom Brady after a Super Bowl win, you may have tasted success but still found yourself yearning for more. In this sermon, as we continue our series in John, we explore the quest for true identity and significance, taking a cue from Jean Valjean's story in "Les Miserables" and delving into the biblical narrative of John the Baptist and the first disciples of Christ. It's a conversation that promises to unearth the profound realization that fulfillment is not something we can grasp on our own—it's found in the transformative power of a life committed to Jesus.We all have moments when we seek to redefine who we are and what we're meant to do.  As we walk alongside figures like Peter and Nathanael, we witness how encounters with Jesus shifted their lives from skepticism to belief, from old identities to new ones graced with divine purpose. Their stories emphasize that it's not in climbing hierarchical ladders but in resting in His presence that we find our ultimate home.In the rhythm of everyday life, it can be easy to overlook the extraordinary. Yet we're reminded of the captivating nature of Jesus's presence and how it draws people together—much like the diverse stories of people at Redeemer Church in Union City. We reflect on Jesus's role as the bridge between heaven and earth and how trusting in Him as the Son of God, King, and Messiah renews our commitment to follow Him daily. Whether you're a seeker, skeptic, or long-time believer, discover Jesus afresh and embrace the life-altering clarity that comes with saying "yes" to His call.

As we continue in our series through the book of John, we see how John the Evangelist harmonizes the quest for truth with the melodies of life, much like a John Williams score accompanies an epic tale. We navigate the narrative of John the Baptist, whose role in heralding the Messiah frames our understanding of Jesus as the Lamb of God. Our discussion extends beyond the biblical text, drawing rich parallels between the journeys we undertake in our daily lives and the transformational encounters with grace and identity.As we unravel the anticipation of the Messiah within Jewish tradition, Pastor Ricky's insights shed light on the profound declarations of John the Baptist and the role of prophecy in shaping the narrative of Jesus' coming. We examine key biblical events where God's voice affirms Jesus's preeminence, reflecting on the eternal nature of Christ and His centrality in our faith journey. We don't  just recount these stories; we want you to ponder the implications of these truths in our own lives, challenging us to see ourselves not just as observers, but as participants in a story of redemption.We finish with an inspirational look at the tale of Jean Valjean from "Les Misérables," where grace redefines identity and purpose. Pastor Ricky connects this to our own search for significance, urging us to find our worth not in our achievements, but in the grace and truth found in Christ. By fixing our gaze upon the true Lamb of God, we are invited to embrace a life-changing shift in perspective that promises to influence how we view ourselves and the world around us. Join us as we desire for you to reflect on your own path toward redemption and the profound impact of Jesus' presence in your life.

The opening chapter of the Gospel of John reveals Jesus as the beacon that stands against the enveloping darkness of the world—a truth that offers not only intellectual richness but also deep, transformative power. We consider the striking metaphors of Jesus as the Word and the Light, illuminating our understanding of His eternal presence and divine nature.Imagine the significance of a world where light cuts through the deepest shadows—this is the pivotal message of Jesus as the life-giving light. Witness John the Baptist's role as the herald pointing us toward this light, and ponder our calling as Christians to be bearers of this very light, sharing the hope that Jesus brings. This sermon calls each of us to consider how we too might reflect this light in our daily lives inviting people to join a mission where  we find the Word made flesh, the Light of the world. This sermon unpacks the dual nature of Jesus—fully God and fully man—and how this central tenet of faith is intricately woven into the fabric of our salvation. Through the lens of John the Baptist's testimony and the foundational truths of John's prologue, we gain an enriched perspective of Jesus's identity and purpose. Consider the significance of the truth about Christ  to reshape our lives in accordance with the Gospel's profound narrative.

Discover the transformative power of storytelling as we navigate the intentional narratives of John's Gospel.  This sermon promises a deeper insight into John's unique perspective on the life of Jesus, with the aim of nurturing belief and imparting the essence of life through Jesus' teachings.As the cornerstone of our faith, the concept of abiding in Christ is central to our discussion, drawing upon the rich theological depth found in John's textual tapestry. We weave the eternal thread of "in the beginning" through our conversation, connecting the creation narrative of Genesis to John's introduction of Jesus, the living Word. Discover the profound themes of life and light that emerge from these passages, as Jesus is not just a beacon of goodness, but as a source of eternal hope cast for people  living in the world's dark shadows.Our journey through the Gospel of John culminates in a candid examination of faith's essential place in the Christian walk. We grapple with the paradox of Jesus' death and resurrection, reaffirming the promise of His triumph over darkness as the cornerstone of our belief. Our study through the Gospel of John won't  just recount the life of Jesus, but seeks to instill a living faith, as we bear witness to His mission of bringing light into our lives and rescuing humanity from the grip of darkness.

Ever wondered how a centuries-old story could rejuvenate your spiritual journey or ministry today? Our latest episode unearths the potent elements of Acts 3, where Peter and John's miraculous healing of a lame man at the temple lays the groundwork for understanding the impact of place, presence, prayer, perception, possession, and proclamation in fostering a vibrant, Holy Spirit-led community. This isn't a mere history lesson; it's an interactive guide for anyone looking to infuse their spiritual practice or church plant with the dynamism and authenticity of the early church.As we navigate the bustling streets and intimate spaces of our own communities, we are reminded of the sacredness that physical locations can hold. Together with reflections on the early church's practices, I share a deeply personal account of ministering during the pandemic, revealing how our presence can become a beacon of hope and transformation. This episode invites you to re-envision what it means to be truly present in our neighborhoods, to see beyond the concrete and into the souls that seek solace and spiritual revival.We wrap up with a powerful discourse on the paramount importance of directing all glory to Jesus through our words and actions. It is a call for church leaders and faithful individuals alike to re-examine the way we live out our faith, ensuring that each gesture of kindness and every word of truth we utter leads others closer to encountering Christ. So, lend us your ears, and let's journey together towards a deeper, more impactful ministry that stands the test of time and change.

Have you ever felt the magnetic pull of love in a room full of believers, or grappled with the intricacies of conveying faith with grace and humility? This episode, steeped in the depths of Christian doctrine and practice, invites you on a journey through the transformative power of love within the Christian faith. My recent role as a keynote speaker at a youth retreat and my teachings at a Christian school have sparked profound reflections on the importance of love in our message and actions—insights I'm eager to share with you.We'll traverse the landscape of Paul's wisdom to the Corinthians, addressing the delicate interplay between knowledge and love. Paul's guidance is a compass for our interactions, suggesting that our freedoms must be harnessed with care to edify the community. This episode isn't just about theological discourse; it's a candid challenge to reassess the impact of our choices on those around us, inspired by the examples set by Jesus and Paul. Together, we'll explore the profound implications of selflessness and the power it holds to unite and strengthen our church communities.Wrapping up, our conversation turns to the practical outworking of this love in everyday life. We discuss how to navigate cultural practices and relationships with an unwavering commitment to bringing glory to God, as Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians. From servant leadership to the everyday choices we make, this episode is a reminder that Christian love is a public declaration, a force that can shape families, workplaces, and congregations. Join us as we contemplate living in the image of Christ, where humility and love are not mere ideals, but the very essence of our walk with God.

Have you ever considered the humble innkeeper's role in the nativity, or is your life too cluttered to make space for such thoughts? Our latest episode explores the overlooked figure of the innkeeper from the Christmas story, through a narrative that weaves personal anecdotes with scriptural insights from Luke, chapter two. As I recount the days of making room in our family cave for football games, you'll find the conversation steering towards the transformative act of hospitality and the deeper spiritual practice of opening our lives to Jesus.A child's innocent declaration as "Jesus, king of babies" during playtime captures the whimsy and depth of this episode, as we ponder Jesus's identity through the eyes of both the young and the angel Gabriel's message to Mary. Together, we navigate the profound implications of truly recognizing Jesus as our Savior and how this realization calls us to invite Him into every corner of our existence. Let this episode be a heartfelt invitation to acknowledge Jesus as the beacon of our lives, and discover how such recognition can illuminate your spiritual journey.As the season shifts from Advent to Christmas, we're prompted to examine our own openness to Jesus's presence. Are we mimicking the innkeeper's oversight, unwittingly turning Jesus away? This episode is a gentle nudge towards deeper engagement with scripture, earnest prayer, and sharing His love with others. Join me in this call to action, to clear away life's distractions and open our hearts to the true joy and fulfillment of welcoming Jesus into our midst.

You've seen them in every nativity play, but have you ever wondered about the real significance of the shepherds and wise men in the Advent story? We promise you'll see these familiar characters in a new light as we journey back to first-century Israel. We're unearthing their contrasting backgrounds, societal statuses, and the extraordinary roles they play in the birth of Jesus. Both despised by some and revered by others, these characters bear a message for all of us today.We'll take you through the fascinating journey of these characters, from the angel's divine announcement to the shepherds' responsibility to spread the joyous news about the Messiah's birth. On the other hand, the wise men's pursuit of the infant king, despite their wisdom, wealth, and status, illuminates the inherent need for God's guidance. You'll be fascinated to see how their diverse backgrounds did not hinder them from seeking Jesus.But our journey doesn't stop there. What happens when we feel threatened by Jesus in our lives? Let's turn the pages to King Herod's story, whose fear led to dire consequences. Drawing parallels with our lives today, we reflect on the need for repentance and embracing our identities as sinners. Remember, just like the shepherds and wise men, regardless of our past, we each have an essential role in the grand narrative of God's love. This episode is a celebration of the hope and joy Jesus brings as our Savior. Join us, and let's find our unique place in the captivating Christmas story.

Have you ever contemplated the profound role of John the Baptist in the Christmas narrative? Buckle up, as we travel through the Scriptures and the basketball court in a unique exploration of this mysterious prophet, who prepared the path for the Messiah. Drawing parallels from the NBA's in-season tournament, we kick-start our journey, revealing how John's mission resonates with sparking anticipation for the main event.We delve deeper into the wilderness, following the footsteps of John the Baptist, a God-sent preacher, whose call to repentance echoed through the land. Despite facing immense opposition, his message penetrated the hearts of many, leading them to confess their sins and receive baptism. Learn about the significance of baptism in the Jewish context and grasp the essence of John's teachings that stirred up controversy.Finally, we transition to the pressing matter of recognizing our need for a Savior and leading a life of repentance. Feel the urgency, the call to share this life-changing message, and discover your own role as heralds of the Gospel. We wrap up our journey with a heartfelt prayer for all our listeners, inspiring them to be unwavering in their role as heralds. So, are you ready for an adventure that not only enlightens but also challenges your spiritual journey? Listen in!

Have you ever thought about how you remember certain moments in your life? Well, we have, and we're eager to share our insights. Drawing from personal examples, we shine a light on the relevance of the church calendar as a powerful tool for commemorating life-changing moments. From the charm of an old wedding mug to the joy of an annual bed and breakfast tradition, we illustrate the significance of intentional remembrances. We also touch on Advent, a time of reflection and anticipation that sets the tone for the church calendar.Our journey doesn't stop there, though. We underscore the necessity of "holy amnesia" - a constant reminder of God's love and redemption. As we navigate the church calendar, we take you through the narrative of salvation from Advent to Pentecost. We emphasize why immersing ourselves in God's story of love is absolutely essential. And wait till you hear our chat with our insightful grandson, William. His perspective perfectly demonstrates how narratives shape our worldview and lead us towards the divine.We conclude our exploration by delving into the Christian calendar, which helps us understand and recount the saving acts of God. We take you through a fascinating journey from the Old Testament's focus on God's saving events to our modern Sunday worship service, which is a beautiful mosaic of the gospel story. We also discuss the importance of engaging in the gospel story through physical acts like taking communion. Finally, we explore the Christmas season liturgy, a beautiful reminder of the joy of Christ's birth. Join us as we yearn for transformation into Christ's likeness and anticipate His glorious return.

Think about the last time you shared your gratitude for God's love and blessings out loud. Isn't it often easier to share our burdens than our blessings? We want to change that. In our enlightening conversation, we draw wisdom from John Calvin and navigate through the importance of openly expressing our thanks and praise. We aim to inspire Christians to engage in enthusiastic worship and to express their gratitude for God's love, not just privately, but publicly too.Our journey delves into the significance of outward expressions of inward delight towards God. We discuss the joy of singing, declaring, and using celebratory gestures to express gratitude. We go a step further, urging a deeper level of engagement where your heart is fully involved, reflecting the depth of your affection for God. We emphasize that public expression of praise and thanksgiving is not just an act, but a way to spread joy and gratitude for God's love.Finally, we explore the profound concept of creational theology, shedding light on how our entire being is a gift from God. We encourage our listeners to be mindful of God's gifts, appreciating them without overlooking the gift giver. We then wrap up our discussion by stressing the importance of expressing gratitude and thanksgiving in public, not just during Thanksgiving, but all year round. So, join us as we pray for you to grow in your commitment to outward, affectionate, and public worship. Let's ignite our hearts with thanksgiving and share this joyous fire with the world.

Ever pondered the organic similarities in Christian ministries? Have you ever been intrigued by the diversity within them? Get ready for a stimulating discourse that will make you reconsider everything you thought you knew about Christian ministries. We're diving deep into the organic features of apostolic energy, inspired by a recent visit to Trinity Fellowship Churches. We explore the beauty of diversity and the significance of focusing on the interior health of these ministries through the lens of Titus 3.Let's take a step back into biblical times. Imagine the apostle Paul gathering his team, a group of uniquely talented individuals, to serve the churches. Fast forward to today, and you'll see how this approach is reflected in the way elders guide their congregations. As we traverse this journey, we'll discover how the Bible narrates a story of recovery and reconciliation and how parish ministry adds definition to our ambassadorial ministry of reconciliation.Last but not least, we'll echo Paul's exhortation in Titus 3 as a powerful reminder of the essence of good works and unity within a congregation. We'll stress the importance of strategizing our places, fostering fruitfulness, and upholding the health of our people. Emulating Jesus's zeal, we'll contemplate the calling of the gospel for good works within our congregations. This episode promises a profound exploration of the foundations and philosophy of Christian ministry that will undoubtedly evoke deep thought and introspection. So, let's embark on this enlightening journey together.

Ever fancied stepping into a superhero's shoes? Just as Clark Kent transforms into Superman, you too can experience an epic transformation, shedding old habits and embracing a new life in Christ. In today's episode, we're weaving together spiritual teachings from Paul's letters to the Ephesians with modern-day narratives to guide you in your faith journey. We know how challenging it can be to navigate through diverse moral perspectives in today's world. Drawing wisdom from Ephesians 4:17-20, we shed light on how to engage proactively with the world without losing sight of our Christian core. We also take you through a deep-dive exploration of the 'new life' Paul calls us to in Ephesians 4:25-32. Be ready to uncover profound theological truths as we discuss honesty, work, speech, conflict resolution, and the importance of honoring the Holy Spirit.Wrapping up, we remind you that as God's child, you are not bound by sin. By understanding His Word, and gathering with other believers, you're fully equipped for a life of victory through Jesus Christ. Come join us on this enlightening journey as we guide you towards a spiritually empowering transformation, akin to Clark Kent's transformation into Superman!