Ridgecrest Baptist Church - Sermons

Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

This week, we look into the story of Joshua and discover timeless lessons about courage, obedience, and faith. As Joshua prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, God commanded him to 'be strong and courageous.' This wasn't just a suggestion, but a vital instruction repeated three times. We learn that true courage comes from living in constant companionship with God, completely complying with His commands, and continually contemplating His Word. The message challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we staying close to Jesus, distinguishing His voice amidst the world's noise? Are we fully obeying God's instructions, or merely picking and choosing what's convenient? Are we meditating on Scripture day and night, allowing it to shape our thoughts, words, and actions? As we face our own 'Jordan Rivers' and 'Jericho walls,' let's remember that God promises to be with us, just as He was with Joshua. Our success and victory lie not in our own strength, but in our faithful obedience to God's Word.Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

In this powerful message, we're challenged to embrace our God-given purpose, no matter where we find ourselves. The story of Esther serves as a compelling reminder that our current circumstances are not accidental, but divinely appointed. Just as Esther was placed in the Persian court 'for such a time as this,' we too are positioned by God for a specific purpose. The key lesson here is that every place can become a platform to speak for God, serve Him, and ultimately surrender to His will. We're encouraged to recognize that silence is not always an option, especially when God calls us to stand up for truth and justice. This message urges us to view our current situations, whether pleasant or difficult, as opportunities to fulfill God's purpose and make a lasting impact. It's a call to live with intention, understanding that our lives can be instruments of divine intervention in the world around us.Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

In this powerful message, we're reminded of what to do when we don't know what to do. The story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20 serves as a beacon of hope for those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. When confronted with a vast army, Jehoshaphat's response teaches us valuable lessons about faith and trust. Instead of relying on his own strength or military might, he turned to God first. This reminds us that our initial response in times of crisis should be to look up, not out. The message emphasizes that sometimes God allows desperation in our lives to show us His salvation. It's in these moments of powerlessness that we learn to fully depend on Him. The practice of setting our face towards God, seeking Him earnestly, and fasting as a community are powerful spiritual disciplines we can apply in our own lives when facing difficulties. Perhaps most striking is the idea that praise and worship can be our weapon in spiritual battles. Just as Jehoshaphat sent singers ahead of the army, we too can choose to praise God before we see the victory. This message challenges us to trust in God's promises and to respond with faith, even when circumstances seem dire.

In this powerful message, we explore the inspiring story of Joseph, a testament to unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Joseph's journey from pit to palace teaches us that God's plan unfolds in His perfect timing, even when circumstances seem dire. We learn that faithfulness in every season - whether in a pit, prison, or place of power - is crucial to fulfilling God's purpose for our lives. The message challenges us to stay faithful when we feel forgotten, reminding us that God never abandons His children. Joseph's ability to see God's hand in his trials, declaring 'you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good,' encourages us to trust in God's bigger picture. This story urges us to praise God in our 'prisons,' knowing that our current struggles may be preparing us for future blessings and opportunities to impact many lives.Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, “To dwell on the past simply causes failure in the present. While you are sitting down and bemoaning the past and regretting all the things you have not done, you are crippling yourself and preventing yourself from working in the present. Is that Christianity?Pastor Ray continues his series, Lessons For Life—From Heroes of the Faith with a message titled, “Failure Need Not Be Final”.

Max Lucado writes, “God has proven himself as a faithful father. Now it falls to us to be trusting children.”Pastor Ray shares his next message in the series Lessons for Life—From Heroes of the Faith, Abraham: Trust and Obey.

In this message, we look at the transformative story of Jacob wrestling with God. Pastor Ray reminds us that often there is a battle before the blessing and we are encouraged to hold onto God even when we are struggling. As we reflect on Jacob's transformation from a deceiver to a 'prince with God,' we're invited to consider how our own struggles might be pathways to deeper spiritual growth and a renewed perspective on God's grace.Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

The Bible is full of lessons for life that help us live for God and navigate the world we live in. Pastor Ray continues his message, "Josiah: Decluttering Your Soul."

In this message, Pastor Ray challenges us to examine the clutter in our souls that may be distancing us from God. The story of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22-23 serves as a compelling backdrop, showing how a young leader recognized the spiritual decay in his nation and took bold steps to rectify it. We're prompted to consider three types of clutter that can affect our spiritual lives: physical, emotional, and spiritual. Just as Josiah discovered the lost book of the law and used it to guide his reforms, we're encouraged to return to Scripture and allow it to illuminate the areas of our lives that need decluttering. The message draws interesting parallels between our modern struggles with materialism and the ancient Israelites' slide into idolatry, reminding us that prosperity can sometimes lead us astray rather than closer to God. As we reflect on this, we're invited to evaluate our own lives, identify the clutter that's accumulating, and take courageous steps to clear it away, renewing our devotion to Christ.Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

In this message, Bro. Ray explores the characteristics of a mature church through the lens of 2 Corinthians 8. The Macedonian churches, despite their poverty and affliction, set an inspiring example of joyful stewardship, earnest fellowship, and devoted discipleship. We're challenged to reflect on our own generosity, not as a means to earn salvation, but as a response to God's grace. True fellowship goes beyond mere socializing; it's about unifying in purpose, edifying one another, and boldly identifying with Christ.As we consider our role in the church, we're reminded that discipleship requires commitment and sacrifice. In a world hungry for hope, we're called to be difference-makers, giving ourselves first to the Lord and then to His mission. This teaching invites us to examine our hearts and ask: Are we consumers of faith or devoted disciples ready to change the world for Christ?Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. Our sermons podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing our sermons with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:- Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.com- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Heart Truth Devotions podcast: - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-truth-devotions/id1518661566- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/339RoxzO65vb8DX1P4E0YU?si=54f4735e6cc54fefFind us online - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothan- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==- YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothan- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1- Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org- WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church

Are you ready for the most important meeting of your life? This week, we look into 2 Corinthians 5:10, exploring the profound reality of the judgment seat of Christ. This isn't about salvation, but about how you live your life as a believer. One day, you'll stand before Christ, giving an account for how you used your God-given gifts and talents. This challenges us to live with purpose, making it our aim to please God in all we do. Reflect on your own priorities - are you investing in what truly matters for eternity? It's a call to live intentionally, recognizing that your actions today have eternal significance.

In this exploration of 2 Corinthians 4, we're reminded that our struggles and tribulations are not in vain. The apostle Paul's words resonate deeply, showing us that our 'light and momentary troubles' are preparing us for an eternal glory beyond compare. We're encouraged to shift our perspective from the temporal to the eternal, understanding that our physical bodies may be wasting away, but our inner selves are being renewed day by day. This message challenges us to see our difficulties through the lens of eternity, recognizing that God's power is often most evident in our weaknesses. We're called to remain faithful, knowing that our present afflictions are light and transient when viewed against the backdrop of eternity. This timeless wisdom invites us to strengthen our souls through obedience, truth, and walking in the Spirit, even as our outer selves face decay.

In this powerful message, we examine the story of Mary anointing Jesus with costly perfume, found in Mark 14. This act of extravagant devotion challenges us to examine our own commitment to Christ. Are we willing to give our best, our all, to Jesus? Mary's sacrifice teaches us that true worship often comes at a cost, but it's always worth it in God's eyes. The criticism she faced reminds us that following Jesus wholeheartedly may invite opposition, even from fellow believers. Yet, we're encouraged to keep our focus on pleasing God rather than people. This story beautifully illustrates that our acts of love and devotion to Christ can leave a lasting legacy, impacting generations to come. As we reflect on this, let's ask ourselves: What will be our 'alabaster jar' offering to Jesus? How can we demonstrate our love for Him in ways that might seem foolish to the world but precious to God?

Are we truly prepared for Christ's return? This message challenges us to examine our spiritual readiness. Drawing from Mark 13, we're reminded that Jesus himself warned his closest disciples about the potential to be led astray. This serves as a sobering reminder that even those who seem strong in faith can falter. To stay grounded, we must be informed by God's truth and vigilant against the schemes of the enemy. The message emphasizes three key preparations: being grounded in truth, staying guarded and alert, and allowing ourselves to be guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Just as Pearl Harbor was caught off-guard despite warnings, we too can be spiritually unprepared if we don't heed Christ's words. This isn't about fear, but about living with expectancy and purpose. Are we making the most of our 'right now' that counts forever?

In this message, we're challenged to discern truth from falsehood in our spiritual lives. Drawing from Mark 12:38-40, we're warned about the dangers of religious hypocrisy and the importance of authentic faith. The scribes of Jesus' time serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us that outward appearances can be deceiving. We're encouraged to look beyond flashy displays of piety and instead focus on the heart of true devotion. This lesson is particularly relevant in our modern world, where social media and public personas can easily mask our true spiritual condition. As we reflect on this teaching, we're prompted to examine our own motivations: Are we seeking God's glory or our own? Are our spiritual practices genuine or merely for show? By staying rooted in Scripture, filled with the Holy Spirit, and found in our Savior, we can develop the discernment needed to recognize and resist spiritual fakery, both in others and in ourselves.

In this exploration of Mark 12, we uncover the deceptive nature of religion and how it can be used to undermine truth. We're reminded that Jesus, the embodiment of truth, faced opposition from religious leaders who tried to trap Him with clever questions. Through three distinct scenarios - political arrogance, theological ignorance, and spiritual relevance - we see how the enemy still uses these tactics today to confuse and mislead us. The key lesson? We must be grounded in Scripture and truly know God's heart, not just religious knowledge. This message challenges us to move beyond surface-level faith and truly apply God's Word to our lives. Are we merely 'close' to the Kingdom, or have we fully embraced it? Let's examine our hearts and ensure we're not just debating God's commands, but obeying them.

The Resurrection was the ultimate proof that Jesus was who He said He was and that He did exactly what He said He would do. Pastor Ray continues our resurrection celebration with a message titled, "Just Like He Said He Would!"

Chip Ingram said, “The cross is the greatest example of humility and devotion in the universe. Jesus put your needs ahead of His own. He considered you more valuable than Himself.”Pastor Ray shares a Palm Sunday message titled, "The Pathway to the Cross."

Chuck Locke shares a message from Galatians 5 entitled, "Everyday Kindness."

Augustine said, “Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” Join us this Sunday as Pastor Ray shares a message titled, “Desperation that Led to Restoration” from his series, The Story of Jesus.

Dave Ramsey has written, True leadership is servanthood. Put the interests of others at the center of your decisions.Pastor Ray continues his series, The Story of Jesus with a message titled, “Kingdom Influencers.”

This week, we continue looking at the story of the rich young ruler and uncover profound truths about discipleship and the nature of following Christ. The central message challenges us to examine what truly controls our lives and whether we're willing to surrender everything to follow Jesus. We're confronted with the reality that positive qualities and sincere desires alone aren't enough - true discipleship requires complete surrender to Christ's lordship.

In this powerful exploration of discipleship, we look into the story of the rich young ruler from Mark 10. We're challenged to consider our own spiritual condition - are we, like the young man, eager to follow Jesus but blind to what truly controls our hearts?

Chase Faulk shares a message from Psalm 90 entitled, "Time Flies."

Chuck Locke shares a message from Galatians 5 entitled, "Everyday Patience."

Lance Griffin shares a message from Romans 12:2 entitled, "The Matter Of The Mind."

In this powerful message, we're challenged to examine what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ. The central scripture, Mark 8:31-38, reveals Jesus' call to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. This isn't a call to casual Christianity, but to a life of deep commitment and transformation. Just as maple syrup requires a painstaking process to refine raw sap into something valuable, our spiritual journey demands dedication and perseverance. We're reminded that there are no shortcuts in discipleship - it's a lifelong process of cultivating spiritual discernment, contemplating self-denial, and committing to serious devotion. The message encourages us to set our minds on things above, protect our thoughts with truth, and continually renew our minds through God's Word. As we grapple with the cost of following Jesus, we're also assured that the benefits are 'out of this world.' This teaching challenges us to move beyond surface-level faith and embrace a life fully devoted to Christ, no matter the cost.

In this powerful message, we're invited to explore the nature of faith that is both tried and triumphant. The story of the Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7 serves as our guide, revealing profound truths about tenacious belief. We learn that faith is not a spiritual game, a magic formula, or a blind leap, but rather a confident trust in Jesus Christ. As we journey through life, our faith will be tested, much like this woman's was. But her persistence teaches us the importance of remaining steadfast, even when faced with apparent rejection. The message challenges us to cultivate a faith that refuses to give up, believing that anything Jesus offers is better than what the world can provide. As we navigate our own spiritual battles, we're reminded that Jesus has power over darkness and that our tenacious faith can lead to triumphant outcomes, whether in this life or the next. This lesson encourages us to persevere in our faith journey, knowing that God honors those who trust Him wholeheartedly.

Andrew Murray wrote, “The world asks, ‘What does a man own?' Christ asks, ‘How does he use it?'” Pastor Ray concludes this series with his message, “The FaithfulSteward.”

Charles Spurgeon once said, “No man ever served God by doing things tomorrow.”Pastor Ray continues the series “Faithful” with his message titled The Faithful Servant.

As we embark on a new year, let's reflect on the profound importance of faithful worship in our spiritual lives. The message draws inspiration from Psalm 100, reminding us that worship is not a spectator sport, but a participatory event that should fill us with joy and gratitude.We're challenged to enter God's presence with gladness, even when we don't feel like it, understanding that this is both a command and a discipline. The power of gratitude is emphasized, not just for its physical and emotional benefits, but for its spiritual impact on our relationship with God. As we count our blessings and praise God for His goodness, we're reminded of His steadfast love that endures forever.This message encourages us to see God not as a distant, angry figure, but as a good and loving Father who delights in His creation. As we step into the new year, let's commit to being faithful worshipers, entering His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise, recognizing that true worship starts before we even enter the church building.

Watchman Nee wrote,  “Spiritual advancement is measured by faithful obedience.” As we start the new year, join us as Pastor Ray shares a message on how we can live faithfully for God in 2025.

In this message from Pastor Ray Jones, we're challenged to examine the authenticity of our faith.Are we like the Pharisees, holding to a superficial religion, or do we have a genuine, transformative relationship with God? The sermon dives into Mark 7, where Jesus confronts the Pharisees about their traditions and lip service to God. We're reminded that true faith isn't about outward appearances or rituals, but about a heart that's close to God.This message urges us to move beyond mere information about God to a life-changing transformation through Christ. It's a call to distinguish between human traditions and God's truth, encouraging us to base our faith on Scripture rather than cultural preferences or man-made doctrines.As we reflect on this, let's ask ourselves: Are we honoring God with our lips while our hearts are far from Him? Are we allowing God's Word to truly shape our lives, or are we clinging to our own traditions and comfort zones?

In this powerful exploration of the feeding of the 5,000, we're reminded of God's limitless provision and the importance of faith in seemingly impossible situations. This pivotal miracle, recounted in all four Gospels, teaches us that Jesus not only meets our physical needs but also nurtures our spiritual growth. As we face our own 'impossible' challenges, we're encouraged to bring what little we have to God, trusting Him to multiply it beyond our imagination. The story beautifully illustrates how God uses ordinary things - like five loaves and two fish - to accomplish extraordinary feats. It challenges us to examine our own faith: do we truly believe God can work miracles in our lives? This message urges us to pursue Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that He has compassion on us and sees our deepest needs. Let's be inspired to step out in faith, offering our 'loaves and fishes' to God, and watch in awe as He transforms them for His glory.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to consider our true identity as citizens of God's kingdom. Drawing from 2 Peter 3, we're reminded that while we live in this world, our ultimate allegiance is to Christ. The sermon emphasizes the urgency of living with kingdom intensity, recognizing that Christ's return is imminent. We're called to be alert, active, and purposeful in our faith, not relaxing our spiritual vigilance even in times of perceived victory. The parallels drawn between animal instincts before natural disasters and our need for spiritual alertness are particularly striking. This message encourages us to reevaluate our priorities, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary worldly concerns. It's a call to action for us to pray more, serve more, love more, and worship more, hastening the day of Christ's return through our active participation in God's mission.

In this powerful message rooted in Joel chapter 1, we're called to 'Wake Up' and recognize the spiritual challenges of our times. The prophet Joel's warnings to ancient Israel resonate deeply with our modern struggles. Just as locusts devastated the land then, our joy and spiritual vitality can be devoured by worldly distractions today. We're urged to notice the times, share about them, and respond with renewed devotion. The call to fast, gather in assembly, and cry out to God isn't just ancient history—it's a blueprint for our spiritual revival. As we face our own 'locusts,' whether they're complacency, materialism, or spiritual dryness, we're reminded that God has purposed us for these times. By seeking Him first and discipling others, we can find hope and purpose amidst the chaos. This message challenges us to move beyond simply noticing the world's problems to actively engaging in spiritual disciplines and community, allowing God's truth to guide our minds and His presence to be our greatest joy.

Watchman Nee wrote, “I need forgiveness for my sins, but I need also deliverance from the power of sin... I appreciate the blessed fact of God's forgiveness, but I want something more than that: I want deliverance. I need forgiveness for what I have done, but I need also deliverance from what I am.”Pastor Ray continues his series, The Story of Jesus with a message titled “Of Pigs and People.” 

In this powerful exploration of the Parable of the Sower, we delve into the four types of soil representing different conditions of the human heart. This parable, found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, offers profound insights into why people respond differently to God's Word. We're challenged to examine our own hearts: Are we the hard path where the Word is easily snatched away? The rocky ground where faith withers under pressure? The thorny soil where worldly concerns choke our spiritual growth? Or are we the good soil, producing a bountiful harvest? This message reminds us that our response to God's truth isn't just about hearing, but about how deeply we allow it to take root in our lives. It's a call to cultivate a receptive heart, one that not only perceives God's Word but preserves and produces fruit from it. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to consider the authenticity of our faith and the fruit it bears in our daily lives.