Ridgecrest Baptist Church - Sermons

It has been written… "I have learned to use the word “impossible” with the greatest caution.”Pastor Ray shares his Christmas message from his current series “Lessons For Life—From Heroes of the Faith” titled, Joseph & Mary…Believing God for Miracles.

This powerful exploration of 1 Samuel 15 confronts us with one of Scripture's most sobering warnings: the danger of spiritual drift. Through the tragic story of King Saul, we witness how even those who start their faith journey with humility and the Spirit's anointing can gradually turn away from God's path. Saul began as a humble leader, small in his own eyes, empowered by God's Spirit. Yet by the end of his reign, he had erected monuments to himself and substituted his own plans for God's commands. The concept of 'mission drift' applies not just to institutions like Harvard and Yale, which abandoned their Christian foundations, but to our individual lives. We learn that spiritual decline rarely happens overnight; it's a slow, imperceptible process where we convince ourselves nothing has changed even as the Spirit's presence fades. Three culprits emerge: success that makes us feel special and entitled to God's favor, self-sufficiency that replaces dependence on God with confidence in our own abilities, and staleness that reduces our relationship with God to empty religious routines. The most chilling lesson is that we can be miles away from God while still speaking spiritual language and going through the motions. This message challenges us to examine whether we're truly following God's way or simply baptizing our own plans with spiritual language, reminding us that partial obedience is complete disobedience in God's eyes.

In this powerful exploration of 1 Corinthians 9, we discover what it truly means to stay on course in our spiritual journey. The message opens with the moving story of Alexander Solzhenitsyn in a Siberian prison, ready to give up until a fellow believer drew the sign of the cross in the dirt—a simple reminder that reignited his hope and courage. This sets the stage for understanding how the gospel itself becomes our source of strength when we feel like quitting. The Apostle Paul's athletic metaphors come alive as we see three essential characteristics of faithful runners: devotion, determination, and discipline. Paul wasn't just casually strolling through his ministry; he was inspired by the transformative power of the gospel and motivated to share it with everyone he encountered. The message challenges us to examine what course we're running—are we following the crowd down the broad path, or taking the narrow road less traveled? Like Mike DelCavo in that cross-country race who went against 123 other runners and won because he chose the correct path, we're reminded that popularity doesn't equal correctness. The gospel gives us both the inspiration to begin the race and the motivation to finish it, even when we're lonely, persecuted, or exhausted. This isn't about legalistic striving but about purposeful living aligned with God's design for our lives.

This message takes us deep into Exodus 33, where we encounter Moses at over 80 years old, still hungry to know God more intimately. What a powerful reminder that spiritual growth never stops! The passage reveals a crucial distinction we often miss: there's a difference between knowing the acts of God and knowing the ways of God. Many of us can observe what God does—we see His miracles, His provisions, His interventions—but Moses wanted something deeper. He wanted to understand why God does what He does, to know the heart behind the hand. This comes only through personal revelation, through living in God's presence like a friend talks to a friend. The beautiful truth here is that God doesn't just tolerate our desire for more of Him—He wants us closer than we currently are. When Moses cried out, 'Show me Your glory,' God didn't hesitate. He made a way for Moses to experience Him in a transforming encounter. The result? Moses came down from the mountain so radiant with God's reflected glory that he had to veil his face. This is what happens when we stop settling for spiritual mediocrity and press into God's presence. We're challenged to examine whether we've lost our passion, to eliminate the clutter that's crowding out our intimacy with God, and to practice disciplined cultivation of our souls. The journey never ends, and God is always trying to take us somewhere new.

What does it truly mean to live a life that counts? This powerful exploration of Nehemiah's story challenges us to move beyond merely existing and step into the divine purpose God has designed for each of us. We discover that making a difference isn't about pursuing fleeting happiness, but about embracing meaning and mission. Nehemiah's journey to rebuild Jerusalem's walls becomes our blueprint for understanding three critical principles: recognizing the significance of our God-given mission, refusing to surrender to our fears, and rejecting the speculation of critics. The enemy uses distraction, compromise, and confusion to derail us from our calling, often getting us to 'negotiate' away the very things God has entrusted to us. But like Nehemiah, who boldly declared 'I am doing a great work and I cannot come down,' we're invited to stay focused on what matters eternally. This message reminds us that we were created for divine reasons, equipped with unique gifts and abilities to make our mark on both this world and the world to come. The question isn't whether we'll face obstacles—we will—but whether our faith will be stronger than our fears, and whether we'll allow God's mission to outweigh the voices of those who would pull us away from it.

Charles Spurgeon said, "I believe that one reason why the church of God at this present moment has so little influence over the world is because the world has so much influence over the church.” Pastor Ray shares a message titled, “Daniel: Don't Compromise” from his current series Lesson for Life— From Heroes of the Faith.

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.