Rock Harbor Church

Jesus teaching, Matthew 6, motives, hypocrisy, secret reward, judgment seat of Christ, righteousness, spiritual disciplines, fasting, prayer, giving, Pharisees, Sermon on the Mount, eternal rewards, Pastor Brandon Holthaus, Rock Harbor Church, Tip of the Spear Ministries, Free Grace, grace teaching, living for God, Christian discipleship, faith that pleases God

In this teaching, Pastor Brandon walks through powerful Hebraic idioms found in Ecclesiastes and the Song of Solomon. From "there is nothing new under the sun" to "catch the little foxes that spoil the vines," this message uncovers timeless truths about human nature, spiritual warfare, and relationships. Learn how Solomon's wisdom reveals the futility of life "under the sun" apart from God, why sin and deception are simply recycled patterns, and how only divine revelation breaks those cycles. Then, journey into the Song of Solomon to explore how small, unchecked compromises—the "little foxes"—can destroy intimacy in marriages, families, and faith. This message offers biblical insight into: • Recognizing the repetitive nature of sin and Satan's tactics • Breaking generational and personal cycles through God's revelation • Understanding the risk of faith and stepping into God's calling • Identifying and removing the "foxes" that damage relationships • Applying healthy communication, boundaries, and spiritual maturity Whether in marriage, family, or personal growth, this study reveals how the Lord calls us to rise above the monotony of "under the sun" and live in the light of His truth. **Scripture References:** Ecclesiastes 1:9 • Ecclesiastes 11:1 • Song of Solomon 2:15 • 1 Corinthians 5:11 • Psalm 139:23–24 #BibleStudy #Hebraisms #Ecclesiastes #SongOfSolomon #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianTeaching #Relationships #Faith #Marriage #Discipleship #RockHarborChurch

In this message, Pastor Brandon unpacks Matthew 5:33–48 and shows how kingdom living sometimes looks like losing now—but it's actually trading up forever. Jesus calls us to radical honesty, refusal to retaliate, open-handed generosity, and love for enemies. Each choice may seem like a worldly disadvantage, yet heaven's ledger records it as eternal gain (Matthew 5:12; 6:19–21). Key Points • Truthfulness (vv. 33–37): Let your "Yes" be yes—no spin, just integrity before God. • Non-retaliation (vv. 38–42): "Turn the other cheek." Strength under control reflects the King. • Generosity (v. 42): Give and lend without calculating payback; trust the Father to repay. • Enemy-love (vv. 43–48): Pray for those who oppose you—showing the family resemblance to your Father in heaven. Why it Matters Choosing truth over image, mercy over payback, and generosity over self-protection may cost you now—but Christ promises greater reward and deeper Christlikeness that lasts forever. Call to Action If this message encouraged you, please like, share, and subscribe. Comment below: Where is Jesus calling you to "lose" now for eternal gain?

In this powerful Bible teaching, we explore several profound Hebrew expressions found throughout Scripture—from "the apple of your eye" to "the king's heart in the hand of the Lord." Pastor Brandon Holthaus unpacks the deep Hebraic meaning behind these phrases and connects them to how we understand God's providence, human free will, and the believer's walk of faith. You'll discover how God's Word reveals your true reflection, how spiritual hunger grows through Scripture, and why treasuring the Word is vital in a time when a famine of truth has fallen on the church. This message also touches on the sobering reality of God's discipline, the cycle of sin described in Proverbs, and the eternal hope that awaits every believer beyond this life—reminding us that heaven is far greater than we can imagine.

In this message, Pastor Brandon continues our study in the Gospel of Matthew—focusing on the **Sermon on the Mount**, where the Messiah reveals His divine authority to correctly interpret the Law of Moses. Jesus contrasts His interpretation with that of the Pharisees, exposing the difference between **external religion** and **internal righteousness**. He reveals that true righteousness comes from the heart—not mere outward obedience. Pastor Brandon also explains: - Why Jesus said He came not to destroy the Law but to fulfill it - The difference between the **Law of Moses** and the **Law of the Messiah** - The eternal moral principles that still apply today - How selective, "cafeteria-style" Christianity affects rewards in the Kingdom - The danger of false teaching, cultural compromise, and the need to stand firm in biblical truth This message challenges all believers to walk in holiness, discern truth from deception, and boldly proclaim Christ in an age of moral confusion.

Jesus didn't call us to be a condiment; He called us to be a covenant presence—salt that preserves and light that exposes. This message lays out a practical, biblical game plan for engaging culture, confronting lies, pushing back evil, and preserving what's good in our cities, schools, and public square. What you'll learn Salt ≠ seasoning: it's about permeation & preservation, not making sin palatable (Matt 5:13–16, NKJV). How to engage politically and publicly without losing your soul (Acts 5:29; 1 Pet 2:12). A step-by-step Salt & Light Strategy to slow moral decay, expose darkness, and build the good (Eph 5:11; Rom 12:21). How ordinary believers become change agents: showing up, speaking truth in love, and serving your community. The Salt & Light Strategy (5 moves) Permeate – Get out of the shaker: show up at school boards, councils, neighborhoods (Jer 29:7). Preserve – Hold the line against decay: defend life, marriage, family, and truth (Prov 24:11–12; Mic 6:8). Expose – Shine on lies and works of darkness with grace and courage (Eph 5:11; Isa 5:20). Build – Plant what's good: discipleship, mercy ministries, parallel institutions (Isa 58:12). Bless – Pray for leaders, do good works that point to the Father (1 Tim 2:1–2; Matt 5:16). Action steps this week Pick one arena (home, school, city, workplace) and show up. Tell the truth kindly once a day—online or in person. Adopt one local need (foster care, tutoring, food insecurity) and serve. Form a 3–5 person prayer/discipleship cell and commit to one public act of good each month. Hashtags #SaltAndLight #ResistTheRot #ChristianWorldview #PublicFaith #EngageTheCulture #Matthew5 #NKJV #TruthInLove #PushBac

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In this powerful message, Pastor Brandon unpacks the deeper meaning of Psalm 23, exploring Hebraic idioms such as *"the valley of the shadow of death"* and *"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies."* Learn the cultural, historical, and theological background behind these phrases, how they point to Christ, and what they mean for us today as believers walking through perilous and dark times. Pastor Brandon also brings real-life application: God's rod and staff guiding us, His promise of vindication, and His covenant hospitality even in the midst of our enemies. You'll be encouraged to trust the Shepherd's leading, receive His provision, and rest in the hope of vindication through Christ.

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, how do we respond? The culture is shifting fast, Christians are being targeted, and the pressure to compromise is growing. In this message, Pastor Brandon walks through the biblical principles of making good decisions—especially in times of anger, fear, confusion, and pressure. Learn how Scripture guides us, why seeking counsel matters, and how to avoid the traps of settling for "good" instead of God's best. This lesson reminds us that in every choice, we must align with God's Word, stay faithful under pressure, and live out our calling with courage.

In this powerful teaching, Pastor Brandon unpacks the principle of **collective guilt** from Nehemiah 13:18 and shows how Israel's failure to keep the Sabbath years led to the Babylonian exile. He explains how patterns of sin can be passed down generationally—and why we must be the ones to break those destructive cycles in our families.  This message also dives into spiritual warfare through the book of Job, revealing Satan's surveillance, schemes, and attempts to rob believers of their influence. Pastor Brandon explores the symbolism of **Behemoth and Leviathan**, connecting them to biblical themes of chaos, pride, and ultimately Satan's opposition to God.  From generational cycles to perseverance through suffering, this teaching is a call for believers to wake up, stand firm, and trust in God's power to overcome darkness.  

In this message, Pastor Brandon explores powerful biblical idioms and what they reveal about God's presence and purpose in our lives. From the phrase "the hand of the Lord was upon him" in Ezra to Jesus "setting His face toward Jerusalem," Pastor Brandon unpacks how these expressions point us to God's providence, guidance, empowerment, and calling. You'll learn how to recognize God's hand in your own life, how to walk with direction and perseverance, and how to understand the gifts He has entrusted to you. This teaching will encourage you to trust God's providence, embrace your calling, and live with purpose.

**When God Turns Disgrace into Glory — Matthew 4 Explained** In Matthew 4, Jesus relocates His headquarters to **Capernaum** in **Galilee**—a region many considered disgraced and unlikely for the Messiah. Yet this is exactly where the Light dawns. In this message we unpack why Jesus chose Galilee, what "**Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand**" truly means, and why pastors must serve as **watchmen** who speak to the moral and political realities of their day. ### What You'll Learn - **Why Galilee?** How a land once marked by shame became the launchpad of Messiah's ministry (Isa 9:1–2; Matt 4:12–17). - **Prophets & Pastors as Watchmen:** John the Baptist confronted corrupt power (Herod/Herodias) and suffered for it—modeling the church's duty to apply Scripture to culture (Ezek 33; Acts 20). - **"Kingdom at Hand" Clarified:** Understanding God's kingdom program—universal, theocratic (past), spiritual (present), mystery (church age), and **messianic** (future millennial reign). - **Strategic Wisdom of Jesus:** Why Jesus avoided premature conflict and set up in a high-traffic hub where news would spread quickly. - **From Guilt to Grace:** How the Lord transforms the "Galilee" of our lives—our failure and shame—into places of light, freedom, and calling (Rom 8:1; 1 Jn 1:9). - **The Rejected Stone:** The world's "discarded" stones become God's cornerstones in Christ (Ps 118:22; 2 Cor 5:17; Col 2:14). ### Key Scriptures Matthew 4:12–25; Isaiah 9:1–2; Ezekiel 33; Acts 20:26–27; Luke 4:16–30; John 4:43–45; Psalm 118:22; John 5:24; Romans 8:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 John 1:9; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 2:14. --- ### Apply It - **Reset your mindset:** Repent = "chan

In this teaching, Pastor Brandon examines what it means to "sell yourself to do evil" (1 Kings 21) and the serious implications of this contractual, covenantal language. From Ahab and Jezebel's idolatry to modern-day occult practices, he shows how selling oneself to sin is a transactional surrender to demonic authority—but also how God provides a way back through repentance and restoration. You'll also hear insights into: ✅ How Jezebel introduced false gods into Israel ✅ Why Ahab's weakness allowed the Jezebel spirit to thrive ✅ The biblical truth behind "selling your soul" and demonic covenants ✅ Why no covenant with the occult is permanent—freedom is always possible through Christ ✅ The Hebraism of God "removing His face" and the danger of being out of fellowship ✅ The seriousness of sin, repentance, and walking in covenant blessing ✅ The true meaning of being strong in the Lord—not fleshly strength, but strength in His promises The call is clear: Don't be deceived by false power or worldly gain. The enemy may offer fame, wealth, or seduction, but it always comes at a price of destruction. True blessing is found in fellowship with God and in ministering to others through the strength He provides. For more teachings and resources, visit:

Welcome to Rock Harbor Church's Sermon Audio channel. In this powerful message, Pastor Brandon unpacks key Hebraisms and idiomatic expressions from Scripture, showing how they reveal God's ownership, authority, and eternal covenant with His people. From the priestly blessing in Numbers to the prophetic visions in Revelation, Pastor Brandon explains why God placing His name on His people and His land is central to understanding Israel, the Church, and the spiritual battle we face today. This teaching dives deep into: - God's name as a mark of ownership and authority - Why Israel and Jerusalem remain central to God's plan - The biblical roots of anti-Semitism - The dangers of moral relativism in Judges and its connection to modern culture - David as "a man after God's own heart" and what that really means - The consequences of private sin becoming public fallout - The true meaning of the "still small voice" as the voice of the remnant

Before Jesus began His ministry, He faced the full force of Satan's temptations. In Part 3 of our Matthew study, we look at the third temptation—how the enemy uses doubt, distortion, and deception, and how Jesus shows us the way to overcome. [Full Description Below ⬇️] Description (Full): In this week's message, *Messiah's Temptation from the Father of Lies | Part 3*, we continue our deep study in Matthew by examining the third temptation of Jesus. Before beginning His ministry, the Messiah faced direct attacks from Satan. These temptations reveal timeless truths about how the enemy works—and how we can stand firm in God's strength. Pastor Brandon unpacks the spiritual battle behind temptation, showing us that whenever we step out in faith and obedience, we should expect pushback. Satan's tactics—doubt, denial, distortion, and deception—are still at work today. Yet, Jesus shows us how to overcome: by clinging to God's Word, refusing compromise, and worshiping God alone. We also explore practical applications for our lives: - Recognizing spiritual attacks when we step out in ministry. - Understanding the pattern of temptation that affects families, marriages, and churches. - Guarding against covetousness and idolatry by desiring God above all else. Jesus' victory over temptation assures us that He is our faithful High Priest who sympathizes with our struggles (Hebrews 4:15). He overcame so that we might overcome in Him.

Welcome to Rock Harbor Church's channel on Sermon Audio. We pray this message strengthens your faith and deepens your walk with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In this teaching, Pastor Brandon unpacks the profound biblical concepts of profaning the name of God and the cultural, covenantal, and spiritual significance of head coverings. Journey through Scripture from Leviticus to 1 Corinthians 11, explore the ancient Near Eastern shame culture, and discover how these practices connect to Genesis 6, the Nephilim, and the spiritual warfare believers face today. Pastor Brandon reveals the biblical pattern of spiritual authority, the dangers of rebellion, and the way fallen angels exploit breaches in God's order. Drawing from Jewish background, Second Temple literature, and modern parallels, this message sheds light on modesty, authority, and the unseen battle in the spiritual realm.

In this powerful and heartfelt service, Rabbi Jonathan Klein from Temple Beth El joins Pastor Brandon at Rock Harbor Church for a moving time of unity, gratitude, and shared faith. Rabbi Klein shares his deep appreciation for the Christian community's support of Israel — from providing security to raising funds — and reflects on the biblical and spiritual connections between the Jewish and Christian faiths. The service includes meaningful scripture, Hebrew blessings, worship, and a reminder of God's call for unity among His people. Pastor Brandon follows with a message on the second temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4, revealing how the "pride of life" tempts us to find our worth outside of God. This teaching explores: - How the enemy attacks identity - Why knowing who you are in Christ is key to overcoming temptation - The importance of humility, obedience, and living to exalt God's name rather than our own Whether you are Jewish or Christian, this service is a powerful reminder of our shared calling to honor God, love one another, and stand together for what is right.