Rock Harbor Church's The Anchor

What you value is not neutral. It is steering the entire direction of your life. In this message from Matthew 6:19 through 34, we explore Jesus' call to stop living for possessions and begin living for the Kingdom of God. Jesus teaches that: You cannot serve God and mammon at the same time. Your treasure pulls your heart toward whatever you pursue. A generous, Kingdom focused “good eye” fills your life with light. A greedy, materialistic “bad eye” fills your life with darkness. Worrying over money and needs reveals the true object of your trust. We walk through how: Not valuing possessions enough to seek them, in verses 19 through 24, breaks the grip of materialism and exposes the idolatry that often hides in modern Christian life. Not valuing possessions enough to worry about them, in verses 25 through 34, frees your heart to trust your heavenly Father who feeds the birds and clothes the lilies. At the center of this message is Jesus' command: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 NKJV. When God's Kingdom is placed first, your priorities shift, your anxiety decreases, your generosity grows, and your trust in the Father deepens. If your life has been driven by security, comfort, or accumulation, this message will challenge you and call you back to one Master, one vision, and one treasure. Watch now to understand how what you value drives your life and how to realign your heart, your money, and your worries with the Kingdom of God.

In part 2 of this message, Pastor Brandon unpacks Jesus' teaching on how to pray effectively, not like the hypocritical religious leaders or the mindless pagans, but in a way that truly connects with the heart of God. Jesus warns us against praying for attention, using empty repetition, or treating prayer like a performance. Instead, He gives us the Lord's Prayer, not as a ritual to recite, but as a template for meaningful, personal, and powerful communication with our Father in heaven. Discover how to: ✅ Pray with sincerity, not showmanship ✅ Align your will with God's purposes ✅ Build a private, authentic relationship with the Father ✅ Use the Lord's Prayer as a framework for deeper, effective prayer Let Jesus' words transform your prayer life from routine to relationship!

In this message, Pastor Brandon unpacks the true meaning of the Lord's Prayer from a powerful Jewish perspective—revealing its depth as a model for daily prayer and its prophetic connection to the coming Kingdom of God.   Jesus taught that prayer was never meant to be a performance, but a private conversation with our Father. Through this teaching, we see how genuine prayer transforms character, develops faith, and prepares believers for eternal reward at the Bema Seat of Christ.   From “hallowing God's name” to “Your kingdom come, Your will be done,” this study brings clarity to what Messiah intended—showing that the Lord's Prayer is both a personal guide and an eschatological cry for the day when Christ will reign from Jerusalem.   Watch as Pastor Brandon exposes hypocrisy in prayer, addresses pagan repetition, and calls believers back to intimate, faith-filled communication with God.  

In this message, Pastor Brandon breaks down Jesus' powerful teaching in Matthew 6:1–18 — exposing the difference between doing the right thing for the wrong reason and living for the audience of One.   Jesus warned that even good spiritual disciplines — giving, praying, and fasting — can be corrupted by pride when our goal is to be seen by men. The question isn't just what we do for God… it's why we do it.   When you give in secret, pray sincerely, and fast privately, Jesus promises that “your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” It's not about religious performance — it's about pure motives, private devotion, and eternal reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10).   Discover how to: ✅ Guard your heart from hypocrisy ✅ Develop a private devotional life that pleases God ✅ Trade human applause for heavenly reward  

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 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 #PushBackDarkness #BuildTheGood

**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 = “change your mind.” Lay down false assurances and self-condemnation; receive Christ's finished work. - **Stand as a watchman:** Measure cultural issues by Scripture and warn in love. - **Choose wise battles:** Like Jesus, engage with discernment—truth with timing. --- ### If this blessed you: 1) **Like • Subscribe • Bell** to push past the algorithm.   2) **Pray** for boldness, protection, and fruit.   3) **Support the work** so we can keep producing and traveling for biblical content.   Give here: YOUR-DONATION-LINK

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.

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.

In this teaching, we dive into the epic showdown between Jesus and Satan in the wilderness—and why it matters for YOU today!   ✡️ Jesus as Israel's Representative – For 40 years, Israel failed in the wilderness. But in 40 days, Jesus perfectly obeyed the Father, proving He is the faithful Servant who will one day restore Israel.  

Jesus' baptism was not for repentance but for identification. Through His baptism, Jesus deliberately identified Himself with key truths and people, laying the foundation for His public ministry and ultimate mission. As Jesus identified publicly with God's plan, we must identify with Him publicly—refusing to compromise, even in a world that rejects Him (Luke 9:23–26; 1 John 2:28).  Identity is the starting point for destiny. Both Jesus and Satan have a plan for your life, but each begins with how you see yourself. Your identity determines your destiny. True identity is found in Christ—when you see yourself as God sees you, you can live out the destiny He designed. When we stand with Him publicly and reject Satan's lies, we live out God's plan with confidence, hope, and purpose.

What is true freedom—and how do we lose it? In this powerful Fourth of July message, Pastor Brandon Holthaus walks us through Exodus 1–20, revealing how the Bible—not human philosophy—is the true foundation of liberty. From Egypt's tyranny to America's founding, from spiritual slavery to salvation in Christ, this message exposes the lies of modern culture and reminds us that *freedom must be fought for, maintained, and grounded in truth*. You'll discover: - How the founding fathers leaned on Exodus to shape America - The dangers of collective guilt and cultural consent to evil - Why tyranny thrives in a climate of lies and silence - How God delivers us not just *from* slavery—but *for* service to Him - Why freedom without morality leads back to bondage - The personal and national cost of liberty

In this sermon entitled "The Engine That Drives Behavior," Pastor Brandon unpacks the bold message  of John the Baptist in Matthew 3:5–12, calling the nation of Israel to genuine repentance. But repentance wasn't just about sorrow or surface-level change—it was a radical call to change  their thinking about the deeply ingrained teachings of Rabbinic Judaism. John confronts the false assumptions that had taken root: - That being Jewish guaranteed entrance into the Kingdom. - That the Messiah would affirm their traditions. - That external law-keeping was enough for righteousness. - That salvation could be earned or inherited by Israel through “the merits of the fathers.” - That Gentiles had to convert to Judaism and keep the Noahic laws to be saved. - That there were multiple ways to be spiritually reborn and none of them included how Jesus explained it.  John's call to repentance challenged Israel to abandon these theological distortions from the rabbis  and recognize their need for Messiah—the Lamb of God. This repentance was not theoretical. In Luke 3:10–14, John outlines what true repentance looks like:  justice, integrity, generosity, and contentment—right belief producing right behavior. True change doesn't start with action—it starts with conviction, with the truth renewing the mind. This message explores how belief (change of one's mind in relationship to truth) is the engine  that drives godly behavior, and how embracing God's truth transforms not just what we believe—but how we live.

In this powerful message from Matthew 3:1–12, we unpack the real purpose behind John the Baptist's ministry—and how it demanded a radical shift in Israel's perspective. John wasn't just calling for personal reflection—he was announcing the soon arrival of YHWH and the literal, physical, Messianic Kingdom promised to Israel. This wasn't some vague Greco-Roman idea of an inner kingdom in the heart. It was a national, earthly reign just as the prophets foretold. John's baptism symbolized a public commitment to believe God's message and accept the Messiah when He appeared. It pointed forward to the cleansing and forgiveness God would offer through Jesus (cf. Ezekiel 36:25–27; Zechariah 13:1). Those who believed John's message were spiritually prepared for the coming of Christ. This sermon invites you to reconsider your own perspective. Are you seeing reality clearly—or through the wrong lens?

What sets apart those who truly make a difference in their generation? In this video, we explore powerful traits from Scripture—demonstrated by leaders like David, Nehemiah, Joseph, Paul, and Abraham—that show us how God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. From facing the truth and mastering self-control to trusting God for the impossible, each principle is rooted in the lives of real people who allowed God to shape their character for eternal impact.

In this powerful expositional teaching, Pastor Brandon dives deep into Matthew 2 and uncovers the profound Hebrew roots behind the visit of the Magi. Far from a typical Christmas message, this lesson reveals the rich prophetic and historical context of Jesus' birth, showing how His arrival was anything but mythical—it was calculated, confirmed, and foretold. Discover: The true timeline of Jesus' birth (6–7 BC) Why the Magi believed in the Messiah and made the two-year journey How Balaam's prophecy and Daniel's influence shaped their faith What the star really was (hint: it wasn't a planet or asteroid) The sinister character of Herod—and how his reaction mirrors today's culture This message isn't just about ancient history—it's a wake-up call for our times. Just like the first century, our generation is either hostile, indifferent, or hungry for the true King. Which are you?

In this powerful Memorial Day message, Evangelist Tim Lee shares his life-altering story—from the battlefield in Vietnam to the pulpit as a preacher of the Gospel. After losing both legs in combat, Tim's journey took a radical turn when he surrendered to Jesus Christ.

In this powerful and eye-opening message, we walk through the true significance of the Lord's Supper by uncovering its roots in the Jewish Passover Seder. Far from being a casual tradition, Communion is a sacred symbol of our Messiah's suffering, sacrifice, and the call to remain in deep fellowship with Him. Discover: The prophetic meaning behind each Passover element How Jesus modeled servant leadership by washing the disciples' feet The warning of partaking in the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner The roles of Elijah, broken bread, and the cup of redemption Why fellowship—not just salvation—impacts your eternal reward This message will stir your heart and bring new life to a sacred practice that many have overlooked. Don't miss this deep dive into the mystery, beauty, and call to action that the Lord's Table represents.

We are witnessing a global surge of antisemitism—disguised as a fight for “human rights” and cloaked in the language of anti-Zionism. Millions now believe the lie that Jews are colonial occupiers in their own ancestral homeland, ignoring international law and the historical record—including Israel's defensive wars and 2005 withdrawal from Gaza. What most miss is that this hatred is not political—it is deeply spiritual. The same demonic hatred that fueled Pharaoh, Haman, and Hitler now fuels radical groups, international institutions, college campuses, and even churches. After October 7, 2023, anti-Jewish attacks exploded worldwide—while leaders, pastors, and denominations remained silent or, worse, sided with the enemies of Israel. This silence in the Church stems from Replacement Theology—a false teaching that God has abandoned Israel and has replaced Israel with the Church. But Scripture is clear: Israel remains God's chosen people, the land belongs to them, and one day “all Israel will be saved” (Romans 11:26) when they believe in Yeshua, the Messiah. This is a call for Christians to wake up. Anti-Zionism isn't just hatred—it's a denial of Israel's right to exist. And to deny that is to side with evil and against God.

In this Sunday message from Matthew 1:16–21, Pastor Brandon unpacks the powerful doctrine of the Virgin Conception—a truth that goes far beyond the miraculous. Learn how Jesus' birth fulfills the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants, affirms God's unwavering faithfulness, and establishes Christ's legal and divine right to the throne of David. We'll explore how this foundational event speaks to our lives today: God can do the impossible Jesus brings life where there is none Obedience, though costly, leads to blessing Whether you're a believer needing encouragement or someone exploring the claims of Christ, discover why the Virgin Conception still matters—and what it reveals about God's love, power, and purpose for you.  

Welcome to Rock Harbor Church. In today's message, Pastor Brandon launches a deep new series through the Gospel of Matthew — but with a powerful difference: this journey is through a Jewish lens, uncovering rich layers often missed by Gentile readers. In this first session, "The Genealogy of the Messiah," Pastor Brandon shows how Matthew intentionally presents Jesus as the promised, Davidic Shepherd-King, using Jewish customs, Old Testament prophecy, and even subtle numeric clues like the significance of the number 14. Learn why understanding the Jewish background is vital to grasping the full beauty of the Gospel — and how Matthew reveals Jesus' rightful claim as the Messiah through His genealogy. You'll discover: Why the genealogy matters and how it proved Jesus' rightful claim as Messiah How Matthew answers deep Jewish questions about the kingdom, the Messiah's mission, and Israel's rejection The amazing inclusion of Gentiles and broken people in the Messiah's lineage — and what that means for us today How Jesus fulfills the covenant promises made to Abraham and David Why God uses broken vessels — like you and me — for His glorious purposes No matter your past, God can use your life. Be encouraged to step forward, live boldly for His kingdom, and proclaim His truth in these critical times.

Matthew 28:1–20  The evidence is in. The resurrection happened. Now comes the question every soul must answer. In this powerful message, we unpack the most historically credible and spiritually significant event in human history—the resurrection of Jesus the Messiah— Explore how rejection of the resurrection is often rooted not in lack of evidence, but in a refusal to surrender. The stone wasn't rolled away to let Jesus out—but to demonstrate the evidence.  The resurrection always provokes a wide spectrum of responses throughout time: Some mock, some fear, some continue to spread lies—and others worship the risen Savior. Discover why your reaction to the resurrection determines your eternity. From the trembling guards to the commissioned disciples, we trace the unfolding drama of the resurrection and its world-shaking aftermath. This message draws a bold line between ancient reactions and modern hearts.

What if the last words of Jesus on the cross  were a blueprint for your spiritual journey back to God?   In this in-depth teaching, we explore the Seven Sayings of the Messiah on the Cross as a divine progression—from salvation offered, to salvation received, and ultimately, to the maturing of discipleship and restoration of fellowship with God. Each word is more than a statement—it's a step.  

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In this powerful exploration of Genesis 49, we dive deep into Jacob's prophecy over his son Judah and the profound revelation of the Messiah who will emerge from Judah's lineage. Join us as we unpack the rich Christology, the promise of the coming King, and what it truly means to understand Jesus as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. Discover how this prophecy connects to both the first and second comings of Christ, and what it means for believers today. Learn about the fierce spiritual and physical victory Jesus holds over His enemies, and how we, as believers, are called to live faithfully in anticipation of His kingdom. Don't miss this compelling sermon that will challenge you to consider: Who truly rules in the Kingdom?

Description: Does God truly provide for all our needs? Genesis 45:16-28 reveals how God's provision goes beyond what we expect or deserve. Jacob, in despair and famine, could not have imagined the overwhelming blessings that awaited him—his long-lost son, Joseph, was alive, wealth beyond measure, and restoration beyond his dreams.

The Revealing | Genesis 45:1-28

The Anchor | Self-Sacrifice Is the Basis for Reconciliation Genesis 44;4-28; 45;1-10

The Test of Hesed | Genesis 43:19-34; 44:1-34

Passing the Test of Jealousy Genesis 43:1-34

Wake Up! Genesis 42:1-38 Joseph's testing of his brothers was a pivotal part of God's plan to channel His blessing through Abraham's descendants. These tests were necessary to ensure the brothers' faithfulness before they could share in the blessing of becoming a great nation in Egypt. Joseph's subtle methods encouraged the brothers to acknowledge their guilt for their actions against him and demonstrate genuine change. This scene reflects a reversal of earlier events: Joseph, once oppressed, now wielded authority to test his brothers. By accusing them of being spies and imprisoning them, Joseph created circumstances that mirrored their treatment of him. The pressure was deliberate, aimed at awakening their consciences and prompting them to recognize God's hand in their situation.  Both Joseph's intentional testing and the brothers' realization that God was addressing their past sins, shows His providential hand in preparing them for their role in His greater plan.

Acceptable Sacrifice Before Exaltation | Genesis 41:42-57

Our Relationship with Power: Recognizing the Source Genesis 41:1-57

The Coming of the Logos, Life, and Light   John 1:1-5, 10-14, 17-18

Persevering Through Hindrances | Genesis 40:16-23

Being a Survivor Instead of a Victim | Genesis 37:20-23, 40:1-23

This next election is pivotal for how fast things will move towards a one world government and towards absolute evil in every sector of society.  There is a lot a stake such as censorship, open borders, false religions, AI control, less freedom, and rampant sexual immorality.  Let's look at how Ester faced her decision to stand for the truth and apply what she did to our situation. 

Boundaries are crucial for us to prevent sin, set limits, and take responsibility for our own behavior.  In this message, we learn from Joseph's example who dealt with Potiphar's wife's sexual advances how to set and maintain proper boundaries to protect ourselves from sin. 

In a world where temptation and sin are often celebrated and openly promoted, resisting the pull of worldly desires is a constant challenge. While we cannot avoid being tempted by the influences of the world, the devil, and our own flesh, we can learn how to win the battle against temptation. The story of Joseph's resistance to Potiphar's wife's advances offers a powerful example of how to uphold moral purity and resist temptation. Joseph's steadfastness and commitment to God provide a clear roadmap for navigating a culture that seeks to lead us astray, showing us how to stand firm in our Biblical values and maintain our integrity, even when sin is directly placed before us.

Resisting the Corruption of the Established Order - Part 2 | Genesis 38:1-30

Resisting the Corruption of the Established Order | Genesis 38:1-30

Dealing With Betrayal Genesis 37:25-36

The Removal Of The Ideal Genesis 35:9-35