Podcasts about pastor eric

Blessed Are — Part 1: Blessed Are Those Who Mourn Description: In Part 1 of Blessed Are, Pastor Eric opens the Beatitudes by slowing down on one of Jesus' most counterintuitive promises: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). This message clarifies that mourning isn't only about grief after loss—though Jesus absolutely meets us there. It is also, and most importantly, about mourning over sin: seeing our fallenness clearly, becoming broken before God, and running to the only Savior who can forgive, cleanse, and comfort. From James 4, John 6, John 10, Psalm 42, and Lamentations, Eric shows that the path to comfort is not denial, self-justification, or religious performance. Comfort comes through surrender—submitting to God, resisting the devil, drawing near to the Lord, and letting repentance become honest sorrow rather than shallow regret. Eric also addresses why sin is tempting “for a season,” why it always damages the soul, and why God's heart toward the repentant is not condemnation but restoration. The message then widens to the other “layers” of mourning: death, broken relationships, dashed dreams, wounds no one sees, and the long ache of grief that can feel like waves and billows rolling over the soul. In those places, believers are called to expect Jesus in their grief—to lament, to hope, to wait quietly, and to receive God's lovingkindness that holds steady in the dark. Finally, Eric calls the church to live as Christ's body: God comforts by His Spirit, and He comforts through His people. We are meant to carry comfort to one another—praying, showing up, and becoming tangible reminders that mourners are not alone. Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:4; James 4:7–10; Hebrews 11:24–27; John 6:35–40; Matthew 11:28–30; John 10:27–30; Psalm 42:1–7; Lamentations 3:22–26; 2 Corinthians 1:3–4; Romans 10:13. Highlights: “Blessed are those who mourn” has layers, but it begins with mourning over sin. Repentance isn't humiliation—it's the doorway to comfort, cleansing, and freedom. Sin is pleasurable “for a season,” but it always wounds the soul and harms others. God does not discipline to demean; He draws sinners in to restore them. Jesus' comfort is not an empty offer—He keeps His promises: “I will by no means cast out.” Salvation is receiving a gift, not earning a reward—religion says “perform,” Christ says “receive.” Assurance for believers: Jesus holds His sheep, and no one can pluck them from His hand. Grief is real and biblical: Psalm 42 gives language for sorrow, tears, questions, and hope. Lament is not unbelief—it is faith speaking honestly in pain. God's mercies are new every morning; the call is to get up again and hope in Him. The church is called to comfort one another with the comfort we've received from God. Next Steps: Ask God to show you which kind of mourning you need right now—and respond with one concrete act of faith. If you're mourning over sin: confess it plainly, turn from it, and come to Jesus for cleansing. If you're mourning loss: lament honestly, bring your questions to God, and ask Him to meet you in the waves. If you're stuck in cycles: thank God you got up again, then take one next step toward freedom. If someone near you is mourning: obey the nudge—pray, reach out, and offer comfort in Jesus' name.

Before Gideon arrived on the battlefield, he won the battle alone, afraid, and hidden at an altar. Before strategy, before miracles, and before victory, God demanded one thing: peace built through surrender. In this message, Pastor Eric unpacks why fire only falls in the right order and why your public victory may be waiting on a private altar.Scripture referenced in this message:· Judges 6:22-23 · Judges 6:24· Judges 6:20-24· Judges 6:28 Learn more about salvation, info about Destiny Church, or how to give by visiting our website.Real | Relevant | Relationship

Send us a text In this episode of the Healing the City Podcast, Pastor Eric spends focused time with Tom Caylor reflecting on his life story. Together they explore the power of calling and forgiveness, and how those two realities have shaped Tom's journey and deepened his understanding of who Jesus is. Support the show"Healing the City" is a profound and dynamic weekly podcast that dives into the complexities of creating healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of the esteemed members of the Village Church, each episode is thoughtfully crafted to address the challenges and opportunities for meaningful change in our cities. With a holistic approach to healing, the podcast explores a wide range of topics, from soul care and spiritual direction to mental health and community involvement. It provides listeners with insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on the issues facing our cities, as well as practical steps they can take to make a difference. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as they navigate the complexities of our communities with wisdom, grace, and a deep commitment to positive change. Through their engaging discussions, listeners will be inspired to become active participants in healing the city and creating a brighter, healthier future for all. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Sunday Service . "Living the Spirit Filled Life - Part 2" Pastor Eric Johns 01/18/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Steve welcomes Pastors Eric and Justin from Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries for a compelling look at portals, wormholes, and more. Find the Pastors on the web: https://www.facebook.com/groups/123168699032724 and Pastor Eric's books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UWnx7GBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

Join in as Pastor Eric shares this message in the Getting to Know God series, Eternal God.

Send us a textIn this sermon podcast, Pastor Eric focuses on Titus 2:1–4 and the surprising way Paul ties healthy teaching to healthy people. Paul moves from appointing elders in chapter 1 to calling older men and older women to carry real weight in the life of the church, not as background characters but as stabilizers and mentors. We unpack what “sound” means in the Greek, how dignity and self-control become a public witness, and why older women are charged to live in a way that fits what is sacred, refusing the patterns that tear others down and instead becoming teachers of what is good. The big idea is simple: the gospel creates a community where maturity is visible, and the older help the younger learn the way of Jesus.Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

This week, we continue our series New City DNA. In Romans 10, we are reminded of the truth of the gospel for all who confess and believe in Christ. Pastor Eric shares three points from the text that highlight why New City values missional urgency: 1) The gospel is the only way of salvation (10:1-13). 2) The gospel is a message of good news to hear, believe, and proclaim (10:14-15). 3) The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time. - Carl Henry

Historically, the book of Revelation has led to some people to some pretty sketchy interpretations and conclusions. But what does it really say to us? How are we to approach this important book and read it correctly? As we enter into a new sermon series walking through the book of Revelation, John sits down with Pastor Eric and Pastor Dave to address this question. Here is part one of a two part episode on how to read the book of Revelation.

Pastor Eric's message emphasizes the importance of being aware of the spiritual battles Christians face, urging us to cultivate humility, unity, and to embrace diversity with Christ at the center of our lives. By renewing our minds through daily scripture reading and focusing on God's will, believers can counteract societal chaos and personal struggles, ultimately strengthening our faith and community.

Today's sermon is Proverbs 8 by Eric Souza Find more teaching from Pastor Eric at www.reachjax.com

Sunday Service . "Living the Spirit Filled Life - Part 1" Pastor Eric Johns 01/11/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Send us a textIn this Healing the City podcast, Pastor Eric continues his  interview with Tom Caylor about growing up as a missionary kid, his years in boarding school, and the moments that shaped him along the way. Tom shares how he met Kelley, his wife, and how music, especially playing piano, has been part of his story. The conversation is honest and grounded, moving from memory to meaning without getting stuck in nostalgia. Tom also reflects on what it looks like to follow Jesus in real life, with clarity and humility. Support the show"Healing the City" is a profound and dynamic weekly podcast that dives into the complexities of creating healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of the esteemed members of the Village Church, each episode is thoughtfully crafted to address the challenges and opportunities for meaningful change in our cities. With a holistic approach to healing, the podcast explores a wide range of topics, from soul care and spiritual direction to mental health and community involvement. It provides listeners with insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on the issues facing our cities, as well as practical steps they can take to make a difference. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as they navigate the complexities of our communities with wisdom, grace, and a deep commitment to positive change. Through their engaging discussions, listeners will be inspired to become active participants in healing the city and creating a brighter, healthier future for all. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Join in as Pastor Eric shares this message in the Getting to Know God series, Creator God

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

This week, we continue our series New City DNA. In John 15, Jesus emphasizes His role as the vine, our role as the branches, and the importance of abiding in Him. Pastor Eric shares five points from the text that highlight why New City values intentional discipleship: 1) Intentional discipleship teaches others to abide in Jesus. 2) Intentional discipleship models pruning. 3) Intentional discipleship teaches others to obey Jesus. 4) Intentional discipleship invites others into friendship. 5) Intentional discipleship teaches others to bear fruit.

Pastor Eric continues our series Seven Decisions Great Leaders Make by exploring Nehemiah chapters 2 and 3 and the truth that great leaders do not travel alone. Through Nehemiah's story, we see how Godly leadership involves asking others for help, honestly sharing problems, empowering many people to accomplish more together, and choosing to do life […]

Pastor Eric continues our More than Enough series

Pastor Eric continues our series Seven Decisions Great Leaders Make by exploring Nehemiah chapters 2 and 3 and the truth that great leaders do not travel alone. Through Nehemiah's story, we see how Godly leadership involves asking others for help, honestly sharing problems, empowering many people to accomplish more together, and choosing to do life […]

Tree of Life Church Executive Pastor Eric Gonzalez stresses the importance of prayer at the start of the new year .#HolySpirit #Family #TreeOfLifeChurchNB​​​ #Supernatural #Miracles #Prophecy #Anointing #AnointedTree of Life Church is located in New Braunfels, TX and we're all about connecting all people to the life, love and power of Jesus!Subscribe to receive our latest worship and messages.Stay Connected: Instagram | instagram.com/tolchurch | www.facebook.com/treeoflifechurch | www.treeoflifechurch.orgOriginally recorded on 1-4-26. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sunday Service . "Your Dream Can Make a Difference" Pastor Eric Johns 01/04/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Send us a textIn this Healing the City podcast, Pastor Eric interviews Tom Caylor about growing up as a missionary kid, his years in boarding school, and the moments that shaped him along the way. Tom shares how he met Kelley, his wife, and how music, especially playing piano, has been part of his story. The conversation is honest and grounded, moving from memory to meaning without getting stuck in nostalgia. Tom also reflects on what it looks like to follow Jesus in real life, with clarity and humility. Support the show"Healing the City" is a profound and dynamic weekly podcast that dives into the complexities of creating healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of the esteemed members of the Village Church, each episode is thoughtfully crafted to address the challenges and opportunities for meaningful change in our cities. With a holistic approach to healing, the podcast explores a wide range of topics, from soul care and spiritual direction to mental health and community involvement. It provides listeners with insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on the issues facing our cities, as well as practical steps they can take to make a difference. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as they navigate the complexities of our communities with wisdom, grace, and a deep commitment to positive change. Through their engaging discussions, listeners will be inspired to become active participants in healing the city and creating a brighter, healthier future for all. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Pastor Eric kicks off the new year with a new series

We would love for the fire to fall in our lives, but where do we start? Pastor Eric begins our brand new sermon series and teaches us the best way to start your new year is in an order that matters to the Lord. Scripture referenced in this message:· 2 Chronicles 4:1· 2 Chronicles 7Learn more about salvation, info about Destiny Church, or how to give by visiting our website.Real | Relevant | Relationship

High Strangeness in Alaska - Steve welcomes back pastors Eric and Justin from Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries to discuss strange goings on in Alaska. Find Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries on FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/123168699032724 and Pastor Eric's books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PpC88JBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

Join in as Pastor Eric introduces the New Year series, Getting to Know God with this message "God of Wonders"

Join in as Pastor Eric shares this message to close 2025, Breakthrough!

Description: In Part 16 of Relationships in HD, Pastor Eric turns to one of the most misunderstood aspects of love: discipline. Drawing from his own life as a dad, granddad, and former “strong-willed kid,” he shows how God's discipline is never random, never petty, and never about venting anger—it is always formative, always purposeful, always rooted in His good will toward His children. Before talking about discipline, Pastor Eric goes back to the foundation: Who are the children of God? From John 3, he walks through Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus and makes it unmistakably clear: you are not born a Christian because you grew up in church, kept the rules, or tried to be good. You must be born again. There has to be a moment where you move from unbelief to belief, from “I've always known about God” to “I have trusted Christ as my Savior.” Once that identity is settled, Hebrews 12 opens up: the Father disciplines His children—not to crush them, but to train them. Pastor Eric contrasts punitive discipline (reaction, rage, embarrassment, control) with biblical discipline (training, formation, character-shaping). He shows how grace itself “teaches” and trains us to deny ungodliness, and how God often uses Scripture, consequences, and even painful seasons to form Christ in us. Along the way he challenges parents not to repeat the mistakes they received—harsh, angry, or absent discipline, or no discipline at all—but to imitate their heavenly Father: correcting from a place of good will, with a clear goal in mind, for the child's growth and long-term good. Practical, honest, and full of both conviction and hope, this message calls believers to receive the Father's discipline—and then reflect it, by disciplining their own children with wisdom, love, and intentionality. Key Scriptures (NKJV): John 3:1–8; John 3:16–18; Ephesians 2:1; Hebrews 12:9–11; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Titus 2:11–12; Proverbs 29:18; Proverbs 4:7; Romans 2:4. Highlights: Why Pastor Eric starts with this question: “Have you been born again, or have you just always been religious?” Not all people are God's children—only those who have been born again by trusting Christ. Nicodemus as a warning: deeply religious, scripturally trained, morally upright—and still “out” without the new birth. What “believe” really means: not just agreeing with facts, but trusting, relying on, and acting on who Jesus is and what He's done. Hebrews 12: the Father disciplines His children “for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness.” Discipline defined: not mainly punishment, but training—shaping behavior and character with a clear goal in mind. Grace as a teacher: how God's kindness and favor train us to say no to sin and yes to godly living (Titus 2:11–12; Romans 2:4). The danger of reactionary discipline: punishing kids because they embarrassed you, not because you love them. Why lack of discipline is theft: how refusing to set boundaries and consequences actually robs children of growth, wisdom, and readiness for life. Breaking the cycle: moving beyond harsh, chaotic, or inconsistent discipline you may have received and learning to discipline from goodwill. God's discipline as a gift: not proof that He's against you, but proof that He owns you, loves you, and is committed to your holiness. Next Steps: First, settle the foundational question: Have I been born again? If you can't point to a time when you turned from self-reliance and trusted Christ alone to save you, begin with John 3 and ask God to bring you to that place of real faith. Then, as a child of God, ask Him to show you where He's currently disciplining you—not to punish you, but to train you. Instead of resisting or running, pray, “Father, what are You trying to form in me through this?” If you're a parent or mentor, take one practical step this week to discipline from goodwill: clarify your goal before correcting, choose calm over rage, and make sure your child knows this is about their growth, not your embarrassment. Ask God to help you break unhealthy patterns and become a living picture of His wise, firm, and loving discipline.      

This week, we begin our new series New City DNA. In John 4, we see the story of the Woman at the Well, where Jesus models an authentic relationship that leads to worship and mission. Pastor Eric shares three points from the text that highlight why New City values authentic relationships: 1) Authentic relationships pursue past barriers. 2) Authentic relationships persevere with truth. 3) Authentic relationships propel us towards worship and mission.

Pastor Eric begins a new series through the book of Nehemiah by looking at the first decision great leaders make: seeking God before doing anything else. From Nehemiah 1, we see how godly leadership starts by slowing down to gather the facts, bringing our burdens honestly to God in prayer, confessing sin, and believing that […]

Pastor Eric begins a new series through the book of Nehemiah by looking at the first decision great leaders make: seeking God before doing anything else. From Nehemiah 1, we see how godly leadership starts by slowing down to gather the facts, bringing our burdens honestly to God in prayer, confessing sin, and believing that […]

 Steve welcomes back Pastors Eric and Justin from Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries. Pastor Eric discusses the legend of The Chronovisor and Pastor Justin talks about demonic influences in mental illnesses. Find the pastors online: https://www.facebook.com/groups/123168699032724 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

Send us a Text Message - include your name! In this Faith Over Breakfast podcast, Pastor Andy and Pastor Eric respond to Corey Gilchrist's question: what would you tell your congregation if Jesus had returned and was wandering around? Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Sunday Service . "A Smoking Flax He Will Not Quench" Pastor Eric Johns 12/28/25 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Relationships in HD — Part 15: For the Saint and the Sinner Description: In Part 15 of Relationships in HD, Pastor Eric goes to the very foundation of every Christian relationship: whether or not we are truly children of God. Launching from the line, “For the saint and for the sinner… there's enough grace for the whole wide world,” he confronts a common assumption—that everyone is automatically God's child—and shows from Scripture that only those who believe and receive Jesus are adopted into the Father's family. From John 1 and John 8, Pastor Eric contrasts empty religion with true salvation: serving, giving, being “churchy,” even being on the membership roll is not the same thing as being born again. He shares his own story of years of doubt, “hope-so hands,” and self-righteous striving, and how the Lord finally broke through at an altar in 1987 with one simple invitation: “Just ask Me, and I will.” From that moment, the Christian life moved from fear and uncertainty to the security of a Father who never lets go. From there, this message unfolds the generous heart of God the Father. In Luke 11 and 12, Jesus teaches that if flawed human parents know how to give good gifts, how much more does our Father in heaven delight to give the Holy Spirit, daily provision, and even the kingdom itself. Pastor Eric shows how a distorted view of earthly fathers can warp our view of God—and how Scripture corrects that picture with a Father who is approachable, generous, and stable, not stingy, distant, or constantly angry. Deeply personal and thoroughly gospel-centered, this sermon calls both the religious and the rebellious to real assurance in Christ, and invites believers to live like secure sons and daughters—resting in the Father's delight, resisting the lies of the enemy, and reflecting the generosity of heaven in their everyday relationships. Key Scriptures (NKJV): John 1:11–12; John 8:44; John 3:16–17; John 10:27–29; Luke 11:9–13; Luke 12:22–34; James 1:16–18; Hebrews 4:14–16; Hebrews 12:2; Titus 1:2; 1 Peter 1:3–5. Highlights: Child of God or just religious? Why serving, giving, and being in church isn't the same as being born again. Believe and receive: Not everyone is automatically God's child—but everyone who trusts Christ is adopted, forgiven, and welcomed. Pastor Eric's testimony: From years of doubting and praying “just in case” to finally trusting that Jesus wanted him and had truly saved him. Hope-so hand vs. know-so assurance: Moving from vague wishing to confidence in God's promises. Fighting doubt: “Grab the devil by the tail” and drag him back to the cross—if God lied, He wouldn't be worth following, but He cannot lie (Titus 1:2). The Father's generosity: Every good and perfect gift comes from Him; He delights to give the Holy Spirit, daily bread, and the kingdom. “How much more?” If flawed parents give good gifts, how much more does our Father value and care for His children. You are worth more than the birds: Correcting a culture that often values animals and environment over people—God says you are of greater value. Security in the Father's hand: No one can pluck Christ's sheep out of His hand or the Father's hand (John 10:27–29). New identity, new family, new future: Adoption, inheritance, reservation in heaven, and the peace that passes understanding. Relational impact: When we know we are loved, wanted, and secure, it reshapes how we parent, mentor, and disciple others. Next Steps: If you're unsure whether you're truly a child of God, start there: read John 1:11–12 and John 3:16–18, and honestly ask, Am I trusting my goodness—or Christ's finished work? If you haven't, call on Him in faith and receive Him as your Savior. If you belong to Christ but struggle with doubt, write down John 10:27–29, Romans 8:15–16, and James 1:17–18. Pray through them this week and, whenever accusation comes, “drag it back to the cross” and rest in what God has promised, not what you feel. Then, ask the Father to help you live like His child: choose one way to reflect His generosity, patience, and delight—whether toward your kids, your spouse, or someone younger in the faith. Thank Him that there is grace enough for the saint, grace enough for the sinner, and grace enough for you.

Grounded in Humility | Pastor Eric Boles | Life Center Tacoma The Will to Learn 1 Peter 5:5 (CSB) The Will to Wait 1 Peter 5:6-7 (CSB)

In this message from week three of Open Heaven, Pastor Eric explores a question many people ask at Christmas: What does knowing Christ actually feel like? Rather than chasing spiritual highs or emotional moments, Scripture reveals that the Christian life is rooted in ongoing fellowship with God—an everyday alignment of our head, heart, and hands with His truth. When that fellowship is real, emotions like joy and peace follow naturally, grounded in the objective reality of who Jesus is and what He has done.

On this Christmas Eve, Pastor Eric invites us to see the familiar nativity story from a surprising angle—revealing Christmas as a cosmic battle, not just a sentimental holiday. Drawing from Revelation 12, this message shows how the birth of Jesus marks God's decisive rescue mission against evil, with heaven breaking into earth in a moment of ultimate victory. This sermon reframes Christmas as a story of hope, courage, and peace rooted in the truth that the battle has already been won.

In the middle of a busy and noisy season, this Christmas Eve, Pastor Eric reminds us that Jesus meets us in our distractions. From Luke 2, we see how surrendering our attention to Him leads to clarity, peace, and purpose. If your life feels full but your heart feels empty, Jesus came for you. Study […]

In the middle of a busy and noisy season, this Christmas Eve, Pastor Eric reminds us that Jesus meets us in our distractions. From Luke 2, we see how surrendering our attention to Him leads to clarity, peace, and purpose. If your life feels full but your heart feels empty, Jesus came for you. Study […]

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Sunday Service . "Keep Winning What You Have Already Won" Pastor Eric Johns 12/21/25 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

December 21st, 2025At River Oak Church, we are a welcoming family of imperfect people who share a passion for God, a passion for others, and a passion for graciously sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. We enjoy an informal environment and Christ-exalting modern worship, and we are committed to following the truth of God's Word. We welcome you to come as you are, from wherever you've been, and join us!Support the show

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Relationships in HD — Part 15: Parenting Like the Father Description: In Part 15 of Relationships in HD, Pastor Eric turns the camera toward the character of God the Father—and shows how His heart, His patience, and His approachability form the pattern for every parent, grandparent, and mentor in the church. This message speaks not only to moms and dads, but to everyone called to disciple the next generation. If you belong to Christ, someone younger in the faith needs you. From John 1, John 8, and Romans 8, Eric walks through one of the most essential truths in the Christian life: not everyone is automatically a child of God, but everyone who believes in Jesus is adopted, loved, forgiven, and welcomed as a son or daughter. Out of that identity flows our calling: to reflect our Father's heart to those entrusted to us. Using the Prodigal Son as the centerpiece, Eric shows how God parents us—with generosity, patience, kindness, open arms, and restorative grace—and challenges parents to build the kind of character that causes their children to come home when they fall. This message also addresses the dangers of absent parenting, angry parenting, overbearing parenting, shame-based parenting, and the tendency to treat our children as interruptions rather than priorities. Practical, gospel-soaked, and deeply pastoral, this is a call to imitate our Father in heaven and become safe, steady, compassionate mentors in a world starving for spiritual mothers and fathers. Key Scriptures (NKJV): John 1:11–12; John 8:44; Romans 8:15–16; Galatians 4:6; Matthew 6:5–13; Matthew 11:28–30; Luke 15:11–24; James 4:6–10; Hebrews 4:14–16; Jeremiah 31:3; Psalm 145:8. Highlights: Spiritual parenting: why every believer—parent or not—is called to mentor the younger. Not all people are God's children—only those who receive Christ are adopted into His family. God the Father as the model: available, approachable, generous, compassionate, slow to anger. Parenting through God's character: kindness, mercy, patience, and truth. The Prodigal Son: a picture of the Father's heart and a pattern for restoring relationships. Why children need space to grow—and why helicopter parenting harms development. Making children a priority (without making them idols). The power of humility: repenting to your children when you've blown it. Being a refuge for your kids—someone they run to, not run from. Grace and discipline: discipline as training, not punishment. God's open-door invitation: “Come to Me… I will give you rest.” Next Steps: Ask God to help you imitate His fatherly heart this week. Choose one concrete way to be more available, more patient, more compassionate, or more approachable to your child—or to someone younger in the faith. If needed, take the humble step of apologizing for past failures. Then pray Romans 8:15–16 and thank God that He is your Father—and ask Him to make you a living picture of His grace.

This week, we continue our Why Christmas? series in the book of Isaiah! In chapter 62, we see the Lord's promise to restore through Jesus, saving His people, giving them a new name, and rejoicing over them. Pastor Eric shares three points from the text: 1) God relentlessly speaks with His people (vs. 1-5) 2) God is relentlessly protective of His church (vs. 6-9) 3) God relentlessly rejoices over His people (vs. 10-12)

Pastor Eric challenges our worldview with this amazing christmas message

Pastor Eric's sermon on Matthew 2:13-23.

In this week's message, Pastor Eric discusses overcoming fear with faith, using the story of Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel as an example of finding the strength to face daunting challenges with trust in God. He encourages us to open our hearts to God, reminding us that nothing is impossible with Him and urging us to embrace our potential and the opportunities for faith-driven change in our lives.