In this message from the Baptist Distinctives series, Pastor Ben explores the biblical truths behind the priesthood of the believer and individual soul liberty. Every Christian stands personally accountable before God—able to approach Him directly through Christ, our great High Priest, and responsible to live faithfully in obedience to His Word.…

What does it mean for a church to be pure? In this episode, we explore the Baptist distinctive of Pure Church Membership—the conviction that church membership is reserved for those who have been born again by faith in Christ and have testified to that faith through baptism. Pastor Ben explains how regenerate membership shapes the church’s identity,…

Why do Baptists insist that baptism follows faith? In this message from the Baptist Distinctives series, Pastor Ben explores Acts 2, Romans 6, and 1 Peter 3 to show that baptism is for believers only, pictures our union with Christ, and declares a clear conscience before God. Learn why baptism by immersion is a public testimony of faith—not a means…

Every church claims to follow the Bible—but what makes the Baptist conviction about authority distinct? In this foundational message from the Baptist Distinctives series, Pastor Ben explains why Baptists recognize the New Testament alone as the church’s sufficient and final authority for faith and practice. From Acts 2, Colossians 2, and 2 Timothy …

What makes a Baptist church truly Baptist? In this opening message of the Distinctly Baptist series, Pastor Simons unpacks Acts 2:41-42 to show that the church is defined by the Word of God, formed by the obedience of believers, and strengthened by shared commitments. Discover how our Baptist distinctives, rooted not in tradition but in Scripture, …

God is the first and greatest Giver. In Deuteronomy 26, we learn that He calls us to reflect His generosity—giving with gratitude, supporting His work, and caring for those in need. True giving doesn’t lead to loss, but to joy.

Guest speaker, Marty Simons, reminds us that God desires we live a life of praise to Him by looking at Paul's doxology at the close of Ephesians 3.

What does it mean to be a faithful steward? This week, we explore the biblical truth that God wants us to be faithful stewards of all that He has entrusted to us. From Scripture, we see four principles: God owns everything, God entrusts us with everything we have, we are responsible to increase what He has given, and God can call us to account at a…

What does it mean to truly worship God? In this episode, we unpack Psalm 95 and Romans 12, exploring how joyful praise, humble submission, and a life surrendered to God together form authentic worship. Learn how our daily choices can honor Christ, our Shepherd, and reflect His ultimate sacrifice.

In this message from 1 John 4:7–12, we are reminded that Christian fellowship begins with God’s love, is revealed in Christ’s sacrifice, and is perfected in the church community. Our greatest witness to the world is not in programs or traditions, but in how we love one another with Christ-like love. ***Note - Due to a technical error, there is a ga…

In this message from 2 Corinthians 5:17–21, we explore the life-changing power of the gospel and the mission it gives every believer. The Apostle Paul reminds us that in Christ we are made new—our old life has passed away, and all things have become new. But this transformation is not only for our benefit; God has entrusted us with the ministry of …

This week, we examine the biblical basis of the church's Vision Statement, which encompasses the two aspects of discipleship - edification and evangelism, or Knowing Christ and Making Him Known.

This week, we begin a new series on the identity of the church. We start with an examination of our Mission Statement, explaining the biblical foundation behind its four key elements: glorifying God, making disciples, worshiping together, and serving in love.

In this episode, we explore Hebrews 7:11–28 to discover why Christ's priesthood is not only different from but far greater than the Levitical system. We examine the limitations of the Old Covenant, the perfection and permanence of Jesus’ priesthood, and how His intercession offers complete salvation. This passage offers profound assurance: we no lo…

We take a closer look at Melchizedek and see how this mysterious figure from the OT foreshadows Christ's ministry as priest.

In this encouraging sermon from Hebrews 6:13-20, we explore how God’s unchanging nature and faithful promises provide deep assurance to His people. Looking at God’s oath to Abraham, the author of Hebrews reminds us that our hope is not based on wishful thinking but anchored in the very presence of God through Jesus Christ. With illustrations of fai…

Guest Speaker Marty Simons reminds us of redemption's end with a look at our future reward, eternity with our God and Savior. We examine the end of the Book of Revelation, chapters 21:5-22:5, to see the splendor and description of the New Earth and New Jerusalem, as we are reminded that God wants us to remember that our citizenship is in Heaven.…

Guest Speaker Marty Simons encourages us from Acts 1:3-14. We are reminded that God desires that we remember to keep our eyes on Him, rather than on issues of the past, present, or the future.

Continuing our look into Hebrews with a word of encouragement in 6:9-12. **NOTE - This was recorded outdoors at a picnic service with gusts of wind happening from time to time, affecting the audio.**

We tackle a difficult passage this week as we look at Hebrews 6:4-8. This passage is a severe warning to believers, but is it really about losing salvation? Or, is it highlighting and emphasizing the importance of growth to maturity as the Author discussed in the previous section?

As we continue in the Book of Hebrews we see a challenge to keep growing in our Christian life. Hebrews 5:11-6:3 calls us to keep growing, to keep moving forward, to press on our Christian maturity and stay, or even return to, immaturity.

As we continue in the Book of Hebrews, we see in 5:1-10 how the High Priest of Israel met certain qualifications and that Jesus also met those qualifications. So Jesus is qualified to be the believer’s great High Priest and we know we can trust Him.

Guest Speaker, Justus Schofield (Grace Bapt, Austin, MN) challenges us to remain faithful to God since God, and His Word, is faithful. We look at the lack of faith of the Israelites in the wilderness, then challenge from Caleb and Joshua, then the beginning of the conquest with a quick look at Rahab of Jericho.…

As we return to our study on the Book of Hebrews, we pick up at the end of chapter 4 where the author begins to transition from Christ’s superiority in His person as Son of God, to Christ as the superior High Priest. These verses remind us as believers we don’t need to fear judgement from God’s penetrating gaze (4:13), but we can run to Jesus and e…

This week, we explore the remarkable moment when Simeon held the Christ child in his arms and declared God's salvation fulfilled. Looking at Luke 2:25–35 we see how Jesus is the long-awaited Savior, the Light for the Gentiles and the Glory of Israel. Discover how this passage invites us to trust in God’s promises, recognize Jesus as the fulfillment…

Are you struggling up the mountain of discouragement? Guest Speaker Marty Simons brings an encouraging word from the Old Testament book of Haggai. He directs our attention to the Lord by showing the causes of and the cure for discouragement.

In this sermon from Acts 2, we examine the Apostle Peter’s bold proclamation at Pentecost that Jesus of Nazareth, crucified by human hands, has been raised from the dead and exalted by God. Peter declares that the resurrection of Jesus was not a surprise, but the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan and the clear proof that Jesus is both Lord and Mess…

This week, we explore the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem from Luke 19:35–40. Though He came riding on a humble donkey, He was rightly praised as the promised King. We reflect on four key moments in this scene—the King’s humble presentation, the joyful praise of His followers, the prophetic declaration of His identity, and the unstoppable n…

This week, we turn to one of the most powerful pictures of God’s redeeming love—Hosea 3. Through Hosea’s obedience to buy back his unfaithful wife, we see a striking reflection of the Lord’s relentless love and grace toward His people. Despite our rebellion, God does not forsake us. Instead, He seeks us, purchases our freedom at great cost, and res…

This week we look at King Jehoram of Israel in 2 Kings 3-9. We see that Jehoram had a unique opportunity to lead his people back to the Lord. Instead, he chose to follow in the sinful footsteps of those before him. Through his story, we explore the consequences of spiritual compromise, the danger of ignoring God’s warnings, and the importance of fa…

This week, we explore the reign and rebellion of King Ahaziah and how his actions reveal four ways God demonstrates His supreme authority. From God's rule over nations and leaders to His Word delivered through His prophet Elijah, to divine judgment tempered by mercy, and finally, His unwavering faithfulness to fulfill His Word—this message is a cal…

This week, we take a look into Hebrews 3:1-19, where we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus, the faithful Son over God’s house. We’ll explore the contrast between Christ and Moses, the danger of an unbelieving heart, and the urgent need to encourage one another daily. This passage warns us against the deceitfulness of sin and challenges us to hold …

This week we explore Jeremiah 31:31-34 and God's promise of a New Covenant. Unlike the old covenant, which was broken due to human failure, this covenant is founded on God's grace, transforming hearts and establishing a personal relationship with Him. We discuss how this promise is fulfilled in Christ, bringing forgiveness, inward renewal, and the …

This week, we explore Hebrews 2:10-18 and the profound truth that Jesus, through His suffering, became the perfect Savior. We see how He identifies with us fully—calling us His brothers, sharing in our humanity, and breaking the power of sin and death. His suffering was not only necessary for our salvation but also demonstrated His love and faithfu…

This week we explore Hebrews 2:5-9 and the profound truth of Christ’s humility and exaltation. The author of Hebrews returns to his central theme—the superiority of Christ over angels—by addressing an important question: How does Christ’s incarnation relate to His supremacy?

As we continue our journey through Hebrews, we come to the first warning passage in the book—Hebrews 2:1-4. The author urges his readers to pay close attention to the gospel message, warning of the danger of drifting away. Using nautical imagery, he illustrates how neglecting Christ’s superior message leads to spiritual drifting. He then reminds us…

In this passage, Isaiah gives a profound prophecy of the Messiah, revealing both His suffering and His ultimate triumph. Jesus, the Servant of the Lord, was despised and rejected, bearing our griefs and carrying our sorrows. Though sinless, He was wounded for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. His suffering was not in vain—it was th…

In today’s world, there’s often an overly high regard for angels—whether it’s through pop culture, personal experiences, or spiritual fascination. But how does that compare to the biblical truth about Christ’s superiority? As we continue our study of Hebrews, we look at the rest of chapter 1, where the author uses several Old Testament references t…

Beginning our study in Hebrews we see Christ as God’s greatest revelation in Hebrews 1:1-4.

In Ruth 4, the story of redemption comes to its climax as Boaz fulfills his role as kinsman redeemer, securing Ruth’s future and preserving Naomi’s family line. This sermon highlights God’s providential care, the sacrificial love of Boaz, and the greater redemption we have in Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz willingly paid the price to redeem Ruth, Chris…

In this episode, we explore the prophecy of Micah 5:2, where Bethlehem—a seemingly insignificant town—was chosen by God as the birthplace of the Messiah. This ancient promise reveals the profound truth of God’s sovereignty and His perfect plan to send a Savior for all people. Discover how the humility of Bethlehem magnifies the greatness of Christ …

Discover how the ancient prophecies of Genesis reveal God’s sovereign plan to bring the eternal King, Jesus Christ, through the royal line of Judah. This episode explores key passages like Genesis 3:15 and Genesis 49:8–12, tracing the promise of a Messiah from the Seed of the Woman to the Lion of Judah. Learn how Jesus’ genealogy in Matthew and Luk…

This week, we explore the remarkable story of Rahab from Joshua 2, a powerful example of God’s redemption for even the most unlikely individuals. Despite her background as a Canaanite and a prostitute, Rahab’s faith in the God of Israel led her to bold action, hiding the Israelite spies and aligning herself with God’s purposes. We’ll discuss how th…

This week, we dive into Psalm 138, a powerful expression of thanksgiving and praise written by King David. This psalm invites us to worship God wholeheartedly, trust Him in every circumstance, and live humbly under His reign. It reminds us that God’s unchanging character and eternal promises are a firm foundation for praise and hope.…

Today, we explore Psalm 8 and its breathtaking portrait of God’s majesty revealed in creation and humanity’s unique role in His plan. We discuss how David’s words lead us to praise the Lord’s majestic name, marvel at the display of His glory in the vastness of the universe, and reflect on the humbling paradox of humanity’s smallness and significanc…

This week, we explore Psalm 13, a powerful and honest reflection on moving from despair to deeper trust in God. This psalm captures the raw emotion of feeling forgotten by God, struggling with inner anguish, and wrestling with unanswered questions. Yet, even in his sorrow, David makes a bold turn toward hope, choosing to trust in God’s steadfast lo…

This week we return to the series onThe Scarlet Thread of Redemption, we explore Numbers 21:4-9 and the powerful story of the bronze serpent—a symbol that points directly to Christ’s work on the cross. As Israel suffers the deadly consequences of their sin in the wilderness, God provides a surprising means of healing, prefiguring the salvation we f…

This week we dive into Psalm 2, a profound and challenging text that unveils humanity’s resistance to God’s rule and the ultimate triumph of His sovereignty. Often referred to as a royal and messianic psalm, Psalm 2 historically echoes the coronation of Israel’s kings but also points forward to the promised reign of Christ. We explore the psalm’s f…

This week we start a new series on the Psalms. Today we begin by exploring Psalm 1, a powerful passage that contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked. We’ll delve into the blessings of living a life rooted in God’s Word and the consequences of walking away from His truth. Through this psalm, we see the importance of delighting in God’s la…

This week we explore the significance of the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 and its ultimate fulfillment in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The Day of Atonement highlights God’s provision for dealing with sin and points us to the greater atonement found in Christ, whose blood fully cleanses us. We have been tracing the scarlet thread of re…