Calvary Church with Skip Heitzig Audio Podcast

This story ranks in the “top ten” of the most famous miracles of Jesus Christ. It is the only miracle that is recorded in all four Gospels. But it’s far more than just a Sunday school tale. This story shows us how Jesus loves and cares for people. Here are five profound truths that emerge from this lakeside lunch.

I. Protection (vv. 30-32)

II. Compassion (vv. 33-34)

III. Instruction (v. 34b)

IV. Provision (vv. 35-44)

V. Participation (vv. 37-38)

Learn Your Bible: How does Jesus’ feeding of the five thousand illustrate His description of Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10:1–18?

Love Your Neighbor: How can you support this year’s Thanksgiving Pickup Party?

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to give you a heart for those in your life with whom He wants to share His love.

In the silence of his suffering, Job poured out his heart to God, and when God finally answered, He didn't explain the pain—He simply revealed Himself. Though we may never understand why we suffer, we can remember that God will always redeem our pain. In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we're reminded that God often speaks to us most clearly in our hardest moments.

There are warning lights on the dashboard of your car to inform you of potential danger. Likewise, God has given us the warning lights of a clear conscience to keep us living right. But we must train our consciences to be responsive to truth. Today we read of one who refused to do that.

I. A Conscience Stirred (vv. 19-20)

II. A Conscience Sinned Against (vv. 21-25)

III. A Conscience Speaking (vv. 14-16)

IV. A Conscience Seared (Luke 23)

Learn Your Bible: Take time to prayerfully assess your spiritual health this week. What is one specific act of obedience you can take to grow?

Love Your Neighbor: Ask a trusted friend or mentor if they’ve noticed any warning lights in your life lately and ask them to keep you accountable to resolve them.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to show you an area in which your conscience has become calloused to His truth and surrender that sinful pattern to Him.

Suffering doesn't always mean punishment. God uses suffering not to harm us, but to teach us and get our attention. In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we're invited to respond differently: Instead of only asking for relief, we can ask Him to make us a light in our darkest moments. 

Generosity is a signal of God's grace at work in our hearts. In this message from 2 Corinthians, Pastor Skip Heitzig focuses on how the Macedonian churches gave beyond their ability despite deep poverty and affliction. When we experience God's generosity, we give freely out of the grace He’s shown us and recognize it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I. Generosity is a Signal

II. Generosity is Sacrificial

III. Generosity is Volitional

IV. Generosity is Consequential

Job once walked closely with the Lord, and his life overflowed with blessing. But when all of that was one, Job asked a simple question: “Why?” This message from Pastor Skip Heitzig offers a gentle reminder that suffering isn’t always punishment.

I. Find the Rhythm

II. Keep the Rhythm

III. Live the Rhythm

Learn Your Bible: How can a rhythm of giving help you grow as a disciple of Jesus?

Love Your Neighbor: How can giving intentionally help you become a more dependable source of encouragement and support to the people around you?

Live in Freedom: What practical step can you take to make generosity a consistent part of your life instead of something you do only when you feel prompted?

I. Look to Him

II. Look at His Majesty

III. Look to His Victory

Guest speaker Levi Lusko taught from the parable of the Good Samaritan, showing love always gives—you can give without loving, but you can't love without giving. As Jesus People, our financial lives reveal the true state of our hearts. The gospel naturally produces generosity in those who've received it, and God's real aim is keeping idols out of our hearts.

Levi Lusko is the pastor of Fresh Life Church, a multisite church with locations in four states and online. He is the author of several books, including Through the Eyes of a Lion, Blessed Are the Spiraling, and his recent book for tweens, Don’t Worry, Warrior! He and his wife, Jennie, cohost their podcast, Hey! It’s the Luskos. Levi and Jennie have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven.

I. Steal

II. Stockpile

III. Sacrifice

IV. Steward

Learn Your Bible: How does today’s message challenge the way you think about generosity, stewardship, and following Jesus?

Love Your Neighbor: Who in your life could be impacted by your generosity, and what is one practical way you can use your resources to serve them this week?

Live in Freedom: What is one step of faith you can take to begin giving and trust God more fully with His provision in your life?

Discomfort doesn't always mean disobedience—Ezekiel embraced a hard calling in bitterness and anger, yet he obeyed anyway. In this message, Pastor Taylor Bronisz reminds us that God often does His best work in uncomfortable places, and He wants to use you right where you are.

The apostles of Christ were common men. That’s God’s modus operandi (way of doing things). “God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful” (1 Corinthians 1:27, NLT). Here, as Jesus sends them out, we can see five stages for any of us who live to do God’s work.

I. Mission (v. 7)

II. Provision (vv. 9-10)

III. Proclamation (vv. 10, 12)

IV. Opposition (v. 11)

V. Completion (vv. 12-13)

Learn Your Bible: Search for instances of God using unexpected, common people to accomplish His will throughout the Bible.

Love Your Neighbor: Look for a small way to serve someone practically this week.

Live in Freedom: Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:27 and surrender your need to prove yourself useful to the kingdom of God.

Scripture is the permanent expression of God’s heart to our heart in writing and as we spend time in His Word, it draws us near to Him, renews our mind, and prepares us for the day ahead. In this message, Pastor Skip Heitzig reminds us of the importance of a personal, daily devotional life.

I. What It Is

II. What It Does

III. How to Do It

Unbelief is different than doubt. Doubts come and go. They are normal and a natural part of the human experience. But unbelief is a conclusion reached by a hardened heart. It is the decision to live life apart from God. Faith and doubt can coexist in a heart, but faith and unbelief cannot.

I. Unbelief Respects His Wisdom (vv. 1-2)

II. Unbelief Recognizes His Work (v. 2)

III. Unbelief Reduces His Wonder (v. 3)

IV. Unbelief Robs of Well-Being (vv. 4-6)

Learn Your Bible: Using your favorite Bible dictionary or concordance, dive deeper into the differences between doubt and unbelief in Scripture.

Love Your Neighbor: This week, dedicate yourself to interceding for someone in your life who’s embraced unbelief.

Live in Freedom: Have an honest conversation with the Lord about the doubts or questions you’ve been working through lately.

Job wrestled with one of life’s hardest questions: Why does God seem indifferent to suffering? In this message, Pastor Skip Heitzig explains how Job found comfort in knowing that God’s judgment may not come immediately but is always inevitable. Job discovered that true wisdom is found only in the fear of the Lord—a reverential awe which produces humble submission to a loving God.

Two miraculous healings are sandwiched together in this text. But one of these miracles brought a delay. It seemed like Jesus waited too long. But when circumstances say, “It’s over,” Jesus says, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (v. 36). Delays aren’t necessarily denials; sometimes they’re upgrades.

I. A Desperate Father (vv. 21-24)

II. A Determined Sufferer (vv. 25-34)

III. A Delayed Answer (vv. 35-36)

IV. A Different Procedure (vv. 37-43)

Learn Your Bible: What voices in your life are currently telling you to be afraid, give up, or stop believing? Spend time in the Word and focus on giving greater weight to Jesus’ words than to fear, doubt, or despair.

Love Your Neighbor: Is there someone in your community who may feel unseen, interrupted, or forgotten? Find one practical way you can treat them with dignity and compassion this week.

Live in Freedom: What fear, disappointment, or “late” situation are you tempted to believe is beyond Jesus’ reach? Ask the Lord to help you surrender those things to Him.

In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we encounter the false theology that suffering is always the result of sin through Job’s friends’ accusations. Job countered this ideology by pointing to this simple truth: Health and wealth are not a measure of one’s standing with God. God's invisibility doesn't make Him unavailable. In your hiding, sorrow, and pain, God sees you. 

You can’t see the electromagnetic radio waves and microwaves that provide signal for your internet or cell phone, but they exist and they are very powerful. Likewise, there is an invisible world which affects life in the visible world. In this section of Scripture, those two worlds come to the forefront. We will consider four desires that are true simultaneously as seen in this story.

I. Satan’s Desire to Ruin (vv. 1-7)

II. Jesus’ Desire to Rescue (vv. 8-13)

III. People’s Desire to Resist (vv. 14-17)

IV. Heaven’s Desire to Reach Out (vv. 18-20)

Learn Your Bible: How should these truths shape the way you prepare for spiritual warfare?

Love Your Neighbor: This week, create a habit of covering your friends and family in prayer, interceding for them through every difficult circumstance and temptation.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to fill you with His Spirit and equip you to face the battles that come your way in this season.

In these chapters, we see Job at his lowest point. But God turned his greatest misery into his greatest ministry: A declaration that God, his Redeemer, lives. In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we’re reminded that Jesus is the Redeemer who intercedes and provides assurance of our salvation because He lives.

No one looks for difficulties in life; they just come. And storms come in many forms—some are physical, others are emotional, many are spiritual. This well-known story of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee holds several helpful guidelines for those of us navigating problems.

I. Accept the Regularity (v. 35a)

II. Look for the Promises (v. 35b)

III. Invite Jesus Into Your Boat (vv. 36-37)

IV. Take Your Cues From Him (v. 38)

V. Swap Fear for Faith (vv. 39-40)

VI. Find the Purpose (v. 41)

Learn Your Bible: Meditate on Isaiah 41:9-10 this week and rest in the knowledge that, no matter what storms you’re walking through, Jesus is walking with you.

Love Your Neighbor: Ask a friend or loved one who’s going through a storm of their own how you can help strengthen and encourage them.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to reveal areas of your life in which you’re allowing fear to overshadow your faith and obstruct your obedience to Him.

Job affirmed God's absolute sovereignty and intricate design of human life yet honestly shared his confusion and pain. In this message, Pastor Skip Heitzig reminds us that, though Job had questions about death and the afterlife, we now have the answers in Jesus. If you don't know Christ, your best days are behind you; if you do, your best days are ahead, no matter the suffering this life may bring.

Jesus had been speaking about different ways to hear truth by comparing them to different soils on a farm. Some reject it immediately; others respond only temporarily, while others fade gradually. A few are faithful and fruitful hearers. They grow deep roots and harvest rich fruit. Let’s see how.

I. Fruit Bearing Is Noticeable (vv. 21-23)

II. Fruit Bearing Is Consequential (vv. 24-25)

III. Fruit Bearing Is Eventual (vv. 26-29)

IV. Fruit Bearing Is Exponential (vv. 30-34)

Learn Your Bible: Using today’s passage, reflect on your own walk—how have you grown recently? Are you actively seeking ways to grow?

Love Your Neighbor: Ask a friend to pray over a specific area in which you want to see growth, and ask them how you can do the same for them.

Live in Freedom: As you intentionally reflect on your growth, ask the Lord to reveal the pruning He wants to do in your heart in this season, and surrender those areas to Him.

Job’s friends held the simplistic belief that good people are always blessed, and suffering is always a result of sin. In this message from Pastor Skip, we see the contrast between human attempts to achieve righteousness and the biblical truth that no one is righteous apart from God's grace.

Selective listening is a communication barrier where a person chooses to hear only parts of a message that fit their interests, biases, or expectations. People who hear the gospel will have various responses. Some will hear and respond favorably. For others, a favorable response will only be temporary. And some will flat out reject it. Let’s unpack the parable that describes this process.

I. The Sower (vv. 13-14)

II. The Seed (v. 14b)

III. The Soils (vv. 15-20)

Learn Your Bible: As you spend time in the Word this week, ask the Lord to soften any hardness in your heart and deepen your roots so you’re ready to “stand fast in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Love Your Neighbor: Some receive the Word with joy but fall away when challenges arise. How can you help a new believer in your life develop deeper roots before hardship causes their faith to wither?

Live in Freedom: Which thorn is most likely to choke spiritual fruitfulness in your life right now: the cares of the world, the deceitfulness of riches, or desires for other things?

Satan accused Job of serving God only because of the Lord’s blessing, and God permitted Satan to test him. Job went from great wealth and blessing to losing everything—his livestock, children, and health—but chose to continue in faith. In this message from Skip Heitzig, we’re encouraged to live by faith, seeking God’s presence rather than seeking explanations for suffering.

The Bible is God’s powerful, living Word which transforms lives, families, and cultures. In this teaching from 2 Timothy, Pastor Skip Heitzig focuses on how to study the Bible effectively. Using Paul’s encouragement for Timothy, Pastor Skip calls us to diligence and hunger for God's Word, providing a template for our daily study: observation, interpretation, and application. 

I. The Right Attitude

II. The Right Action

III. The Right Approach

Learn Your Bible: Meditate on Psalm 1:1-3 before your quiet time this week and ask the Lord to prepare your heart to hear what He wants to share with you.

Love Your Neighbor: Share an encouraging Scripture with a friend or family member who’s facing a challenge.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to use His living Word to reveal areas of your life which you haven’t surrendered to His will and purpose for you.

Pastor Skip Heitzig opens the book of Job and begins our study of the story of a real man whose unwavering faith is tested through unimaginable loss and suffering. Through Job’s example, we’re reminded to trust His purposes, pray faithfully through hardship, and compassionately minister to those who suffer.

Carlos Wallace quipped, “The funny thing about truth, everyone seems to have their own version.” Jesus said He was the truth (John 14:6), and that He always told the truth (John 8:45). But many who listened to Him had their own version of truth, so Jesus now begins a new way of teaching: the parable. As we read these parables, consider four characteristics of interacting with truth.

I. Truth Is a Priority (vv. 1-2)

II. Stories Bring Clarity (vv. 3-8)

III. Listening Is a Necessity (v. 9)

IV. Understanding Shows Sincerity (vv. 10-12)

Learn Your Bible: Read Isaiah 6:9-10 and compare it to today’s passage. What does Jesus’ use of parables teach us about how God responds to the posture of our hearts?

Love Your Neighbor: We’re instructed in 1 John 3:18 to love in “deed and truth.” How can you show love in action and truth to those in your circle this week?

Live in Freedom: Is there something holding you back from listening to and applying the truth of God’s Word? What practical step can you take this week to make truth a priority, listen more carefully, and respond with sincerity?

We concluded the Required Reading series in 3 John where Pastor Taylor Bronisz taught that a healthy church is built when believers live out the truth—serving others, investing in gospel work, and cultivating authentic Christian community. He showed that our choices can either strengthen or divide the body of Christ.

I. Choice #1: Integrity or Inconsistency (vv. 1-4)

II. Choice #2: Open hands or Closed fists (vv. 5-8)

III. Choice #3: Deferential or Domineering (vv. 9-10) 

IV. Choice #4: Connection or Exclusion (vv. 11-14)

In Mark 3, Pastor Nate Heitzig examined the often-misunderstood topic of the unforgivable sin, showing that everyone must choose how they will respond to Jesus. Believers are encouraged to embrace the true Jesus revealed in Scripture and follow Him with wholehearted commitment.

I. Those Who Misunderstood Jesus

II. Those Who Opposed Jesus

III. Those Who Rejected Jesus

IV. Those Who Followed Jesus

Learn Your Bible: Read Matthew 7:21-23 and compare it to today’s text. How do these two passages challenge us to examine whether we’re merely near Jesus or genuinely following Him?

Love Your Neighbor: When people misunderstand or oppose Jesus, how can we respond with grace and truth in a way that keeps the focus on Him?

Live in Freedom: Is something keeping you from fully following Jesus—confusion, opposition, or rejection? What steps can you take this week to follow Him more closely?

Pastor Taylor Bronisz focused on 2 Peter and its warnings against spiritual scammers—false teachers who subtly undermine accountability, normalize sin, and exploit believers. Peter left his readers with hope: Rather than chasing the latest spiritual fad, believers simply need to keep growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus.

I. Red Flag #1: A Denial of Accountability

II. Red Flag #2: A Deterioration of Morality

III. Red Flag #3: A Deconstruction of Belief

IV. Green Flag: A Determination to Finish Well

In this message, Pastor Nate examined four of the twelve disciples to show how Jesus sees people differently than the world does. While the world evaluates people by talent and appearance, Jesus looks past flaws and outward performance to what a person can become through following Him.

I. Jesus Sees Your Potential

II. Jesus Sees Your Faithfulness

III. Jesus Sees Your Growth

IV. Jesus Sees Your Heart

Learn Your Bible: Using your favorite Bible dictionary or concordance, dig deeper into God’s Word and discover how He sees us—then let that truth change how you view others.

Love Your Neighbor: Is there someone in your life who needs encouragement? This week, take time to remind them of their God-given value and potential.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to show you any fears, doubts, or past hurts that may be keeping you from fully stepping into His plans for you.

Exploring Habakkuk, Pastor Taylor Bronisz explored the book of Habakkuk and addressed the question of why a good God allows evil and suffering. He pointed to the cross as God’s ultimate answer and challenged believers to reject transactional faith, choosing instead to praise God regardless of their circumstances.

In Mark 3:7-12, Pastor Nate Heitzig contrasted being a fan of Jesus with being His follower. While the crowds pursued His miracles, the disciples surrendered to His authority. Believers are challenged to examine whether their lives are marked by convenience or wholehearted obedience.

I. Swayed by His Presence

II. Starving for His Power

III. Surrendered to His Authority

Learn Your Bible: Read Luke 6:46-49 and John 14:15. How do these passages define true surrender to Jesus? What do they reveal about the difference between hearing His words, admiring Him, and surrendering to His authority?

Love Your Neighbor: How can you reflect the compassion of Jesus this week to someone who is seeking help but not yet surrendered to Him?

Live in Freedom: What would it look like for you to seek Jesus, not only for what He can do for you, but for who He is?

Teaching through Philemon, Pastor Taylor Bronisz explained that forgiveness isn’t something we do after we heal but something that leads to healing. He reminded believers that forgiveness is a necessary response to God’s grace, enabling them to reflect Christ’s love to others.

Pastor Kaiden Ritchie encourages Christians to cultivate a holy hunger by making the pursuit of Christ their highest priority. We do this by being presence-minded, walking in a holy fear of the Lord, and living with joy. A Christ-centered life is essential to our walk of faith.

I. Presence Minded

II. Fear Formed

III. Joy Filled

Pastor Taylor Bronisz explores the book of Haggai to address spiritual recidivism—the cycle of drawing near to God, drifting into apathy, and falling away. We observe three steps for breaking cycles and are reminded God is never finished with His people, and our faith is predicated on the hope of Christ.

I. I Can Drift Away Without Trying To. (1:1-14)

II. My Past is a Poor Motivator. (2:3-7)

III. I’m Alive Today to See the Blessing Tomorrow. (2:18-19)

The contention over Sabbath observance continued, but this time the conflict took place during a worship service! This shows us what happens when love for tradition and procedure exceeds love for people who have great needs. There are five ingredients to this tense scene.

I. A Worship Service (v. 1)

II. A Withered Hand (vv. 1, 3)

III. A Watching Crowd (v. 2)

IV. A Weighty Command (v. 5)

V. A Wicked Plot (v. 6)

Learn Your Bible: How does this passage help us better understand the purpose of God’s commands?

Love Your Neighbor: Ask the Lord to reveal any beliefs you hold that may hinder how He desires to use you in the lives of others.

Live in Freedom: Surrender your desire to hide your weaknesses and flaws, and rest in Jesus’ unfailing compassion.

Was Jesus a lawbreaker? Did He violate the Sabbath? What exactly was the Sabbath designed for, and how should we observe it? This will be our focus this weekend and next. The conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders is heating up. Today we make four observations about the Sabbath.

I. The Sabbath Was a Benchmark (v. 23)

II. The Sabbath Became a Burden (vv. 23-24)

III. The Sabbath Needs a Balance (vv. 25-26)

IV. The Sabbath Should Be a Blessing (v. 27)

Learn Your Bible: Read Psalm 37 and meditate on verse 7 as you intentionally choose to “rest in the Lord” this week.

Love Your Neighbor: Ask God to soften the hearts of your unbelieving friends and family members, and invite them to join you at Freedom Celebration next Saturday.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to reveal areas of your life in which you’re anxious and striving rather than resting in His plan and purpose for you.

Pastor Skip Heitzig closed 2 Thessalonians by reminding us that while it’s natural to grow weary in the work, believers must never grow weary of the work God has called them to do. He also warned that rejecting God can lead to pursuing lesser things, urging us instead to remain steadfast in our devotion to Him.

Jesus was not a religious leader. He was a righteous Leader and a relational Leader. But He was often confronted by the religious leaders of His day because of the obvious differences in both substance and style. It seems that religious people are the hardest to reach with the gospel. Let’s discover why.

I. The Religious Question (v. 18)

II. The Reasonable Explanation (vv. 19-20)

III. The Real Consideration (vv. 21-22)

Learn Your Bible: Using your favorite Bible dictionary or concordance, dive deeper into the parable of the wineskins and “the new covenant in [His] blood” (Luke 22:20).

Love Your Neighbor: Do you know someone who views Christianity as rules, rituals, or religious performance? How can you demonstrate Jesus’ loving heart to them this week?

Live in Freedom: Meditate on Galatians 5:1-6 and ask the Lord to reveal areas of your walk that have become a religious practice rather than a reflection of your relationship with Him.

We enjoyed a special outdoor service while Pastor Skip Heitzig spoke on baptism, highlighting it as a command from Jesus rather than an optional practice for believers. We celebrated as a church with those who demonstrated inward transformation through this outward proclamation.

Jesus loves outcasts. That’s why the first three gospel accounts record the call of Matthew. Jesus wants us to know that no one is beyond His saving grace. By inviting Matthew into His circle of friends, Jesus showed that He can take and transform anyone. Today we will discover four features in the interaction of Jesus and this tax collector.

I. His Profession (vv. 13-14a)

II. His Invitation (v. 14)

III. His Decision (v. 14b)

IV. His Celebration (vv. 15-17)

Learn Your Bible: Reflect on Romans 6:14 and Ephesians 2:8-9 as you walk in the Lord’s grace.

Love Your Neighbor: Find one practical way to love someone in your circle this week—or sign up to serve our community through Love Month at lovenm.org/serve.

Live in Freedom: Spend time in worship and thank the Lord for His calling and purpose in your life.

As Pastor Skip Heitzig continued through 2 Thessalonians, he focused on end-times prophecy and the second coming of Christ. Paul wrote to correct the Thessalonian church who thought they had missed the second coming and were in the tribulation. He encourages them to keep their eyes on Christ’s return.

In Acts 8:26-40, Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch reveals that effective evangelism begins with sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, is rooted in God’s Word, and points people to Jesus. Pastor Nate Heitzig challenged Jesus People to follow Philip’s example by actively sharing their faith.

I. Adapt to the Situation

II. Apprehend the Scripture

III. Apply Your Story

Learn Your Bible: Spend time studying the big picture of Scripture—how the Bible points to Jesus from beginning to end—so you can be ready to share it with others.

Love Your Neighbor: Is there someone God’s placed in your life who may be spiritually curious or searching for truth?

Live in Freedom: This week, what step can you take to be available, obedient, and ready to share Jesus when God opens the door?

Pastor Nick Macedo examines King Saul's downfall in 1 Samuel 13, revealing how the lies of self-reliance, image management, and public opinion lead us away from God. True freedom comes from surrendering fully to Christ and aligning our lives with God's truth.

Guest speaker Eric Metaxas gives a stirring account of the American Revolution and shares how loving the kingdom of God means loving your country. He encourages believers to share and show the love of Jesus by loving our nation.

As Pastor Skip Heitzig opens this study of 2 Thessalonians, we see Paul encouraging believers who were facing persecution. The church in Thessalonica mistakenly thought they were living in the great tribulation, but Paul corrected them, reminding them that suffering can strengthen their faith and produce perseverance.

One of the singular notable qualities of Jesus Christ was His ability to know what was most important at any given moment. He always seemed to move His life carefully around a fixed set of spiritual priorities. Today we compare what others wanted with what Jesus knew they needed.

I. They Pursued Wonder; Jesus Preached the Word (vv. 1-2)

II. They Felt Suffering; Jesus Forgave Sin (vv. 3-5)

III. They Displayed Pessimism; Jesus Demonstrated Power (vv. 6-12)

Learn Your Bible: Meditate on Matthew 6:25-34 and ask the Lord for wisdom in reordering the priorities of your daily life.

Love Your Neighbor: Take time to be the friend who brings those you care about to Jesus this week—through prayer, presence, or by pointing them back to His calling for their lives.

Live in Freedom: Where have you been prioritizing what feels urgent over what Jesus showed us is most important, and what would it look like to surrender that concern to Him?

Our identity and salvation do not need to be achieved or discovered—it’s a gift we can receive through faith. But without Jesus Christ, life ultimately has no lasting meaning or purpose. In this teaching, Dr. Frank Turek presents evidence for the reliability of the New Testament, reminding us that the resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our salvation, faith, and identity.

The need for human touch is one of our most basic, fundamental needs. We often find Jesus doing exactly that in the gospel of Mark. And just as you have five fingers with which you can touch the world around you, there are five stages to the healing touch of Jesus in this story. Let’s explore them.

I. The Condition (v. 40a)

II. The Cry (v. 40b)

III. The Compassion (v. 41)

IV. The Cure (v. 42)

V. The Command (vv. 43-45)

Learn Your Bible: Meditate on Jeremiah 17:14 and remind yourself that we serve Jehovah Rapha—the Lord who heals.

Love Your Neighbor: How can you reflect the healing love of Jesus in a friend or loved one’s life this week?

Live in Freedom: Surrender the broken and hurting places of your heart to the Lord and invite Him to bring healing and restore your joy and hope.

If we want the life of Jesus, we must adopt the lifestyle of Jesus. If we desire His public power, we must first embrace His private practices. That means stepping away while others rush in, listening when others are speaking, and moving forward when others settle for comfort. In Mark 1:35–39, Jesus revealed the rhythms that lead to a life of faithfulness and fruitfulness: solitude, resistance, and purpose.

I. The Rhythm of Solitude

II. The Rhythm of Resistance

III. The Rhythm of Purpose

Learn Your Bible: Using your favorite Bible dictionary or concordance, study the idea of solitude. If you’re able, access our new Guided Meditations at cabq.us/gm to start practicing the rhythm of solitude in your life.

Love Your Neighbor: Create the opportunity to sit and listen to a friend or family member you haven’t connected with recently.

Live in Freedom: Which of these rhythms do you need to practice this week?

As Pastor Skip Heitzig continues in the study of Esther, we see again how God’s providential hand moved as the new queen stepped out and put action to her faith. In contrast to Haman’s prideful and arrogant behavior, Esther was used by God because of her humility.

In this message, guest Speaker Reverend Will Graham explores the shortcomings of Cain and the offering he brought before the Lord. He cautions against approaching God on our own terms and emphasizes the importance of wholehearted obedience and the importance of diligently guarding our hearts against sin.

After a decree went out to annihilate the Jews, Mordecai publicly mourned and urged Esther to advocate for her people. Pastor Skip Heitzig opens the text to reveal Esther’s call to stand firm in faith and allow God to use her in a mighty way.

Mark introduced Jesus as the Son of God and Israel’s Messiah (see v. 1), who proclaimed His purpose to establish the kingdom of God (see v. 15). But such claims must be substantiated by divine authority. So, the author provides three credentials of this Messianic King to prove His office.

I. Authority Over Dispassion (vv. 21-22)

II. Authority Over Demons (vv. 23-28)

III. Authority Over Disease (vv. 29-34)

Learn Your Bible: Use your favorite study resources to find cross-reference passages that point to Jesus’ authority in each of the areas we studied today.

Love Your Neighbor: Ask God to show you someone in your life who needs to be reminded of His grace, then take one practical step to love them well.

Live in Freedom: Is there something in your life—a doubt, struggle, or secret shame—that you haven’t surrendered to the authority of Christ? Take the first step this week to fully place that in His hands.

The book of Esther reads like a blend of fairy tale and mystery, following a young Jewish woman thrust into a crucial role in saving her people. In chapters 1–2, Pastor Skip Heitzig highlights God’s providential hand as He positioned every detail—from a royal beauty contest to a foiled assassination attempt.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Those words were spoken by Helen Keller, who lost her sight and hearing before her second birthday. Jesus promises abundant life (an adventure) to those who follow Him. Today we notice three aspects of Jesus’ call to His first followers.

I. Their Character (vv. 16, 19)

II. Their Calling (vv. 17, 20)

III. Their Commitment (vv. 18, 20b)

Learn Your Bible: Meditate on John 10:10 and spend time intentionally and specifically thanking the Lord for the riches He’s poured into your life.

Love Your Neighbor: How can you be the hands and feet of Jesus to a brother or sister in Christ this week?

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to reveal how He wants you to live more abundantly in your daily walk.

Talk with Kids: What does it mean that God is faithful?

As we reflect on how spiritual rebirth leads to everlasting life, we can take comfort in knowing Jesus Christ Himself keeps and guards us, and we will one day arrive safely in heaven. Pastor Skip Heitzig urges us to keep our eyes on the resurrected Jesus, who is our Living Hope, because through Him, we have been rescued from hopeless living.

I. Hope Now (v. 3)

II. Heaven Later (v. 4)

III. Help In Between (v. 5)

Learn Your Bible: Thank the Lord that He keeps you “through faith for salvation” and meditate on Psalm 37:23-24 as you recognize His keeping power in your own life.

Love Your Neighbor: Invite a new believer to visit your Connect Group this week.

Live in Freedom: Ask the Lord to reveal areas of your life—hurt, bitterness, or hidden sin—that you haven’t yet surrendered to Him.

Talk with kids: What do you think the torn veil in the temple demonstrated?

Jesus’ final words revealed that He bore God’s wrath and provided the way to direct relationship with God for us by willingly giving up His life. In this Good Friday message, Pastor Skip Heitzig studies the crucifixion, the supernatural darkness that followed, and the tearing of the temple veil and urges us to reflect on the ultimate demonstration of love which Jesus poured out on the cross.

I. What's Happening in the Sky

II. What's Happening in the Temple

III. What's Happening on the Cross

In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul closed his letter to the church by calling attention to the future—Christ’s return. He reminded those who were living in sin of the day of judgment. In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we’re reassured God has not called those who believe to wrath and are encouraged to live in anticipation of His return.

Mark shows us “the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ” (v. 1). After introducing John the Baptist, he includes three (really four) foundational scenes that mark the beginning movement of the gospel—from the lips of Jesus to those who followed Him and then took it around the world.

I. Identification (v. 9)

II. Confirmation (vv. 10-11)

III. Confrontation (vv. 12-13)

IV. Proclamation (vv. 14-15)

Learn Your Bible: What does this passage teach you about how God works before great things begin?

Love Your Neighbor: Share the gospel with a friend or family member this week—or simply invite them to our Good Friday and Easter services.

Live in Freedom: What step of obedience is God calling you to take so you can walk in freedom and purpose as you follow Jesus?

Talk with kids: Why do we have to turn from our sin to trust Jesus as Savior?

In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul urged believers to continue in a life that pleased God—growing in holiness and love while waiting for the second coming. The chapter concludes with a reminder of the hope believers have in Christ’s return and offering comfort and assurance that both the dead and living in Christ will be raised and united with Him.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “To be great is to be misunderstood.” John the Baptist was certainly that! This unusual figure dominates the first part of Mark’s gospel account. Let’s discover what made him so great and why his role was so important to the ministry of Jesus.

I. John Was Anticipated by Scripture (vv. 2-3)

II. John Was an Unusual Character (v. 6)

III. John Was Preparing the Future (vv. 4-5, 7)

IV. John Was Introducing the Savior (vv. 7-8)

Talk with God: As you prepare for Easter, ask the Lord to soften your heart, deepen your faith, and draw you closer to Jesus.

Talk with others: Invite an unbelieving friend or family member to join you for one of our Good Friday services.

Talk with kids: How did Elisha display God’s power?

As Pastor Skip Heitzig continues in his study of 1 Thessalonians, we learn that Paul was eager to check on the spiritual growth of the young church. Paul encouraged them to strengthen their ongoing expression of faith as they inched toward spiritual maturity in spite of the persecution they faced.

Today we begin an extended series on the gospel of Mark, a document that reveals the story of Jesus Christ and His first followers. Jesus stands at the very center of history’s stage. He has no equals; He has no peers. Let’s examine four aspects of this unique book.

I. The Presentation of Jesus (“The beginning”)

II. The Proclamation of Jesus (“The gospel”)

III. The Person of Jesus (“Jesus Christ the Son of God”)

IV. The Prediction of Jesus (“As it is written in the Prophets”)

Talk with God: Meditate on Ephesians 1:7 and spend time in worship thanking the Lord for His faithfulness to redeem.

Talk with others: Invite your friends and family to join you for Easter Sunrise service.

Talk with kids: How was Ahab disobedient, stubborn, and greedy?

In chapter 2 of 1 Thessalonians, Paul assured the church that his suffering was worth the cost to deliver the saving message of hope. He reminded believers not to seek human approval or dilute the gospel, but to serve as faithful stewards of the truth. Pastor Skip Heitzig challenges us to live out our calling and boldly proclaim Christ, even in the face of conflict.

I. Jesus People Grow

II. Jesus People Gather

III. Jesus People Give

IV. Jesus People Go

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to show you the areas of your life in which you can be a better reflection of Jesus.

Talk with others: Intentionally lift up the Jesus People around you and look for one practical way to come alongside someone walking through a difficult season this week.

Talk with kids: How do we know God hears us when we pray?

Some Christians settle for a faith that feels transformative on Sunday but fades during the week. In 2 Peter 1:3-11, Pastor Taylor Bronisz reminded believers that God has already provided everything needed for spiritual growth and challenged them to intentionally cultivate Christlike character.

For our final study together in this Overlooked series, we examine five courageous women who faced a crisis with grace. As we unpack their bold response, we will see how it correlates to believers today as we relate to God, to others, and to our future.

I. The Crisis (v. 1)

II. The Courage (vv. 2-4)

III. The Confirmation (vv. 5-11)

IV. The Correlation

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to fill you with the courage to boldly face crises and dilemmas with faith and grace.

Talk with others: If you’re walking through a difficult season, reach out to your Connect Group and invite them to stand with you in prayer, encouragement, and support.

Talk with kids: Why were the kings of Israel considered evil?

Though Paul’s journey to the Thessalonian church was not easy, God faithfully directed both his steps and his stops, along with Silvanus and Timothy. In 1 Thessalonians chapter 1, Pastor Skip Heitzig explores how the Lord orders the path of the faithful, encouraging us to persevere in the “work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope” (v. 3), even in the midst of affliction.

Most of us have a hard time saying this man’s name, but Paul knew it well. He was a loyal friend to the apostle, especially in his darkest hour. In just three verses we find six characteristics of this wonderful man who’s been overlooked for far too long. If you have a friend like this, you’re blessed.

I. Refreshing

II. Repetitious

III. Risk-Taking

IV. Resolute

V. Renowned

VI. Rewarded

Talk with God: This week, take time to thank the Lord for the true friends He’s blessed you with, as you pray over their lives.

Talk with others: Ask your friends how you can come alongside them as “iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17) in their walk through this season of life.

Talk with kids: What is the wise way to live?

After the people recommitted their lives and city to the Lord, Nehemiah returned to serve King Artaxerxes. In his absence, the people of Jerusalem elevated the secular over the sacred and quickly fell back into old patterns, including intermarriage with surrounding nations. In this message, Pastor Skip Heitzig examines the cleansing power of God’s Word as Nehemiah returned once more to call the people to repentance and right living.

I. He Was a Genuine Disciple

II. He Was a Gentle Disciple

III. He Was a Generous Disciple

Talk with God: Ask the Lord how He’s inviting you to greater generosity with your time, resources, attention, and compassion.

Talk with others: In your Connect Group, discuss practical ways you can be known for your love for others (see John 13:35).

Talk with kids: Why was the queen amazed by Solomon’s kingdom?

The children of Israel moved from remorse to repentance and, in Nehemiah chapters 10–11, to reformation. The people rededicated their lives to God, publicly affirming their commitment to a renewed covenant. As Pastor Skip Heitzig explains, this passage calls us to be a Bible‑reading, Bible‑believing, and Bible‑applying church as we study Israel’s proclamation and restoration.

Anna is one of the Bible’s most unusual women. She, along with a man named Simeon, had spent a lifetime in loyal service to God and was finally able to meet her Messiah. Though only three verses give us all the information we have about her, it’s sufficient to get a profile of her.

I. Spiritual

II. Venerable

III. Single

IV. Faithful

V. Vocal

Talk with God: Meditate on Lamentations 3:25–26 this week, and surrender the things you’ve been holding too tightly, trusting the Lord and His perfect timing.

Talk with others: Encourage your Connect Group to remain deeply rooted in God’s Word as they walk through their present season.

Talk with kids: Why is knowing God and following Him most important?

After the wall of Jerusalem was rebuilt, the people gathered to hear God’s Word and were cut to the core by how far they had strayed. They were first called to rejoice—because the joy of the Lord is their strength—then returned in fasting and confession, remembering God’s faithfulness and recommitting their lives to Him. This was true revival: more than rebuilding walls, it was rebuilding hearts—because you become what you worship.

Many a transformative event can be traced to the influence of one person. Mordecai was one such person in the lives of the Jews living in Persia. By inspiring Queen Esther, Mordecai turned a blasting into a blessing; he changed a national catastrophe into national continuity for the Jews.

I. A National Tragedy (3:13-15)

II. An Expected Anxiety (4:1-3)

III. A Strategic Opportunity (4:10-14)

IV. An Inspired Bravery (4:15-16)

Talk with God: Reflect on God’s work in your life (recently or across several years) and thank Him for His providence in guiding your steps (see Proverbs 16:9).

Talk with others: Encourage a fellow believer or your Connect Group by reminding them the Lord has a plan in every difficult situation they face this week.

Talk with kids: What was special about the temple?

In these two chapters of Nehemiah, we see Nehemiah's focus shift from building a structure to building people. In chapter six, we follow along as Nehemiah faces distraction, slander, and attempted sabotage. Yet in spite of every external opposition, Jerusalem's wall was still completed in 52 days. Chapter seven is three key principles of preparation for restoration: leadership, citizenship, and stewardship. In this message from Pastor Skip Heitzig, we see that God not only cares about completion, but faithfulness, dependability, and unfailing trust in Him, even after the victory.

Many people today struggle with loneliness. In fact, according to one study, by the year 2020, the second largest health issue facing Americans was depression. We’re living through an epidemic of invisibility and insignificance. In this teaching, Pastor Nate Heitzig opens up Acts 2:44-46 to rediscover that Jesus people belong to each other­—that we are called to live life together and to carry each other. Community is what we do because it’s who we are.

I. Jesus People Belong Together

II. Jesus People Carry One Another

III. Jesus People Live Life Together

Talk with God: Meditate on Ecclesiastes 4:12 and thank the Lord for the people He’s placed in your life.

Talk with others: Ask your friends and family how you can pray for them this week.

Talk with kids: Why did Solomon ask for wisdom?

Jethro was the father-in-law of Moses. But he was also the one responsible for Moses’s success as a leader over the people of God. Jethro provides five ways for leaders to thrive. Whether you lead a family, a small group, a large organization, or a fast-paced business, these five practices are imperative.

I. Change Your Approach (vv. 13-18)

II. Instruct the People (vv. 19-20)

III. Build a Team (v. 21)

IV. Trust the Team (vv. 22-23)

V. Take Good Advice (v. 24)

Talk with God: Meditate on Matthew 19:30 as you ask the Lord to strengthen you in each of these five areas.

Talk with others: As a Connect Group, discuss how you can apply these practices to your daily life.

Talk with kids: How did David respond to God’s forgiveness?

As the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s wall progressed, opposition intensified. Ridicule, discouragement, and fear are three tactics Israel's enemies used then, and our enemy—Satan—continues to use. Fear is the trap; it's the worst way to live—to live fearfully instead of confidently. In this message, Pastor Skip Heitzig points to Nehemiah's example of integrity and selflessness, which was motivated by reverence for God rather than the pursuit of personal gain.

Although Solomon composed 1,005 songs (see 1 Kings 4:32), this one is in a class by itself. It was his magnum opus. Solomon called it his song of songs (see Song of Solomon 1:1)! This poetic song was directed to his young bride. Though she often gets overlooked by many who read the Bible, she caught Solomon’s eye. Let’s notice some of her qualities. I’ve put them in the form of four juxtapositions.

I. She’s Unnamed but Not Unnoticed (1:8-10, 15)

II. Passionate but Not Promiscuous (2:4-7)

III. Desirous but Not Dominating (3:6-11)

IV. Irritated but Not Inflexible (5:2-3, 6-10)

Talk with God: Read Genesis 16:13 and Matthew 6:25-34 and spend time in prayer to thank the Lord for His faithfulness in seeing you and providing for you.

Talk with others: Ask your friends and family if they’re feeling overlooked and how you can help support them in this season.

Talk with kids: What special promise did God make to David?

After Nehemiah is struck with the desire to rebuild the city of Jerusalem, we see how God's people from all walks of life came together to aid the cause. Diversity of activities, but the same God; many gifts, but the same spirit. His people were able to work toward a shared vision despite ridicule and discouragement. In this teaching, Pastor Skip Heitzig shows us how opposition can't stop the Lord's work when His people work together for His purpose.

I. Faith

II. Faithful

III. Fainthearted

IV. Fretful

V. Fruitful

I. This Place Had a History (vv. 1-5)

II. This Place Was in Prophecy 

III. This Place Was at Capacity (v. 7)

IV. This Place Showcased Humility (v. 7)

In Exodus 3:7-8, Pastor Kaiden Ritchie explored how God rescues people from captivity. Using Israel’s bondage in Egypt, he warns believers against being shaped by what they cling to and challenges them to surrender whatever holds them captive so their hands can be freed and their hearts filled by Jesus.

We’ve heard this story so many times that it doesn’t surprise us like it ought to. And what boy hasn’t dressed like a shepherd for a Christmas play? But what was an ordinary workplace for these blue-collar sheep farmers became holy ground on this particular night. They were in for five surprises that would stay with them forever. Let’s try to put ourselves in their sandals.

I. The Audience (v. 8)

II. The Angels (v. 9)

III. The Announcement (vv. 10-12)

IV. The Anthem (vv. 13-14)

V. The Accuracy (vv. 15-20)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord for opportunities to turn your workplace into holy ground this week.

Talk with others: Invite a friend or family member to join you for a Christmas Eve service.

Talk with kids: What does it mean to worship Jesus as King?

In this second message of our Holy Ground series, we come to an unnamed city in the hill country of Judah, where Mary’s cousin lived. But I hope you realize that the real emphasis shouldn’t be on holy places where God once moved, but holy people in whom God now dwells. Mary was one of them. She is our sister in Christ and a great example to us. Let’s notice five attributes.

I. She Was Hopeful (vv. 39-45)

II. She Was Worshipful (vv. 46-55)

III. She Was Scriptural (vv. 46-49)

IV. She Was Needful (v. 47)

V. She Was Helpful (v. 56)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to give you His heart for those around you this Christmas and throughout the coming year.

Talk with others: Encourage your friends or Connect Group to stay grounded in the Word through the holiday season.

Talk with kids: Why is it important to understand that Jesus is not just a baby born two thousand years ago?

During this Advent season, we want to look at the familiar Christmas story through a different lens: the actual places these events happened. They were common—even unremarkable—places. Yet, because of what happened there, they became Holy Ground. Through our short journey together, perhaps we’ll become more appreciative of the places and circumstances God has placed us in.

I. An Ordinary Place (v. 26)

II. An Unordinary Person (vv. 26-29)

III. An Extraordinary Prediction (vv. 30-34)

Talk with God: Reflect on your walk with the Lord over the past year and thank Him for the mundane places in your life that He chose to make holy ground.

Talk with others: Reach out to friends or family who may be struggling with loss or grief this holiday season and pray with them.

Talk with kids: Why do you think God chose ordinary people to be Jesus’ parents?

Upon hearing of Jerusalem's destruction, Nehemiah humbled himself before God in fasting and prayer before boldly appealing to King Artaxerxes for permission to return and rebuild the city walls. Though the king could have ended his life, Nehemiah found favor and received both permission and generous provisions to complete the work. In this message from Nehemiah 1-2, we see the power of faithfulness and prayer.

The last two years have seen a massive chasm in every country of the world over the Israel/Palestine issue. Since October 7, 2023 and the subsequent invasion of Gaza by Israel, people are divided. But this is not a recent debate. Anyone who knows the history of the region understands this dispute is ancient. But today I want to go back “behind the curtain” to get the real story.

I. The Incessant Competition (Philistine History)

II. The Invisible Conflict (Spiritual Hostility)

III. The Irrevocable Covenant (Divine Treaty)

Talk with God: Pray for the people of Israel and Palestine as they continue to deal with the conflict in their everyday lives.

Talk with others: Share what you’re thankful for this season with your Connect Group.

Talk with kids: Why is it important that these prophecies came true?

Some people insist that in our post-modern (or even meta-modern) age, we only believe in science, not metaphysics. That’s not quite true. At the heart of the transgender movement, people believe they are what they claim to be regardless of biological evidence. None of this is new. Something similar happened in the ancient worship of Asherah. Let’s examine it more carefully.

I. The Practice of Debased Idolatry (Jeremiah 7)

(Three Notable Characteristics)

II. The Proclamation of Divine Wrath (Romans 1)

(Three Notable Reasons)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to give you His heart for the lost, confused, and hurting people in your family, community, and city.

Talk with others: Ask your Connect Group or believing family and friends how you can support them in boldly and lovingly sharing the hope of Jesus with someone this week.

Talk with kids: Pick up some poster board from Calvary Kids and create a banner to share what you’re thankful for as a family at our Thanksgiving Banner Service this Wednesday.

Calvary Church met for a night of worship, prayer, and a parade of thankfulness to prepare our hearts for our annual Thanksgiving Pickup Party. Pastor Skip shared a message from Hebrews 13:1-3, encouraging the church to demonstrate our faith through acts of love to believers and unbelievers, friends and strangers.

If you think the Sexual Revolution began in 1960s America, think again. It’s been going on since ancient times. Today we look at three texts which outline God’s standard for human sexuality and how a competing system, the worship of Asherah, blurred the lines of gender and sex. The worship of this ancient demon tampered with three distinct areas.

I. Identity (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:18-25)

II. Clarity (Deuteronomy 22:5)

III. Intimacy (Leviticus 18:19-23)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord for clarity as you root your identity in Him and walk in the path He’s prepared for you (see Ephesians 2:10).

Talk with others: Talk about what it looks like to honor your God-given sex in today’s world with your Connect Group or believing friends.

Talk with kids: How does God see people differently than we see them?

In the final section of Colossians, Paul outlined a pattern for Christian living which transcends social and cultural trends and speaks to the heart of human behavior. As believers, we're called to do all things—including the way we conduct our daily lives—"as to the Lord and not to men" (3:23). In this teaching, Skip Heitzig concludes this series in Colossians with guidance for our spiritual posture and Paul's grace-filled encouragement to press on in prayer, thanksgiving, and wisdom so we might reach a lost world. 

We did it! Together, we raised more than $215,000 to show the love of Jesus to our city: providing 10,000 meals, free haircuts, dental and medical services, family portraits, and shoes for kids. That’s what it means to look like Jesus, to see needs around us and meet them with love. As we celebrate Thanksgiving Pickup Party this weekend, we’re preparing our hearts as we turn to 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 to learn how to do the things Jesus would do and act the way Jesus would act. Because in order to look like Jesus, we have to love like Jesus—with patience, kindness, and compassion for a world that desperately needs Him.

I. Do the Things Jesus Would Do

  A. Be Patient in Gratitude for His Patience with You

  B. Be Kind, Remembering His Kindness Toward You

II. Act the Way Jesus Would Act

  A. Don’t Be Rude: Treat People the Way Jesus Treats You

  B. Don’t Be a Cynic: See People How Jesus Sees Them (Sheep Without a Shepherd)

Talk with God: Ask the Lord to give you His heart for those around you this week.

Talk with others: Ask a mentor or a believing friend if they’ve noticed an area of your life where you aren’t reflecting Jesus.

Talk with kids: What was Saul’s excuse for disobeying the Lord?

When God calls His people to repent, He isn't looking for mere outward expressions of sorrow, He desires hearts truly broken over sin. Like a parent calling a wandering child home, God invites us to return to the safety of His mercy. In this message from Joel, Brian Nixon underscores the repentance which results in revival and the grace of God which is always greater than His people’s failure.

Without a doubt, the biggest threat to ancient Israel’s worship of Yahweh was the rival demon-god Baal, regarded as the chief of all Canaanite deities. The allure of Baal worship was the promise of profit and prosperity. I’ve chosen four words that tell the story of the showdown between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, and frame our role in modern culture.

I. Courage (vv. 16-17)

II. Contest (vv. 20-40)

III. Confrontation (v. 21)

IV. Cause (v. 36)

Talk with God: Meditate on Matthew 6:24 and ask the Lord to reveal the areas of your life in which you’re trying to “serve two masters.”

Talk with others: Encourage a fellow believer to keep their eyes on Jesus, no matter what they’re walking through this week.

Talk with kids: Why was it wrong for Saul to make the burnt offering?