Athey Creek | Video Podcast

In Romans 10, Paul addresses Israel's rejection of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by diving into the reasons behind it and sharing Scripture that outlines the path of their unbelief. As we see what this means for them, we also learn our own role in God's plan, are urged not to reject Jesus ourselves, and discover God's perfect path to salvation that is offered to everyone.

Paul continues exploring the theme of God choosing certain people for specific purposes in Romans 9 by addressing Israel’s role in His plan for humanity and how the Gentiles factor in. As we dig into Paul’s reasoning, we learn important truths about what we truly deserve, God’s mercy, and how salvation is available for all through Jesus Christ.

From Moses striking the rock in the desert to Daniel’s vision of a stone that topples kingdoms, Scripture consistently uses the image of a rock to point us to Jesus Christ. In Romans 9:31-33, Paul draws upon this symbol to show us how the Rock can either be a stumbling stone to those who reject Jesus or a firm foundation of salvation to those who believe.

In addition to the deep theological issues it raises, Romans 8:28-39 also shows us God’s blessings and assures us of His good plans for our lives. As we study, we see how God uniquely calls us, learn how absolutely nothing can separate us from His love, and are reminded of how we are more than conquerors through Christ.

Within Christianity, the debate between Calvinism and Arminianism –or freewill versus predestination – remains a hotly debated topic with views falling across the spectrum of both theological systems. Using Romans 8:28-31 as our starting point, we search the Scriptures to make sense of these doctrines, learning what both beliefs teach and where we should land biblically as we consider this topic.

One of the greatest blessings we receive when we accept Christ is freedom. But freedom from what exactly? In Romans 8:1-28, Paul shows us how we’ve been set free from the bondage of sin, given liberty as God’s children, and can live with peace on this earth as we rest in the hope of Heaven.

Romans 8:28 is one of the Bible's most beloved verses as it offers a powerful promise to a specific group of people. But what exactly does this verse mean, and who is it meant for? As we break down this verse, we'll explore what is good from God's perspective, why we can trust Him, and most importantly, how we can ensure we are among those who can claim this promise.

In Romans 7:1-8:5, Paul explains the relationship between the law and our bondage to sin, and what must happen to break the link and make us new. As we unpack his complex points, we see the very real struggle between wanting to do good but falling into sin, what the law does and does not accomplish, and the glorious freedom we find in Jesus Christ.

With Israel frequently in the headlines—and often at the center of controversy and endless debate—many Christians are left wondering how to respond, what to believe, and where to find biblical clarity. To help us answer these questions, we turn to Romans 9–11, where Paul explains the role of Israel in God’s timeline, what being His chosen people actually means, and the past, present, and prophetic implications found in the Scripture.

After contrasting the “old man” and the “new man” in Romans 6, Paul calls us to consider which one is truly reigning in our lives. As we look at the difference between being enslaved to our sin and being made righteous in Christ, we’re called to actively resist that which seeks to destroy us and pursue who God wants us to be.

Know, reckon, yield – Paul repeats these words in Romans 6 to make a powerful point about dealing with sin. As we explore these concepts, we learn what it means to be dead to sin and alive in Christ and discover the freedom that comes from living under grace instead of the bondage of sin.

In the first half of Romans 5, Paul continues his message on justification by outlining seven blessings that come from being made right with God. In the second half of the chapter, he contrasts Adam and Jesus, showing how one man’s sin brought disobedience and death to all but how Jesus offers righteousness and life through His grace.

If anyone knew a thing or two about experiencing trials and tribulations, it was the Apostle Paul. Yet in Romans 5:3-6, he declares that he rejoices in suffering because of what it produces. Paul’s perspective helps us see trials not as setbacks but as part of God’s process to shape us into vessels He can use for His glory.

Paul explains the doctrine of imputed righteousness in Romans 4 by pointing back to the Old Testament and the example we find in Abraham. We follow Paul’s line of reasoning by also jumping back to Genesis, where we gradually uncover what Abraham did to be declared righteous and discover how we, too, can obtain this righteousness through Jesus.

Paul introduces three major theological terms in Romans 3:23-26 as he shares the Good News of Jesus Christ. As we define justification, redemption, and propitiation, we see how these doctrines collectively reveal the complete picture of our salvation through Jesus Christ.

Paul is unmistakably clear in Romans 3 as he declares we are all sinners, deserving of judgment, and unable to earn salvation by following the law or doing good works. So then, how can one be saved? Fortunately, Paul also gives us the answer as he proclaims the good news of salvation by grace through faith, freely offered to all through the righteousness of Jesus Christ.

In Romans 3:1-4, Paul poses a question: Do the Jews still have significance as God’s chosen people now that Christ has come? As we examine the history of the Jewish nation – from the time of Abraham to the present day – we see God’s continual plan for the Jews as His people, their land, and, most importantly, their connection to Jesus Christ.

In Romans 2, Paul zeroes in on a very prevalent and stealthy sin that tries to disguise itself as a virtue but is just as damaging and deserving of wrath as any other sin. As we see how self-righteousness manifests in our lives, we learn why God views it so seriously and what we should cultivate in its place.

In Romans 2:25-29, Paul cautions the Romans not to get caught up in religious rituals and miss God’s original intention, and even worse, miss Jesus Himself. As we look at how relics, traditions, and symbols have been misused throughout history, we’re reminded to turn from empty religious practices and focus on what God actually calls us to in His Word.

Paul opens his letter to the Romans on a positive note by expressing his gratitude for them, confidence in their faith, and desire to visit them. But the tone shifts quickly as he begins to address God’s wrath on the unrighteous. As we study what Paul had to say in Romans 1:8-32, we find a comprehensive list of sins we are all guilty of, but also see the hope of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Unlike religions whose flawed leaders demand rule-following to reach a final destination, Christianity offers something radically different and incredibly simple to obtain. As we break down key differences, Romans 1:16–17 reminds us that salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus, the only perfect Savior, and the only way to Heaven.

Paul’s introductory statement in Romans 1:1-7 packs a powerful theological punch in only a few verses. With themes of humility, servanthood, the identity of Jesus, and what the gospel is all about, we find ourselves already deep in doctrine as we dive into the book of Romans.

We begin our study of the Book of Romans by looking at the major themes of unrighteousness and ungodliness introduced in Romans 1:16–2:4. As we see how these manifest in our own lives, we consider why we must take our sin so seriously and learn how we can find truth, forgiveness, and righteousness through Jesus Christ.

The recorded account of Paul’s journeys concludes in Acts 27:38-28:31 as his storm-battered ship runs aground on the island of Malta. After a potentially life-threatening snakebite and interesting interactions with the natives, Paul sets sail once more and finally arrives in Rome to testify before Caesar – just as God promised.

As Paul sets sail for Rome, his journey takes a dramatic turn when a violent storm threatens to destroy the ship and all aboard. As we watch this story unfold in Acts 27:1-37, we learn why who we listen to matters, practical advice for navigating our own storms, and the benefits of having an infectious faith that brings hope to others.

Paul defends himself in Acts 26 by sharing his dramatic testimony of coming to Christ and declaring the amazing things the Lord wants to do for the lost through the power of salvation. As we study Paul’s message, we are encouraged to shine our light in dark places, consider ourselves happy despite any circumstance, and stand together in truth and love as the body of Christ.

After hearing Paul preach, King Agrippa declines to accept Christianity because he is unwilling to leave his lifestyle, power – and one particularly alarming sin—behind. As we learn just why Agrippa was so hesitant to accept what Paul preached in Acts 26:27-30, we examine the sins we also cling to and why it is so imperative that we don’t hesitate to leave them behind.

Paul’s courtroom saga continues in Acts 24-25 as his accusers present their case before Felix, using misinformation and flowery flattery in an attempt to defeat Paul once and for all. After Felix wavers, Paul is sent to Festus, who equally doesn’t know how to handle the situation, and the ongoing indecision sets Paul on a course to Rome, where he will stand before Caesar.

In Acts 24:24-25, Paul preaches a powerful three-point sermon to Governor Felix that leaves him trembling with fear, yet unwilling to take action. As we examine each point in depth, we learn essential truths about sin and salvation and the danger of delaying a decision about Jesus.

After his arrest, Paul finds himself in Acts 23 being shuffled between the Sanhedrin and Roman government officials—none of whom know what to do with him. Meanwhile, a group of Jews conspire to ambush and kill him. However, through a miraculous set of circumstances, their plot is thwarted, and Paul continues to await his fate as He trusts in God’s promises.

As the Apostle Paul sits in a Jerusalem jail, waiting to see how the plot against him will unfold, he is visited by the Lord, who, in Acts 23:11-13, tells him to "be of good cheer." This isn't the first time we have seen Jesus offering these words of encouragement, and they still apply to us today. As we look at the reasons we can also be of good cheer, we find fantastic encouragement to face any trials or trouble that may come our way.

Paul reaches a pivotal moment in his ministry in Acts 21-22 as he decides to go to Jerusalem – against the advice of his fellow believers. Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, he is met by both joyful disciples and fierce opposition, which sets him on a course toward more trials and the threat of imprisonment.

Paul’s determination to travel to Jerusalem in Acts 21:10-14 sets him on a path towards imprisonment and death, yet he freely accepts it despite pleas from the Christians in Caesarea not to go. As we examine Paul’s resolve, we consider not only the possibility of facing physical death for our faith but also the certainty of the spiritual death we are called to as we live out our daily lives.

Paul makes several stops on his final missionary journey in Acts 20, where he continues to share the Gospel, encourage the believers, and instruct the elders on things concerning the church. As we follow along, we see Paul’s faithfulness amid trials, his impact on those he encountered, and his fervent desire for the church to remain grounded in God’s Word.

Paul exhorts the church elders at Ephesus in Acts 20:17-21 with a ministry model that remains relevant today. As we examine his guidelines for effective ministry, we explore why this list applies to all of us, learn how to put his instructions into practice and see why this is essential as we seek to share the Gospel.

Paul’s third missionary journey in Acts 19 takes him to Ephesus, where his preaching of the Gospel dramatically impacts the city. While there, he disciples the believers, teaching them about salvation through Jesus Christ, baptism and the Holy Spirit. However, several dramatic events also unfold, including a failed attempt by unbelievers to cast out a demon and a riot incited by silversmiths whose idol sales suffer as people turn to Christ in repentance.

The Word of God radically transformed both individual lives and the entire community of Ephesus in Acts 19:20—and it still carries the same power today. As we study together, we learn what the Word of God is, see how preaching and teaching the Word played a vital role in the early church, and discover the blessings we can expect when we commit to reading and studying our Bibles.

Paul’s missionary journeys continue in Acts 18 as he shares the Gospel and strengthens the believers in cities like Corinth, Ephesus, Antioch, and Galatia. Along the way, we meet key figures in the early church, like Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos, and see the response of both the Jews and Gentiles in the places Paul visits.

Paul’s second missionary journey continues in Acts 17 as he visits three cities with three radically different responses to the Gospel. As we observe how the people of Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens reacted, we learn how to share the Word effectively, the importance of continually searching Scripture, and why we should never give up on those who initially reject the Gospel.

As Paul and Silas set out on their missionary journey in Acts 16, they find themselves re-routed from their intended course and end up beaten and imprisoned. Yet, despite these seeming setbacks, they continue to rejoice and share the Gospel, leading to salvation for many and a growing church in Philippi built on the Word of God and faith.

Paul and Silas are unjustly thrown into prison, but they have a surprising reaction to their suffering in Acts 16:25-26. As they pray and sing hymns to the Lord, they find strength and experience an unexpected miracle that creates an opportunity to lead many to salvation.

As many Gentiles come to faith in Christ, a dispute arises over whether they should also follow Jewish customs and laws. As a council assembles in Acts 15 to make a decision, we see compelling statements about salvation from Peter, Paul, and James and learn what they determine the new believers should do and why.

A debate arises in the early church in Acts 15:1-11 over whether the new Gentile believers should be circumcised and follow Jewish law. As we explore how they settled the issue, we turn to the Old Testament to see the answer in a striking parallel between Joseph and Jesus, which gives us great insight into salvation by grace through faith.

As they continue their first missionary journey in Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas encounter extraordinary opportunities but also fierce opposition from a group of Jews who continually stir up trouble. But despite these violent uprisings – and even a near-death experience for Paul – they continued performing miracles, preaching the Gospel, and strengthening the faith of the new believers who accepted Jesus as their Savior.

After Paul and Barnabas are mistaken for gods, Paul addresses the fervent crowd in Acts 14:11-19 to redirect their worship to the one true God. As Paul boldly explains the folly of idolatry and points to how God reveals Himself through creation, his words once again incite hostility, culminating in a violent uprising against him.

Paul and Barnabas embark on their first missionary journey in Acts 13, encountering both fierce opposition and incredible opportunities. Along the way, they face resistance from a hostile sorcerer and Paul’s first sermon angers the Jews yet blesses the Gentiles who eagerly receive the Word of the Lord.

In Acts 13:36-39, Paul makes a powerful declaration that we can only find forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ. But what does this actually mean for us? As we study, we learn why forgiveness is necessary, the benefits of confession, repentance, and salvation, and why Jesus Christ is our only access to these things.

Following Peter’s vision concerning the Gentiles, the church continues growing, and the Gospel spreads rapidly in Acts 11-12. However, the explosion of Christianity sparks persecution from Herod, who kills James and imprisons Peter. Yet we still see that God is in control as Peter is miraculously freed through the power of prayer and angelic intervention while Herod meets a ghastly demise.

The Gospel reaches the prominent but wicked city of Antioch in Acts 11:19-21, and many people become believers as a result. Similarly, we desire to impact the city of Portland, Oregon, and shine the light of Jesus Christ within our dark community. In this special message, Pastor Brett shares plans to reach the Portland metro area with the Good News of Jesus Christ as we officially launch the PDX Crusade 2025. Billy Graham Crusade footage (1957 New York City, NY, and 1992 Portland, OR) courtesy of BGEA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.billygraham.org. Some footage courtesy of KGW.

God orchestrates an extraordinary scenario in Acts 10, leading to the salvation of Gentiles and their inclusion into the Church. As we watch the story unfold, we meet a diverse cast of characters who all played a unique role, see how God combined vision and confirmation to accomplish His purpose, and hear the Gospel message of salvation through Jesus Christ preached to the Gentiles in Caesarea.