HOPE Sermons

The Creator | Only Jesus | Part 3 As we journey toward Holy Week, each Sunday has offered us the opportunity to reflect on different aspects of who Jesus is. Scripture reveals Him as Redeemer, Sufferer, Healer, Teacher—and in all these things, He is also Creator. He is Lord over all. Colossians 1:15–17 (NLT) tells us that, “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.” This week, we invite you to meditate on these words. The One through whom all things were made—the One who holds the universe together—knows you by name. He loves you more deeply than you can comprehend and is continually inviting you into a personal, life-giving relationship with Him. ___ We also invite you to celebrate Easter with us on Sunday, April 20. We have services at 7:30, 9:30, and 11:30am. You can make your free reservations online at hopechurchrva.com/easter and at the link in our bio.

This morning, Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell continued our Only Jesus series with a powerful message on John 1:11-18. “The Word became flesh...” (v. 14) — some of the most profound words in all of Scripture. The God who spoke the universe into existence stepped into His creation, making His dwelling among us in Jesus Christ. He came personally and powerfully to reconcile us to the Father, to invite us into His family, and to bring us into a relationship with Him. What a breathtaking, compassionate, and loving God we serve! Pete closed with a passage from St. Patrick’s prayer, a beautiful reminder of Christ’s presence in every moment. We invite you to pray this with us throughout the week: “Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me, Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me.”

Senior Pastor David Dwight opens “Only Jesus,” a lenten sermon series examining Jesus as the victorious risen champion. As we progress towards Holy Week, this series will help us know the person of Jesus more fully. David closed the sermon with this prayer from Ephesians 3: “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” We invite you to pray into this and ask God to reveal Jesus to us as we follow his journey to the resurrection of Easter.

I Refuse | Soul Calling | Part 6 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight closed out our sermon series, Soul Calling, with a message on the parable of the wedding banquet. Ultimately, this parable is not about being good or bad but about the posture of the heart. God’s invitation comes with His authority, and entry into His kingdom is based on repentance and humility, not personal merit. Many assume that being “good” is enough, but Jesus reframes the question entirely — asking not if we are good, but if we are willing to surrender to God’s terms rather than our own. The closing words, “Many are called, but few are chosen,” remind us that while the invitation is extended to all, only those who respond with true humility are welcomed into the joy of God’s kingdom. To watch all messages from this series, visit us on YouTube at @HopeChurchRVA or click the link in our bio.

The Business of Heaven | Soul Calling | Part 5 We are deep into our sermon series, Soul Calling, where we’re exploring Jesus’ teaching through the parables. Today, we were in Matthew 21:33-44, where in the last week of His life, Jesus shares the parable of the tenants. We see a vineyard owner intentionally investing in his business — tilling the ground, planting seeds, digging a winepress, and building a watchtower. After renting the land to farmers, he sends his servants to collect the fruit, but they are met with hostility and greed for the farmers intended to reap the harvest for themselves. Jesus delivers a sobering truth: “Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who produce its fruit.” (v. 43) We are called to live a Kingdom life in partnership with God. We are called to work alongside Him with joy — sharing in His vision and plan for redemption. We are invited into His mission — serving Him and bearing fruit. Do we see it that way? Senior Pastor David Dwight challenged us to examine our vision of life with God. Do we ask what God does for us or what we do for God?

Wait for It | Soul Calling | Part 4 This morning, Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell continued our Soul Calling series with a message on Matthew 25:1-13. The parable of the ten bridesmaids is one of hopeful perseverance, but also of sober judgement. The parable begins by saying, “Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil.” If the bridegroom we, the Church, wait for, Jesus, is on the way, as Scripture says, then that reality changes everything. It changes the way we live. It calls us to be thoughtful and watchful, to prepare in the waiting. It calls us to keep the lamps of our souls burning and to ensure that we fill our reserve of oil to sustain us in the in-between. Jesus Christ is coming to redeem, restore, and make all things new, and we eagerly anticipate that day. As we wait with eternal hope, it would be wise to ask ourselves this question: Are we like the bridesmaids who did not prepare enough oil? Or are we the ones who watched and prepared in anticipation of receiving the King of Kings? We encourage you to dive deeper into messages from this series with discussion questions! You can find them on our website at the link in our bio.

The Shadow of Righteousness | Soul Calling | Part 3 This morning, we continued our series, Soul Calling, with a powerful message from Senior Pastor David Dwight on the parable of the tax collector. In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus cuts to the core of the human condition. We see the Pharisee, a religious figure of this time, thanking God that he isn’t like other sinners — measuring his righteousness against others — wholly unaware of the sickness pervading his own soul. Meanwhile, the tax collector stands at a distance, overwhelmed by his unworthiness. He doesn’t justify himself or compare his sins to anyone else’s. Instead, he humbly cries out, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Jesus declares that it was the tax collector, not the Pharisee, who went home justified before God. “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14) Through this parable, Jesus invites us to repent and examine ourselves not by the standards of others but by the holiness of God alone. Self-righteousness makes us feel safe and powerful, but in repentance, we find life. And here’s the good news: when we turn to Jesus in humility, we don’t find condemnation — we find mercy, love beyond measure, and open arms waiting to receive us.

The Weight of Forgiveness | Soul Calling | Part 2 This morning, we continued our series, Soul Calling, with a message from Executive Pastor Wes Peterson. In Matthew 18:21-35, Peter asked Jesus how often he should forgive someone who wrongs him — seven times? Jesus challenged him to go far beyond, saying, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. He then shares the parable of the unforgiving servant. Out of mercy, a king forgave a servant’s incredible debt. Yet, when confronted with a much smaller debt owed to him, the servant chose not to forgive as he was forgiven. The message is clear: we have been forgiven beyond measure, and in response, we are called to extend that same mercy to others. Forgiveness isn’t about keeping score — it’s about reflecting the limitless grace we’ve received. If you missed today’s message, we encourage you to take the time and listen/watch on YouTube at @HopeChurchRVA.

Fruitful Teaching | Soul Calling | Part 1 Today, we kicked off a brand new sermon series exploring Jesus’ teachings through the parables. These powerful stories were one of Jesus’ ways of teaching truth — inviting reflection and provoking thought unique to each person. This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight walked us through Matthew 13:1-15, the parable of the sower. Just as the condition of the soil determines whether a seed thrives or dies, so the state of our souls affects how God’s Word takes root in us. Are our souls tended and enriched by scripture, prayer, community, and service? Or are they strangled by this life’s anxieties, distracted and hardened by culture, or weakened by the storms of hardship? In the same way Adam was created to tend the Garden of Eden in partnership with God, we are invited to cultivate the soil of our souls — making them soft, receptive, and fertile ground for the seed of God’s Word to sow and continuously bear fruit.

Everything New | New | Part 5 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight concluded our first sermon series, New, with a powerful and hope-filled message. In the beginning, God created the Garden of Eden — a place of perfect peace, unity, security, love, and wholeness. But when sin entered the picture, so did doubt, shame, fear, confusion, brokenness, and death. Over the centuries, humanity drifted further from God’s original design. Yet, in a world marred by disease, hardened hearts, and suffering, Jesus came to redeem and restore it. Through His birth, death, and resurrection, Jesus set the stage for God’s ultimate plan of redemption. And we can hold fast to this promise: God is making all things new. One day, He will restore creation completely — sin abolished, death defeated, every tear wiped away. In its place will be a love so whole, so complete, that it surpasses anything we could ever imagine. You can watch all messages from this series online at @HopeChurchRVA on YouTube, and you can dive deeper individually or in your small groups with discussion guides available on our website.

New Jerusalem | New | Part 4 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight shared a powerful message on the vision God is inviting us to behold. In Revelation 3:12, 21:1-2, we get to see the vision of the new Jerusalem — God’s perfect, heavenly city where His people will dwell with Him forever. A city of joy, free from darkness and brokenness. A place of beauty beyond our wildest imaginations. The resurrection is at the center of this vision — the ultimate, eternal miracle for all. Through Jesus’ resurrection, God transforms the hearts of His people, preparing us for eternity like a bride for her groom (1 Corinthians 2:9). Let this vision fill you with hope. The new Jerusalem is coming — don’t lose sight of it! If you missed today’s message, we encourage you to check out our YouTube channel at @hopechuchrva. If you’re looking to dive deeper, check out the discussion questions for this message at the link in our bio.

New People | New | Part 3 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight continued our “New” sermon series with a poignant message on what it means to be made new in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” The word “new” in this verse comes from the Greek word “kainos,” meaning something completely new, unique, and unprecedented. Through Christ, we are invited to step into this extraordinary newness — a life transformed by His presence as we surrender ourselves fully to Him. We’re excited to celebrate this new life in Christ at our upcoming Worship and Baptism Night! Join us on Tuesday, January 28 at 6:30 pm in the Main Auditorium for an evening of worship + believers baptisms. If you’d like to be baptized, we invite you to attend a pre-baptism meeting on Sunday, January 26 at 3pm in the Hope Café. This meeting will provide all the information you need to take this meaningful step. Click the link in our bio to register — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

New Creation | New | Part 2 This morning, Outreach Director Drew Paulette continued our “New” sermon series with a powerful message on Matthew 19:27-30. If we’re in Christ, we are already a new creation. Yet, Jesus invites us to long for even more. At the renewal of all things (Revelation 21:1-5,) we’ll be whole — our deepest wounds healed, our sorrow gone, and joy eternal. We will be a renewed people on a renovated Earth under the Lord’s fully restored rule and blessing. Cling to Jesus, who offers everything. He walked to the cross, bore our death, and rose again so we could share in His promise of eternal life. To listen to this message and last week’s, click the YouTube link in our bio! We can’t wait to see you next week at: West Creek | 8am | 9:30am | 11:15am The Lodge | 9:30am | 11:15am Livestream | 9:30am | 11:15am

A New Thing | New | Part 1 Happy New Year, HOPE! We are grateful for another year with all of you to love God, love people, live authentically, gather intentionally, and overflow generosity. This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight kicked off our “New” sermon series with a message on Isaiah 43:16-19. God’s vision will always be richer, fuller, and better than our own, and He is continuously inviting us into it in new ways. When we walk in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), we can see more clearly the new things God is working in and through us to draw us nearer to His grand story of redemption, where, in the end, He will make all things new. David closed with a question, which we invite you to think through and pray about this week: What new thing will you do in 2025 to express your love for God? What new song will you sing to the Lord this year? We’d love for you to join us on Sundays at: West Creek | 8am | 9:30am | 11:15am The Lodge | 9:30am | 11:15am Livestream | 9:30am | 11:15am

Emmanuel — God with us. A baby born. A promise fulfilled. An eternal hope secured. At just the right time. Over nine services, 5,000+ of you joined us in reflecting on the significance of Christ’s birth. We are particularly grateful that we were able to be in community at home — here at HOPE. Thank you for spending Christmas Eve with us!

Thanks For Listening!

Humble for Home | Promise of Home | Part 2 In December, we decorate our homes with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and trees adorned with ornaments of all shapes and sizes. Yet even amidst the beauty and cheer, a deep longing lingers — an ache for something more, something greater, something eternal. It’s the longing for a true and lasting home. Psalms 90:1-2 says, “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” The Lord is our dwelling place—the One who left His heavenly home to take on flesh, die a sinner’s death, and, by His grace, make what is His by nature ours as well. This is the hope we hold onto: we long for heaven and eagerly await our Savior, who will one day bring us home.

A Child | Promise of Home | Part 1 As we step into the final month of the year, we also enter the season of Advent — a time to anticipate with hope and prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Christ! This morning, we began our Advent sermon series, Promise of Home, with a message from Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell. The words of Isaiah 9:6 remind us of the incredible promise fulfilled in Jesus: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This week, let’s pause and reflect on this awe-inspiring truth: the God of heaven and earth, in His great love, left His throne to redeem the world — to redeem us. And He came to us in the humblest way, as an infant, bringing peace and enduring hope to a weary world. We invite you to join us in preparing our hearts for Christmas. You can worship with us on Sunday, December 8 and Sunday, December 15 at: West Creek | 8, 9:30, and 11:15am The Lodge | 9:30 + 11:15am Livestream | 9:30 + 11:15am We’d also love for you to come home to HOPE for Christmas! You can reserve your free tickets for one of our Christmas Eve services at the link in our bio🎄

Over the past six weeks, we have been in the book of Ephesians – Paul’s rich and edifying letter to the church at Ephesus. This morning, we wrapped up this series with a message from Senior Pastor David Dwight reminding us to remain awake and alert in Christ. In Ephesians 6, Paul reminds us to honor each other in the closest relationships in our lives - our families and our colleagues - and to value each other despite our differences and shortcomings. He also writes about the need to prepare ourselves to stand strong against the devil. David reminded us that evil exists in the world, but we can prepare ourselves to stand firm by staying near to God in prayer and to pursue community with each other. God’s strength will protect us when we remain near to him and we will be able to resist temptations that pull us away from encouraging relationships. Watch all messages from this series online at / hopechurchrva or click the link in our bio!

Trinitarian Love | Ephesians | Part 5 This morning, we continued our series on the book of Ephesians with a powerful message from Senior Pastor David Dwight. As followers of Christ, we are invited to reflect His love in every relationship—whether with friends, coworkers, family members, or our marriages. This calling isn’t just about action; it’s about embodying a heart that seeks to serve, elevate, and dignify others. Ephesians 5:21 (NLT) reminds us, “And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” When we grasp the depth of Christ’s love for us—love that is wide and long and high and deep—the idea of submission becomes less intimidating. Instead, it offers us a glimpse into the Trinity’s perfect relationship, providing a beautiful model for how we are called to live and love in community. All messages from this series, including today’s, are available online on YouTube at @HopeChurchRVA and if you missed any, we encourage you to watch them back. Dive deeper with a discussion guide available at the link in our bio!

Doing My Part | Ephesians | Part 4 When you think of the Church, what comes to mind? Is it just four walls and a roof? Or is it something more? This morning, we continued our series on the book of Ephesians with a message from Senior Pastor David Dwight. In Ephesians 4:11-16, Paul, who had suffered greatly for Christ, paints a beautiful vision of the Church. To be the Church is to live out our “yes” to Christ in an active, intentional way. It means coming together in unity as the body of Christ, equipping one another for works of service, and strengthening the Church through our unique gifts. It means reaching out to those who have not yet heard the good news and helping one another grow in spiritual maturity. We’re grateful to be the Church alongside you. If you haven’t taken the step to go deeper, we invite you to leave the sidelines and join us on the field. There is a role within the body that only you can fill — a role designed by God, who created you in His image and equipped you to further His Kingdom and bring Him glory.

Who Knew? | Ephesians | Part 3 In a world marred by sin, we know that things will inevitably fall apart—relationships may disappoint, beauty fades, bodies wither and wane, and wealth never truly satisfies. Yet, in the midst of this brokenness, there is the Church. The Church—imperfect, yet radiant—stands as a community of brothers and sisters in Christ, shining like stars in a dark world. We are that Church. Together, as Jesus’ hands and feet, we are called to reveal His boundless love to others. As we step into this new week and the months ahead, let us pray that we become agents of reconciliation, grace, and light in a fallen world. Listen to this morning’s message from Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell and catch up with all messages from our Ephesians series at the link in our bio.

From… To | Ephesians | Part 2 We continued our sermon series on the book of Ephesians with a powerful message from Senior Pastor David Dwight. You can watch it online at the link in our bio! In Ephesians 2:1-10 (NIV), Paul gives us a clear snapshot of the gospel, and we couldn’t summarize it any better: “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We encourage you to dive deeper with discussion guides which are available weekly at the link in our bio and at hopechurchrva.com/moreresources

It’s a beautiful fall day here at HOPE. The crisp air, blue skies, and changing leaves are only made better by the start of a new sermon series! This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight introduced us to the first chapter of Ephesians, the book we’ll be covering over the next five weeks. Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus gives us a robust vision of the church and this passage details the spiritual truths and blessings of being united with Christ and as one body. Contrary to our culture, our life is not found in material success, but the life that’s genuinely life is found in the person of Jesus Christ. We know this to be true because, in Ephesians 1:7-14, Paul reminds us that the Holy Spirit — the seal with which we are marked when we say yes to Jesus — in us is the guarantee of our inheritance in heaven. We’re excited to explore Ephesians, and we invite you to worship + dive into scripture with us each week. Join us on Sundays at: West Creek: 8am | 9:30am | 11:15am The Lodge: 9:30am | 11:15am Livestream: 9:30am | 11:15am

Beloved Words | When God Speaks | Part 5 Mark 1:9-11 says, “In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. As soon as Jesus came up out of the water, He saw the heavens breaking open and the Spirit descending on Him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: ‘You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.’” Over the past five weeks, we’ve journeyed through what it means when God reveals His name, how we can recognize His voice, and how He speaks to us. This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight wrapped up this series with a powerful message – when we are made new in Christ, the infinite, all-powerful, boundless, ever-present, everlasting I AM gives us a new name: beloved. This new name anchors our identity. It tells us we are adopted, forgiven, fully known, and deeply loved. And it’s a name we will grow into over the course of our lives. If you’d like to look back at previous messages from this series, click the link in our bio to watch on YouTube at @hopechurchrva

The God Who Whispers | When God Speaks | Part 4 This morning, Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell shared a message on 1 Kings 19:9-15. He reminded us that to truly recognize God’s voice, we must first know His Word, for it is through scripture that He speaks to our hearts. Pastor Pete left us with three key takeaways to carry into the week: 1. Preach to yourself before your emotions preach to you – ground yourself in scripture, speaking God’s truth over your life first. 2. God’s “Plan A” is always His grace – no matter what happens, His grace is unwavering and always available to us. 3. Jesus has already borne the earthquake, the fire, and the wind on our behalf – so that we might receive the unshakable grace of God. This week, let’s ground ourselves in scripture, echo God’s love by offering grace to those around us, and reach out in love just as He reaches out to us. If you missed it, you can watch this message online at YouTube.com/hopechurchrva or click the link in our bio!

Learning God’s Voice | When God Speaks | Part 3 In this week’s message, Senior Pastor David Dwight continued our When God Speaks series with a powerful and practical teaching. Drawing from 1 Samuel 3:1-20, we see how the Lord calls Samuel to speak truth to Eli. Yet, at first, Samuel doesn’t recognize God’s voice. Like Samuel, many of us are still learning how to discern when God is speaking. So, how can we better understand His voice? How do we sense what He’s calling us to—whether in a specific moment or over the course of our lives? The key is remaining deeply rooted in Scripture and persistent in prayer. Above all, we are first called to an intimate relationship with God. From that place of closeness, we begin to recognize His voice more clearly. If you missed this message, we encourage you to watch it online at / hopechurchrva or click the link in our bio.

What’s Your Name? | When God Speaks | Part 2 We continued our sermon series, When God Speaks, with a message from Senior Pastor David Dwight. In Exodus 3:7-15, God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian captivity and into the promised land. Seemingly overwhelmed by the enormity of the task, Moses protests, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” God’s response is profound, though not what we might expect. He doesn’t reassure Moses by addressing his doubts or limitations. Instead, God makes a promise: “I will be with you.” He then reveals His name, “I AM WHO I AM.” In Scripture, names carry deep meaning, often reflecting one’s essence. Here, God is revealing His character — boundless, all-powerful, ever-present, and existing beyond the limits of time. Like Moses, we often feel immobilized by our own fears, anxieties, and perceived inadequacies. Yet, in His grace, God lifts us beyond the tyranny of self-focus. He invites us to shift our gaze to Him — the God who was, who is, and who will always be — and to invest our energy in cultivating an intimate relationship with Him.

The God Who Asks + Seeks | When God Speaks | Part 1 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight kicked off our new sermon series, When God Speaks, with a message on Genesis 3:6-11. Have you ever wanted God to speak to you personally? To speak into your life and your circumstances? The Bible tells us that our God speaks to us and that His word is powerful and personal. He listens, asks, and seeks us out like a loving father would his child. We invite you to join us for the next four weeks as we explore the times throughout scripture when God speaks! Join us on Sundays at: West Creek at: 8 | 9:30 | 11:15am The Lodge: 9:30 + 11:15am Livestream: 9:30 + 11:15am

Esther | Walk On | Part 10 Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell concluded our Walk On sermon series with a powerful message on the life of Esther — an ordinary woman used by an extraordinary God. Though God’s name isn’t mentioned in the entire book of Esther, His providence is evident. Through Esther, God worked to protect His people in a time of darkness and brokenness. With her Jewish heritage hidden, she was elevated from orphan to royalty and made queen to the king of Persia. After an order to kill all the Jews in Persia is enacted, she is faced with a conflict that would impact herself and her entire family. In her pivotal moment, Mordecai’s words still resonate today: “If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” — Esther 4:14 (NLT) As God’s handiwork, we too were made for such a time as this. Right here, right now, with the gifts and talents God has entrusted to us — He is weaving a story of restoration in our broken world. There’s a purpose behind where He’s placed each of us. As we often remind one another at HOPE, “You go nowhere by accident.” God isn’t sending Esther, Daniel, or Moses back to accomplish His work in 2024. Today, He’s calling you and me — with Christ alive in us — to step into this moment. To be agents of reconciliation in a world that longs for healing and to bring glory to Him alone. So rise up, church, and walk on. We were made for such a time as this.

Daniel | Walk On | Part 9 This morning, Worship + Family Ministries Pastor Kyle Freedman delivered a poignant message on the life of Daniel — a Hebrew exile in Babylon. The story of Daniel showcases a man, who even in exile, stayed faithful to God in a nation that desperately needed to see + experience Him. In fiery trial with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, he miraculously withstood the flames, confidently displaying God’s rescuing grace to the king. In the lion’s den, Daniel trusted God to keep him safe and by morning, emerged unscathed, impressing the king to decree that all should fear and revere the living God. Daniel embraced the circumstances he was placed in and allowed God to use him to reach the people of Babylon. He stood confidently in his beliefs, but built bridges, not walls, along the way. Through deep relationships and genuine connection, the impact of his testimony spread far and wide. Like Daniel, we can stand confidently on the promises of the Lord and trust Him in any circumstance. We can embrace our circumstances and display the love and character of God within them. Like Daniel, we can build bridges, share our story, bless those around us, and represent the Lord well where He’s placed us.

This morning, Missional Pastor Matt Hartman continued our sermon series, Walk On, with a message on Elijah – a prophet called to lead the people of Israel back to the Lord. During Elijah’s time, civil war had divided Israel and the hearts of many had wandered and began to worship different gods and idols. Elijah, called by God, challenged the people for their divided loyalties and urged them to return to the Lord. Their pursuit of multiple gods left them aimless, hopeless, and without clear purpose. Rather than relying on the Lord, they placed their trust in idols and their self-sufficiency—seeking from themselves what only God could provide. It is not so different for us. How often do we turn inward to ourselves instead of upward towards God? How often do we allow our attention to drift and linger on earthly things instead of the things of above? How often do we place our trust and rest our security on things that will tarnish and fade? Just as God used Elijah to turn Israel’s hearts back to Him, He worked through Jesus to do the same for us. He restores us, often disrupting our path to redirect our hearts towards Him. He finds us in our darkness and our sin and because of His great love and mercy, makes us new through the blood of Christ.

Ruth | Walk On | Part 7 The story of Ruth, set against a backdrop of both spiritual and physical famine, is a powerful picture of redemption—a vivid snapshot of the gospel message. It reminds us how God often uses the most unlikely individuals to demonstrate faithfulness in the face of uncertainty. Amid grief and despair, Ruth became a source of hope and strength for her mother-in-law, Naomi, whose heart was broken by loss. Despite the unknowns that lay ahead, Ruth walked forward in obedience, embracing Naomi’s God as her own and journeyed to a foreign land. Her faithfulness and trust in God as her sustenance were richly rewarded. Today, we may find ourselves in a season of spiritual famine, navigating through a wilderness of uncertainty. Yet, the only true sustenance for us in the midst of our hardships—and our victories—is Jesus, the bread of life. Discipleship Pastor Catherine Turner offers a simple “bread recipe” to help us return to the basics in these times: Be anchored in Biblical truths. Recognize your need. Eat His words daily. Align your will to His. Do the next thing.

The story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 offers a powerful illustration of how God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people. David, just a 15-year-old shepherd, found himself on the frontlines of battle after consistently saying yes to the tasks laid before him. With unwavering courage and faith, he defeated Goliath using only a sling and a stone—a mighty act that showcased God’s glory. But before this remarkable moment, David's life was filled with the simple, everyday responsibilities of a shepherd. David’s daily life involved tending a flock of sheep, a task far removed from battling giants. He had no idea that such a challenge awaited him — he was simply being obedient to the duties before him. Through his routine, he cultivated a deep relationship with God, drawing nearer to Him in the quiet moments of his life. Executive Pastor Wes Peterson reminded us this morning that there is profound purpose in the ordinary. Just as David’s faithfulness in the small things grew his relationship with the Lord and prepared him for a great challenge, our daily tasks offer us the opportunity to grow closer to God. He calls us to engage with Him — not someday, not later, but right now. Through David’s story, we learn the importance of loving God and tending to the “sheep" entrusted to us. Jesus asks us to be faithful in the everyday moments, trusting that our obedience, even in the mundane, opens the door for Him to work in extraordinary ways

Gideon | Walk On | Part 5 We’re halfway through the Walk On series! This morning our Outreach Director, Drew Paulette, shared a powerful message on Gideon + how God called him to a mission and purpose bigger than himself. Gideon, a member of one of the weakest clans, led an army of just 300 soldiers against 135,000 Midianites with a seemingly ridiculous plan. Against the odds, they won the battle, not by their own might, but by the Lord’s. If we were to place ourselves in this story, we’d probably wonder if there was a better way. We’d ask, am I the right person? How is this a good plan? Is this possible? Judges 6-7 reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways. God continues to choose strategies and methods that require Him to show up in big ways so that He is glorified and our dependence + faith upon Him are strengthened. The Lord is calling all of us into the same story + mission that He called the heroes of the faith. We can move forward confidently + courageously in that call because He is with us, as He was with Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, and Gideon. The Lord is with you so walk on.

Upon his passing, Moses’ assistant, Joshua, was called by the Lord to lead the people of Israel into the promised land. We can imagine how daunting stepping into his predecessor’s role may have felt for Joshua, but the Lord promised His presence and commanded him to be strong, courageous, and obedient God’s Word. To be obedient, whether in leadership or not, means to seek the Lord, hear Him, and act according to His will. Thankfully, He gifts us the law, which instructs us how to love Him, love people, and live to the full intention of His design. Senior Pastor David Dwight shared five big-picture foundations that God is bringing about through the obedience of Biblical figures like Joshua:A faith: a trusting relationship with God A doctrine: the way of life with this God A place: a homeland where they live this life with God A savior: the one who is life, gives life, and in whom life is found A living hope: a life in loving relationship with God, anticipating the joy that’s to come

Senior Pastor David Dwight continued our series on ordinary people called by an extraordinary God with a message on Moses. The Lord called on Moses to ask Pharoah to free the Israelites, but Moses felt he was inadequate for the job. He even asked God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” The Lord answered him, not with precise answers, but by promising His presence. This passage tells us that the good news is that it’s not so much about us, but God with us. It’s not that we have all the perfect character traits, strengths, and abilities to do the job, but that we faith in the Lord. The common thread between Abraham, Joesph, Moses, and all the other people we will cover in Walk On, is that they were faithful + obedient in saying yes to Him.

This morning, we continued our Walk On series with a message on Joseph — a man who suffered mistreatment at the hands of his own loved ones, but would later offer reconciliation that could only be possible by being deeply rooted in the Lord. Senior Associate Pastor Pete Bowell shared three poignant questions we can ask ourselves in relation to Joseph’s remarks in Genesis 50:19-21: Who is in my chair? What is in my view? Who writes my story? We encourage you to listen to the entire message, available online at youtube.com/hopechurchrva and at the link in our bio.

Abraham | Walk On | Part 1 Today we began Walk On — a series on Old Testament figures that said yes to God in faithfulness + obedience. Senior Pastor David Dwight kicked us off with a message about the father of our faith, Abraham. Genesis 12:1-4 shows Abram's obedience to God's call. He stepped out in faith without knowing the full plan, but trusting in God's promise, “I’ll be with you.” True faith doesn't need complete understanding—it's about small, faithful steps. God calls us to obedience in this moment and each moment of putting God’s interest above our own builds upon each other into the bigger vision: God is our ultimate reward. We invite you to join us as we study the lives of these heroes of the faith on Sundays at 8am | 9:30am | 11am at West Creek and 9:30am + 11am at the Lodge! You can also watch via livestream at 9:30am + 11am at @hopechurchrva on YouTube.

Vision for Heaven | Abundant | Part 7 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 If we pursue God’s vision for abundant life, it will be anchored in a robust vision for Heaven. Senior Pastor David Dwight concludes our sermon series with a focus on eternity. If we are seeking an abundant life, we must make our vision about our heavenly eternity, not our earthly temporality. We are prudent to prepare for the realities of life here on earth, but it is all the wiser to focus on the eternal life that is waiting for us. The Bible tells us our citizenship is in heaven and our time on earth is temporary. If we are seeking an abundant life, we will align our decisions to that reality.

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. - John 15:4 We all long for relationships in which we can know and be known, but we sometimes struggle with how to find the true intimacy we are seeking. Senior Pastor David Dwight continues our sermon series, “Abundant,” reminding us that the way to be fully known in relationships starts with remaining in Jesus. In our relationships with Jesus, we learn transparency, honesty, humility, forgiveness, safety and love. As we grow in this rich depth, we are equipped to live out the same characteristics in our human relationships. We all want easy steps towards unity, particularly in the close and hard relationships of life, but the truth is, relationships are hard work. The best way to come into honest and loving relationships is to model our relationship with Jesus, “remain in me, and I will remain in you.”

Resource Generosity | Abundant | Part 4 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) Our Father gave us His only son. His only son gave His life for us. The very foundation of our religion is radical generosity. So, it is no surprise that when we have abundant life in Christ, we have the opportunity and the joy to be generous. For the more we understand the magnitude of God’s love, the more our hearts come alive in gratitude for Him, and the more generous we become. We encourage you to watch Senior Pastor David Dwight’s message from this morning to learn more about how our generosity is not about the specific amount of money we give but the heart behind it. You can find our latest messages on YouTube at @hopechurchrva and at the link in our bio.

Sacrificing for Bigger | Abundant | Part 3 Our God, the Lord of the universe, tells us that abundant life is found in serving. He says, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35) In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” He’s telling us, like He told the rich, young leader, to get rid of whatever is in our lives that has come first before Him. What earthly ideal have we elevated to the place of God in our hearts? Is it our money, social status, power, politics, or material goods? Our God desires to set us free from a life striving for what we can get out of it. Instead, He desires that we would have a heart that asks, “What do I get to give?” When we truly understand the gospel we will be grateful for all the Lord has done for us. When we are filled with gratitude we will naturally overflow generosity. We will delight in giving our time, energy, and money to the people and Kingdom of God. Senior Pastor David Dwight called this a “Three G Christian” — Gospel Gratitude Generosity. All we can truly give God are our hearts. This week, we encourage you to pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal anything in your heart that is before God and to ask Him to help you grow in gospel knowledge, gratitude, and generosity.

Purposeful Vision | Abundant | Part 2 “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 Have you ever thought about your vision for your life? What do you hope to accomplish? Missional Pastor Matt Hartman continues our sermon series, “Abundant,” and teaches that when we invite God to reveal his vision for our lives, we start to work with him for a greater and higher calling. Our vision will expand when we embrace God’s vision - and he will include us in his work for much greater purposes.

True Faith | Abundant | Part 1 In John 10:10, Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Where do we find life? Is it in our financial security, popularity, the causes we support, passions, or personal happiness? Where can we find life that’s truly life? John 1:4 says, “In him [Jesus] was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” We know that our souls were made for more than what this earthly life has to offer because God has placed eternity on our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11). We were made for Jesus. So, what does that abundant life in Him look like? How do we get it? How do we do it? For the next seven weeks, we’ll explore these questions and learn what it means to have life in Christ in our new sermon series, Abundant.

Crisis | Peter’s Story | Part 5 Peter’s story tells us that, like him, we will mess up and we will face failure. His story tells us that we have the choice to either live in the condemnation and shame of our mistakes or let them drive us back into the arms of Christ. Jesus sees our mess, knows all our past, present, and future mistakes, and loves us still. Romans 5:6-8 says, “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person, someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Peter’s denial of Christ was not the end of the story. Your failures are not the end either. God transformed Peter from a man who denied Christ to save his own skin into the rock of the Church. Imagine what God can do through you. Turn to Christ, for in Him there is love and forgiveness that have no earthly match. He alone can redeem you. To listen to the full sermon from this morning or past messages from this series, visit the link in our bio or find us on YouTube at @hopechurchrva.

Passion | Peter’s Story | Part 4 As we read about Peter it becomes clear that a story of a man transforming from self-centeredness to Christ-centeredness is unfolding. He, like us, begins as rough rock under the chisel of Christ. He was brash and outspoken. He inserted himself into conversations + situations that did not necessarily need his input. He stumbled, tripped, and failed tremendously along the way. Peter is like us and we are like him. Over time, he entrusts his shortcomings, failures, and disappointments to the Lord, and his character + faith are refined. And as believers, we have the same opportunity to take our failures and disappointments and submit them to Christ. We can ask, “God, what do you have for me in this? How can I grow deeper in intimacy with Christ through this?” In doing so we allow Christ to lead us out of the captivity of a self-centered life and into the freedom of Christ-centered life.