The Ridge Sunday Audio

In the second installment of our spiritual disciplines series on Sabbath, Pastor David teaches on rest as a tool of resistance and contrasts the Exodus narrative with parallels in our cultural moment.Today's Message Text: Genesis 2:2-3, Exodus 5:5-9, Deuteronomy 5:12-15Main Idea: Are you tired? Weary? Worn out? Exhausted? We live in a culture where chronic low grade exhaustion has become the norm. But it doesn’t have to be this way. God created rest and modeled a rhythm of regular rest to us. The Bible calls it Sabbath, and it’s something Jesus regularly did. Sabbath is much deeper than just a day off, and it’s more enjoyable than maybe we’ve heard. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

This week's sermon kicks off a series around the spiritual discipline of sabbath. In this message, Pastor David introduces the topic and contrasts the biblical model of rest with the modern culture's promotion of unending work and productivity.Today's Message Text: Matthew 11:28-30, Genesis 2:1-3, Exodus 20:9-11Main Idea: Are you tired? Weary? Worn out? Exhausted? We live in a culture where chronic low grade exhaustion has become the norm. But it doesn’t have to be this way. God created rest and modeled a rhythm of regular rest to us. The Bible calls it Sabbath, and it’s something Jesus regularly did. Sabbath is much deeper than just a day off, and it’s more enjoyable than maybe we’ve heard. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

The Protestant Reformation was a widespread theological revolt in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries against the abuses and totalitarian control of the Roman Catholic Church. The reformers protested unbiblical practices and promoted a return to sound biblical doctrine. At the heart of their reforms were the Five Solas (latin for "alone"). In the final message of this series, Pastor Dylan brings us home by teaching on Scripture Alone, or Sola Scriptura.Today's Message Text: 2 Timothy 3:16-17Main Idea: "Sola Scriptura" asserts that Scripture alone is the ultimate and infallible authority for Christian faith and practice, serving as the sole standard against which all teachings and beliefs are measured. This principle underscores that the Bible, as God's divinely inspired Word, is essential for teaching, correcting, and guiding believers into righteousness, emphasizing its transformative power in shaping and directing Christian life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

The Protestant Reformation was a widespread theological revolt in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries against the abuses and totalitarian control of the Roman Catholic Church. The reformers protested unbiblical practices and promoted a return to sound biblical doctrine. At the heart of their reforms were the Five Solas (latin for "alone"). In this message, Pastor Chan teaches about the fourth of these five doctrinal standards: Soli Deo Gloria.Today's Message Text: Isaiah 6:3 + Selected ScripturesMain Idea: Soli Deo Gloria has reference to our salvation in Christ. The salvation of sinners was God’s idea, the accomplishing of that salvation was God’s work, the granting of that salvation is God’s grace, and the fulfillment of that salvation is God’s promise. From beginning to end, salvation brings glory to God alone. Rather than striving to elevate ourselves, keep a list of rules, or guard our own interests, our goal is to glorify the Lord. The idea of Soli Deo Gloria is found in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

The Protestant Reformation was a widespread theological revolt in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries against the abuses and totalitarian control of the Roman Catholic Church. The reformers protested unbiblical practices and promoted a return to sound biblical doctrine. At the heart of their reforms were the Five Solas (latin for "alone"). In this message, Pastor Mark teaches about Christ's authority in the life of a believer, an idea summed up in the third Sola: Solus Christus.Today's Message Text: Luke 14:25-35Main Idea: Jesus says that being His disciple requires a radical commitment to Him above everything else. He even says that we can't be His disciple is He is not the top priority (even above our family and our own lives). Jesus uses strong words and vivid examples to show how serious following Him is. He makes it clear that nothing should compete with His authority in a believer's life; total surrender and full allegiance to Him are necessary. The passage ends with a warning about salt losing its flavor, showing that without complete devotion to Christ alone, a disciple's effectiveness and purpose are lost. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

The Protestant Reformation was a widespread theological revolt in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries against the abuses and totalitarian control of the Roman Catholic Church. The reformers protested unbiblical practices and promoted a return to sound biblical doctrine. At the heart of their reforms were the Five Solas (latin for "alone"). Pastor Chan teaches on the second of the five solas in this message: Sola Fide.Today's Message Text: Romans 3:27-31Main Idea: Sola fide emphasizes salvation as a free gift, not based on human effort or good deeds, but rather the justification of God. When we trust Christ as Savior, God declares us "not guilty" of sin in His eyes. It is an act entirely of God, performed by God on the basis of Jesus' death on the cross, and is received by us through faith. Nothing we do contributes to our own justification. It is entirely an act of God on the sinner's behalf. Romans 3:28 says For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

The Protestant Reformation was a widespread theological revolt in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries against the abuses and totalitarian control of the Roman Catholic Church. The reformers protested unbiblical practices and promoted a return to sound biblical doctrine. At the heart of their reforms were the Five Solas (latin for "alone"). This message introduces us to the Solas and dives into Sola Gratia, which teaches us that salvation is brought about by "grace alone."Today's Message Text: Ephesians 2:8-9Main Idea: Salvation is proof of God’s undeserved favor; we are rescued from God’s wrath by His grace alone, not by any work we do. God’s blessing in Christ is the sole efficient cause of salvation. This grace is the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit who brings us to Christ by releasing us from our bondage to sin and raising us from spiritual death to spiritual life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this final message in our verse-by-verse study through Ecclesiastes, Pastor Mark brings us full-circle with the Teacher's conclusions about where true meaning is found in a seemingly meaningless world.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 12:9-14The book of Ecclesiastes explores the meaning of life. The Teacher looks at different things like money, pleasure, work, and wisdom and finds that they don't bring lasting happiness. In the end, he says that life is short and often confusing, but real meaning comes from fearing God and doing what He says. By accepting that we can't control life, enjoying what we have as a gift from God, and trusting His ways, we can find peace and purpose in life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this message, Pastor Chan begins to wrap up our verse-by-verse study through the book of Ecclesiastes by teaching through the first eight verses of chapter 12.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring God in one's youth before the hardships and limitations of old age arrive. The passage poetically describes the decline of the body and mind with advancing years, using vivid imagery to portray the inevitability of aging and death. It concludes with a reflection on the fleeting nature of life, summed up in the phrase “Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless.” Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Our sermon text today encourages taking risks and diversifying efforts, advises generosity and diligence in work, emphasizes enjoying life and seizing opportunities while one can, and closes by encouraging us to embrace the season of life we are in, despite the difficulties it may contain. Pastor David walks us through this passage and draws out some very impactful applications for our lives, regardless of what stage of life we are in.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 11:1-10 Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Today's message text provides practical instruction regarding wisdom and foolishness. Solomon addresses places where foolishness can be found, including in authority, in everyday life, in our words and thoughts, and in how we use the gifts of God. Overall, Solomon emphasizes the benefits of wisdom and prudence in navigating life's challenges and complexities.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 10:4-10Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this sermon's passage, The Teacher tells us that life is unpredictable and success isn't guaranteed by our efforts alone. He highlights the importance of adjusting our expectations and focusing on what we can control; our growth in wisdom. The text encourages pursuing wisdom rather than seeking recognition or success, as wisdom offers true protection and guidance, even if it's often undervalued. Ultimately, it shows that wisdom, though not always acknowledged, is more valuable and effective than strength or success, urging us to listen and act wisely.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 9:11-10:3Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 9:1-10 Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 8:9-17Our passage for today highlights the puzzle of injustice where the wicked are honored and the righteous suffer. Solomon reveals that human wisdom cannot always fully understand God's plans and advises finding joy in simple pleasures while acknowledging the limits of human understanding. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 7:1-18This passage emphasizes the value of wisdom, the inevitability of death, and the refining nature of suffering. Solomon contrasts the benefits of sorrow over laughter, the importance of a good reputation, and the need for patience and humility in life's challenges. The passage advises against extremes in behavior, urging a balanced approach and a reverent acceptance of God's plans. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 6:1-12In Chapter 6 of Ecclesiastes, the Teacher illustrates that our capacity for desire often exceeds our ability to enjoy what we have. He describes this imbalance as counterintuitive and akin to a distressing affliction. This reflection leads him to conclude that we must find ways to limit our insatiable desires in order to truly appreciate and enjoy the good things in life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 5:8-20This week's passage discusses the futility of wealth and the importance of finding contentment in life's simple pleasures. The passage warns against being surprised by corruption and oppression, as these are common in human society. It critiques the pursuit of riches, noting that wealth often brings more trouble than satisfaction, including sleepless nights and increased responsibility. However, contentment comes from accepting and appreciating what one has, rather than constantly striving for more. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 5:1-7In Ecclesiastes 5:1-7, Solomon emphasizes the importance of approaching God with sincere reverence and caution, rather than engaging in empty rituals or attempts to manipulate God through offerings, prayers, and vows. He urges us to listen and obey God genuinely, recognizing His greatness and maintaining a proper fear of the Lord. True worship, he concludes, involves a heartfelt commitment to honoring God and keeping our promises, underlined by a reverent awe of His supreme authority. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 4:1-16Ecclesiastes 4 reflects on the vanity and emptiness of life without contentment. It speaks of the value of companionship over isolation, the oppression of the weak by the powerful, and futility of chasing after wealth and success without considering the brevity of life. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the importance of gaining contentment by enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 3:1-22Ecclesiastes 3 presents a poetic reflection on the various seasons of life, emphasizing that there is a time and purpose for every event under heaven. It contrasts different life experiences, reminding the reader that each season serves a purpose. We are to find contentment and meaning in accepting the cycles of life and trusting in the divine timing of all our experiences. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 2:17-26In this week's sermon text, Solomon concludes his experimental search for meaning under the Sun. He comes to a dark place, expressing raw human emotion that ultimately death will come and wash away his accomplishments. We all have a dying problem, and a living problem. This section Ecclesiasites explores some of the ways we live in denial of those problems, but ends on the first glimmer of hope in the book. Solomon wants us to turn the page and keep reading, but for now let’s sit in the tension. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11This passage discusses the pursuit of pleasure and material wealth as ultimately meaningless and futile. The Preacher reflects on his own experiences of seeking fulfillment through various means such as possessions, wine, homes, gardens, entertainment, and sexual pleasure. He says, “I kept my heart from no pleasure.” However, after considering all his hands has done, his conclusion was it all failed to bring lasting pleasure and true meaning to life. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! We hope you are blessed by this message and would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:00a.Today's message text: Ecclesiastes 1:12-18In this passage, the Preacher recounts his pursuit of wisdom and knowledge. Despite his efforts to understand the world, he finds that it is ultimately an endless cycle of repetition. He laments the futility of human endeavors, noting that despite gaining wisdom and knowledge, there is no lasting satisfaction. The passage emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the limitations of human wisdom in the face of the vastness of the universe. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In the first message of our 17-week study through the book of Ecclesiastes, Pastor Chan introduces us to "the Preacher", the phrases "vanity of vanity", and discusses how, this side of the cross, we can great hope in Jesus Christ that far outweighs the "meaninglessness" of the immanent world. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: John 12:20-26DISCUSS: Describe a time when you made a great sacrifice to gain something even better? How difficult was it to make the sacrifice? Was it worth the sacrifice? /What do you think the significance is of Greeks seeking Jesus in verse 20-21? Why is the Good News of the Gospel for all people? / How does Jesus's response in verses 23-24 foreshadow his impending death and resurrection? Why was the death and resurrection of Jesus necessary? / What does it mean to "hate" one's life in the context of John 12:25? How can we be so committed to Jesus that we “care nothing” for our own lives in comparison? / How can we apply the concept of "losing our life for Jesus' sake" in our daily lives? How can “losing our life” produce new life in us and through us? / How does the idea of “following” Jesus challenge our priorities and lifestyles? In what ways can we serve and follow Jesus in today’s world, as mentioned in verse 26? / What are some things that you need to “die to” for the sake of following Jesus? What steps can you take this week to accomplish that challenge?PRAY: Pray that God will give you the faith and courage to die to yourself every day and take up your cross that you may produce “fruit” for His Kingdom all the days of your life. PRACTICE: REFLECT on your own desires and ambitions. Make a list of some ways you can “die” to them to align more closely with God's will. / EVALUATE your priorities and values. Are there areas where you are clinging too tightly to worldly comforts or possessions? Share with a friend how you plan to loosen your grip and focus more on eternal values? / CONSIDER your relationships and how they reflect your commitment to following Jesus. Are there people or influences in your life that hinder your spiritual growth? Commit to intentionally surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and support your walk with Christ?DIVE DEEPER: Read: Luke 9:23; Mark 8:34; 1 Corinthians 15:36, 42-44; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Galatians 1:10; Colossians 3:24, Romans 1:1; 1 John 5:3. / What do these verses teach us about the sacrifice of Jesus, and the sacrifices required of our own lives for the Gospel? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Luke 19:11-27DISCUSS: Describe a time when you used a specific skill or talent to accomplish a task? Could you have accomplished the task without using your skill or talent? Why or why not? / How does the Kingdom of God arrive? Where are we in the timeline of the “already, but not yet?” / What can we learn from the faithfulness of the first two servants? How were they rewarded? How does that relate to reward(s) in Heaven? PRAY: Pray that you will be a faithful steward of what God has entrusted to you. Ask the Lord for opportunities to use your spiritual gifts to glorify Christ and further His Kingdom until He returns.PRACTICE: SURVEY: If you’ve never taken a spiritual gift survey, follow the web address below to discover your spiritual gifts: https://gifts.churchgrowth.org/spiritual-gifts-survey / INVEST: Think of one way you can use your spiritual gift(s) this week to “invest” in the Kingdom of God. / PREPARE: As we enter into Holy Week, prepare your heart by reading the following chapters: Matthew 21; Mark 11; Luke 19; John 12. DIVE DEEPER: Read Numbers 16:30-35; Isaiah 66:6; Nahum 1:8; Psalm 2:9; Psalm 21:8-9; Matthew 22:7; Luke 19:14; Luke 21:22; 1 Thessalonians 2:15-16; Hebrews 10:13. What do the verses teach us about Christ’s enemies, judgement and eternal reign? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Luke 14:15-24DISCUSS: What excuses do people make today for not accepting God's invitation? / In the parable, what were the three excuses given to the hose of the banquet, and why were these excuses such an insult? What excuses do people use to put off Christ's invitation today? What excuses do Christians use to justify not spending time with Christ? / Who was invited to the banquet instead, and who will never taste the banquet?PRAY: Pray for those who have not accepted Christ's invitation of salvation. Pray that the Lord would equip you with courage and wisdom to share the Good News with the "unexpected."PRACTICE: Pray and Confess - Consider the status symbols you've been tempted to pursue to "get ahead" apart from Christ. / Story - Write down how you were invited to the Lord's banquet and why you said yes to His invitation. / Share - Commit to share your story with someone this week.DIVE DEEPER: Read Matthew 21:43, Matthew 22:8, Matthew 23:38-39, John 3:36, John 8:24, Acts 13:46, and Hebrews 12:25-26. / What do these verses teach us about Christ's invitation of grace? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Matthew 19:16-20:34DISCUSS: What do you think motivated the rich young man to approach Jesus in Matthew 19:16-22? How does Jesus' response challenge conventional notions of wealth and righteousness? / Why would a concern with "having" create a barrier to entering The Kingdom if we are offered such great reward? / Reference Matthew 20:12. Do you think that Jesus is saying that the first and last are equal, or do you think he is saying that the order is reversed? Why?PRAY: Thank God for the way He reveals His Kingdom. Pray for His help in learning how to become more comfortable in the way He leads.PRACTICE: Daily thanksgiving (reverse gratitude) / Commit to associating with the lowly and ask God to bring someone to you / Identify where your "standard of living" has outpaced your "standard of giving" and make a plan to set aside resources to give to God / Ask God to show you where you can give those resources away to those in need.DIVE DEEPER: Read Luke 12:22-33, 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, 1 Samuel 30:18-25, Hebrews 13:16, 1 John 3:17-18, 2 Corinthians 8-9. What do these verses teach about how God wants us to care for each other with what we have? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ TOGETHER: Matthew 18:21-35DISCUSS: How would you describe Peter's question to Jesus in verse 21? What in the preceding context prompted his question? What view of forgiveness does Peter's question reveal? / What Jesus' reply (verse 22) reveal about His view of forgiveness? / The first servant's debt was 10,000 talents. What does this debt represent? / What do you think is being taught about the nature of the servant's punishment in verse 34? Does the master's anger symbolize God's wrath? Why or why not?PRAY: Take time to thank God for His forgiveness. Pray for His help in forgiving those who have hurt or mistreated you.PRACTICE: Gratitude: put yourself in this parable. See yourself standing before God, see His generous mercy toward you, and see Him forgiving you completely. Express genuine gratitude toward God. / Compassion: change the ending of the parable. See yourself meeting people who are "indebted" to you. Feel the joy of replacing your anger and hurt with compassion.DIVE DEEPER: Read Matthew 6:14-15, Mark 11:25, Luke 6:37-38, James 2:13, James 3:14, Proverbs 21:2, and Revelation 2:23. What do the verses above teach about God's mercy toward us, and our responsibility to extend mercy to others? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Matthew 13:47-50DISCUSS: In this parable, what does the net, the sea, and the basket symbolize? / What does "every kind of fish" represent in the parable? Why do you think Jesus used fish as an analogy? / How does the role of angels in the final judgment affect your perspective? / Why do you think Jesus ends His kingdom parables with such a strong warning for those who have no received His kingdom by faith? How does this parable speak to the idea of sharing the Gospel with urgency?PRAY: Ask the Lord to show you the urgency for those who do not know Christ as Savior. Pray that your heart and life would reflect the principles of God's kingdom.PRACTICE: Thanksgiving: spend time in silence and solitude thanking and worshiping Jesus for redeeming your soul and welcoming you into His kingdom. Consider: As you consider the inclusivity of God's kingdom, make a list of ways you can impact others this week by sharing the hope of the Gospel. Prioritize: contemplate the reality of final judgment and prioritize living a righteous life in preparation for it.DIVE DEEPER: Read John 15:6, 2 Corinthians 12:2-21, 2 Timothy 3:2-5, 2 Peter 2:13-22, Titus 1:9-11, 1 John 4:1-6, and Revelation 3:1. What do the verses above teach us about the final judgment at the end of the age? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Matthew 13:44-46DISCUSS: What are some of the most "valuable" things you own, and what makes them valuable to you? / What do you think the hidden treasure in Matthew 13:44 symbolizes? Was the man wrong for not telling the landowner about the treasure? Why or why not? / What do you think the pearl of great price symbolizes? / What does "seek first the Kingdom of God" mean in today's context? / How do these parables challenge our priorities and values?PRAY: Ask God to make Christ and his Kingdom the most valuable thing in your life.PRACTICE: Reflect on your current priorities and consider what you need to change for the sake of spiritual growth and fulfillment. / Seek to cultivate a deeper understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven. Worship the Lord. Spend time in solitude with Him. / Embrace a mindset of selflessness and willingness to let go of earthly attachments in pursuit of eternal treasures.DIVE DEEPER: Read Matthew 6:21, Matthew 19:29, Luke 14:33, Philippians 3:7-9, and Hebrews 11:24-26. / What do the verses above teach us about the value of the Kingdom of God and treasuring Jesus Christ? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ: Matthew 13:33DISCUSS: How do you think our culture's obsession with instant gratification and fame influences our perception of success and significance? / How does the teaching here challenge that perspective? / How does the idea of hidden acts of love and devotion resonate with you?PRAY: Ask the Lord to give us ears to hear Him and to teach us to value those everyday acts of holiness, even if they are done in secret.PRACTICE: Practice secrecy: do something good for someone without anyone knowing. / Pick something ordinary in your weekly routine and dedicate it to the Lord. / Commit to the game plan of discipleship.DIVE DEEPER: Read Romans 12. What do these verses teach us about transformation? / Read Hebrews 13:12-17. What do these verses teach us about "clandestine discipleship"? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

MAIN IDEA: This parable refers to a tiny mustard seed that grows to become a large plant and serves as a home for many birds. This parable reveals that the Kingdom of Heaven will begin small but, in time, will grow to the ends of the earth.READ TOGETHER: Matthew 13:31-32DISCUSS: What's something you've observed that began small but grew into something large and significant? / What significance does this parable hold for understanding our own personal spiritual growth? / How might this parable encourage believers to think about the concept of small beginnings that can make a significant impact over time? / What does this parable say to those who don't feel talented, gifted, or brilliant?PRAY: Ask the Lord to bless and multiply the "little things" you do for His Kingdom.PRACTICE: Make a list of small steps you can take now that could grow into significant works of faith. / Nurture your walk with God by setting small goals and creating small habits that will, over time and like the mustard seed, develop and grow you more into Christ's image.DIVE DEEPER: Read Matthew 13:24, Matthew 17:20, Luke 13:18-19, Luke 17:6, Luke 20:9, Luke 19:11, Mark 4:30-32 / What do each of these verses teach us about the Kingdom of Heaven? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In Matthew 13, Jesus shifts from teaching about the Kingdom of God in a plain manner to speaking in parables. At first, the disciples are frustrated and confused at this, but as we keep reading, the purpose is revealed. Jesus' parables reveal to some, but conceal to others. For those who truly "listen", their journey is just beginning. For those closed off.. it's already over.Read: Matthew 13:1-23Discuss: What pre-conceived notions about Jesus or Christianity do you see hindering people from understanding the Gospel today? | How can we overcome the "anchor bias" mentioned in the sermon in our own lives and remain open to new perspectives and understandings of God's truth? | What steps can we take to cultivate "good soil" in our lives and communities to better live out the teachings of Jesus? | In what ways would you like to incorporate silence and solitude into your week?Pray: that the Lord would give us ears to hear from Him and would help us structure our lives in a way to make that possible.Dive Deeper: Read Isaiah 6, Luke 8:1-5, Psalm 1 | What do these verses teach us about listening? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ TOGETHER:Luke 17:20-21DISCUSS:What is the Kingdom of God? What did Jesus mean by saying the Kingdom of God is in the midst of you?Is the Kingdom of God here and now? Or is it something we are waiting for? Or is it both? How does this perspective challenge traditional expectations of a kingdom?Why do you think the Pharisees were focused on external signs?When we consider our choices, actions, words, and daily habits, are there any places where we have failed to acknowledge the kingdom of God like the Pharisees? In what ways can we experience the presence of the kingdom within ourselves?In what ways can we help advance the Kingdom of God on earth? What things in this world distract us from fulfilling our role of helping advance the Kingdom of God?PRAY:Pray that the Lord will show you where to use your gifts and talents to help advance the Kingdom of God on earth.PRACTICE (on your own):List three ways you can live with a clear understanding of the Kingdom of God in your midst?Discuss with a friend how you can best advance God’s kingdom in your life and of those around you?If you’re not already serving in and/or through the local church, pray about an opportunity where God might use you to advance His Kingdom - www.theridge.cc/serveDIVE DEEPER (on your own)Read: John 18:36; Luke 19:11; Luke 10:11; Acts 1:6-7; Daniel 2:44; Zechariah 4:6What do the verses above teach us about the Kingdom of God? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

READ TOGETHER:Philippians 3:12-14DISCUSS:Describe a time when you wanted to quit something, but you pressed on to finish. Describe the change(s) in your mindset from the start to the finish.How does Paul's attitude toward spiritual growth in this passage inspire you to keep running your race of faith? What significance does the phrase "press on" hold for your personal journey? Reflect on a moment when you pressed on despite challenges. How did it impact you spiritually?How does “forgetting” past sins and failures positively impact our spiritual life? Why is letting go of our past difficult? Why is it possible through Christ? Why do we often hold on to guilt and shame from our past?What role does perseverance play in the context of faith? In what ways do you relate to Paul’s pursuit of knowing Christ more deeply?Discuss the difference between “winning” the race of faith and “finishing” it. Which is more important and why? Discuss the process of acknowledging sin (confession/repentance) and straining forward toward growth in Christ?How does the concept of reaching the upward call of God in Christ Jesus resonate with your personal race of faith? PRAY:Pray that the Lord will give you the wisdom to leave the past behind, and strain toward the goal of becoming more like Him.PRACTICE (on your own):Write down three ways you can cultivate a mindset of continuous spiritual growth, making Christ your central focus (i.e. prayer, studying Scriptures, joining a group, etc.).Make a list of past sins and failures that keep you from striving toward Christlikeness. Prayerfully determine to leave those things behind to move forward in Christ.Discuss with your small group what it might be like one day to stand before Christ after finishing the race of faith.DIVE DEEPER (on your own)Read: 1 Timothy 6:11-12; 2 Peter 1:5-8; Psalm 138:8; Isaiah 51:1; 1 Peter 3:11-13; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 1:4What do the verses above teach us about leaving the past behind, and reaching upward toward the goal of becoming more like Jesus? Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this sermon, Pastor Dylan shares a beautiful message centered around the prophecies found in Isaiah. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In the second message of our Advent series entitled "Waiting," Pastor Chan walks us through Jesus' teaching about those who choose and do not choose to serve "the least of these." Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this first message in our sermon series leading up to Christmas, Pastor Mark teaches through the parable of the talents in Matthew 25 and draws out some key applications for us as we wait for the return of our Master, the Lord Jesus. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

This passage ends Paul's letter to the church at Colossae. In this passage, Paul specifically mentions several fellow Christian servants who were instrumental in his ministry. These servants give us examples of how we can serve the Kingdom of God. Some of these are mentioned in other letters as well, including Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, Mark, Epaphras, and Luke. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this episode, Pastor Chan continues our study through Colossians, teaching through Paul's exhortations to the church in Chapter 4. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

Join us in this eighth installment of our study through Paul's letter to the Colossians! In this episode, Pastor Chan teaches through the latter portion of Chapter 3 and the first verse of Chapter 4. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this sermon, Pastor Chan preaches through the opening portion of Colossians 3, where the Apostle Paul reveals the characteristics of someone who has been given new life in Christ. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this sixth sermon in our study through Paul's letter to the Colossians, we learn about three wrong beliefs and mindsets that were facing the church at Colossae and that face the church today. Pastor Chan explains what each of these wrong beliefs are, and we learn that these "poor substitutes" are, in fact, no substitutes at all. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this message entitled "Learning to Walk", Pastor Chan walks us through Colossians 2:6-15. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this message entitled "Faithful Servants", Pastor Chan discusses three things Paul writes about that describe a faithful servant of Christ. First, a faithful servant suffers through persecution with joy. Second, a faithful servant strives toward the mission of the Church. And third, a faithful servant strengthens their brothers and sisters in Christ. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

In this third installment of our verse-by-verse study through Colossians, we turn our attention to a beautiful passage of Scripture that describes the supremacy of Christ in detail. As we move through this passage, we see just who Christ is in relation to God, creation, the church, and ultimately to salvation. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

As we venture into the latter half of Colossians 1, we learn Paul's method of finding God's will for our life: spiritual discernment. Pastor Chan describes four ways that we can discern God's will and grow in His wisdom, and he also reminds us what Christ has done for those who trust in Him. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!

As we begin our verse-by-verse series through Paul's letter to the Colossians, Pastor Chan introduces us to the context of the epistle and lays the groundwork for the recurring theme throughout the book: the supremacy of Christ. Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!