The Summit Church

<p>As we close our journey through the book of Exodus, we come to a seemingly anticlimactic ending—the construction of the tabernacle. You might think it strange, after all of the crescendos in the book, to end here. The burning bush, the 10 plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, Moses meeting God on the mountain … and this is the happy ending? But as Pastor J.D. shows us, the tabernacle functioned as the center of the Israelites walk with God. Not only that, but through Jesus, it can enrich our daily time with God as well. </p>

<p>To one degree or another, we all long for transformation, whether on a physical level or a spiritual one. In this week's message from Exodus 34, Pastor Bryan walks us through a transformation that happened to Moses, one that was brought about by time spent in the presence of God. The reality is that true gospel transformation isn't something we can manufacture. Though we can ready the environment for such change in our lives, it is ultimately the Holy Spirit who brings it about. And when he does, it serves as an incredibly powerful witness to the watching world. </p>

<p>In many cultures around the world, names are a big deal. More than just what someone is called, names often imply identity and even purpose. In this week's message from Exodus 34, Pastor Bryan explores a passage that is quoted numerous times by the Bible itself, a passage that reveals not just the name, but the very character of God. When we think rightly about who God is, we can approach his throne boldly, with the confidence and assurance that his unchanging character provides.</p>

<p>We tend to read the story of the Israelites making the golden calf and ask, “How could they?” But we fail to realize that what the Israelites were guilty of, idolatry, is the very thing that is behind all of our other sins. In this week’s message from Exodus 32, Pastor J.D. shows us not only the danger of idolatry in our lives, but how we can escape it. Ultimately, what is bad news for those who reject Christ is actually good news for those who follow him: You become like what you worship. </p>

<p>At Easter, we consider the cross and the resurrection, of course—but this consideration ultimately demands a response from us. It demands that a choice be made. In this Easter message, Pastor J.D. explains how Luke 23 is the dividing line of history, and the most important decision we will ever make is whether we are on the side of Jesus or not. For those who choose to put their faith in Jesus, we can say with confidence and joy, “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!”</p>

<p>Rather than a necessity, the idea of rest can often seem like an unattainable luxury. After all, who has time for rest in a society that prizes constantly being on your hustle? But even as he was giving the instructions for building the tabernacle, rest was the very thing that God commanded for his people. In this week's message from Exodus 31, Pastor Curtis explains how God intended the Sabbath to be a reminder to the Israelites that their relationship with him wasn't built on their work for him, but their rest in him—a lesson we would do well to remember today. </p>

<p>We love the idea of freedom, but what does it really mean? Clearly, the freedom offered by the world is drastically different from that offered by Christ. In this week's message from Galatians 5, Pastor Wes Smith shows us how in Christ, we are set free both from and to certain things. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to do what we were designed to do—live in obedience by loving God and loving others.</p><p><br></p>

<p>In a secular, post-Christian society like the one we find ourselves living in, the Ten Commandments aren't exactly popular. Cries to "live your own truth" threaten to drown out the absolute truth of God's law. But how can we expect to love each other well without parameters for what that actually looks like in practice? In this week's message from Exodus 19–20, Pastor J.D. shows us how the Ten Commandments are designed to help us flourish, experiencing God's creation as it was truly intended to be. True freedom, it turns out, isn't found in the absence of God's law, but in the embracing of it.</p>

<p>We all have an important role to play in the body of believers. This truth, though seemingly ingrained in us now, was something that God had to intentionally teach the Israelites. In this week's message from Exodus 17–18, Pastor J.D. takes us through three foundational lessons that God taught the Israelites about life in the redeemed community. In showing them that everything wasn't meant to be centered around one leader, the people were ultimately better equipped to serve the needs of the community as a whole.</p>

<p>You aren't likely to find many people who genuinely enjoy tests, but they certainly have a way of revealing where we are lacking in knowledge. In this week’s message from Exodus 15–17, Pastor J.D. explains three tests that God walked the Israelites through after delivering them through the Red Sea. These tests, along with the lessons learned from them, were so fundamental that New Testament writers would later refer to them again and again. The truth is, we are no less forgetful than the Israelites, and like them, we need to be continually reminded of why God is always worthy of our trust.</p>

<p>The parting of the Red Sea was not only an epic moment in Israel's history, but an event that would become the most frequent image of salvation in the Old Testament. In this week's message from Exodus 13–15, Pastor J.D. shows us how this defining moment became a marker for the Israelites to look back on when their faith faltered. In the same way, when we are tempted to doubt God's goodness in our lives, we can remember his faithfulness to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus.</p>

<p>We know that there are people in need all around us. We know that, as followers of Jesus, we are called to do something about it. But often, the difficulty lies in knowing how best to help. In this week’s message from Luke 10, Pastor J.D. unpacks the parable of the Good Samaritan, a story which beautifully illustrates how showing compassion toward those who are most vulnerable reflects the very heart of God. How might he be calling you to help meet the needs of those you encounter this week?</p>

<p>The power of the gospel to change people cannot be underestimated, and we see examples of this riddled throughout the book of Acts. In this week's message from Acts 8, Pastor John highlights the example of Philip, whose changed life had a profound impact on those around him. Likewise, when we have been truly changed by the gospel, we cannot help but share the good news and meet the needs of those in proximity to us. </p>

<p>For many people in the world, believing in God may not necessarily be a far reach. But believing in Jesus? Furthermore, believing that it was necessary for Jesus to die in order for us to receive forgiveness of sins? That, they would say, is a step too far. In this week's message from Exodus 11–13, Pastor J.D. takes us through the story of the Passover, showing us the mercy of God for the Israelites. Ultimately, this mercy would find expression in Jesus, the true Passover Lamb and our only hope of forgiveness.</p>

<p>Throughout Scripture, God uses various means to show that he is far more transcendent and powerful than any false gods that people choose to worship. In this week's message from Exodus 7–10, Pastor Bryan explains how in sending plagues on the Egyptians, God demonstrates not only his power and might, but also immense grace and kindness in confronting idols. It is through these plagues that God comes close and reveals himself to Israel as a God who desires to be known—and ultimately, to dwell with his people.</p>

<p>Our obedience to God doesn't necessarily guarantee that things in our life won't go wrong, or that we won't fail. And yet, that's a hard pill to swallow—if we're obeying God, surely everything will fall into place, right? In this week's message from Exodus 4–6, Pastor J.D. shows us how Moses faced this very struggle in his first confrontation with Pharaoh. Ultimately, God allowed Moses to fail not because he was cruel, but as a demonstration of his saving power and unmatched glory.</p>

<p>When we are overwhelmed by a particular challenge or even just by life itself, feelings of insecurity can threaten to take over. In this week's message from Exodus 3 and 4, Pastor J.D. walks us through Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush. Though Moses felt completely unprepared for the assignment in front of him, God provided reassurance that was rooted in his unchanging nature. This reassurance addressed what Moses needed the most, and what we need the most in the face of life's challenges and trials: the very presence of God himself. </p>

<p>Waiting can be an incredibly frustrating experience, perhaps because it exposes something that we all feel at various times: a longing for control. In this week's message from Exodus 2, Pastor Curtis helps us to see how Moses' time in Midian, a period of waiting, was ultimately used by God as a crucial time of preparation. When we try to take matters into our own hands, we often learn how elusive control really is. But when we wait on God, truly learning to rely on him, we are reminded that he is a God who hears the cries of his people and delivers them. </p>

<p>Rescue. Salvation. Deliverance. These words characterize the story of the book of Exodus, as God frees his people from slavery in Egypt in an amazing display of power and might. As we begin a new series through the first half of Exodus, Pastor J.D. shows us from the first two chapters what we can learn about God's work of salvation on a broad scale, as well as in our individual lives. And often, the very aspects of our lives that we consider weak, broken, or useless are what God uses to write a beautiful story of redemption. </p>

<p>The older we get, the greater the realization of just how fleeting our lives truly are, a realization that is often heightened with the dawn of a new year. As we begin 2025, this week's message from Pastor Curtis focuses on Psalm 90, the only psalm we know that was written by Moses. What Moses petitioned the Lord for is something that we would be wise to pursue as well: a godly perspective on how we spend our lives and a heart of wisdom. </p>

<p>In this short message from Deuteronomy 8, Pastor Rich highlights how the Israelites were cautioned not to forget God as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. In the same way, we should take care to remember and give thanks to God for each of his gifts, the greatest of which is Jesus. As we remember that “every good and perfect gift is from above,” it inevitably produces in us a greater sense of humility and a heightened awareness of God’s goodness. </p>

<p>Ask just about anyone how they define “blessed,” and it will likely be far different than how Elizabeth, the angel Gabriel, and even Mary herself defined it. In this week's message from Luke 1, Pastor J.D. takes us through the Magnificat, Mary's song of praise and thanksgiving to God. The truths that we learn from this song—largely based in the Psalms—point to a God whose presence and promises anchor our hope, even when it doesn't feel like Christmas. </p>

<p>While everyone experiences grief differently, the fact is that grief itself is universal. Living in a world broken by sin, none of us will escape it—and yet, we can still grieve as those who have hope because of what Jesus has done for us. In this week's message from Psalm 137, Pastor Bryan helps us view grief through a gospel lens. By remembering God's goodness and sharing our grief with him, we will be in a better position to minister to others who are going through trials and hardships.</p>

<p>It’s one thing to say you have faith, but what about when that faith is put to the test? Trials and unanswered questions naturally have a way of revealing whether our faith is in God or in something else entirely. In this week’s message from Psalm 121, Pastor J.D. challenges us to examine our own lives in light of three questions of faith posed by this psalm. Ultimately, our help and our hope come from the only one truly deserving of our trust—the Lord, who never slumbers or sleeps.</p>

<p>Apex Campus Pastor Josh Ingram preaches a message of hope from Isaiah 9.</p>

<p>Alamance County Campus Pastor Brandon Delk shares a message on hope from Isaiah 9. </p>

<p>Many people have a tendency to confuse needs with wants, and this becomes even more pronounced with the arrival of the Christmas shopping season. For the Israelites living in exile, meeting their deepest need wasn’t a matter of satisfying their hunger or providing a luxurious place for them to live. What they really needed is the same thing we still need today: a Savior. In this week’s message from Isaiah 9, Pastor John shows us how everything we lack is met in this Savior, Jesus—the one we know to be the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”</p>

<p>Blue Ridge Campus Pastor Dustin Wells shares a message on Christmas from Isaiah 9.</p>

<p>Associate North Durham Campus Pastor of Small Groups and Sending, Stephen Snyder, shares a message of hope from Isaiah 9.</p>

<p>Brier Creek Campus Pastor Warren Neverson shares a message from Isaiah 9.</p>

<p>Popular Christmas songs paint the picture that “all is merry and bright” this time of year—but for many, the reality is starkly different. In this week’s message, the first in our Christmas series, Pastor J.D. shows us the contrasting realities present in Psalms 88–89. It is in these two psalms that we see one of the great paradoxes of the Christian life: Our seasons of darkness and despair, while incredibly painful, don’t invalidate the steadfast love and faithfulness of God.</p>

<p>With the holidays fast approaching, along with the feeling that you are constantly inundated with ads, you'll likely pick up on a common thread: The accumulation of more things equals happiness. But with a "never enough" mindset, it's impossible to be what God desires us to be: cheerful givers. In this week's message from 2 Corinthians 8–9, Pastor J.D. helps us to see a kind of giving that is motivated not by guilt, but as a response to the grace that we have received. When we have this as our focus, we can move from asking, "What must I give?" to "What do I get to give?"</p>

<p>While we know that it is more blessed to give than to receive, it doesn't always feel that way, especially when the bills are piling up and the money doesn't seem to stretch far enough. So how can we reclaim joy in giving? In this week's message from Matthew 6, Pastor Bryan shows us how generosity helps to shift our perspective on life, giving us what material possessions never can—deep, lasting joy.</p>

<p>We're likely familiar with the call from Jesus to seek the kingdom of God above all other things, but our financial decisions are one indicator of what we are truly seeking. In this week's message from Haggai 1–2, Pastor J.D. encourages us to consider how our giving reflects the priority we have placed on God in our hearts and lives. Just as the Israelites fell to the temptation to place their own comforts and priorities ahead of their worship of God, we are still susceptible to this today. By reorienting our hearts, we can ensure that the stewardship of our finances is in alignment with God's kingdom. </p>

<p>A legacy is inherently something that reaches far beyond us, making an impact long after we're gone. So how do we approach the stewardship of our money in a way that leaves a lasting legacy? In this week's message from Luke 16, Pastor J.D. takes us through one of Jesus' parables to show us how leveraging our resources for eternity truly is the wisest course of action. If we believe that everything ultimately belongs to God, this will radically change the way in which we handle our finances.</p>

<p>Conflict isn't generally regarded as a positive thing, but the reality is that learning to handle conflict in a healthy way can be something that actually sanctifies and matures us. In this week's message from Song of Solomon 5–7, Pastor Curtis explores how even in conflict, we can fight for each other—and for love that endures. When we are overwhelmed by God's forgiveness toward us, we will find ourselves able to more easily extend forgiveness to others.</p>

<p>For sailors lost at sea, the sextant was a remarkable tool designed to help them gain their bearings and navigate to where they needed to go. For us today, making our way through the dating world often feels akin to sailing across the vast ocean—and without the wisdom found in God's Word, we will find ourselves hopelessly lost. In this week's message, Pastor Bryan returns to Genesis 24 to equip us with biblical tools that can help us ensure we are charting a wise course as we pursue dating, engagement, and marriage.</p>

<p>Dating isn't what it used to be, in many ways. The advent of dating apps has made it easier than ever to connect with people, but often at the expense of isolating oneself from community. In this week's message from Genesis 24, Pastor Bryan draws on the story of Isaac and Rebekah to give us some helpful principles for approaching dating in today's world. The more we center our joy and contentment in Christ, the better off we will be, single or otherwise. </p>

<p>Throughout history, there have been countless songs, poems, and books written about love. Yet, we know that turning to pop culture for advice on finding love is not the wisest course of action. In this first message of our four-week series on relationships, Pastor J.D. reminds us from Song of Solomon 1 and 2 of some foundational truths about love that are helpful in navigating singleness, dating, and marriage. In the end, these earthly forms of love are intended to be a signpost, pointing us to the much greater love that God has for us.</p>

<p>We often hear about someone who has a "calming presence," or what it’s like to be "in the presence of greatness." But what comes to mind when you think about being in the presence of God? Is this even something we have access to? The truth is, we have access to God through prayer right now, but we are constantly surrounded by distractions. In this week's message from Exodus 33, Pastor John explains how experiencing God's presence is vitally important in understanding two things: who we are and what our purpose is. </p>

<p>Though the first few chapters of Acts are filled with baptisms and miracles, the pivotal point of the book—the stoning of Stephen—shows how God uses ordinary believers to display his power and accomplish his mission amidst persecution. In this week's message from Acts 7 and 8, Pastor J.D. encourages us to consider how God might be calling us to advance the mission of the gospel. It won't look the same for everyone, of course. But the worth of Jesus and the truth of the gospel should compel us to share with a lost and dying world, whether here or overseas. </p>

<p>We all face situations in our lives that seem impossible to navigate, where we simply lack the wisdom to make the best decision. It is in these moments where we might be tempted to think that if we only did enough research or talked to enough people, we would have the discernment needed. In reality, true wisdom comes from God alone, and he invites us to ask him for it. In this week's message from Matthew 7, Pastor Curtis shows us how we can seek God through prayer, approaching him as our Father who delights in giving good gifts to his children.</p>

<p>Faith often takes different shapes and forms throughout your life. Sometimes it means believing God for a miracle, while at other times it looks like trusting that God is good even when the miracle doesn't come. In this week's message, the finale of our Hebrews 11 series, Pastor J.D. encourages us with the truth that no matter where we find ourselves, our faith can be used to glorify God and point others to the gospel. What might God do through us as we continue the legacy of these great men and women of faith?</p>

<p>The beauty of faith is often found in its simplicity. You don't have to possess a wealth of theological knowledge to be captivated by the truth of the gospel. Maybe, like Rahab, you've simply heard what the Lord has done and you believe. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. explains how the faith of a Gentile prostitute changed the course of history and left an enduring legacy. In the same way, one simple act of faith on our part has the potential to make a profound, eternal difference in the lives of those around us.</p>

<p>When you think of Joseph, you may think of the famous "coat of many colors," or even of his bizarre dreams or his prominent position as Pharaoh's second-in-command. But you probably don't think of the instructions that Joseph gave for his own burial. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor Curtis shows us how throughout Joseph's life, whether he was in the palace or the prison, he remained confident that God was with him. How might our outlook on life change if we truly believed that God was with us at all times, no matter our circumstances? </p>

<p>It’s tempting at times to read the Bible through a human-centric lens, as though we are the main character in each narrative. But in so doing, we’re in danger of missing the larger point of stories like Joshua and the city of Jericho. In this week’s message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. shows us how this key moment in Joshua’s life holds a valuable lesson for us: Rather than orienting our lives around trying to get God “on our side,” we ought to be asking what God wants to do and how we can join him in it.</p>

<p>“A life of more.” This phrase likely has different connotations depending on who is speaking. To the world, “a life of more” may look like more money, more possessions, or more recognition. But to the Christ-follower, it means a kind of satisfaction and contentment that is found in Jesus alone. In this week’s message from Hebrews 11, Pastor Bryan shows us how Moses’ pursuit of a life of more meant turning his back on the treasures of Egypt and stepping out in faith to fulfill his God-given mission. We can exercise this same kind of faith knowing, as Moses did, that God will never leave us or forsake us.</p>

<p>Though we may not realize it, our choices often reveal what we truly value. How we choose to spend our time, what we choose to do with our money—these things are a reflection of what we hold dear. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor Curtis explains how choices made by Moses and his parents revealed the value they placed on faith in God, and how much they were willing to sacrifice for it. Faith undoubtedly comes with a cost, but it always yields rewards far greater than those that the world offers.</p>

<p>There is something in each of us that cries out for acceptance, that longs for blessing. And while the culture around us strives for this acceptance to the point of exhaustion, the gospel says that God's acceptance of us is strictly a gift of grace that can't be earned. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. shows us how this truth came to life for Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Though circumstances might have pointed to the contrary, God's faithfulness was always at work, even in the midst of dark days. </p>

<p>We all build our lives on something. For many, it's the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. For others, it may be the allure of a successful career or the comfort of relationships. But these things were never meant to bear the weight of our faith. In this week's message from Mark 5, Pastor John takes us through the story of two healings performed by Jesus, the only one in whom we can joyfully and confidently place our faith. </p>