The Summit Church

<p>What Abraham faced in his final test from God was incomprehensible, and yet he knew that God would remain faithful no matter the outcome. How was Abraham able to display such trust when met with the thought of sacrificing his son? In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. explains how ultimately, this story is not about Abraham's obedience, but about God's commitment to his people. Whatever the nature of our trials in this life, we can take comfort in knowing that the God we place our faith in is the one who always keeps his promises.</p>

<p>Have you ever felt an overwhelming sense of emptiness, whether regarding your career, marriage, or simply life in general? In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor Bryan highlights this experience in the life of Sarah, a woman whose barrenness led her to take matters into her own hands. But what Sarah learned was that her only hope of seeing the promise fulfilled was by living a life of complete dependence on God, trusting that he would do it. This principle still holds true for us today, as we must resist the temptation to rely on ourselves and instead, surrender in faith to a trustworthy God. </p>

<p>Many people struggle with doubting their faith. This week Pastor Derrick DeLain from Proclamation Church walks us through Matthew 11. Just like John the Baptist was a beacon of hope pointing to Jesus in the New Testament, we can look to Jesus and have confidence in him.</p>

<p>A man often regarded as the "father of faith," Abraham was faced with numerous tests throughout his life. Called by God to an unknown land, Abraham had to decide if obeying God was worth leaving everything that was familiar and comfortable. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. invites us to consider what made Abraham regard what he was gaining as having far greater value than what he was leaving behind. What does it mean to truly follow God in faith? It means, like Abraham, taking steps of obedience even when we don't know exactly where God is leading. </p>

<p>Though widely known, the story of Noah and the ark is one that tends to be misinterpreted by many in today's society. Far from being a tame bedtime story, it gives us a glimpse of the response of a holy God to the depravity of sin. In this week's message from Hebrews 11, Pastor J.D. explains how Noah's faith led him to act on God's command, without fear of what the surrounding community might think. Likewise, we are called to display the kind of faith that acts according to God's Word, out of reverence for him, and calls others to do the same. </p>

<p>One of the most inspiring chapters in the Bible is Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Great Hall of Faith." But while the stories contained there are indeed powerful, we shouldn't regard the people in them as perfect or their faith as unattainable. In this week's message, Pastor J.D. begins our series through Hebrews 11 by helping us see what faith looks like in practice. Through the examples of Abel and Enoch, we're reminded that true faith is demonstrated when we believe in and act on God's promises—even when others around us don't. </p>

<p>While the issues at the front and center of American politics in 2024 are different from those that the religious leaders highlighted during Jesus' day, they certainly aren't any less contentious. In this week's message from Mark 12, Pastor Bryan shows us how Jesus navigated stormy political waters with grace—and how we can do the same. When we recognize that it should be our faith that drives our politics (and not the other way around), we can then approach the upcoming election season in a way that honors both God and other people.</p>

<p>With six months to go until Election Day, the rhetoric from news outlets and social media is likely to become increasingly combative. For Christians, one thing is certain: Our political engagement should look different than that of the world. In this week's message, the first of a two-part series, Pastor J.D. examines Mark 1 and Luke 2, drawing out the implications of Jesus' rule in a world hostile to it—both then and now. As followers of Jesus, our vote is important, but even more important is our witness to a watching world. </p>

<p>These days, it's not exactly popular to claim the existence of absolute truth. It's even less popular to claim that such truth is embodied in the person of Jesus, the one who is the only way to salvation. In this week's message from John 14, Pastor J.D. shows us the importance of what is perhaps Jesus' most controversial "I am" statement: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life." Yet, this statement isn't primarily about a set of principles to live by, or even having the correct answers to every theological question. Instead, it's about truly knowing and having a relationship with the Savior of the world.</p>

<p>It doesn't take an expert gardener to know that a branch that isn't connected to the vine won't survive for very long. In this week's message from John 15, Pastor Bryan explores the next of Jesus' "I am" statements, helping us understand what it means to abide in Jesus, the "true vine." Many other things—often good things—vie for our time and attention, making this seem impossible. But the truth is, we have no hope of producing lasting fruit if we're seeking life from any other source.</p>

<p>Without shepherds to care for them, the threats posed to sheep run the gamut, from losing their way to being attacked by other animals. Simply put, sheep thrive under the guidance and protection of their shepherd. In this week's message from John 10, Pastor J.D. takes us through Jesus' claim to be the "good shepherd." What is so remarkable about this shepherd is that his love for the flock leads him to not only protect them, but lay down his life for them. As believers, then, we can fix our eyes not on any dangers that may threaten to harm us, but on our good shepherd.</p>

<p>Given the choice between soda and water to quench extreme thirst, surely we would all agree on which to choose. The difference, of course, is that one truly satisfies and the other doesn't. When it comes to spiritual thirst, we can be tempted to turn to things that don't fulfill us instead of to the one who offers living water: Jesus himself. In this week's message from John 7, Pastor Curtis helps us see that this living water is something that not only satisfies us, but in the end, flows out of us to be a blessing to others.</p>

<p>If we're honest, most of us have probably experienced disappointment with God at some point in our lives. We question why God didn't cure our friend's cancer, or why he didn't provide for us financially when we really needed it. This Easter, Pastor J.D. walks us through Jesus' claim to be the "resurrection and the life," from John 11. In Jesus' response to the death of Lazarus, and to the pain of those close to him, we find a Savior who not only weeps with us, but meets us in our moments of disappointment and doubt. And, ultimately, we have a Savior whose resurrection will one day mean the end of pain and death—forever.</p>

<p>Doors and gates are things that we likely don't give much thought to until they are in need of repair—and while the truth is that they are usually constructed to keep people or animals out, they can also certainly be opened to let them in. In this week's message from John 10, Pastor J.D. explains perhaps the most overlooked of Jesus' "I Am" statements: "I am the door." Though most people recognize this as Jesus' claim to be the only way to salvation—and it is—it is also a statement that is far richer and deeper than we may realize. Because while Jesus is indeed the only door to salvation, he is also the door that leads to a flourishing life here on earth. </p>

<p>No matter what side of the "daylight saving time" debate we find ourselves on, we all have to at least acknowledge that light is essential for life, for a myriad of reasons. So Jesus' declaration that he is "the light of the world" was truly a bold claim. In this week's message from John 8, Pastor J.D. shows us how Jesus' light is one that doesn't merely reveal our sin, but ultimately, it heals us. As a result, we shouldn't feel as though we have to hide in the darkness—on the contrary, we can be the ones who radiate the light of Jesus in the midst of this darkness.</p>

<p>As humans, one of our most basic needs is food—when we don't have it, we experience discomfort, irritability, or even sickness or death. And yet, as unbearable as physical hunger can be, it is our spiritual hunger that we often neglect to address, to our own detriment. As we begin a series looking at the seven "I am" statements made by Jesus in the Gospel of John, this week's message from Pastor J.D. explores the first of these, from John 6. Jesus' claim to be the "bread of life" is a truth that we so desperately need in a world full of people who seek to satisfy their spiritual hunger with anything but Jesus. </p>

<p>It's often easy to dwell solely on the joys of discipleship, but what about the costs? We can't divorce forgiveness from repentance, communion from confession. If we do, we are left with what Dietrich Bonhoeffer so aptly referred to as "cheap grace." In this week's message from 2 Timothy 4, Pastor John shows us how following Jesus comes with a cost—and it is one that we must embrace if we are to be able to say, with Paul, that we have "fought the good fight, finished the race, kept the faith." </p>

<p>When individualism is prized above all, it can be difficult to communicate to others that there is truth that is not subjective, not up for debate—namely, the Word of God. In this week's message from 2 Timothy 3, Pastor Bryan highlights why it is vitally important to look to the Bible, rather than looking inward, to remind ourselves of truth. If the words contained in this book really are the very breath of God—a lamp to our feet and a light to our path—shouldn't our lives be saturated with them?</p><p><br></p>

<p>As followers of Jesus, we wouldn't disagree with the need to make disciples. But the reality is that it requires both intentionality and a significant investment of time—one that we may feel we simply don't have, at least according to our busy calendars. In this week's message from 2 Timothy 2, Pastor Bryan shows us the importance of prioritizing disciple-making in our lives. When we take the time to pour into others, sowing the seed of the gospel, we may just find that those around us are inspired to do the same.</p>

<p>For many of us, fear rules much of our lives. We worry about our finances, our health, our relationships—and yet, the solutions we seek are often unhelpful at best. What's more, this fear tends to spill over into our spiritual lives, making us less likely to share the gospel. So how can we walk with courageous, unashamed faith? As we begin our series through 2 Timothy, Pastor Curtis reminds us of three key gospel truths that can help us combat our fear and live as bold witnesses for Christ.</p>

<p>When you hear the phrase "The Great Commission," what is your initial reaction? There can be a tendency in the church to relegate the carrying out of this command to those who are "called," or perhaps to those of a certain personality type. But if we follow Christ, the command to make disciples applies to us all—to the introvert as well as to the extrovert; to the lawyer and the barista as well as to the pastor and the career missionary. In this week's message from John 15, Acts 1, and Matthew 28, Pastor J.D. provides a helpful framework for how to do what Jesus has called us to do: live with gospel intentionality in a way that results in true multiplication. </p>

<p>Whether you make New Year's resolutions or not, you probably have areas of your life that you would like to change. But the path to change, as we all know, isn't always an easy one. It can be difficult to break old habits, make new ones, and incorporate fresh rhythms into our lives. In this week's message from John 15, Pastor J.D. helps us to see that our growth as disciples isn’t a matter of steeling ourselves and willing new routines and habits into existence. Rather, this growth is a natural byproduct of abiding in Jesus as he abides in us. And it is this true connection to Jesus that will produce fruit that lasts into eternity.</p>

<p>If you consider yourself a follower of Jesus, you probably refer to yourself as a "Christian." But how often do you call yourself a "disciple"? In this week's message from John 15, Pastor J.D. shows us that the difference between these two words might just be more significant than we think. What's more, we may be surrounded by people who claim to be Christians but are far from being true disciples of Jesus. The good news? For those willing to fully submit to and follow Jesus, there is immense joy to be found in joining him in his mission—one that really does change the world. </p>

<p>"Getting back to the basics" is an oft-repeated phrase—and for good reason. Whether you've been following Jesus for 10 months or 10 years, it is always beneficial to be reminded of the essential truths of the gospel, upon which our faith is built. In this week's message, the first in our series on "The Whole Disciple," Pastor J.D. helps us unpack some of these foundational truths from Romans 3:23–26. As true disciples of Jesus, these are the things that we cherish and continually learn from, rather than master and move on from. </p>

<p>It's safe to say that we all desire to pray bold prayers, grounded in God's Word and fueled by his Spirit. So why is it that we often find ourselves settling for a prayer life that is characterized more by timidity than audacity? As we prepare to begin 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, this week's message from Pastor J.D. focuses on a lesser-known story of Elijah and King Ahab in 1 Kings 18. Bold prayer, prayer that truly changes things, isn't just reserved for the select few—rather, it is something that all believers can and should practice. </p>

<p>In this short message from 1 Corinthians 16, Pastor Curtis provides valuable direction for us as we find ourselves on the cusp of a new year, giving us four practical steps to ensure we are making progress in our lives as Christians. While we don't know exactly what this new year will hold, we can be sure that there will be both highs and lows. But we can also know with certainty that even through these mountains and valleys, consistent steps of obedience to God will lead to our growth as disciples. </p>

<p>Have you ever been in a place of immense darkness, literal or otherwise? If so, then you know how incredibly powerful it is when you see the first rays of light beginning to break through. In this week's message from Isaiah 9, the last in our Christmas series, Pastor J.D. shows us how Jesus is the light that the long-ago prophet spoke about. Even when darkness threatens to overwhelm this weary world, we can rejoice in the knowledge that the light of Jesus has come—a light that will never be eclipsed by darkness. </p>

<p>Christmas can stir up many different emotions. For some, it generates excitement and anticipation. But for others, particularly those who find themselves in the midst of a difficult season of life, it may feel more sorrowful than joyful. So what do we do when it simply doesn't "feel" like Christmas? This is precisely the question that Pastor Bryan considers in this week's message from Revelation 5. As we look at a second image that the Bible uses to describe Jesus and how he comes to us, we see that in beholding him as the Lamb of God, we gain a perhaps much-needed change of perspective during this Christmas season. </p>

<p>While Christmas has inspired the writing of many songs throughout the centuries, one song that is often overlooked is a biblical one—namely, that of Zechariah, whose words were inspired by the birth of John the Baptist. Over the next few weeks, we will examine three ordinary objects and how they can help us better apprehend the meaning of Christmas. In this week's message from Luke 1, Pastor J.D. walks through Zechariah's song to explain the first of these objects, the horn. At first glance, it may seem a curious image to use—but its rich symbolism serves to point us to Jesus, the ultimate horn of salvation. </p>

<p>While the Bible makes it clear that the demonic realm is real, it doesn't leave us in a place of despair, without instructions on how to do battle against such forces. In this week's message from Ephesians 6, Pastor J.D. returns to the issue of spiritual warfare in order to show us the importance of putting on the armor of God. The truth is that if we try to fight out of our own strength, we will likely fail. Only by properly dressing ourselves for battle, armed with the strength of God, can we overcome Satan. </p>

<p>In this week's message, Capital Hills Campus Pastor John Muller teaches about preparing the way for Jesus by working through Mark 1:1-8.</p>

<p>Pastor Daniel Simmons shares a message from Matthew 3:1-11.</p>

<p>Would you describe yourself as a generous person? If not, chances are that you may be viewing the world through the wrong lens. In this week's message from Leviticus 19, Pastor J.D. shows us how seeing the world through the correct lens can propel us toward lives characterized by gratitude and generosity. Though there may not be a prescribed amount that we are to give, it is clear that God intends for us to steward what he has entrusted to us in a way that results in considerable blessing to those who are in need.</p>

<p>Who are you, really? In a culture rife with comparison, the question of identity is one that tends to plague many of us. Is your identity anchored in things such as your accomplishments, your net worth, your social media presence—or in God's purpose and plan for your life? In this week's message from Matthew 3 and 4, Pastor J.D. explains common snares that Satan uses to attack our identity and how, by being grounded in the truths of Scripture, we can avoid becoming entangled in them. </p>

<p>When you think about the realm of the demonic, perhaps your thoughts tend toward Hollywood depictions of it rather than its real influence in the world around you. As we begin a short series on spiritual warfare, Pastor J.D. takes us through the realities of demonic activity in this week's message from Luke 11. Though the attacks and accusations of Satan can often lead us to despair, there is much hope to be found in fully surrendering to Jesus, the only one who has truly conquered this unseen Enemy. </p>

<p>The book of Jonah ends in a curious manner, with a surprising cliffhanger of a question posed to Jonah. And while we are left wondering what Jonah will do, the real question for us becomes what we will do with God's invitation to extend mercy to our enemies. As we wrap up our series through the book of Jonah, Pastor Bryan walks us through chapter 4, detailing reasons why it is often so hard for us to show mercy, and how we can ultimately grow in mercy. The next move is ours—will it be one toward mercy or toward anger and bitterness?</p>

<p>When we see Jesus for who he truly is, we can't help but respond. In this week's message from Acts 2, Pastor Curtis shows us how the crowd at Pentecost had a revelation about Jesus that led them to respond in repentance and baptism. Maybe you don't feel ready to be baptized, or you aren't sure it's really necessary in order to follow Jesus. Or maybe, like those present at Pentecost, today is the day that you declare your readiness to submit to and identify with Jesus through baptism. </p>

<p>It can be tempting to think that we've messed things up beyond repair, that surely God must be done with us this time. In this week's message from Jonah 3, Pastor Bryan explores the beautiful truth that we serve a God who delights in giving second chances, because he is rich in mercy. And it is precisely this mercy and kindness—not guilt or condemnation—that leads us to repentance.</p>

<p>Chances are, you'll never be swallowed by a giant fish—but you may find yourself in a pit of despair, feeling as though there is no way out. In this week's message from Jonah 2, Pastor Bryan reveals the perhaps counterintuitive truth that there are blessings to be found in the pit. Indeed, God is able to use these experiences that are often unpleasant or even downright painful to make us still more fruitful members of his kingdom. The question, then, is how we will respond to God's steadfast love that is with us even in the deepest, darkest pit.</p>

<p>Why do we often struggle to show mercy to others? Perhaps, we think, the other person doesn't really deserve to be shown mercy—after all, they have offended us deeply. How could we possibly be expected to forgive them? As we begin our series through the book of Jonah, this week's message from Pastor Bryan shows us from Jonah 1 how it is impossible to become people who extend God's mercy without first comprehending the depths of our own sin. Only when we understand how much God has forgiven us can we offer that same forgiveness to others. </p>

<p>Is prayer actually effective? And if it is, should we still pray even if we have a less-than-robust faith? As we wrap up our series in James this week, Pastor J.D. sheds light on a crucial—and often misunderstood—passage about prayer from James 5. In the end, we can be encouraged that God does indeed hear the prayers of his children, and it is often through them that he chooses to accomplish his work on earth. </p>

<p>In a society of one-click shopping and seemingly endless streaming services, patience is one thing that is often in short supply. In this week's message from James 5, Pastor J.D. explains what patience is, why it's necessary, and how we can develop it. Even in the midst of suffering and the many challenges thrown at us by life, we can be sure that God is working all things for our good—we need only be patient and wait on him. </p>

<p>We all make plans, whether they concern what we will do the next day or in the coming years. While the Bible acknowledges that it is certainly wise to plan, it also recognizes that the posture behind our planning is crucial. In this week's message from James 4 and 5, Pastor J.D. provides a helpful perspective on how to approach our lives in light of the fact that God is the one in control, not us. The choice is ours: a life characterized by trust in God, leading to humility and generosity—or one characterized by self-sufficiency, leading to arrogance and greed. </p>

<p>"I will make you fishers of men." As Pastor John shows us in this week's message from Matthew 4, what Jesus promised to two brothers long ago is what he also promises us, if only we will follow him. The idea of following can often seem counterintuitive in a culture such as ours, with its focus on individualism and self-reliance. And yet, it is only when we joyfully submit ourselves to the leadership of Jesus that we will truly become disciple-making disciples.</p><p> </p><p><br></p>

<p>If it's true that we can't earn our salvation, then how should we think about the relationship between faith and works? In this message from James 2, Pastor Curtis explores faith that saves and faith that doesn't—and how to know which one you possess. In the end, each of us must do the hard work of examining ourselves to see whether what we profess with our lips matches the way we actually live. </p>

<p>We live in a world that increasingly disregards the Bible and scoffs at claims that it is the inerrant Word of God. As Christians, then, how do we answer those who challenge our faith in this book? In this week's message from 2 Peter 1, Pastor Curtis shows us what the Bible is and isn't, and gives us compelling evidence for why we can stake our lives—and, ultimately, our eternities—on the truths of Scripture. </p>

<p>Though we don't like to admit it, we are often guilty of judging others based on very limited information. In this week's message from James 2, Pastor J.D. describes the dangers of showing favoritism, particularly within the church. If we are to truly fulfill Jesus' command to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, we must be willing to see others as he sees them: people made in the image of God, worthy to be treated with dignity and shown mercy.</p>