How do you cultivate real thanksgiving when life hasn’t been easy—and the holiday table holds both joy and sorrow? In this Thanksgiving Special of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Dr. Matt Rehrer to explore what Scripture calls us to when it says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord” (Psalm 92) and “Enter his gates with thanksgiving” (Psalm 100).Drawing from passages like Psalm 92 and Psalm 100, Kent and Matt unpack how thanksgiving is rooted in God’s character—His steadfast love in the morning and His faithfulness by night. They look at how gratitude matures over a lifetime, why older saints’ praise carries such weight, and how believers can guard against cynicism as they age.They also share practical ways to shape your Thanksgiving around worship: reading Scripture at the table, inviting every generation to reflect on God’s faithfulness, incorporating simple traditions like a “thankful tree,” and rethinking the pace of the day itself. Along the way, they reflect on the original Thanksgiving, the call to give thanks even in seasons of loss, and why this holiday naturally leads Christians to remember God’s covenant love.Whether your year has been filled with blessing, hardship, or a mix of both, this episode aims to help you enter the holiday anchored in God’s faithfulness and strengthened by a heart of expository, Christ-centered gratitude.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What do you do when your desires don’t line up with God’s commands? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down again with Dr. Greg Gifford—author of Heart & Habits and host of the Transform podcast—to explore how the Lord uses everyday obedience to reshape the heart.Building from Philippians 2:12–13 and themes throughout Psalm 119, Kent and Greg talk through the surprising way Scripture presents the relationship between discipline and desire. Under the Spirit’s work, consistent habits—attending Lord’s Day worship, giving, practicing fellowship, opening the Scriptures—can actually move the affections toward what God loves, even when the “want to” is slow to follow.From there, the conversation widens into the cultural currents forming the next generation: declining birthrates, delayed marriage, digital isolation, expressive individualism, and the way smartphones since 2007 have altered relationships and discipleship. Greg offers a pastoral appeal for churches to disciple young men intentionally, cast a better vision of the good life in Christ, and root identity in the local church rather than politics or online tribes.The episode closes with a needed reminder about the professionalism of ministry—why pastors must stay close to their people, resist platform-driven pressures, and cultivate long-haul faithfulness.If you want to understand how habits, obedience, culture, and discipleship intersect—and how God truly transforms the heart—this conversation will serve you well.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What does it look like when God truly transforms a life? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow and Executive Pastor Jeremy Pray sit down with Dr. Greg Gifford, Associate Professor of Biblical Counseling at The Master’s University, host of the Transformed podcast, and contributor to Fortis+.Greg shares his story—from serving in the Army to teaching and writing on biblical counseling—and the surprising origins of Transformed, a project launched with Todd Friel to demonstrate how Scripture addresses real struggles with real hope. Together they explore topics like PTSD, habits of the heart, and the false promises of modern psychology.Drawing from his books Heart & Habits, Helping Veterans with PTSD, and Lies My Therapist Told Me, Greg helps believers see that true change doesn’t come from medication or self-help, but through the renewing work of God’s Spirit and Word.Whether you’re a pastor, counselor, or simply seeking biblical wisdom for life and ministry, this conversation will deepen your confidence in the sufficiency of Scripture and the transforming grace of Christ.__Welcome to NorthCreek Church! In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What should Christians do with October 31? In this special Halloween edition of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to talk costumes, candy… and the courage of Martin Luther. In a light, lively conversation (yes, including dad-tax debates and Pilgrim’s Progress nightmares), the guys offer a pastoral way to think about Halloween alongside Reformation Day—the anniversary of October 31, 1517, when Luther posted the 95 Theses at the Castle Church in Wittenberg and helped spark the Protestant Reformation and a recovery of justification by faith alone.They also explain how NorthCreek Church has shifted from hosting large “Fall Fest” gatherings to encouraging gospel presence in our neighborhoods—through hospitality, meaningful conversations, and creative outreach ideas that point to Christ. You’ll hear practical ways to engage your neighbors, a brief look at the history behind the Reformation, and some lighthearted reflection on how this unique day can be both fun and spiritually meaningful.Whether you say Happy Halloween or Happy Reformation Day, this special episode invites you to redeem October 31 for the glory of God and the good of your neighbors.NorthCreek Church Dr. Kent DresdowIn glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Sundays: 9:00AM & 10:45AM2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598https://www.northcreek.org/Church, Worship Service, All Ages Classes, Baptism, Membership, Discipleship, Children's Ministry, Students Ministry, College And Career Ministry, Adults Ministry, Outreach, Counseling, Food Pantry, Job Network, Church App, Sermons, Books And Cafe, Reading Plans, Giving, Prayer, Church Events, Men's Breakfast, Walnut Creek Church, Christian Community, Bay Area Church, northcreek church, walnut creek church, christian community, bay area church, faith based, bible study, community groups, worship music, serving others, Fellowship, Sunday School, Youth Group, Spiritual Growth, Faith Community, Volunteer Opportunities, Church Fellowship, Mission Trips, Family Ministry, Small Groups, Church Volunteering, Community Outreach, Church Gathering

What does faithful ministry of the Word look like—both from the pulpit and across the counseling table? In this follow-up episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow continues his conversation with Jeremy Pray and Kevin Carson, pastor of Sonrise Baptist Church in Ozark, Missouri, and Executive Director of the Biblical Counseling Coalition.Together they explore how expository preaching and biblical counseling flow from the same conviction: God’s Word is sufficient and authoritative for all of life. Kevin shares his passion for teaching Scripture with precision and clarity, rooted in passages like 1 Timothy 4, and explains why understanding a text’s meaning, significance, and application is vital in both public and private ministry.From the “scratch-and-sniff” aroma of Scripture in everyday life to the careful bridge between truth and compassion, this conversation will strengthen your confidence in the transforming power of God’s Word—whether you’re preaching, counseling, or simply seeking to apply the Bible faithfully.Hosts: Pastor Kent Dresdow and Pastor Jeremy PrayGuest: Pastor Kevin Carson (Sonrise Baptist Church, Ozark, MO; Biblical Counseling Coalition)Themes: expository preaching · biblical counseling · sufficiency of Scripture · pastoral ministry · application and wisdom · local churchNorthCreek Church Dr. Kent DresdowIn glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Sundays: 9:00AM & 10:45AM2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598https://www.northcreek.org/Church, Worship Service, All Ages Classes, Baptism, Membership, Discipleship, Children's Ministry, Students Ministry, College And Career Ministry, Adults Ministry, Outreach, Counseling, Food Pantry, Job Network, Church App, Sermons, Books And Cafe, Reading Plans, Giving, Prayer, Church Events, Men's Breakfast, Walnut Creek Church, Christian Community, Bay Area Church, northcreek church, walnut creek church, christian community, bay area church, faith based, bible study, community groups, worship music, serving others, Fellowship, Sunday School, Youth Group, Spiritual Growth, Faith Community, Volunteer Opportunities, Church Fellowship, Mission Trips, Family Ministry, Small Groups, Church Volunteering, Community Outreach, Church Gathering

What shapes a pastor’s heart for people? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Jeremy Pray and longtime NCT guest Kevin Carson—pastor of Sonrise Baptist Church in Ozark, Missouri, and incoming Executive Director of the Biblical Counseling Coalition—to trace the Lord’s providence through Kevin’s life and ministry.

From growing up in a pastor’s home to planting and pastoring in the heartland, Kevin shares how the loss of his first child and the mentorship of early biblical counseling leaders deepened his compassion and dependence on Christ (2 Cor. 1:3–4; James 1:2–4). Together they reflect on decades of ministry, the growth of biblical counseling, and why church-based, Word-saturated care remains essential for the health of Christ’s people.

Whether you’re a pastor, counselor, or believer who wants to care well for others, this conversation will encourage you to trust God’s purposes in suffering and to serve with Christlike wisdom and grace.

Hosts: Pastor Kent Dresdow and Pastor Jeremy Pray
Guest: Pastor Kevin Carson (Sonrise Baptist Church, Ozark, MO; Biblical Counseling Coalition)

Themes: biblical counseling · pastoral ministry · suffering and comfort · compassion · faith in trials · church leadership

What is church membership, and why does it matter right now? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to consider the biblical foundations and practical blessings of committing to a local church. While the pulpit focuses on the public ministry of the Word, this conversation tackles a timely pastoral question many at NorthCreek are asking: Is membership in the Bible, and how does it shape the life of our church?Walking through passages like Acts 1:15; 2:41; 6:1–7, 1 Timothy 5:9, Hebrews 13:17, Ephesians 4:11–13, Colossians 1:28, and Hebrews 10:23–25, the team shows how Scripture assumes known lists, counted people, and accountable care. Membership clarifies who our elders will “give an account” for, equips saints for ministry, and anchors believers in mutual encouragement and loving accountability. You’ll hear practical counsel on moving from “you guys” to “we”—owning the life, mission, and witness of your church family.Whether you’re new to NorthCreek, a longtime attender, a traveling nurse or student here for a season, or a member needing refreshment, this episode invites you to go all in—to belong, be equipped, and build up the body of Christ. Keywords: church membership, local church, biblical accountability, pastoral care, spiritual growth, elder leadership, deacon service, expository ministry, Bay Area Christians, membership class.NorthCreek Church Dr. Kent DresdowIn glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Sundays: 9:00AM & 10:45AM2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598https://www.northcreek.org/Church, Worship Service, All Ages Classes, Baptism, Membership, Discipleship, Children's Ministry, Students Ministry, College And Career Ministry, Adults Ministry, Outreach, Counseling, Food Pantry, Job Network, Church App, Sermons, Books And Cafe, Reading Plans, Giving, Prayer, Church Events, Men's Breakfast, Walnut Creek Church, Christian Community, Bay Area Church, northcreek church, walnut creek church, christian community, bay area church, faith based, bible study, community groups, worship music, serving others, Fellowship, Sunday School, Youth Group, Spiritual Growth, Faith Community, Volunteer Opportunities, Church Fellowship, Mission Trips, Family Ministry, Small Groups, Church Volunteering, Community Outreach, Church Gathering

In this follow-up to our Sing! recap, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Dan Grassi, Minister of Music at NorthCreek Church, to unpack the vision behind the new Sing Hymnal—a collaboration from Getty Music and Crossway—and how curated hymnody can shape both our services and our homes. Dan traces a brief history of hymnals from the Reformation to the modern-hymn movement (think “In Christ Alone,” “Before the Throne of God Above”), then explains why a carefully chosen body of songs helps truth take root in our memories and discipleship.

You’ll hear how the hymnal is organized—by the flow of gathered worship, the Christian life, and the life of Christ (Advent to Ascension and beyond)—and how that serves pastors, worship planners, and families alike. Dan also clarifies psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16): what each is aiming to do, how they overlap, and why a healthy church sings all three. Along the way, we talk practicals: using hymn stories and Scripture references at the dinner table, learning melodies from simple recordings, and cultivating singable truth for kids and adults.

If you care about congregational singing, family worship, and passing the faith to the next generation, this episode will help you bring biblically rich, Christ-centered songs into weekly rhythms—on Sundays and around the table. Our hope: not just a hymnal in the pew, but a hymn in every home.

What happens to a church when it sings rich truth together? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to unpack highlights from the Sing! Conference in Nashville and why those days of Scripture-saturated worship were such a gift to our staff and church family. From the joy of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with believers from around the world to the refreshment of unhurried fellowship, the conversation explores how corporate singing shapes unity, discipleship, and mission.Drawing from Revelation 5, Psalm 22, Psalm 47, Psalm 78, and Ephesians 4, the guys reflect on a biblical theology of singing—why we proclaim who God is (not merely how we feel), and how melody and poetry help lodge doctrine deep in our hearts for both ordinary days and suffering. They discuss the beauty of skillful musicianship paired with sound theology, the encouragement of robust congregational harmonies, and simple, singable hymns and songs (think CityAlight) that serve the whole body.You’ll also hear practical takeaways for corporate worship and family worship—from preparing our hearts on Sundays to filling our homes with singable truth throughout the week. The episode closes with a preview of the newly released Sing! Hymnal and why recovering hymn-singing in our homes could strengthen the next generation.If you care about congregational singing, biblical worship, and passing the faith “from one generation to another,” this conversation will encourage you to sing with understanding and joy.Stay tuned for Part 2, where we talk about using a hymnal in everyday family life.2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598https://www.northcreek.org/Church, Worship Service, All Ages Classes, Baptism, Membership, Discipleship, Children's Ministry, Students Ministry, College And Career Ministry, Adults Ministry, Outreach, Counseling, Food Pantry, Job Network, Church App, Sermons, Books And Cafe, Reading Plans, Giving, Prayer, Church Events, Men's Breakfast, Walnut Creek Church, Christian Community, Bay Area Church, northcreek church, walnut creek church, christian community, bay area church, faith based, bible study, community groups, worship music, serving others, Fellowship, Sunday School, Youth Group, Spiritual Growth, Faith Community, Volunteer Opportunities, Church Fellowship, Mission Trips, Family Ministry, Small Groups, Church Volunteering, Community Outreach, Church Gathering

In this special episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow reflects on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, exploring how Christians are called to respond when political violence shakes our hearts. Rather than allowing anger, fear, or vengeance to dominate, Kent points us back to Jesus’ words in Matthew 22:37–39: love God fully and love our neighbor as ourselves.Rooted in Leviticus 19 and illustrated through passages like the Good Samaritan and Jesus’ call to repentance in Luke 13, this conversation helps us discern what loving looks like—especially toward those we naturally struggle with. We are reminded that love begins in the heart, shapes our speech, and is expressed through our actions. Even in confusion, grief, and anger, the essentials remain clear: fix our gaze on Christ, resist hatred, speak truth with grace, and pray for justice, healing, and revival.If you’ve been unsettled by what’s happening in our country, you’re not alone. Whether you knew Charlie Kirk well or only by name, may this reflection bring clarity, hope, and a renewed commitment to walk in the footsteps of Jesus—in love, humility, and faith.NorthCreek Church Dr. Kent DresdowIn glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Sundays: 9:00AM & 10:45AM2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598https://www.northcreek.org/