How should Christian men and women relate to one another within the church? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow is joined by Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to answer a thoughtful question from a church member regarding the boundaries and biblical nature of friendships between the opposite sex. While modern culture often sexualizes these interactions, the Bible calls believers to treat one another as brothers and sisters with absolute purity.The conversation begins by anchoring the discussion in Scripture, specifically Romans 15:7, which commands us to "welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you". The pastors discuss the tension between maintaining high standards of holiness—avoiding even the appearance of indiscretion—while not becoming cold or distant toward sisters in Christ. They explore the biblical concept of the "holy kiss" as a model for warm, family-like affection that is distinct from the world’s sensuality.This episode also offers practical wisdom for ministry and workplace environments, such as open-door policies and transparent calendars, ensuring that our conduct glorifies God and protects the reputation of the church.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"

In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow provides a special mid-sabbatical update, sitting down with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to discuss the progress of his time away. While Kent is currently in a season of rest, he shares how the Lord has been strengthening him through a lack of daily ministry obligations and a focus on "purposeful rest".The conversation explores the biblical rationale for a sabbatical, tracing the concept back to the Sabbath rest established at creation and its application for vocational ministers today. The pastors discuss the unique "spiritual heaviness" of ministry life—where the care for souls often follows a pastor home—and why periodic seasons of withdrawal are necessary for long-term endurance in the local church.Kent also shares his "master planning" for the year ahead, specifically his work with the MacArthur Center for Expository Preaching to lead workshops for the next generation of preachers. This episode serves as a reminder of the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of heart-level refreshment for every believer.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 to leverage art, stewardship, and technical skill for the sake of the Gospel? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Brent Moutier, NorthCreek’s Director of Operations, to discuss the intersection of campus stewardship and creative outreach. Brent shares his personal testimony, tracing his journey from the film industry in Los Angeles to overseeing the development of NorthCreek’s campus, viewing facilities not as the ministry itself, but as a stewardship that allows ministry to happen without distraction.The conversation then turns to "The Story," NorthCreek’s annual Easter presentation of living art (tableau vivant). Brent takes listeners behind the scenes of this massive production, explaining how hundreds of volunteers—from carpenters to musicians—unite to recreate classic biblical masterpieces. They discuss the theological "why" behind the event: while the art and music are compelling, the primary goal is to provide a clear, biblically accurate presentation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.Kent and Brent also highlight the importance of multi-generational service within the local church and the rigorous process of ensuring the narration remains faithful to Scripture. Whether you are interested in the technical side of ministry or looking for an opportunity to invite unbelievers to hear the truth of salvation, this episode offers an encouraging look at how the body of Christ works together to spotlight the Savior.The Story 2026 runs from March 27–29. For tickets and information, visit https://thestory.art/.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"

In this special anniversary episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with a panel of "senior saints"—longtime members who have witnessed God’s work at NorthCreek for decades. Dubbing themselves survivors of the "Stone Age" (a nod to the church's first shepherd, Pastor Mel Stone), these guests share heartwarming and humorous stories of the church's early days, from meeting in a women's club to the construction of the first buildings on the current campus.

The conversation highlights the church's enduring commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of investing in the next generation. The guests reflect on the impact of early youth programs like the "Jet Cadets," the vibrant "Body Life" services of the 1970s, and the hospitality that knit the body together. They also candidly acknowledge that the church has weathered difficult seasons, yet through it all, God has remained faithful to preserve a people for His name.

This episode is more than a history lesson; it is a testimony to the power of the gospel in the local church. As these faithful members recount 70 years of ministry, listeners are encouraged to cherish their own spiritual heritage and look forward with hope to what the Lord will do next.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 for a local church to remain faithful for seven decades? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow joins Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to reflect on NorthCreek Church’s 70th anniversary. While the campus has transformed from open walnut orchards to a built-out ministry hub, the conversation focuses on the spiritual trajectory of the church—from its planting in the 1950s through seasons of doctrinal stabilization and growth.

The pastors discuss the unique history of the "Stone Age"—the era of the church's first pastor, Mel Stone—and how the church has matured over time. They also engage with a sobering warning from Dave Harvey about the danger of ministry becoming a "monument," emphasizing that a healthy church must always prioritize present faithfulness and future gospel work over resting on a legacy.

Whether you are a longtime member or new to the community, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how God preserves His people. It is a reminder that while buildings change and leaders pass the baton, Christ remains the head of the church, sustaining His work through every generation.

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"

In this New Year’s episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow is joined by Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to discuss the spiritual trajectory of 2026. The conversation begins with a lighthearted look at personal hobbies—from dirt biking and water sports to reading and writing—serving as a bridge to explore the deep, biblical concept of "delight" found in the Psalms.

The pastors examine the "bookends" of the Psalter, specifically connecting Psalm 1 and Psalm 149. They observe that the "blessed man" of Psalm 1 is defined by a heart that delights in the law of the Lord and a mind that meditates on it day and night. Using their own hobbies as an illustration, the hosts explain that meditation is like "muttering" or "chewing" on a subject—a natural mental preoccupation that occurs when we truly find pleasure in something.

The discussion also highlights the profound truth in Psalm 149:4: that the Lord Himself "takes pleasure in his people" and "adorns the humble with salvation". This episode encourages believers to move beyond seeing Scripture as a mere duty and to instead cultivate a life where God’s Word is the primary object of their focus and affection. By framing spiritual growth through the lens of delight, the pastors offer a warm, pastoral invitation to a closer walk with Christ and deeper fellowship within the local church.

How do we balance fun and faithfulness when discipling the next generation? On this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow and Pastor Matt Rehrer are joined by their friend and co-laborer, Student Ministries Director Zack Harris.Zack opens up about his upbringing in Santa Clarita, his unique conversion story that moved from a fear of God’s wrath to an affection for the beauty of the gospel, and his call to pastoral ministry. He also shares about his family—his wife, Christine, and their four daughters—and the formative experience of serving overseas in Israel.The main conversation focuses on Christian parenting and spiritual formation within the local church. Zack explains his philosophy for student ministry, emphasizing that "fun is the bridge" to purposeful discipleship. He discusses the intentionality of their small group structure (DG) to facilitate the "private ministry of the Word," which builds on the foundation of expository preaching. Finally, they address the critical partnership between the student ministry staff and parents, focusing on helping students transition from relying on parental authority to increasing their own faith and obedience as they grow in love for Christ and the local church.Zack shares encouragement from their current study of Acts, where students are recognizing that the growth of the church is entirely due to the grace of God.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"

How do we find fresh awe and curiosity in the familiar Christmas story? This episode of the afterWord podcast provides a deeper dive into the recent sermon on Luke 1:26-38, the biblical account of the Annunciation. Pastor Kent Dresdow, with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray, explores the profound theological and practical questions surrounding the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary.The conversation moves past the surface level, exploring Mary’s initial confusion and fear, her quick movement to submission, and the deep implications of her response, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord” (Luke 1:38). They discuss the connections between Gabriel’s words (“for nothing will be impossible with God,” Luke 1:37) and the story of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 18. Furthermore, they consider the significance of the Holy Spirit’s “overshadowing” (Luke 1:35), linking it to the Old Testament tabernacle and the New Testament concept of indwelling.This discussion offers key insights for Christian discipleship and spiritual formation. The pastors apply Mary’s profound faith and obedience to Christian parenting, encouraging believers to wrestle with what true surrender to Christ looks like at every age. This is an essential listen for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Christ-centered living and the authority of Scripture this Advent season._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 a 4th-century church council have to do with Christmas in 2025? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Executive Pastor Matt Rehrer to reflect on the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea—and why it still matters every time we celebrate the birth of Christ.Fresh from a pastors’ conference in Istanbul (historic Constantinople), Kent shares how walking through the Nicene Creed line by line deepened his worship of the Triune God. He explains the controversy with Arius, why the church had to answer Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?”, and how Athanasius and others defended the full deity of Christ against the claim that “there was a time when he was not.”From there, Kent and Matt trace how Nicaea safeguards the heart of the gospel: if Jesus is not truly God and truly man, there is no real mediator, no true grace, and no secure assurance. They explore the eternal love shared between Father, Son, and Spirit; the difference between the triune God of the Bible and every other “god” or idol; and how this rich theology shapes Advent preaching from passages like Luke 1–2, John 17, and 2 Corinthians 13.Whether you’re newer to church history or hungry to go deeper into the Trinity, this conversation will help you see Christmas not just as the story of a baby in a manger, but of the eternal Son—very God of very God—come to save.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"

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"