The Ridge – Weekly Message

Temptation is an experience common to us all. Yet how can we resist and turn from temptation to think and act like Jesus? How can we experience lasting freedom from the things that draw us away from God?

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees as they explore what the Bible has to say about resisting temptation as well as how Jesus' example can both encourage and inspire us.

Temptation. It is a reality of life. We are all tempted to do thins we know to be wrong and to refrain from doing what we know to be right. But is temptation alone a sin? 

Message by Mike Van Rees 

Scripture referenced: James 1:12–16

Identity isn't something we often talk about and yet it is a crucial part of being human. Each of us has an identity, question is, what is that identity built upon? What does the Bible have to say about who we are?

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees as they discuss this important topic, exploring some of the things we tend to build our identity on.

Here, James addresses identity. Individuals were basing their self-worth on their net worth. The more wealth a person had, the more they were valued and esteemed. James tells them they had it all backward. 

Message by Mike Van Rees

Scripture referenced: James 1:9–11

Few would argue that faith plays a crucial role in the life of a Jesus follower. But what about doubt? Is its presence a sign of weak faith or can it be a healthy part of our relationship with God?

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees as they explore these questions and more in this week's Beyond the Sermon episode.

Mentioned in the Podcast: The Ridge Expansion Info Page / New Bible Commentary

James transitions from joy in trials and the finished work of maturity in perseverance to wisdom. But what is Biblical wisdom? And how do we find it? 

Message by Mike Van Rees

Scripture referenced: James 1:5–9

After a long season of debates, political ads and policy presentations, we are on the eve of another presidential election. On November 5, millions of Americans will step up to cast a vote. While voting can be one way we impact change in our communities and society, it's important to remember that it's not the only way.

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Director of Strategic Planning and Communication Dayne Logan as they consider the potential impact of a life lived as Jesus lived.

Mentioned in the Podcast: Refining Your Media Filter Ridge U Podcast Series

As followers of Jesus, we should look to apply His instruction to all areas of our lives. So, what does this mean for next Tuesday? How do we approach election day and politics more broadly in the light of Jesus’ life and teachings?

Message by Dayne Logan

Scripture referenced: Matthew 22:15–21

As followers of Jesus, we should look to apply His instruction to all areas of our lives. So, what does this mean for next Tuesday? How do we approach election day and politics more broadly in the light of Jesus’ life and teachings?

Message by Dayne Logan

Scripture referenced: Matthew 22:15–2

Though almost half of the psalms in the Bible are classed as psalms of lament, many Christians underutilize the gift of lament in their own relationship with God. So, what is it exactly? Is it possible to be too open and honest with God? 

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees as they consider these questions and discover how we can lament before God in a reverent way.