The root system of a tree or plant is critical to its health. It provides stability but also supplies the nutrients it needs to grow. As it turns out, what we are rooted in equally matters for similar reasons. Psalm 1 talks about being rooted in God, but what does that look like practically?  And why is being rooted in God so important, particularly when it comes to our inner transformation? 

Join Ridge Outreach Director Brandy Young and BTS host Will Herron as they discuss these questions and more on this week’s Beyond the Sermon.

What we root ourselves in matters. God's Word forms us in life-giving ways. But other influences can shape us, too, and not always for the good. One path roots us in God and grows the life He intends; the other roots us entirely, and we risk missing it entirely.

Message by Brandy Young

Scripture referenced: Psalm 1

It's a turning point in Israel's history. Moses has just died, and someone must step up and step into his leadership role. God calls Joshua. And at first, Joshua is afraid and overwhelmed. But then God makes him a promise. It's an encouraging one, but it's conditional. Meaning, in order for the promise to be fulfilled, Joshua had to do his part.Message by Mike Van ReesScripture referenced: Joshua 1:1–9

In the first chapter of the book of Joshua, God says to Joshua, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night”. (Verse 8) Most tend to associate the act of meditation with eastern religion so its mention here may come as a surprise. So what actually is Christian meditation? How do we go about practicing it and how does it differ from eastern meditation?

 Join Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees and BTS host Will Herron as they discuss these questions and more on this week’s Beyond the Sermon.

 Resource mentioned: The New Bible Commentary

God has made us for community with others. In particular, God has made it that we follow Him in the company of other believers. But why? Why is being part of community groups, mentorships and other connection contexts so key to our spiritual growth?

Join Ridge Youth Director Todd Stiles and BTS Host Will Herron as they discuss these questions and more on this week's Beyond the Sermon.

Eventually in life we'll face something we simply can't handle on our own. In those overwhelming seasons, we discover our strength is limited. But here's the good news: God never intended His people to function alone, on their own, independently.

Message by Todd Stiles

Scripture referenced: Exodus 17:7–13

In Joshua chapter 2 God chooses a prostitute, Rahab, to hide two Israelite spies from the king of Jericho. To do so, she must lie to the king, yet she is honored by God and protected by Him. Does this imply that it might be permissible to lie under certain circumstances? If so, how do we go about determining if and when this might happen?

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

God instructed Joshua to take and possess the Promised Land. To do so, the first city Israel must conquer is Jericho. Refusing to go into battle blind, Joshua sends two spies into the city on a reconnaissance mission. The men find themselves at the home of Rahab. But soon the king of Jericho is tipped off and sends soldiers to her house in search of the spies. What happens next and what can we learn from it all yet today as followers of Jesus.

Message by Mike Van Rees

Scripture referenced: Joshua 2

God encourages Joshua and the Israelites with these words: "Be strong and courageous … I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:6,9) Fear is common to us all and is often overwhelming and consuming. If this is the command God gives, what does it look like to walk in His strength?  How can we experience His strength in the midst of fearful situations?

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

It's not uncommon to get the Bible backward. When we read or hear about the people in the Bible we assume they are heroic men and women who know no fear and laugh in the face of danger. But if we pay careful attention and take a closer look, we see something a little different. Message by Mike Van ReesScripture referenced: Joshua 1:1–18