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. 

James urges us to consider it pure joy when we are faced with trials of many kinds. Wait. What? Pure joy in trials? What does that mean, exactly? Is that even possible?

Message by Mike Van Rees

Scripture referenced: James 1:2–4

Jesus came from a large family but most of his family didn't believe His Messianic/divine claims. In fact, at one point they declare, "He is out of his mind." (Mark 3:21) Many of us have family members who feel the same way about our claims of faith. So, what can we learn from Jesus about how we should go about navigating these kinds of relationships?  

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Ridge Lead Pastor Mike Van Rees as they outline some practical lessons from Jesus' response to the rejection of His family.   

Mentioned in the Podcast: Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud 

The book of James is known for being the most practical, applicable book in the New Testament, telling us how to act and live as God’s people. But first, we’ll take a look at who James is, to whom he wrote the letter, and what was going on in the culture and in the world at the time. Because if we don’t understand these things, we risk misinterpreting and misunderstanding what James is teaching and revealing to us.  

Message by Mike Van Rees      

Scripture referenced: James 1:1 

Ever stood in a worship service feeling somewhat disconnected from the lyrics? Is this normal for a follower of Jesus or is it something we need to address?

Join BTS guest host Dayne Logan and Ridge Director of Discipleship Will Herron as they explore ways to navigate feelings of disconnect in worship as well as how worship can be a means of God's ministry to us in difficult times.

Mentioned in the Podcast: Look out for the new upcoming release from Ridge Music out Oct 20th. Get the "Need" EP anywhere you get your music!