God is good. And He is working to lead us into the deepest, richest, fullest life possible. In a world that’s full of sin and darkness, at times, that’s hard to see. But, despite our situation or circumstance, He is still good. All the time.

Message by Mike Van Rees

Scripture referenced: James 1:16–18

Whether we realize it or not, we are being formed. It's a plain fact that the things we do frequently shape us. So, it stands to reason that If we are to be formed into the likeness of Jesus, we have to think intentionally about the habits and rhythms of our lives.

Join BTS Host Will Herron and Julie Wiemann as they explore some habits we can adopt whereby God can change us into the likeness of Christ.

Jesus was fully human and fully divine. In addition to growing physically, He had to grow intellectually and spiritually. Jesus took the posture of a learner. So should we.

Message by Julie Wiemann

Scripture referenced: Luke 2

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