The Rock Church

A Message From the Pastors

As a nation, we have endured many seasons marked by fear, uncertainty, and injustice. Yet, for us as a church, few moments have struck closer to home than the tragic and senseless murder of Charlie Kirk. His assassination has left us shaken. This is not only because of the deep loss we feel, but also because it happened so close to where we live and worship. This heartbreaking event has stirred fear, confusion, and sorrow in many of our hearts. 

We wanted to share a few thoughts to help us respond as followers of Jesus:

1) Be people of prayer.
Pray for the Kirk family as they grieve. Pray for our country, for revival, and for those who are hurting will find the Lord in their pain. “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

2) Remember the sanctity of life.
As Steele mentioned this past weekend, every human life is precious in God’s sight—full of value and worth. That’s part of what makes this so shocking and jarring. As Christians, we trust that God will judge all things and right every wrong. We rest in that hope. “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

3) Rest in God’s sovereignty.
We serve a God who is able to bring good even from terrible evil. Remind yourself again and again: God is sovereign and in complete control. We don’t understand all that is happening, but we can trust His faithfulness. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Romans 8:28)

4) Guard your heart and mind.
As Bryan said this last weekend, there is wisdom in who we listen to and what we consume. Listening to foolish or inflammatory voices does our hearts no good. Ask: What fruit is this content producing in me—peace or agitation, love or enmity? Choose what leads you closer to Christ. “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)

5) Be courageous—and loving—with the Truth.
Share the Gospel. Stand for biblical Truth with humility and love. Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life and spoke Truth in love. Be courageous. Share the Truth. Love your enemies. “Speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15)

If you need prayer (or someone to talk with), your pastors and church leaders are here for you.

With heavy but hopeful hearts,

The Pastors of The Rock

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Pray Them Deeper

“For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him…” — Ephesians 1:15-17

These verses recently gripped me as I read Ephesians. The Apostle Paul hears that the faith of the people in this church is strong. Their love for one another is obviously the real deal. Everything is definitely GREAT! But then, instead of moving on with a quick, spiritual high-five, Paul presses in. He tells them precisely what he’s praying for them.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Take Courage — Free Day With the Kids

“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” – Matthew 14:27

Today, for our mission, we had the kids from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Most days, the parents meet with their kids for meals. Today, however,  they had the gift of an entire day with no responsibility. It was a long, hectic privilege to serve this way. 

Posted in Missions, News by The Rock Church

Live By Faith

We get to live by faith not only from our past experiences but also those in the present and in the future. It’s New Year’s Eve (Happy New Year), and we’ll usher in a new year at midnight. 2024 and the faith we walked in (and hopefully learned from) will be in the rearview mirror. The year ahead will certainly offer new opportunities to live by faith.

Faith From The Past

We can undoubtedly learn from not just this past year, but all prior years. Many of you will no doubt remember 2024 as a decadent chocolate dessert as it slowly melts in your mouth. Perhaps you’re healed from a difficult medical challenge, promoted at work, graduated from school, fell in love, got married, had your first baby, or your fifth? You have memories of incredibly joyful events. Maybe even more amazing, you were “born again” and became a follower of Jesus? All glory to God! Yes, many of you are currently thrilled to walk by faith in the goodness of God.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

An Amazing Covenant

“When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces. On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram…” — Genesis 15:17-18

Genesis 15 shows an amazing covenant ceremony between God and Abram. God directs Abram to bring a heifer, a ram, and a goat. He is to cut each of them into two pieces and lay the sides opposite each other. This was a traditional covenant ceremony in the days of Abram. When two parties were about to enter into a contract, they would cut an animal (or animals) in two. Next, both parties would walk between the halves. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton

A Common Faith Family

I love how Paul calls Titus a true son in the faith — a common faith (Titus 1:4).

Believers, we indeed share a common faith in our Lord Jesus, in His personhood. We also share a common belief in His finished work on the cross. Additionally, we share a common faith in our hope for eternal life — the return of our King to set all things right. 

Without a doubt, our common faith unifies us, breaks down barriers, and distinguishes us from the world. Our mutual faith always sets us apart. Jesus is our connecting thread, which makes us unified and together. Despite our differences, we share faith. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton

Election or Selection?

“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” — Romans 13:1

The election season is undoubtedly upon us. And it’s evident that the outcome of the election will be challenging to many. Some will be surprised as well as disappointed. At the same time, many will be angry. On the other hand, many of your fellow Americans will be elated and overjoyed.

As one of your pastors, I want to remind you of something. Above all, no matter what side of the aisle you choose to be on, our all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving God is in control. No matter who you vote for (and you should vote), only God’s selection is the one that counts. Biblically, we ultimately believe that God is the one who “removes kings and sets up kings” (Daniel 2:20-21). For this reason, our trust needs to be in Him, not in any political leader.

The Bible clearly states that all authority is established by God (Romans 13:1). Knowing this gives me much peace and confidence for the days ahead. I can surely rest in the loving and strong hands of my Savior. The Lord knows what He is doing. Therefore, I can obey and submit to the many authorities set up by our one true King.

Don’t Worry…Pray

We really shouldn’t worry, get angry, or freak out. Instead, God commands us to pray for our leaders. Pray for all those in authority. It says in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Pray and don’t fret. To put it simply, this should be our proper response, no matter what the outcome of the elections is.

I have prayed pretty consistently for our political leaders over the years. Not because I agree with their policies or their ideological leanings. On the contrary, it’s sometimes quite the opposite. I pray for them because I fear God, and He commands me to pray. When I do, it’s because I trust in God, not our government.

As you contemplate the future of your life and our country, let me specifically encourage you to apply faith. And as you negotiate your emotional reaction to the upcoming election results, let me encourage you to apply faith. You can do that by trusting in our all-powerful God. He alone sets up kings. Do not fear. Instead, pray for the newly God-appointed leadership of our country.

Hopeful and praying,

Bill

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Gratitude and Hope

Ephesians 1:15-21 is a set of verses that really encourages me. We glimpse Paul’s heart and his thankfulness for the church in Ephesus! He speaks with gratitude and hope. On top of that, he deeply desires the saints to continue their spiritual growth.

First, Paul starts by expressing his gratitude for the Ephesians’ faith in Jesus. At the same time, he also expresses thanks for their love for the saints.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Tony D'Amico

Reflections From Europe

Recently, my family and I returned from a 10-day trip to Croatia. While we called it a mission trip, in most ways, it was more of a serving trip. My family (and our team of 18) provided childcare for European missionaries so they could fully engage in a conference taught by Pastor Bill. They also got some much-needed relaxation. We watched over a lot of kiddos, swam, and played night games. Not to mention, we also got to eat good food and gelato. Consequently, I’d like to share a few reflections from the trip. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton

Looking Forward

A lot of the world is looking forward to celebrating Easter. I know I am, as well. Hiding eggs for my children and grandchildren to find is so enjoyable. It’s fun to hide some of them out of reach or in unusual places, so they have to think about it. Not to mention being stuffed with hundred-dollar bills, who wouldn’t be excited to find them? No, not really stuffed with hundo’s, come on. Perhaps they’re filled with candy or something curious. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church