The Rock Church

What is a Christian? — New Series

A new series at The Rock Church

Our world is filled with opinions about faith and truth. Things like: “Who defines truth? Who is God? Who did Jesus say He was?” We need to know what the Bible actually says about these things.

This six-week journey through Scripture is designed to answer not only those questions but also one of life’s most important questions: “What is a Christian?” Together, we’ll explore this question and more! “What is the true Gospel? What does it mean to be born again? How can I know I’m saved?”

Posted in News, Series by The Rock Church

Yes, Lord!

I am so thankful that I said yes to Jesus. Best decision I ever made. And I love, love, love it when others say yes to Jesus as well. Just like the man in John 9.

“’Yes, Lord, I believe!’ The man said. And he worshipped Jesus.” — John 9:38

There seems to be absolutely no hesitation in his response. In fact, the yes is immediate, and the worship is instantaneous. It’s as if you can’t have one without the other. The created being, reacting to the Creator God. Together with entering into an intimate and loving relationship forever. Without a doubt, it really is the greatest love story that any of us has ever lived!

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Saved to Be Loved Forever

“[God] raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” — Ephesians 2:6-7 

This verse is undeniably fantastic! I’d encourage you to meditate on it specifically this week. Just think about this glorious future you have in Christ in Heaven. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton

What Really Matters

“Yes, a wise man thinks much of death…” (Ecclesiastes 7:4a LB)

My wife’s mom, Judy, passed away just before Thanksgiving. We traveled back to Iowa a few weeks ago to celebrate her life. Christian funerals are always bittersweet for me. On the one hand, I am so sad at the loss of our loved ones. On the other hand, however, I feel almost envious that they are now in Paradise with Jesus! How incredible it is to know that in Heaven, there are no more tears, pain, poor eyesight, worries, migraines, sorrows, or death.

Without a doubt, the death of a loved one is never easy. But, as followers of Christ, our hope is sure; it’s never just wishful thinking.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Jesus Saves

“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13)

With Christmas just a couple weeks away, I’ve been contemplating eternal matters. I’d like to share two different true stories that I experienced a few years ago. They are similar stories but have different endings. Both accounts involve funerals. One involved someone I’d never met, the other a dear friend.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Longing for Our Heavenly Home

“Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:16 NIV84)

Mary and I recently returned from a delightful vacation in one of our favorite places — Boothbay Harbor, Maine. We had a fantastic time; however, I must admit, the many lobsters I enjoyed didn’t have the same fate!

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Beyond Imagination

In Titus 3:7, the Apostle Paul mentions two things that are so remarkable. In fact, when you read them, it feels almost too good to be true:

“So that being justified by His grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:7

I want to consider two truths:

Truth #1: We are Justified.

Truth #2:  We are Heirs.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Gain

I gained encouragement during some interactions I’ve had with my oncologist. I will share it with you in the hope that you will be encouraged as well.

My oncologist has helped me with my ongoing cancer challenges and was at the helm through my sweet wife Jeanne’s battle with cancer. Back then, we used to joke with him that we were his two-for-one clients. I often thank him for his tireless attention to his cancer patients. He genuinely cares for me and my family. Consequently (and like all of us), he was especially burdened when Jeanne lost her battle with cancer.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

A Sliver of Heaven

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” — John 15:12

As I write this, I am in a hotel room with my wife and three amazing kids. It has become a summer tradition for my family (along with our extended family) to journey to Lake Powell for our annual “Croswhites Do Lake Powell” family reunion.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Love and Unity

“Love and unity” (together) are among the eight core values we hold dear at The Rock. We describe this particular value in these words (on our website): “We desire our ministry to be marked by a Christ-like, selfless love, loyalty, and unity with fellow believers.” Over time, the undeniable evidence of this core value within our body of Believers has struck me. Selfless love and loyalty are indeed the norm. It’s as if it’s actually in the air. Like a beautiful fragrance from a spring flower after a long winter. And ultimately, it’s so compelling it draws you in. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church