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

Salt and Light

My oldest son and I recently attended DTC (our M28 Alliance conference for high schoolers) in Ft. Collins, Colorado. This year’s topic was evangelism – specifically, proclaiming the Gospel without shame. Thank you to all of you who helped raise funds for this conference during the Youth Group Bake Sale on Easter weekend!

Along with many hours of fellowship and fun, a number of tremendous pastors taught, and various M28 youth bands led worship. Some very helpful workshops equipped the teens with practical tools for evangelism. We also spent time going into the surrounding cities to practice engaging people in Gospel conversations and church invites. 

It was an encouraging few days to be around so many youth and their parents, talking about the Kingdom of God. And it was also refreshing getting our minds focused on the importance and beauty of the Gospel. It is indeed the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton

By Whose Power?

The Bible clearly shows that St. Peter was a bit of a hothead. We can relate to him, can’t we? He often acted impulsively. And the events in the Upper Room the night Jesus was arrested show his impulsiveness.

Jesus tells the disciples He’s going somewhere they can’t follow. Peter immediately pushes back — “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” In Matthew, he says even if everyone else falls away, he won’t. (Matthew 26:33) In Mark, he insists emphatically. (Mark 14:29) Bold claims, Peter. And Jesus simply tells him the truth he isn’t ready to hear: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” (Mark 14:30)

As John MacArthur said, “Vows are easily made in a warm room, with full stomachs and no opposition.” St. Peter was about to face opposition.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Not Ashamed

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” — Romans 1:16

Lately, this verse has stirred something fresh in me. It has reminded me again just how beautiful and powerful the Gospel truly is.

Twenty-three years ago, Jesus completely turned my life around. He transformed it. It had absolutely revolved around me. Now it centers on Him. And in that surrender, I found something I had been missing all along—real, lasting joy. But it wasn’t in circumstances or achievements. It was in Christ… and in sharing Him with others.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

The Best Gift You’ll Ever Receive

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16  (NIV84)

Hi, Rock Church Family! As we step into this new year, I wanted to take a moment to remind us of something. We talked about it a couple of weeks ago during our Christmas series. And honestly, for me, reminders are always a good thing (especially as I’m getting older :-)).

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

Rescued By Grace Alone

We all love that feeling of accomplishment. Knowing we’ve put in some hard work and can see the good results. It’s true whether it’s a big win or just a job well done. Feeling good about our achievements (and even a little pat on our own back) is totally fine in many parts of life. But, when it comes to our salvation, the Bible makes it crystal clear. There’s absolutely nothing we contribute that gives us any room for our boasting. 

The Latin phrase “Sola Gratia” (Grace Alone) often captures this core truth. It means our salvation is entirely a gift of God’s amazing grace. It’s certainly not a reward for anything we’ve done.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Filled with Joy and Gelato

Our final day with the missionary kids was yesterday (Saturday). The day was filled with fun, faith and farewells. It’s hard to believe the trip is coming to a close.

A majority of the time was spent all together – younger and older – singing, signing T-shirts & journals, and walking along the shore to find a new beach spot.

For at least three hours, kids hung out in the sunshine and swam. Many chatted and goofed off while tossing a football or receiving henna tattoos. We concluded our afternoon the same way we did last year – by getting gelato with all the kids.

Posted in Missions by The Rock Church

Uncut Stones

“At that time Joshua built an altar to the Lord, the God of Israel, on Mount Ebal, just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the people of Israel, as it is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, “an altar of uncut stones, upon which no man has wielded an iron tool.” And they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord and sacrificed peace offerings.” — Joshua 8:30-31

While studying the book of Joshua this year, these verses caught my eye. Why would God command the Israelites to create an altar of uncut stones? Perhaps there is a reason it matters? Nonetheless, if the Israelites wanted to have a nice altar for God, why would He care?

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church