The Teaching Series (with Brad Gray and Brad Nelson)

Most of us are exhausted from trying to rule our own lives—carrying the weight of decisions, outcomes, and expectations we were never meant to bear. Deep down, we long for someone trustworthy to lead us, but we often resist surrender because we assume that giving up control means losing freedom. In this final episode of our mini-series, we explore the biblical image that brings all of the other images we’ve explored together: Jesus as the Humble King. From Genesis to Palm Sunday and Easter, we trace the biblical story of a king who doesn’t seize power, but lays it down in love—and invites us to do the same. If you’ve been worn out by self-rule, this teaching will help you step off the throne, lay down your crown, and discover the freedom, rest, and wholeness that come from living under the healing reign of King Jesus. 

In a world that rarely slows down, many of us carry a constant undercurrent of anxiety, restlessness, and fatigue. Deep down, we long for more—for peace, stability, and a place of refuge where our souls can breathe and find rest. When David was fleeing from Saul, he found such a place in one of Israel’s most breathtaking and iconic locations—Masada! As we trace the biblical connections to David and the rich imagery of God being a fortress throughout Scripture, you’ll discover the powerful invitation to find a place of refuge to daily experience His presence, settle your soul, and remember who you are. 

Human beings are natural builders, but the problem is many of us build our lives on unstable foundations—worldly success, self-reliance, or fleeting ambitions—that ultimately collapse under pressure. The solution is to build on Jesus, the master builder, who is the sure foundation and cornerstone of God's spiritual house. By trusting in him, aligning with his teachings, and allowing him to shape our lives, we gain stability and purpose. As a result, our lives remain steadfast even in uncertainty. What’s more, we’re called to join God in His work—building up others and participating in His mission to reunite heaven and earth. In the end, God is not just building something for us—He is building us into something lasting and eternal!  

Many people struggle to feel truly welcomed, accepted, and secure—especially in a world that often feels isolating and adversarial. But Scripture reveals a God who is not distant or indifferent; He is a gracious host, inviting us into His presence with the radical hospitality of a Bedouin patriarch. In Psalm 23, Isaiah 42, and the life of Jesus, we see a God who prepares a table, offers provision, and extends protection—even in the presence of our enemies. This episode explores how God’s hospitality redefines belonging and how Jesus models a love that welcomes without compromise. Discover how embracing this divine invitation can transform the way you see God, yourself, and the people around you. 

Many people go through life unaware that they’re caught in the middle of a cosmic war, where the forces of good and evil are in constant conflict. The struggles we face—discouragement, temptation, and spiritual opposition—aren’t random but part of this battle. The good news is that we’re not defenseless; God is a warrior who fights for His people, and through Jesus, the ultimate victory has already been won. In this teaching, you'll gain a fresh perspective on how God fights against chaos, spiritual darkness, and injustice, but more importantly, how you can step into the fight armed with truth. If you’re ready to wake up to the battle, claim your identity in Christ, and join Jesus in pushing back the kingdom of darkness, this message will equip you to stand firm and take action. 

Many of us struggle to trust that God is actively leading our lives, especially when things feel uncertain or difficult. But the Scriptures constantly liken God to a Good Shepherd who skillfully guides, protects, and provides for His people. In this episode, we explore the depth of this image, from the rugged realities of shepherding in the ancient world to Jesus's bold declaration,“I am the Good Shepherd.” This isn’t a passive or distant role; a true shepherd is both savvy and sacrificial—navigating harsh landscapes, fighting off danger, and laying down their life for the flock. By the end of this episode, you’ll see that trusting God isn’t wishful thinking—it’s a response to His skillful care and reliable voice. 

A lot of us grow up with distorted ideas about who God is, and part of following Jesus is unlearning those false images and discovering the truth. In this episode, we’re diving into the beautiful picture of God as a Faithful Farmer—someone who plants, nurtures, and invests deeply in what He’s growing. This image shows us just how patient and committed God is, working tirelessly to see His creation—and you—flourish. As people created in His image, we’re invited to reflect His heart by caring for the world and those around us with the same kind of love and intention. This teaching will remind you of God’s relentless care for you and inspire you to do the same for others! 

How you think about God determines how you interact with God. Therefore, it’s essential to have an accurate understanding of who He is and what He’s like. In this new series – Biblical Images of God – we unpack the vivid and concrete metaphors used of God in order to deepen our relationship with Him. Beginning with “living water,” we uncover the significance of this image by examining Jeremiah’s depiction of the oasis at En Gedi and Jesus’s declaration in the Gospel of John that He is the true source of living water. By seeing God as “living water,” you’ll gain a fuller picture of His character, experience His ability to renew dry and weary souls, and be inspired to carry His life-giving spirit into a thirsty world. 

Do you struggle to understand why God is asking you to do something, and hesitate to follow through? In this final episode of “3 Gifts of Christmas,” we explore the mysterious significance of the Magi's gift of myrrh, tracing its historical and symbolic meanings—from its use in ancient perfumes and burial rituals to its connection to Jesus’s sacrificial death.

The Magi’s gift of frankincense may seem unusual at first, but it is rich with meaning, deeply rooted in their culture and the Hebrew Scriptures. Harvested through a meticulous and labor-intensive process, frankincense was a symbol of worship, reverence, and devotion. By offering this gift, the Magi not only honored Jesus as king but also displayed incredible courage, risking their lives by defying King Herod. This episode will reveal the profound significance of frankincense and invite you to consider where God might be calling you to step out in courage this Christmas season.