When Christ was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, how did Jesus respond? Pastor Joshua West explores this important passage from Matthew 4. As we face the world, the flesh, and the devil, we must turn to God and his Word, trusting in his sufficiency. To overcome the desires of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life, we must turn only to God for the solution to temptation. Humble submission to the Lord equips us to resist the devil.

Pastor Joshua West explores three important themes in the Gospel of Matthew about the nature of Jesus: his baptism as the Son of God; his anointing by the Holy Spirit; and God the Father's affirmation and validation of Jesus. What does this mean for us? Christ's coming offers forgiveness, atonement, and salvation for those who repent and turn to him.

In Psalm 42, King David shares his deeply downcast heart and offers the solution for it. Preaching on this psalm, Pastor Gary Wilkerson looks at three kinds of reasons for being downcast, as well as various Bible passages, including when Jesus calms the storm. We need to fix our eyes on God and trust him to get us through the challenges we face, then we can have hope, joy and rest.

What does it mean for God to bless us? How does Jesus delight in us? Drawing from Psalm 41, Pastor Gary Wilkerson shares biblical wisdom on the power of blessing. We are valuable to God, who provides us with protection, deliverance and transformation. The benefits decreed to us are a present reality from the Lord that sustain us through difficulties. Through his strength we can also live our lives to bless others.

Rooting his message in Matthew 3:1-12, Pastor Joshua West preaches not only about how John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, but also shares insights on the true meaning of repentance. God wants us to have a repentant heart. When we do, we mourn the sin we see around us. Biblical repentance changes our mind, turns us from sin to holiness, and regenerates us because of what Christ did for us on the cross.

Preaching from Matthew 2:13-23 and other passages, Pastor Joshua West remind us of the cost of following Christ. We are either with him or against him. There are clear divisions in the world: enemies of the gospel who will try to silence God's Word and those who humbly and contritely serve the Lord.

Applying biblical insights from passages such as 2 Corinthians 3: 16-18, Pastor Gary Wilkerson encourages us to not only draw near to Jesus, but to others. When we are struggling with hidden pain, past or present, we need confession, prayer and healing. By cultivating a close group of trusted Christian friends, we no longer have to hide, but can begin the healing journey and experience God's love deeply.