OCC Podcast

Wesley and Brenton laugh...a lot, talking about being thankful, overcoming bitterness, and James' favorite holiday - Christmas! 

God wants us to be thankful in all things because he wants to produce in us contentment.

Pastors James and Andrew walk us through the wrap up of our six week study in the book of Ruth. They walk through the complexities of the Ruth story and how it points to Christ's first coming, as well as dive into discussions surrounding their own testimony, their struggles and difficulties in sharing the gospel with others, and a few other things. Hope you enjoy!

Ruth and Boaz create strong 'links' in their genealogy chain which leads to Jesus. Are we dating, marrying, and growing our kids as a ministry? Do we see the importance of doing it well?

This week James and Forrest talk about the beginning of the last chapter of Ruth, and how Boaz was a shrewd business man...but in a good way, and what that can look like in our lives. They also look forward to the last week of Ruth and how the entire story is really a picture of Jesus's first coming, which is what we celebrate on Christmas. Enjoy!

Boaz is shrewd and rescues Ruth and Naomi, who could not 'redeem' themselves. Boaz is their family redeemer...which, spoiler alert...is a shadow of the truth of Jesus being our redeemer.

For the first time ever, Midpoint contains not one...not two...but THREE pastors! James, Wesley, and Brenton talk over the Family Service and have a look behind the scenes of how the family services are crafted, how they're tailored to appeal to kids and adults, and why Passover was the focus this time around.

Pastors Wesley and Brenton walk through the Passover and explain the importance of it, the traditional practices in celebrating it, and the modern day context of it...and yes, there is much fun to be had. 

CAUTION: Mature themes are discussed in this episode. James and Brenton talk about a plethora of topics, from Naomi coaching Ruth for selfish reasons, dating advice, our own pitfalls and failures, and of course, the redeeming grace of Jesus. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll laugh some more, and then you'll share this episode with a friend.

From the budding relationship of Boaz and Ruth comes with it some practical help in dating life, as well as yet another picture of God's love for us.

Pastors James and Andrew help wrap up Ruth chapter 2 and give advice on dating, parenting, discipleship, tv shows, and discuss next week's sermon through Ruth 3. Enjoy!

The story of Ruth shows us what a romantic relationship should look like in a Biblical context.

On this episode, Pastors James and Brenton talk about Ruth chapter 2 and how Ruth and Boaz are great character studies, what it looks like to be 'safe,' and then give us a glimpse into next week's sermon.

Ruth and Naomi return to the place where God is working amongst His people, and is blessed by Boaz, a man with godly character and a type of Jesus.

Pastors James and Wesley talk through week 1 of our study through Ruth. Their discussion ranges from Bible verses and dated Klingon references, to driving through the redwoods, spectacles, the meaning behind Boaz's name, and yes, a glimpse into the background story of Rendercella.

What bad things are we willing to leave behind to get to a fresh start? We need to know there is a way back. We can make the choice to follow God, walk a different direction, through His strength, and return back to God.

This week, Pastor James and Pastor Forrest break down what it means to serve in our home, in our world, and in our church. Then, they give us a preview for next week and give us a challenge to read the entire book of Ruth in light of our new series which will go through the entire book.

God has gifted us spiritual gifts so that we can serve the church and the body of Christ.

This week Pastor James and Andrew discuss the wrap up of Luke and the joy of the ascension of Christ, how trials can cause growth, and look forward to next week where James will discuss spiritual gifts and serving the church.

The ascension of Jesus is a time that the disciples rejoiced and worshipped God, because they 'got it'. We should look upon the work of Christ with praise and worship as well. 

James and Brenton talk about spiritual formation, our responsibility as believers to grow and seek after God, the common messages of Christianity, and look ahead to the conclusion of our study through Luke's gospel.

We must seek to be continually growing in Christ, aiming to become more mature in our faith.

James and Brenton talk through Luke 24:44-49, difficulties in sharing the gospel, Holy Spirit led evangelism, and next week's fall kickoff sermon. Enjoy!

We are ambassadors of Christ commissioned to share the message of true repentance.

The Genesis of OCC's Midpoint! Pastor James and Brenton talk through Luke 24:36-43 and talk through responses to a crisis of faith, and how asking questions and searching for answers doesn't disqualify you from Christianity.