Cedarcrest Church: Recent Episodes
Van Vandegriff
Submission isn’t a popular topic, especially in an independence-driven culture, but it’s essential for a vibrant walk with Jesus.
In this message from our Summer Glow Up series, Pastor Van unpacks what the Bible teaches about submission to God, spiritual leaders, civic authorities, and one another.
You’ll learn:
Why all authority ultimately comes from God
The difference between healthy submission and abusive authority
How an independent spirit can block God’s blessing
The blessings that come with a submitted life: safety, wisdom, and favor
If you want a faith that’s truly alive, not just Sunday-only religion, this message will help you surrender more fully to God and His ways.
Drawing from Romans 12:1, we discover that true worship means offering our entire bodies as living sacrifices—our careers, finances, relationships, dreams, and disappointments. The first mention of worship in Scripture comes not from a temple choir but from Abraham on Mount Moriah, where he demonstrated that worship is fundamentally about a surrendered heart. Using Hebrew words like yadah (extending hands in surrender), barak (kneeling in humility), and todah (thanksgiving before the breakthrough), we learn that our physical postures matter because they reflect what our hearts are learning to believe. The transformative truth emerges: what we worship, we become like. When we fix our eyes on Jesus rather than on our circumstances or preferences, we're not just feeling something momentarily—we're being formed into someone who looks more like Christ. This isn't about earning God's love through religious performance; it's about positioning ourselves to experience His transforming presence in every area of our lives.
This message challenges us to rethink what hospitality truly means in the biblical sense. While our culture often reduces hospitality to aesthetic surroundings, nice candles, and clean homes, Scripture calls us to something far deeper: creating spaces where people feel welcomed, seen, and can encounter Jesus. The story of Zacchaeus beautifully illustrates this radical hospitality. Here was a man despised by his community, a tax collector who exploited his own people, yet Jesus called him by name and invited himself to his home. Jesus didn't wait for Zacchaeus to clean up his act first. He offered relationship before repentance, demonstrating that true hospitality is a heart posture, not a physical circumstance. The Greek word used for hospitality in 1 Peter literally means loving strangers, loving those different from us. This includes the neighbor with the opposing political yard sign, the barista who messed up our order, even the rival sports fan. When we practice this kind of costly hospitality, we become hotspots connecting others to the love of God. The transformation in Zacchaeus's life reminds us that our willingness to welcome others, even when inconvenient, could be the very thing Jesus uses to change someone's eternity.
Learning to hear God's voice transforms everything about our faith journey. This powerful message introduces us to five practical lighthouses that help us discern when God is speaking: commanding scripture, compelling spirit, counsel of the saints, common sense, and circumstantial signs. The beauty of this framework is that we're not left guessing whether we've truly heard from God. Like ship captains navigating into a narrow harbor by lining up three lighthouses, we gain confidence when all five elements align. The foundation begins with God's infallible Word, His logos that never changes, paired with the rhema word—that specific, timely message the Holy Spirit speaks into our particular situation. We're reminded that God is a speaking God who created by speaking, and His enemy's first attack was to make us doubt whether we can truly hear Him. The testimony of transformation we hear shows how deepening our relationship with God changes not just our spiritual life but every relationship we have. When we learn to worship with hands raised and hearts open, when we pursue intimacy with our Heavenly Father, the overflow touches our families in profound ways. This isn't about mystical experiences beyond our reach; it's about practical, daily communion with a God who desperately wants to guide His children through every decision, from buying a car to choosing a spouse to navigating career changes.
This message challenges us to examine the gravitational pull that our possessions can have on our spiritual lives. Drawing from Matthew 6 where Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God, we're invited to consider a powerful question: What would be hardest to leave behind if Jesus asked us to do it? The answer often reveals where we've allowed things to become masters rather than tools. The message isn't about poverty or rejecting all material blessings, but about understanding that everything we have belongs to God and we are merely stewards. We learn that the secret of contentment, as Paul discovered in Philippians 4, isn't found in how much or how little we have, but in Christ himself. The antidote to greed is generosity, and the antidote to discontentment is simplicity. This teaching offers a refreshing perspective in our consumer-driven culture: God prospers us not to raise our standard of living, but to raise our standard of giving. When we choose to live with open hands rather than clenched fists, we discover a freedom that transforms our marriages, our families, and our walk with God. The invitation is clear: seek first His kingdom, live simply, work diligently, and watch how God provides exactly what we need while using us to bless others.
In our always-on, 24/7 culture where information floods us constantly and leisure time has become just another platform for consumption, we're invited to rediscover an ancient spiritual practice that Jesus himself modeled: solitude. This message challenges us to examine how our weekends—once designed as sacred rest—have become filled with travel sports, endless notifications, and the relentless drumbeat of news cycles that leave us anxious and depleted. Drawing from Luke 5:15-16 and Mark 6:30-32, we see that even Jesus, the Son of God with only three years to change the world, continually withdrew to lonely places to pray. If Jesus needed solitude, how much more do we? The beautiful paradox is that solitude isn't loneliness—it's inner fulfillment, because we're alone with God. This practice isn't about becoming a hermit but about establishing a rhythm: community and solitude, back and forth, like walking with both legs. The message offers a simple framework: divert daily, withdraw weekly, abandon annually. Starting with just five minutes a day, we can cultivate that garden where we meet with Jesus, setting boundary markers against the noise that threatens to overwhelm our souls. When life's storms hit—whether financial stress or unexpected loss—those who've built their house on the rock of regular solitude with God find a strength that sustains them through grief, anxiety, and uncertainty.
This exploration of biblical community reminds us that our faith was never meant to be lived in isolation. Drawing from John 13:34, where Jesus gives us the new command to love one another as He has loved us, we're challenged to move beyond surface-level relationships into authentic, transformative community. The message unpacks what it means to truly do life together through the lens of 59 'one another' commands found in the New Testament. We're called to carry each other's burdens, confess our sins to one another, encourage and even spur each other on toward love and good deeds. The beautiful truth revealed here is that God Himself exists in community as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and from Genesis forward, He declared it's not good for us to be alone. Through powerful testimonies of marriage restoration, baptisms prompted by shared dreams, and lives transformed through walking groups and gardening circles, we see that real discipleship happens when we let others see our scars just as Jesus showed His to the disciples. This isn't about adding another commitment to our busy lives, but about removing the 'do not disturb' sign from our hearts and allowing God to work through the messy, beautiful reality of authentic relationships.
This message from the final First Wednesday of the semester follows the journey of young Samuel as he learns to recognize and respond to the voice of God. Through Samuel’s story, we’re reminded that intimacy with God is cultivated through intentional time in His presence and a heart willing to listen and obey. The message challenges us to move beyond simply knowing about God into a genuine relationship with Him through Scripture, prayer, and obedience. Using the SOP method of Bible reading, we’re equipped to encounter not just God’s Word—but God Himself.
This message dives into the life of Joseph and the tension between “slowly” and “suddenly.” After years of hardship and waiting, Joseph’s rise to influence in Egypt reveals how God uses seasons of waiting to shape our character and deepen our trust in Him. Rather than chasing breakthrough moments, we’re challenged to embrace the intimacy with God that’s formed in the waiting. Through Joseph’s story, we’re reminded that God is working even when the answer feels like “not yet.”
In this exploration of Genesis 39, we follow Joseph through a difficult reality many of us face—doing the right thing and still paying a price for it. As a slave in Potiphar’s house, Joseph resisted temptation and chose faithfulness, asking, “How could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” His integrity led not to immediate reward, but to false accusation and imprisonment. Yet through every high and low, one truth remained: the Lord was with Joseph. This message challenges us to trust God’s presence over our circumstances and choose long-term obedience, even when the path is costly.
What if the hardest seasons of your life are actually part of God’s plan to move you forward? In Genesis 37, Joseph goes from being favored by his father to rejected and betrayed by his brothers. This message explores the tension of trusting God in difficult seasons and reminds us that even when life feels like it’s moving backward, God may be preparing us for something greater. The question is: will we pull away from Him in the pain, or lean in and trust His purpose?
Jesus promises a full life (John 10:10), yet so many of us feel exhausted, stressed, and empty—despite everything we’re chasing. This message explores why, pointing to a simple but often missed truth from Mark 3:14: the secret is to “be with Him.” The invitation is to re-center your life around His presence and discover how every moment can become meaningful—not by doing more, but by turning your attention to Him.
This powerful exploration of Jacob's journey in Genesis reveals an uncomfortable truth: spiritual growth often requires heat. Just as steel must be heated to smooth out imperfections and create a more accurate barrel, God allows trials in our lives to refine us for the assignments He has prepared. We witness Jacob's transformation from deceiver to patriarch through a pattern that repeats throughout Scripture: calling, refinement, and assignment. His encounter with God's open heaven, where angels ascended and descended on a stairway, marked his calling. But before he could fulfill his destiny, Jacob endured twenty years of being deceived by Laban—learning firsthand the pain he had inflicted on others. This wasn't punishment; it was preparation. The message challenges our suburban comfort-seeking mindset that assumes any discomfort means something is wrong. Instead, we're invited to embrace what's called the joy tunnel—those seasons of trial that James 1 describes when we're told to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds. The question isn't whether we'll face refinement, but how we'll respond to it.
This powerful message takes us deep into the story of Esau and Jacob from Genesis 25, revealing a sobering truth about how our uncontrolled appetites can cost us everything we hold dear. We discover that Esau traded his birthright—his inheritance, leadership, and God's best plan for his life—for a simple bowl of stew in a moment of hunger. This ancient story becomes a mirror for our modern struggles, whether with pornography, alcohol, financial decisions, or emotional affairs. The sermon brilliantly connects the concept of the seven deadly sins to our God-given desires that, when left unchecked, become destructive forces. We learn that appetites for significance, provision, intimacy, and rest are all gifts from God, but without proper boundaries, they morph into pride, greed, lust, and sloth. The message doesn't leave us without hope, though. We're reminded that while sin always carries consequences and we may lose something we can never fully regain, God is still the God of second chances. Through the power of the Holy Spirit living within us, we can resist the temporary satisfaction of our 'bowl of stew' and hold onto the birthright God has planned for our lives.
In this message from Genesis 22, we step into one of the most challenging moments of Abraham’s journey—the test on Mount Moriah. God’s tests are not meant to harm us, but to reveal what is truly in our hearts and to strengthen our faith.
Abraham’s willingness to trust God, even when he didn’t understand, points to the power of obedience and the refining work God does in us through difficult moments. When God provided a ram in place of Isaac, it foreshadowed the ultimate provision of Jesus Christ as our substitute.
Through seasons of testing, God is shaping perseverance, character, and hope—preparing us for the good works He has planned for us and inviting us to trust Him even when the path seems impossible.
In this message from Genesis 11–15, we follow Abraham’s journey from settlement to promise and uncover powerful truths about our own walk with God.
Abraham’s father began the journey toward Canaan but settled short of the promise. How often do we start strong in faith, only to grow comfortable and stop short of where God is leading? This teaching challenges us to examine whether we’re truly walking with God or simply maintaining a “good enough” spiritual life.
Through Abraham’s worship, failure, and restoration, we see our own story. When he compromised in Egypt, he eventually returned to the altar — reminding us that no matter where we drift, coming home to God is always possible. When we fail, the key is returning quickly to intimacy with Him.
Finally, we’re reminded that the promises given to Abraham belong to us as his spiritual children. We are called to live with integrity, to be a blessing, and to trust God to fulfill His purposes in and through our lives.
This sermon redefines greatness through the lens of Jesus' teaching in Mark 10, challenging the world's understanding of power, status, and achievement. Pastor Richard Hopkins contrasts worldly greatness—measured by authority, position, and accolades—with kingdom greatness, which is measured by servanthood and humility. Drawing from Jesus' conversation with His disciples as He prepared for His crucifixion, the message emphasizes that true greatness comes not from being served but from serving others. Jesus modeled this perfectly by giving His life as a ransom for many. The sermon calls believers to adopt a servant mindset, recognizing that when we serve others, we become more like Christ, experience greater joy, and store up eternal treasures in heaven rather than seeking temporal recognition on earth.
What happens when humanity attempts unity without God? In Genesis 11's Tower of Babel story, Pastor Van explores how civic religion—using religious symbols for earthly gain—leads to division and destruction. Through God's mercy, He scattered people into different languages and nations, not as punishment but as protection from human pride. Yet in Acts 2, we glimpse God's ultimate plan: true unity through Jesus Christ, where every nation, tribe and tongue worships together while celebrating their God-given diversity. Don't miss this powerful message about finding genuine unity in Christ alone.
Have you ever wondered what true, unshakeable commitment looks like in a world of easy exits and broken promises? Through the timeless story of Noah, Pastor Van reveals how God's covenant love offers both justice and mercy. In this powerful message, we discover that the flood narrative isn't primarily about destruction—it's about God's desire for lasting relationship with those whose hearts are fully His. Drawing parallels between Noah's ark and Christ's church, Pastor Van shows how God provides refuge from life's storms while calling us to covenant faithfulness.
In Genesis 3, Pastor Van unpacks humanity's first taste of regret through Adam and Eve's story, revealing how sin's allure leads to immediate remorse. Through vivid examples from modern life to ancient Scripture, he shows how God's response wasn't condemnation but compassionate pursuit, calling out "Where are you?" to His hiding children. Whether you're wrestling with past choices or current struggles, this message offers hope: through Jesus, God provides freedom from shame and a path to restoration.
In Genesis 2, God reveals His perfect design: one man and one woman, united as equal partners, strengthening each other in ways they couldn't alone. Pastor Van unpacks this foundational truth, showing how God created us not just for relationship, but for meaningful work—to tend our own "gardens." Whether you're wrestling with relationships, identity, or purpose, this message illuminates God's original intention for human flourishing. Don't miss this vital perspective on living as God designed!
In Genesis 1, Pastor Van unveils how our Creator intentionally designed us for relationship with Him. Through the dramatic account of creation, we discover that God didn't just randomly set the universe in motion—He lovingly crafted everything with purpose, speaking light into darkness and forming humans in His own image. Drawing from both ancient wisdom and modern insights, Pastor Van shows how science and faith can work together to reveal God's heart for connection. Whether you're questioning your purpose or seeking deeper meaning, this message illuminates how knowing your Creator transforms everything.
Have you ever wondered what could bring unshakeable joy in a world of ups and downs? Pastor Van shares how the Christmas story reveals a joy deeper than fleeting happiness. Through the angels' announcement to lowly shepherds, we discover God's invitation to lasting joy available to everyone. Drawing from personal stories and biblical wisdom, Pastor Van offers practical steps for cultivating joy as a daily strength—choosing it intentionally, practicing it consistently, and spreading it to others. This transformative message shows how the arrival of Jesus brings access to a well of joy that never runs dry, changing not just our circumstances but our entire experience of life. Don't miss this encouraging guide to finding true joy this Christmas season!
Pastor Van unveils how Mary's extraordinary encounter with God's love changed everything—from a teenage girl in Nazareth to the mother of Jesus. Through vivid storytelling and biblical insight, he reveals how finding our identity as God's beloved children aligns every aspect of our lives, like perfectly buttoned shirt. Whether you're carrying heavy burdens or seeking purpose, this message illuminates how God's unconditional love can heal, restore, and give you a fresh start. Don't miss this timely reminder that you are seen, known, and deeply loved by God.
What if your darkest season could become the prelude to your greatest hope? In a world of 400 years of divine silence, Zechariah and Elizabeth's story reminds us that God still breaks through. Pastor Van shares how this faithful couple's journey from childlessness to miracle birth illuminates the difference between hoping in circumstances versus hoping in God. Through their story, we discover that true hope isn't wishful thinking—it's a confident expectation that God is who He says He is and will do what He promises. Whether you're facing infertility, job loss, or any seemingly impossible situation, this message invites you to place your trust not in changing circumstances, but in an unchanging God who still speaks into our darkness.
Have you ever felt God calling you to step into something bigger than yourself? In Pastor Van's powerful message, he unveils Cedarcrest Church's transformative three-year discipleship journey called "Light It Up." Drawing from Moses' encounter at the burning bush, he challenges us to "take off our sandals"—removing self-reliance, casual faith, and busyness to fully consecrate ourselves to God's purposes. Through Scripture-rich teaching and personal testimony, Pastor Van casts an inspiring vision of becoming a beacon of hope in our growing community. Whether you're seeking spiritual renewal or hungry for God's next move, this message illuminates how saying "yes" to God's invitation can ignite revival in our hearts and community.
What if standing firm in your faith meant walking through fire? In this powerful message, Pastor Van unpacks the timeless story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to reveal how true emotional intelligence means pleasing God alone, not people. Through their courageous example of respectfully but firmly refusing to bow to culture's golden idols, we learn that authentic faith may cost us something—but it gains us everything. This transformative message challenges us to examine where we might be compromising and inspires us to live unashamedly for Jesus in our modern "Babylon."
What if the power to change everything is just a prayer away? Through James's urgent message, Richard reveals how prayer isn't just a passive activity—it's faith in dynamic action. Sharing his own journey from microwave mishaps to profound family moments, he shows how intentional prayer transforms ordinary moments into divine encounters. Whether you're facing trials or celebrating triumphs, discover how to develop spiritual reflexes that instantly connect you with God. Join us for this life-changing exploration of James 5 that will revolutionize your prayer life and deepen your faith walk. Watch now to unlock the extraordinary power of prayer in your daily journey.
Have you ever wished you could take back words that you said to someone else? Through James 3's vivid imagery of ships' rudders and untameable tongues, he reveals how our speech reflects our hearts and shapes lives. Drawing from personal experience with hurtful words spoken over him, Logan offers hope: while we can't control our tongues alone, the Holy Spirit can transform our speech from death-dealing to life-giving. Don't miss this practical guide to speaking words that honor God and build others up.
Have you ever wondered if your faith is more than just words? Pastor Van delivers a powerful message from James 2 that challenges us to examine whether our faith is alive and active or merely empty talk. True faith produces visible fruit in our lives. This timely message reminds us that while we're saved by grace alone, authentic faith naturally leads to action—whether through serving others, practicing forgiveness, or giving generously. For anyone seeking to move beyond surface-level Christianity to a faith that transforms daily life, this message offers practical wisdom and inspiration.
What does authentic, Jesus-centered parenting look like in today's complex world? Pastor Van and Kelly share hard-won wisdom from raising three children, emphasizing that perfect parenting isn't the goal—faithful following of Jesus is. From navigating technology and social media to handling tough conversations about sexuality, they reveal practical ways to impress God's truth on children's hearts. Through stories of both successes and failures, they demonstrate how consistent communication, clear boundaries, and genuine relationship-building can help parents raise kids who love God and enjoy family.
What if the key to raising thriving kids isn't choosing between gentle or strict parenting, but finding God's balanced way? Pastor Van shares how Godly parenting requires both loving connection and consistent correction—just as our Heavenly Father disciplines those He loves. Through personal stories and biblical wisdom, he reveals practical steps for "bending their will without crushing their spirit." Whether you're managing toddler tantrums or teen challenges, discover how setting loving boundaries with consistency creates children of character who flourish. Don't miss this transformative message about raising the next generation God's way.
Have you ever wondered what it truly means to honor one another in our homes? In this thought-provoking sermon, Kelly explores the vital role of honor in parenting, inviting us to reflect on how we cultivate respect, gratitude, and kindness in our families. Drawing from Ephesians 6:1-3, Kelly shares how obedience is essential, but honor—an attitude rooted in the heart—holds incredible promise for our children’s futures. With relatable anecdotes from her own parenting journey, she emphasizes that the transition from mere compliance to genuine honor requires intentional guidance infused with God’s Word, showcasing the lasting impact this can have on family dynamics. Kelly connects the dots by demonstrating how this principle of honor transcends parenting, providing a roadmap for all of us to navigate relationships with kindness and consideration. Whether you are a parent, a student, or an empty nester, this message serves as powerful encouragement to infuse your interactions with thoughtfulness and gratitude.
Have you ever wondered if God is really in a good mood, especially when life gets tough? Pastor Van walks us through this provocative question in his latest sermon, shining a light on Nehemiah 8, where the joy of the Lord becomes a powerful source of strength. In this compelling passage, after a long-awaited return to Jerusalem, the people are overwhelmed as they hear God’s Word read aloud, leading them to tears. Yet, Nehemiah urges them not to mourn but to rejoice, for joy is transformative in our spiritual journey. Pastor connects this message to our lives, encouraging us to embrace God's joy as a vital aspect of our faith and inviting everyone to participate in upcoming church initiatives, like the 21 Days of Prayer. He emphasizes that joy isn’t just a byproduct; it’s a choice, a stance we take in our relationship with God.
Have you ever paused to wonder why baptism is such a big deal? In this empowering message, Richard delves into the significance of baptism as a public declaration of faith, using Mark 1:9-11 as a foundation to reveal that even Jesus Himself participated in this sacred act. Richard clarifies that baptism is not just a tradition—it’s a critical step for anyone wishing to deepen their relationship with Christ, highlighting that it symbolizes a death to the old self and a resurrection into new life. Take this bold step as it strengthens your spiritual journey and is an act of obedience in your walk with Jesus.
Have you ever pondered what happens after this life? In his compelling sermon, Pastor Van dives deep into one of Christianity's most profound truths: the realities of Heaven and Hell. Drawing from the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, Pastor Van highlights that our choices in this life hold eternal significance—illustrating that being “good” does not guarantee a relationship with God, nor a place in Heaven. He passionately reminds us that true salvation only comes through Jesus, urging us to reflect on our own lives and those we love.
In the sermon, Pastor Van discusses the significance of personal stories in sharing the gospel, asserting that everyone has a testimony that can influence others and draw them to faith. Pastor Van simplifies sharing the gospel into a structured approach, highlighting the four key components: God's love, human sin, Christ's sacrifice, and the invitation to relationship with God. He encourages attendees to prepare their own stories and be ready to share them, fostering connections that can lead others to find hope and salvation in Jesus.
Pastor Van emphasized the importance of reaching out to those who are lost and far from God. He encouraged the congregation to identify someone in their lives—referred to as "the one"—to invest in, intercede for, and ultimately invite to know Jesus. Using parables from Luke 15, Pastor Van highlighted how a party in Heaven happens when even one sinner repents, reminding everyone that the heart of God is seeking individuals rather than just groups. The call to action was to cultivate relationships outside the church community to share God's love and grace effectively, and to pray for the lost around us.
Pastor Van launched a new sermon series focused on being neighbors and sharing the love of Jesus with others. The sermon highlighted the growing spiritual hunger among younger generations, particularly Gen Z, and called on the congregation to actively share their personal stories of faith with others. Lastly, Pastor Van reminded everyone that the time for revival is now, urging them to embrace their role in reaching out to their neighbors and inviting them to know Jesus.
Richard Hopkins emphasizes that a genuine relationship with Jesus transforms us internally and externally, prompting us to live differently and serve others. He explains that understanding our spiritual gifts is crucial for contributing to the body of Christ, serving one another, and making a positive impact on those outside the church. Using the analogy of a body, he highlights the importance of every member working together to support and strengthen one another, ensuring no part is overlooked or sidelined. Ultimately, encouraging everyone to discover and use their unique gifts for God’s glory, inviting those who haven't yet accepted Christ to experience the transformative power of faith.
Pastor Van began by expressing gratitude for the congregation's presence and shared updates about the church's expansion and ministry growth, citing a scriptural foundation from Isaiah 54 about enlarging their community. He highlighted the recent successes during Easter weekend, including over 4,000 attendees and 401 individuals expressing a desire to start a relationship with Jesus, emphasizing the importance of prayer and seeking God both privately and publicly. The pastor encouraged the congregation to engage in spiritual disciplines, stretch their faith, and regularly attend gatherings and small groups to strengthen their relationship with God.
Pastor Van continues the sermon series "Letters to the Church," specifically addressing the church in Sardis, warning them against being spiritually asleep and unprepared for their encounter with God. Using personal anecdotes, he stresses the difference between mere religious activity and a genuine relationship with Jesus, urging attendees to ensure they are ready for the day they stand before God. Ultimately, Pastor Van calls for individuals to wake up to their faith, boldly acknowledge Jesus as Lord, and cultivate an authentic connection with Him.
Pastor Van addresses the sensitive topic of sexual immorality in his sermon, emphasizing the importance of adhering to God's design for sexuality within the context of marriage. He warns against the dangers of tolerance toward sinful behaviors, drawing parallels between the church in Thyatira and contemporary culture's acceptance of sexual immorality. He encourages believers to practice repentance and share their struggles with one another to find healing and freedom. Ultimately, he highlights that following God's ways brings blessing, authority, and fulfillment, while deviation leads to pain and spiritual consequences.
Part 3 of our sermon series focuses on the letter to the church in Pergamum, highlighting the dangers of cultural influences that lead to spiritual compromise, particularly regarding sexual immorality. Pastor Van emphasizes that everyone is building an "altar" in their lives based on what they prioritize, whether it be time, money, or activities, and calls for self-examination and repentance. Pastor Van warns against the allure of the culture that can pull believers away from God’s teachings, stressing the importance of aligning one's life with Scripture for true fulfillment and blessing. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God, recognizing the hidden blessings and intimacy that come from faithfulness.
In week 2 of our sermon series, Letters to the Church, Pastor Van focuses on Smyrna's message of encouragement amidst persecution. He emphasizes that while believers may face trials and hardships, just like the church in Smyrna, they are not alone, as Jesus understands their suffering and offers hope and strength through the Holy Spirit. Pastor Van urges the congregation to embrace their struggles as opportunities for growth, maturity, and deeper faith, while also encouraging them to pray for and support each other in times of need. He concludes with a call for prayer, reminding everyone that God walks with them through their difficulties and that they should not face their challenges alone.
In the first sermon of our new sermon series, Letters to the Church, Pastor Van focused on the message to the church in Ephesus from the book of Revelation chapter 2, highlighting their strong theology and perseverance but warning them about losing their first love—true love for God and others. Pastor Van emphasized that love is an action and must be expressed even towards difficult individuals, citing examples from church history where Christians demonstrated sacrificial love. He concluded by urging the congregation to be known for their love in the community, aligning with Jesus's command to love God and love people.
Pastor Van emphasized the importance of having emotional and relational margin in our lives, especially in a world filled with distractions like social media and 24/7 news cycles. He highlighted that screens can drain our emotional capacity, making it difficult to handle life's challenges and impacting our mental health. Pastor Van encouraged the church to seek true rest and connection by turning to Jesus in prayer rather than relying on temporary fixes. As the church wraps up its series on margin, Pastor Van also urged everyone to engage in meaningful relationships within a supportive community to foster deeper connections and personal growth.
Pastor Van talks about creating financial margin in life by focusing on three key principles: giving generously, working diligently, and living simply. He emphasizes that financial struggles are prevalent today and highlights that Jesus spoke more about money than any other topic, stressing the importance of managing it wisely. By giving generously first, individuals can experience blessings and positive returns from their efforts. Ultimately, Pastor encourages the congregation to submit their finances to God through prayer and practice these principles to achieve financial freedom and peace.
Pastor Van Vandegriff kicked off the New Year with a sermon series focused on creating margin in our lives, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing time for what truly matters. He shared a personal anecdote about declining an enticing invitation to a Sugar Bowl game, highlighting the significance of making conscious decisions about how we spend our time. The pastor encouraged the congregation to identify their "big rocks," which he defined as essential aspects of life such as intimacy with God, relationships, occupations, calling work, and health, that must be prioritized to create space for unexpected opportunities. Ultimately, he urged everyone to be intentional about their time management to experience peace and fulfillment throughout the year.
Week One of our new sermon series covers the importance of putting the Kingdom of God first over everything else in our lives.
Relational wholeness begins when we recognize that in any place we have been wrong, God wants to empower us to make it right.
Pastor Van Vandegriff's sermon "Mental Health" from the "Made Whole" series offers insights on navigating mental health challenges. He highlights the prevalence of mental health disorders and the importance of seeking God's guidance rather than facing struggles alone. By referencing Elijah's journey from brokenness to wholeness, the sermon illustrates the path to healing. Pastor Van stresses the significance of physical well-being, seeking professional help, community support, and trusting in God's promises for finding wholeness and healing in mental health.
Learning from the biblical hero Hannah, we see how she dealt with emotional pain through seeking God's presence. Kelly shares the significance of bringing our pain before God, like Hannah did when facing deeply painful experiences. She highlights the importance of engaging our whole hearts with God and finding peace in His presence to transform our lives.
Richard Hopkins discusses aspiring to be like Barnabas, focusing on his generosity, risk-taking, and giving second chances. He emphasizes being filled with the Holy Spirit and faith as the foundation of Barnabas'scharacter. Barnabas' legacy was built on encouraging others, sacrificial giving, and believing in people's potential. By following Barnabas' example and embodying his traits, we can impact others positively and bear much fruit in our own lives.
Pastor Derek Ray's sermon "The One Who Jesus Loves" delves into the theme of identity, highlighting the disciple John's confident proclamation as the beloved disciple of Jesus. By examining key moments like the Last Supper and Jesus's post-resurrection appearances, Pastor Derek underscores the importance of finding true identity in Christ for comfort and assurance. The sermon encourages listeners to lean into Jesus through worship, the Word, and prayer, echoing John's intimate connection with Jesus as a source of strength. Ultimately, it emphasizes the transformative power of embracing our identity as beloved by Jesus to navigate life's challenges with confidence.
Join us for Pentecost Sunday as we honor graduates and learn about the power of the Holy Spirit
Pastor Van sermon titled "Can We Trust the Bible?" addresses doubts about the Bible's reliability and emphasizes its significance in our lives. He discusses the history of the Bible's creation, the risks people took to share it, and references non-believers acknowledging its power. Pastor Van highlights the trustworthiness of the Bible through biblical references and encourages listeners to base their lives on its teachings. The sermon underscores the importance of living out biblical principles, applying Scripture in daily life, and ultimately finding a deeper relationship with Jesus through the Word.
Richard Hopkins delves into the question of whether Jesus is the sole path to heaven, emphasizing its significance and providing biblical backing. He addresses potential doubts and discomfort around this belief while stressing the importance of sharing and understanding it. The sermon highlights believers' responsibility in spreading the gospel and explores the implications of not accepting Jesus as the exclusive means to heaven. In conclusion, listeners are urged to make a personal decision regarding their faith in Jesus as the sole avenue to eternal life.
Pastor Van's sermon "Sinking Battleships" in "The Way of Wisdom" series stresses the importance of not relying on our own wisdom but trusting in God's guidance. He discusses the folly of being wise in our own eyes, using personal anecdotes and biblical references to illustrate the contrast between following God's ways and our own desires. Emphasizing the benefits of seeking God's wisdom through prayer, Pastor Van urges the congregation to surrender to God, listen to His guidance, and avoid the pitfalls of being wise in our own eyes. The sermon ends with a call to obedience and trust in God's ways for health and vitality.
Pastor Richard Hopkins shares personal and biblical examples to emphasize the theme of trusting in the Lord, using Proverbs 3:5-6 as a key passage. He highlights the challenge of trusting in God over worldly desires and encourages a deeper understanding of God for complete trust. The sermon concludes with a call to action to identify obstacles hindering trust in God and prioritize seeking His kingdom.
The final installment of our sermon series walks us through the importance of getting a NOW word from God for our season of life. When the holes in your wall are found, you need a rally cry to bring you back to the things God is asking you to fight for.
What does the Word of God say about how we can win at home as women? What makes up a Woman of God? All this and more in week 3 of our Winning at Home series.
Week 2 of our Advent series looks at the life of Joseph and how he showed the love of God through the way he loved and led his family.
Our final installment of our sermon series wraps up the bottom line of why we are called to be a generous people.
Is budgeting in the Bible? How do we please God with our budgeting? Find out this and more in part 3 of our Eternal Investments Series!
What does the Bible say about the tithe and how are we blessed when we respond? Week 2 of our series tackles these two topics!
Week one of our new sermon series sets us up with a biblical foundation for how we view money.
Finish up the Daniel series with us with what the end times could look like and what has to happen for Jesus to return.
What is God up to when our prayers haven't been answered? This week, Daniel 9 and 10 reveal how we can hold on to hope while waiting on God.
Daniel Chapter 5, what will your legacy in life be? Will it be that you followed Jesus?
Daniel chapter 4 is all about how pride is what proceeds our downfall. What is the Jesus way? To serve Him and them.
How do we walk through a culture of compromise and gain the favor of God? We need wisdom and tact like Daniel and the power of God. All of it is available to us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
How do we learn to love well and stand firm in a culture of compromise? Walk with us through the book of Daniel as we see how God would have us walk in a culture like Jesus.
Who do we serve? Jesus or our schedules? This week we look at the heart behind the Sabbath and how we observe it.
This new sermon series is all about how honoring the Sabbath as God intended helps us go so much further.
How do we know when it's time to go? This week we finish our DNA series with a powerful word on hearing Gods Voice
In week 4 of our series, Richard Hopkins takes us through 1 Peter 4. We are designed to serve.
Week 2 of our DNA series looks at 1 Peter 2. We see that we are designed to be set apart for devotion to Jesus.
Student Director, Logan Jackson, kicks off our brand new series about how as followers of Jesus, we are designed for more. This week we look at 1 Peter 1 and see that we are designed for joy.
Celebrate Mother's Day with us and be encouraged as we hear from Kelly Vandegriff about the power of our YES to Jesus.
There are usually 2 ditches we fall into when we are around needy people; overly attentive to the needs of others while sacrificing our own health, or unwilling to acknowledge our part in helping others in need. Jesus shows us there is a better way, and it all starts with asking Him how we respond!
How do we confront someone in LOVE? Week 3 of our series tackles the sometimes uncomfortable task of confronting our friends and how we do it like Jesus.
What does it look like to be someone who contends for unity? Week 2 of our Tough to Love series tackles the power of the tongue and how we fight for unity together.
How do we love difficult people? It starts with upping our social and emotional intelligence as we become more like Jesus.
We wrap up the GOAT series on Palm Sunday with Jesus' triumphant entry. We hear how to have the right metric for measuring greatness and how Jesus models perfectly being the Greatest of All Time.
What happens when you meet the Greatest of All Time? You leave changed forever. This week we look at the power of an invitation and how the disciples responded to Jesus being the Greatest of All Time.
Part two of our series walks us through the value of character development and how Jesus modeled for us how we grow in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man. We also take a look at a healthy understanding of water baptism and how it applies to us today!
Week One of our sermon series walks us through the biblical truth and evidence of the prophecies fulfilled by Jesus and how He is the Greatest of All Time!
The final installment of our sermon series walks us through where we find the power we need for life.
We are sealed with the Holy Spirit at Salvation, but God has more of Him for us in our every day!
Join us as we look back at what God has done in 2022 and hear from Pastor Van on what God has called us to for 2023
The conclusion of our sermon series focuses on what sets us apart in how we walk our sexuality as Jesus people.
We need a Theology of Suffering that lines up with the Word of God. This week, Pastor Van walks us through how we walk through suffering with a Godly perspective.
This week, Pastor Van, walks us through how we can operate out of the supernatural in our normal lives. Ever wondered how Jesus heals people? This sermon walks us through the Biblical truth of healing.
What sets us apart as people of God? Tune in with us for week 1 of our new sermon series to be inspired and encouraged to go deeper with Jesus in 2023!
The final installment of our sermon series, A Generous Life, is all about how we forgive our enemies and what Jesus has to say about that.
What does the Bible say about how we are to be generous in our local church? What is God really after when He asks us to tithe? All this and more is covered in the third week of our advent series!
Week 1 of our Advent series focuses on the Biblical wisdom around taking care of our physical, social, and spiritual health and how that influences how we love others well.
In the final installment of the Who's Your One series, Pastor Van commissions us to live sent by God to be the light of the world.
Have you ever struggled with the practicals of sharing your faith? This week Pastor Van shows you exactly how you can share the Gospel in 4 easy parts!
What does Jesus have to say about Hell? This week we see what the Bible says about the truth of Hell and the hope we have in Jesus.
Week 3 of Who's Your One is all about how we as believers involve those not yet believers in our lives. We see an example of how Jesus modeled this in Matthew 9.
In our final sermon on the book of Ephesians, we look at what chapter six says about how we stand firm when darkness comes our way.
Week 4 of our Ephesians series looks at Chapter 5 where the Apostle Paul encourages us to live in the light.
In our third week of Ephesians, we walk through the 4th chapter of Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus. What are you building your life on? Is it anything other than Jesus?
In week 2 of our Ephesians series, Pastor Van walks us through Chapters 2 and 3. In these chapters, Paul instructs us how we should live as a family of God, regardless of background, race, or ethnicity.
Week 1 of our Ephesians series walks us through chapter 1 of Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus. We learn our rightful place in the family of God and how that informs the way we live.
The final installment of our Mental Health series looks at the final piece to well-rounded mental health: being connected to a healthy body of people to do life with.
Week 5 of Mind Games looks at the Macedonian Church's response to persecution and extreme poverty. Where do we fit in? When we serve others above ourselves, we become more like Jesus
Today, we look at the life of Elijah for the three pillars of our health we must prioritize for our mental well-being.
Week two of Mind Games, we look at Jonah's life and how we can overcome the lies we so easily believe in our lives!
Week 1 of our new series on mental health kicks off with Pastor Van walking us through the most important place to start when dealing with mental health struggles.
Cody Harmon wraps up our Summer sermon series based on the book, "I Declare War" by Levi Lusko. We look at how we can declare war against our thoughts, words, and actions through the power of the Holy Spirit.
In week 2 of Summer Book Club, Derek Ray takes us through what it looks like to trust God in the wilderness season. Based on "God, Where Are You" by John Bevere
Richard Hopkins walks us through the Biblical themes in "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer.
What does the Bible have to say about what a Man of God is? Tune in this Father's Day as we learn how men take on the Family Likeness of God.
The last week of our mission's sermon series ends with Cody Harmon teaching us what we can learn from the Book of Jonah about bringing Jesus to a nation. In our context, how can we commit to bringing the message of Jesus to our nation? Tune in to this week's message to be encouraged!
Made for the Mission kicks off by teaching us the importance of sharing Jesus in our local community! Have you ever felt like you don't have the gift of evangelism? Be encouraged this week about how the Holy Spirit empowers us to witness well!
What does it look like to be a true worshipper? Pastor Van closes out our sermon series by showing us what it looks like to be immersed in the river of God and how that transforms our lives.
There is POWER in your words! Week 7 of our Throw it Off series reminds us of the importance that our words have.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Faith, Freedom, and Forgiveness are all a package deal. Week 6 of our Throw it Off series takes us through how important it is to Jesus that we understand Biblical Forgiveness.
Week 4 looks at the 4 blockages we can have in our spiritual hearts.
The key to freedom? Overcoming Selfishness, Bitterness, Rejection, and Evil Thoughts by the power of Jesus.
You've accepted Jesus and you are actively seeking to look more like Him but temptation and sin is still a part of your life... now what? Week 3 of our sermon series tackles how we can walk in freedom with Jesus when we feed the spirit!
How can we live a life of freedom and throw off the things that entangle us? Week 2 of our sermon series looks into what the Bible has to say about living a life of freedom with Jesus.
Are you living from the Tree of Life or the Tree of the Knowledge of good and evil? There is freedom in Jesus for you today!
Week two of our series looks at the story of Absolam and David and what we can learn from a submitted life. When we submit to authority we flourish!
Have you ever looked at the story of Saul and David as a leadership lesson? Pastor Cody takes us through key moments in David's life where he chose to be a good follower and ultimately what brought him up to be a great leader.
The finale of our sermon series is all about how we host the presence of God in our everyday lives.
“God's presence is with His people. If there is a problem with his presence it’s a problem with his people”
This week, Pastor Van tackles the tension between God's wrath and His holiness. We ask the question are you living a life of God AND ____? Tune in with us as we understand the power of putting God above everything else in our lives.
Week 3 of our sermon series and we learn what two things mark God's holy people. 1. Contending for Racial Reconciliation 2. Protecting the poor among us
Join us for the first Sunday of the year! Your direction determines your destination. Take a look into what the Bible says about how we can center our lives first on Jesus.
Look back with us at our Outdoor Christmas service for 2021! We had a blast celebrating with over 2,000 people on our front lawn!
In a world consumed with fear, how can we stand in peace? Tune in this week as we hear what the Bible has to say about perfect peace, and how to get it.
Advent Week 3 focuses on the Joy of the Lord. If you need joy this Christmas season, hear what the Bible says about where we find true joy.
“Joy follows Gods ways, fear and anxiety follow our ways”
Where does love come from? How can we love others well? Pastor Van looks to the story of Joseph and Mary to see how we can answer those questions. Celebrate Advent Week 2 with us!
Do you ever feel like you never have enough time? This week, LifeGroup Pastor Cody Harmon, takes us through the book of Esther to look at how God would call us to look at the time He has given us.
Have you ever been in a place where you needed to trust God for provision? Are you there now? Hear how God met the Israelites in their deepest times of need and discover how God can meet you in that place, too.
When you have chosen to walk with Jesus and face pushback, what do you do? Join us in week 5 of The Way Home as we look to what God says to Moses when he faced pushback after great victories.
Plagues, blood, and Passover. Join us in week 4 of The Way Home as we look to what the Bible says about the answer to the world's biggest question, "What can wash away my sin?"
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Are you disqualifying yourself from what God is calling you to? Join us this week as we hear how God encouraged Moses when he felt inadequate for the calling.
Have you ever felt like you are down to nothing? What if trusting God was your way back home? Hear Pastor Van encourage you about how Moses' mother trusted God and saw Him come through in a desperate time.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, October 3rd, 2021
GUIDANCE | The Power of Prayer Pt. 5
The final week of The Power of Prayer we look into what it looks like to ask God for guidance. Have you ever been in a place where you needed to know which direction to turn, what the right decision is, how to move forward? This message is for you!
Cody Harmon Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, September 26th, 2021
FORGIVENESS | The Power of Prayer Pt. 4
Week 4 dives into what it looks like to forgive others. Have you ever felt like it is easy for you to ask forgiveness but hard to forgive others? Hear what the Bible says about that!
Cody Harmon Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, September 19th, 2021
UNANSWERED PRAYER | The Power of Prayer Pt. 3
Week 3 is all about what we do when we feel like God doesn't hear our prayers. Ever had a prayer go unanswered? Leave inspired knowing what the Bible says about it!
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, September 12th, 2021
BREAKTHROUGH | The Power of Prayer Pt. 2
Week 2 is all about to contend in prayer for breakthrough. Whether it's a diagnosis, provision, clarity, etc.- this is for you. Listen as we see throughout the Bible how God's people asked for breakthrough. Leave inspired knowing that God loves to answer prayer.
Richard Hopkins Cedarcrest Church
Week 1 is all about believing the God who heals. Listen as we see throughout the Bible why and how God heals. Leave inspired knowing that God will heal.
Sunday, August 29th, 2021
THE 'IT' FACTOR | Relatable Pt. 4
Join us for Week four of our relationship series, Relatable. This sermon focuses on what the 'it' factor is in relationships: Believing the best.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, August 22nd, 2021
THE TWO BECOME ONE | Relatable Pt. 3
Join us for Week three of our relationship series, Relatable. This sermon focuses on what Jesus says about divorce and remarriage. Come along on the journey with us as we discover God's best for us in marriage.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, August 15th, 2021
I OWE YOU, YOU DON'T OWE ME | Relatable Pt. 2
Join us for Week two of our relationship series, Relatable. This sermon focuses on the 4 types of love we see in the Bible and how we, because of Jesus, can love others unconditionally.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, August 8th, 2021
TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE | Relatable Pt. 1
Join us for Week One of our new relationship series, Relatable. This sermon is a foundational message about our relationship with Jesus and how understanding how God relates to us helps us relate well to others.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Summer in the Suburbs | July 25th
Join us on August 1st at Cedarcrest Church at 9:15 and 11:00 AM for Homecoming Sunday!
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Summer in the Suburbs | July 18th
Join us on July 25th at Allatoona Creek Park at 5:30pm!
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Summer in the Suburbs | July 11th
Join us on July 18th at Seven Hills at 5:30pm!
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Summer in the Suburbs | July 2nd
Join us on July 11th at McCall Primary School at 5:30pm!
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Get envisioned as we bring church to our community this July!
Sunday, June 27th 2021 Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, May 23, 2021
MINISTRY OF HEALING | Public Kitchen Pt. 6
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, May 16th, 2021
DISCIPLESHIP | Public Kitchen Pt. 5
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, May 9th, 2021
Mother's Day SERVICE | Public Kitchen Pt. 4
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, April 18, 2021
COMMUNITY | Public Kitchen Pt. 1
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, April 11th, 2021
INFINITE GAME
Cody Harmon Cedarcrest Church www.cedarcrestchurch.com
Sunday, March 28th 2021
SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY | Secret Sauce Pt. 5
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, March 21st 2021
FASTED LIFESTYLE | Secret Sauce Pt. 4
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, February 28, 2021
SOLITUDE | Secret Sauce Pt. 1
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, February 21, 2021
SHINY PEOPLE | Salt & Light Pt. 2
Richard Hopkins LifeGroup Pastor Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, February 14, 2021
SALT OF THE EARTH | Salt & Light Pt. 1
Derek Ray LifeGroup Pastor Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, January 31, 2021
DUPED AND CANCELLED | One Pt. 4
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday January 17th 2021
CROSSING THE BRIDGE | One Pt. 2
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, January 10, 2021
ONE | A Conversation on Racial Reconciliation Pt.1 Join us as we talk with Pastor Van, Mary, and Tracy about racial reconciliation.
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
Sunday, December 13th
The Greatest Gift Sunday Advent Week 3 GIFT OF JOY | Stories Pt. 3
Van Vandegriff Cedarcrest Church
A Story of Jesus' Life, Crucifixion and Resurrection told through the lens of Thomas the Disciple.