Calvary Chapel Oxnard: Recent Episodes
Lance Ralston
The teaching ministry of Calvary Chapel of Oxnard, with Pastor Lance Ralston. "Becoming more like Jesus, by learning and living God's word."
In this powerful message, we're challenged to rethink our understanding of greatness through the lens of servanthood.
There are three principles we can learn from using John the Baptist's questions to Jesus.
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With the sobering reality while God wins and our destiny is glory the path there is hard.
We will fail and sin, but after we repent God will say let's learn from that and move on because He loves us. Don't let your past be your prison.
Are you near God at the banks of the river of living water or out on your own without God in the marshes of salty stagnant water?
We’re going to stand before God & give account for what we’ve done with what we’ve heard.
When we turn from sin to Jesus, He stands between us and our sin, between us and our past.
Our imagination is an image factory. The problem is, sin has corrupted our imaginations.
There are many shepherds within the Church, but there is only One who is the best shepherd.
Zedekiah must choose between death in Jerusalem, or finding life by surrendering to the Babylonians. God gives us the same choice—we live by surrendering to Jesus and rejecting this world.
The Lord calls Jeremiah to speak judgment over Israel from their rebellion, but he's not sure he's ready.
God calls His people to not fear because of Who He is and who they are in relationship to Him.
As Isaiah describes the judgment on Syria and Israel, we see mercy—God has preserved a remnant that looks to Him and stops looking at the work of their hands: the gods and idols that brought judgment upon them.
Prophecy of Messiah: The Rod from Jesse, the Branch, and the Banner. Jesus, reigning on the throne of David, stands in stark contrast to human rulers and politicians.
The Law was not given to make us holy but to drive us to Christ and a relationship with God marked by a love that wants to obey him.
Life is not about the accumulation of money, power, or things. It’s about redeeming relationships that see people gain heaven.
Wisdom of how to deal with our finances, avoid pride and live in humility in a Christ-like manner.
The Best use of time is to walk and speak wisely so that the lost see the power of the Gospel to save.
Exploring chapter 24 of Matthew reveals the signs that will lead to the second coming of the Lord.
The Gospel is the power of God for salvation (Rom. 1:16). That power has delivered us from darkness, made us citizens of a heavenly Kingdom, and freed us from the penalty of our sin.
Paul lays the foundation for the work of the Gospel in their church; we glean 5 amazing truths about the Gospel from this passage.
True Contentment comes, not from our circumstances, but from confidence in our relationship with God through Christ.
Thoughts are the source of behavior – Be careful what you allow to influence your thinking.
The signs are there for us to see the End Times approaching, all we need to do is look to the book of Daniel for the evidence.
The groundwork is laid to explain what prophecy is and how God uses it as seen in the book of Daniel.
Here are five essentials that every Christian needs to have in their spiritual backpack. • The Cross • The Resurrection • Relationship with Jesus • God’s Word • The Great Commission
Don’t leave 2021 without them!
If we don't get the right to life right, we will never get all the other rights, right.
In order for the Lord to do a good work in us, we must put aside bitterness and strife.
We see more ways following Jesus impacts our lifestyle, especially in the realm of our speech.
Paul ends the chapter after describing the mystery of salvation by praying for the Ephesians. Paul’s prayer describes God’s incredible love and power for those who believe.
While we aren’t saved by good works, we are saved for them, the most important being the masterpiece God makes of us.
Pastors Lance Ralston, Rob Branchflower and Jeff Atchison set the foundation for what is the Bible. Why do we study it? How do we study it? How can the Bible be trusted? How to apply God's truth to our faith.
The Ultimate Lesson of the Book of Job is that God wants us to love Him for Himself, not just what He can do for us.
When others are going through great suffering, being there with them to just listen can be enough to help.
Suffering provokes us to ask “Why?” from God. The Book of Job teaches that the right “Why?” isn’t from us to God but from us to ourselves. And the question isn’t “Why am I suffering?” but rather, “Why do I believe in God? Why do I love and worship Him?"
Only THE Gospel saves. Deviations from it, don’t. Sincerity and wanting something to be true, isn’t enough. Good intentions and checking all the boxes the world sets for its approval may score points with people, but do not gain heaven.
Nehemiah sets new reforms into place due to the falling away from God's commands. He sets things back in place, where disobedience and sin once reined.
There are physical walls to keep us safe and then there is the spiritual wall. The Greater Wall...the Bible.
The exiles of Judah face opposition and discouragement in the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem. Their experience was much like ours as believers. We want to fulfill all God has for us, but face challenges and opposition. Just as God helped Nehemiah and the people of Judah to fulfill His calling for them, so he will help us become the people he has called us to be.
Romance isn’t candy and flowers. It’s an eager pursuit of the beloved. And it’s best seen in how God loves us.
Nehemiah knew he was made to be more than just a cup-bearer. He discovered God's will for his life and took action.
When pain and trials come into your life, it doesn't matter from where or whom they are coming from, just make sure it doesn't cause you to turn your back on Jesus and allow doubt to set in.
We are the betrothed to God and nothing can take that away from us, unless we allow it.
Christmas 2020. The world Jesus came to in His first coming was exhausted & disillusioned. He gave hope to the hopeless. He comes again to a similar scene.
The gift God wants is us. Our giving ought to be a manifestation of the grace we’ve received from the God Who gave us Himself.
Exposition of 2 Corinthians 7:2-10 covering; Vulnerability, Anxiety, Fear, Confidence, The difference between Repentance & Regret.
Paul gives the essence of The Gospel and what the Christian Life is supposed to be. We die; He lives.
God will work in your life for a greater purpose of his eternal will, but as He does, He is also working in you to make you more like Jesus.
After a long tale of God’s blessing on obedience and judgment on rebellion, Chronicles ends in mid-air, leaving the reader with the challenge of which they’ll choose.
In all adversity, in all trials there is always victory in the strength and presence of the Lord.
The key to defeating our adversary is realizing Jesus disarmed him, then refusing to re-arm him by listening to his lies and acting on them.
Ancient Israel (Judah) under King Asa provides an interesting parallel and lesson for us today.
Pastor Lance announces how CCO will proceed with church services amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
David wants to build God a temple. God says ‘No’! God has his reasons, and David has his responses. Both are amazing!
David's Mighty Men of Valor defended a barley field from the Philistines when everyone else ran away. As Christian's we need to take a stand against the Enemy, oppression and sin.
Our glorious future pulls us toward it, inspiring us to persevere in the vagaries of now.
The Gospel is that Jesus died AND rose. While the resurrection is a miracle the rational mind finds difficult, without it, there IS no Gospel.
Our priorities in life need to be Jesus first and then our relationships with others second.
Mother’s Day affords the opportunity to remember the importance of honor in all relationships.
Pastors and Ministers of Calvary Chapel Oxnard pray for the Nation, Oxnard, COVID-19 and other issues for the National Day of Prayer.
Salvation isn’t a matter of human skill or wisdom. It’s the work of God through the Person of Christ. Our task is to proclaim the message while trusting God to use it in saving the lost.
Based on the “re-discovery” of the Bible in the temple during the reign of Josiah, we’ll consider how easy it is to allow mere religion to supplant our mandate to make God’s Word the center.
In times of a crisis, Christians need to evaluate their faith and realize they have nothing to fear because Jesus is with us and that's the greatest hope anyone can have.
King Joash didn't take advantage of God's blessing and protection that the Lord was willing to bestow on him. We as Christians need to realize the same thing and go all in with following and obeying Jesus.
The temple is repaired, Elisha dies and Judah and Israel fight one another. Kings rise and kings fall.
Jehu had Zeal for the Lord but it didn’t translate into a heart fully given to the Lord.
Naaman cured of leprosy, Elisha works miracles, Syria besieges Samaria, Lepers share the good news the Syrians have left and Hazael becomes king of Syria by assassinating BenHadad.
The signs are there for the arrival of the End Times. Pastor Lance goes through these signs and how they relate to scripture.
If you seek for it God will give you His perspective and His perspective changes everything.
Naaman's pride almost kept him from receiving a miracle from the Lord. Is your pride keeping you from receiving the gift of salvation?
The Bible has a lot to say about government, economics and politics and how as Christians we are to exercise these concepts through a Biblical world view.
A miraculous flow of oil illustrates the importance of desire in our relationship with God.
Wicked Ahab repented and God forgave! It’s never too late to turn to God, no matter how far from Him you’ve gone. But there are consequences to our sin.
Elijah confronts the false prophets of Baal and kicks their butt with a little mockery thrown in.
Elijah, reckoned as a mighty prophet of God, began as a simple shepherd. God uses average people to do mighty things.
King Rehoboam replaced the gold shields his father Solomon made that he had to give up to Egypt, with bronze shields. From a distance, they looked good, but they were fakes; substitutes for a departed glory. When we sense God’s glory and blessing has departed, instead of pretending everything’s fine, what we need to do is repent and pray.
Isaiah 9:6 says the Messiah will be called “Wonderful” A meditation on Philippians 2:6-7 leads to a renewed amazement at the Incarnation. That wonder provides good fuel for worship at Christmas time.
In a rather bizarre story, two unnamed prophets provide the backdrop for a lesson on the importance of obeying God.
Solomon builds his kingdom to usher in its Golden Age, but he soon falls away from the Lord, investing in the World more than his relationship with Yahweh.
In Psalm 86:11, David asked for a united heart. His son Solomon shows what happens with a divided heart.
Nick discusses his personal testimony and how God is using him to show others that God loves everyone and adversity with God as your anchor brings glory to the Lord and salvation to many.
Solomon builds the temple to the Lord and the Lord blesses it with His presence. Solomon prays over Israel, but their praises will soon be replaced with rebellion.
While Solomon’s request for wisdom was good, it wasn’t the best he could have asked for. His father David shows us something better.
King Solomon begins his reign by asking the Lord for "practical" wisdom to rule Israel.
Solomon extends grace to four rebels, yet only one remains in a place of grace. We must ask: What difference has God’s grace made in my life? Have I responded in true repentance?
David is dying and needs to pass on the kingdom, but who will inherit it? The one it was promised to or the one who will take it by any means.
Paul calls us to identify heretics. How to stand for truth in a culture where anything goes.
Paul encourages the church to unite as one body of believers and not to allow scruples to divide their love for one another.
Paul encourages the church in Rome to be submissive and not defiant toward government. As U.S. citizens we take this principle and apply it to our stewardship as citizens who are the government.
Paul instructs Christians to respect and honor government and its authority that God has given to them. Not to do this is a sin.
Anxiety effects us all in some way or another. We are commanded to not be anxious, but to rely on the faithfulness of Jesus in prayer and obedience.
Shame is not necessarily a bad thing. Yes, like Adam and Eve, it causes us to run from God and hide, but it can also cause us to realize that Christ can take away our shame, so we come to Him.
Jesus knows what it means to suffer, so when we go through times of suffering we can have the hope and comfort of knowing that He will be there for us.
Love and hate are often seen as feelings, but the Bible describes these emotions as actions. What we do with these emotions is crucial.
Paul speaks of how all people are able to receive God's grace, but it is by faith in Christ and not in The Law.
It matters what you believe. The modern, popular idea that “It doesn’t matter WHAT you believe, just so long as you are sincere” doesn’t just not jive with Scripture, it doesn’t work for anything else either.
Paul explains that Jesus is the Elect One to salvation, those who believe in Christ become part of The Elect. They are not elect because God choose them, they are elect because they chose to be with Jesus.
Paul speaks of Predestination and The Elect, but who does that include? Knowing who he's speaking to is the key to knowing.
Paul explains how even though we are children of God, we struggle with sin. The key word being "struggle". We are dead in the flesh and alive in the spirit.
This is where Paul says we died with Christ, and rose again with him to new life. What we need to do is “reckon” it so.
Paul speaks of God's unlimited grace for the whole world. We can choose to live in the image of Adam or in Christ.
While Paul opened his letters with the greeting, “Grace and Peace to you”, in the first verses of Romans 5 he unpacks what grace and peace have done, do and will yet accomplish.
Paul continues his point that being a Jew isn't a matter of heritage, but of faith. Even Gentiles can become a "true" Jew.
Paul says a “true Jew” is more a matter of the heart than ancestry or rule-keeping. We’ll use this truth to press in on the dangers and pitfalls of religion vs relationship.
Man was created to worship and serve, whether it's of the Lord or the things of the world. Paul expounds on this in great detail.
Paul's letter to the Church in Rome is considered one of his most influencial writings in establishing the principles and workings of the Gospel.
We’ll see through the life of Jonah how our anger can lead us to disobedience, hurting other, it can also lead to painful situations.
The Psalms of David inspire and convict us because it's his heart being poured out before the Lord.
David declaration “I will not give to the Lord what cost me nothing” tells us much about how he viewed his relationship with God.
The life of David continues as he shows how great of a leader he was despite his failings. His heart always came back to the Lord.
The civil war comes to a head and Absalom is defeated and David returns to Jerusalem, but at a high cost.
King David suffers from the result of his sin with Bathsheba and is forced to leave Jerusalem from Absalom's rebellion.
The incident with David and Bathsheba represents a life lesson for both men and women of today when it comes to lust and modesty.
King David commits evil acts to cover up his adultery, blinded by his sin. There is no secret sin that will eventually be exposed. David repents, but there are consequences to his disobedience.
King David worshipped the the Lord in Spirit and Truth and sets the example for us to do the same because the Lord is worthy.
The death of Uzzah redirected David and Israel’s ideas about how God is worshipped. IT needs to instructs ours as well.
David repeatedly sought God on how to deal with the Philistines. He never assumed what to do. We ought to do the same.
The Bible teaches how to use money wisely. The first step is realizing that it's not our money, but that it belongs to Jesus. How we manage His money will reflect our love for Him.
Count your blessings, literally. Make a note of all the things you own and realize how blessed you are. Now go, serve and love others because relationships are the only thing you take with you from this life into Heaven.
With Saul's death comes a civil war, but it's David who sees still respects Saul's anointing as King, even though the anointing has fallen to David.
Often God closes doors and opportunities in our lives as a way of leading us into His greatest plans and purposes for us.
Both David and Saul fall away from the Lord's will, but the difference is how each one responds when faced with their disobedience.
Saul is hanging onto the throne in disobedience, which the Lord can not and will not bless. It's the same for any Christian who's hanging onto their rebellion.
David learns not to give into his anger and commit murder, but he gives into his fear and makes decisions that are contrary to God's will.
David’s fearful foray into Gath reminds us faith isn’t just for the big challenges, it’s for the day to day as well.
David is very much like us. We are very inconsistent with our walk in Christ. One minute we are doing the right thing and the next we're making bonehead decisions.
A character study of Saul vs David. David is characterized by the harp in his hand; Saul is characterized by the spear in his hand
After defeating Goliath, David wins the respect or is it suspicion, from King Saul? It becomes evident as David's reputation grows and Saul's shrinks.
David’s path to the Valley of Elah where he defeated Goliath was marked by daily challenge & faith. The big wins in life are built on many more daily small ones.
Saul continues to fall from grace with his disobedience toward God and David rises as the new king, but needs to take down Goliath first.
We just don't celebrate the empty tomb on Easter, but also the occupied throne where Jesus now sits in Heaven.
Jesus died for all our sins. Nail you sin to the Cross and leave it there because when Jesus was nailed to the Cross He said, "It is finished."
Saul's disobedience removes him from being King and Jonathan steps up in faith to defeat the Philistines. Something his father should have done.
At the conclusion of Samuel’s Swan Song, he tells Israel to put their error of asking for a king behind them and do the right thing. No failure is fatal when given to God.
Saul is made king of Israel and has all the traits of a great ruler, even when faced with conspirators he acts like a just king.
Israel’s demand for a king parallels the Christian’s desire for an “easier” way than to live by faith.
The Lord messes with the Philistines with plagues and sickness until they finally return the Ark back to Israel. Then the Israelites diss the Lord by wanting a king.
Just as Jesus loved us, we are to love as He did in every aspect of our lives, especially in our relationships.
Samuel is born from barrenness and grows to be the last Judge and Prophet as Israel turns from a theocracy to their kings.
The Lord desires for us to be reconciled to one another, but He commands us to forgive.
A man is called to love his wife and a woman is called to respect her husband. There's a reason why it's this way.
Shown in Paul's testimony is a pattern all believers can follow in sharing their faith.
As a prisoner, Paul travels on a ship to Rome for his trial. On the way the ship crashes and Paul is bitten by a snake. At his trial, Paul speaks the Gospel.
Paul was a man of great character and it helped to preserve the lives of 200 plus souls from dying at sea. Crisis doesn't create character, it reveals it.
Paul speaks to a mob, is arrested, smuggled to escape death threats and put on trial. All in a days work for the early church.
For two years Paul speaks to Felix, the governor of Israel, about the gospel, but Felix doesn't want to accept the Truth even though he knows he should.
During Paul's missionary trip to Ephesus, there's persecution, exorcism, a revival, riots and the preaching of the Gospel. All in a days work for the early church.
Pauls preaches in Athens, ministers in Corinth, is persecuted a year later and Apollos gets the big picture with the Gospel.
Paul’s message on Mars Hill. We all have an appointment with God. We can prepare for it. Sadly, most don’t.
A righteous argument, the Holy Spirit directs, Paul doesn't break out of prison and persecution from the locals. A day in the life of the early church.
The Council of Jerusalem contends with the Judaizers, and grace is put on trial: Will salvation be by works or by faith alone?
Paul heals a man, rebukes Greeks for calling him a god, rebukes false teachings, Paul is stoned and left for dead, but lives and spreads the gospel with Barnabas. All in a days work for the early church.
An angel breaks Peter out of prison, Herod is eaten by worms and Paul and Barnabas spread the gospel to the Gentiles. Life in the early church.
Peter says, “God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean.” The truth he speaks of is that the Gospel is for ALL people.
Saul's conversion, Phillip baptizes a business man and Peter learns to let go of his prejudice. A day in the life of the early church.
The story of Simon in Samaria who thought he could buy spiritual power. Once born again, we must press forward into spiritual maturity or we stray into grave error.
What is the gift that keeps on giving? You won't find it on Amazon.com that's for sure.
The Children's Ministry presents, "A Night in Bethlehem." Hear the Christmas story told through the eyes of Children as they perform and sing about the birth of Jesus. Pastor Lance ends with a brief message.
The Apostles get arrested, the Gospel is taught, the Church grows, priests convert and Stephen becomes the first martyr for the faith.
The story of Ananias & Sapphira’s death; their beign slain, not IN the Spirit by BY the Spirit. It isn’t that we wouldn’t really want to be a part of that church, it’s just that if we did, we’d need to make holiness a priority and intentionally eschew hypocrisy.
Peter and John allow the Holy Spirit to work through them for healing and bringing many to faith in Jesus, amidst persecution.
Boaz redeams Naomi's land and marries Ruth. The love story is a foreshadowing of Christ's love for us.
Chapter one ends with Naomi’s lament, blaming God for the evil that’s befallen her. But it wasn’t God’s fault.
Because it was a time when people did what was right in their own eyes, man does horrible acts of cruelty.
Sampson's missed opportunity to fulfill his calling, due to him being more sensual rather than sensible.
Gideon was a successful Judge, but even his good intentions go against the will of God and his legacy causes great turmoil for Israel.
God calls Gideon as the next Judge to fight back Israel's enemies and help Israel turn back to God.
Deborah, an ordinary woman, is chosen by God to Judge and lead the Israelites to repentance from their disobedience and worship to idols.
Several Judges rise to help Israel get walk away from their idols and put their faith in the Lord.
Lay hold of all that for which Christ has laid hold of you because there’s no standing still in the realm of the Spirit. Israel illustrates we are either moving forward or drifting back.
Jesus allows Peter to face his failure when he denied Him, only to use it to bring Peter out of his doubt and regret.
The Disciple receive the Holy Spirit and Peter is encouraged to continue the ministry Jesus started.
Pilot was blind to the Truth standing before him. Very much like a lot of people searching for truth, but with a worldly perspective.
Prior to knowing Jesus, we were haters of the Gospel, but once we are adopted by His grace, we become lovers of the Gospel. As Christians we should only love, never hate.
As Jesus prepares the disciples for his death, the nature of the Trinity is revealed and the compassion of God for His children.
Jesus doesn’t promise the absents from storms, but peace IN the storms if we will look to Him.
Jesus is preparing the disciples for His death, but they don't understand why it's for the better.
Fruit can not grow unless it is attached to the vine. In like manner, Christians can't grow unless attached to Jesus.
Jesus uses the analogy of a grape vine bearing fruit to how we need to abide in Jesus so we too can bear fruit and be painfully, but wonderfully pruned.
Jesus is the Truth the life and the way. He said it and when Christian's reiterate it to the world we aren't being narrow-minded, we're just being consistent.
Jesus is preparing the Disciples for His death, but all they hear is that He's leaving them and owes them 12 more years of training.
Walking through the world will get our feet really dirty. Allow Jesus to clean your feet by His grace.
Jesus washes the disciples’ feet. What He does becomes the template for His followers in the use of power & authority.
The raising of Lazarus cause a lot of the people to believe Jesus is the Messiah, including many of the religious leaders. While others felt threatened by Jesus.
Mary commits a very shocking and controversial act at the feet of Jesus. She sets the example that every Christian should copy.
When Lazarus dies, Martha and Mary are upset to why He didn't heal him. We learn the lesson that even when the Lord is silent, He is never ignoring us.
Even though Jesus never came out and said, "I am God" He did reveal that He is much more than just being "God." He makes the claim more personal and greater.
If God prevented all evil from occurring, it would be a world we wouldn't recognize...a world where freedom of choice is nonexistent.
Jesus continues to do miracles proving His divinity, but despite what they see, some continue not to believe. A lesson why God hardens an unbeliever's heart.
Where do you stand when comes to being accused, being the accuser or the one who forgives?
The crowds tried to force Jesus to be a king according to their own desires. So Jesus departed. And when His teaching got too difficult, they departed.
Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath and gets into trouble by the religious leaders. Jesus shows them that it is indeed them that are breaking the heart of the Father with their misguided laws.
Jesus ministers to a Samaritan woman, heals a father's son from a long distance and prepares to heal a cripple man.
Jesus continues His earthly ministry with clearing out the Temple money changers and enlightening Nicodemus about being born again.
In the story of Jesus’ first miracle; turning water to wine, we’ll see a preview of what He came to do – Remove shame.
Jesus is 100% grace and 100% truth. The book of John will reveal this through out Jesus' earthly ministry.
The book of John sets up a narrative unlike the other three gospels. Less concerned with the "where" and "when", John focuses on the "how" and "why".
Joshua challenges the Nation of Israel to choose who they will serve. The challenge remains for us today to choose whether we will be fence sitters or Christ followers.
When we sin we can not hide it from God and when we sin it hurts those around us, which Achan discovered.
Joshua leads the Israelites to victory and conquers the Souther and Northern parts of Cannan...proof that the Lord is with them.
Joshua had fears with leading the Israelites to conquer Cannan. Many times the Lord encouraged him to be strong and courageous. Something every Christian needs to hear from our Lord as we encounter trials in life.
Why did God instruct the Israelites to do what they did to defeat Jericho? Because He loves us and does everything for a reason.
Wess Stafford shares about his childhood and how the Lord coordinated the trials of his life to allow him to lead Compassion International in the battle to defeat poverty.
The Lord is taking Joshua and the Israelites into the Promised Land and leaving memorials of God's guidance and faithfulness.
Moses wraps up his speech to the Israelites before they are to enter the Promised Land. Moses will not be joining them.
The way and will of God isn’t an inscrutable mystery that requires an elevated IQ or special training to understand. Beware those who want to complicate the Faith and make your relationship with God dependent on special people or rituals.
The simple truth is that our loving Father wants to bless us in every aspect of our life. Are you letting Him by abiding in Him?
We are to remember we have been set free - as we come alongside the needy with compassion and mercy.
Moses continues to instruct the Israelite people about how God will provide and protect them as they enter the Promised Land.
As Christians we all have a part to play in serving one another and our neighbor. Don't compare yourself to others, it will rob you of your contentment.
Moses continues to speak to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land with words of instruction from the Lord. He is a just God.
The Amalekites represent the danger & threat of our flesh; the “old man” = Those habits, values, priorities, & attitudes lingering from our lost-past, that if allowed to linger will eventually conspire to take us out.
Moses continues to instructed the new generation of Israelites about God's justice system and civil law.
God presents a paradigm shift for those who haven’t figure out yet how He wants them to regard their finances and the role giving plays in their lives. Where they shift from asking, “How much should I give?” to, “How much should I keep?”
Moses continues to speak to the new generation of Israelites about devoting their lives to the Lord as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
God's word empowers the Christian in all aspects of their life. The Word reveals Jesus and Jesus reveals the Father.
Moses continues his speech to the Israelites about what to expect in the Promised Land. Based on their obedience it can be blessings or curses.
Wes Bentley shares what Far Reaching Ministries has been doing in the Mission Field. Many Chaplains have given their lives serving Jesus and sharing the Gospel.
What is the book of Deuteronomy all about and why is its instruction so crucial to the Christian life?
There is so much to Jesus crucifixion and how those there reacted and how those same people reacted at the resurrection. Which one are you?
Jesus knew Peter would deny him and warns him about it. Jesus looked past the denial to Peter’s repentance and return, and told Peter God would not just forgive; He’d redeem.
Jesus institutes Communion. This sacrament reminds us salvation is all the work of Christ.
Jesus sets the example for when to fight and when to give in, while remaining in the Father's will.
How did the Angels in Heaven see the coming of Jesus? Were they surprised or did they have it all figured out?
During Jesus' ministry He is challenged by the religious establishment and reveals prophecy of His second coming.
The Jewish leader grilled Jesus, looking for something with which to condemn Him. But He turned those attempts into just another opportunity to reveal His wisdom, and their foolishness for rejecting Him.
The beauty and love of Jesus as he heals a blind man, ministers to Zacchaeus, teaches the parable of the Talents and Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey.
Jesus show a rich man how to enter heaven, but it's not the answer he was hoping for. Are we any different?
Do we serve God with a proud heart or a humble heart? Jesus doesn't want your sacrifice, He wants your obedience...your trust.
Grace is a stumbling block – until we’ve experienced it, we can’t extend it to others. Bitterness keeps us from truly knowing and understanding our Father.
Those that oppose Jesus and His ministry challenge Him by seeing if He will heal on the Sabbath, which to them is a no-no. He quickly sets them straight.
We are all adopted by God, for those who claim to be His children. With that comes sacrifice as we love others.
Jesus continues His ministry addressing the corruption within the religious establishment.
In some of the strongest language Jesus used, He warned against the sin of covetousness.
Jesus continues His ministry with many coming to faith, but some challenge His teachings and who He is.
Luther, Zwingli and Calvin...the ones that helped start the reformation that the modern Evangelical church is a child of.
Martha was distracted by “much service” while her sister Mary chose the better place at Jesus’ feet. Lesson: Worship precedes, but doesn’t replace, service.
Two-week series in commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation.
The Parable of the Neighborly Samaritan is clear and simple = "Serve people who are in need.”
The Transfiguration, loving on Samaritans, keys to being a disciple and having a childlike faith. Jesus continues His mission.
There is only One righteous judge and it isn't you or me. We are called to love and not to rain down punishment on others.
Jesus continues his ministry which is coming to an end with Him preparing the disciples for his death.
The Parable of the Soils. God’s Word has the potential to create life in us. How we receive it determines its effect.
Various levels of faith are demonstrated as Jesus continues his ministry with healing and bringing the dead to life.
Jesus teaches a parable that instructs us on how we should live out our faith on a solid foundation.
Jesus teaches His followers how to live as one of His disciples. Our actions should reflect the quality of our relationship with the Lord.
The Sabbath isn't taking a "day off" in the Christian life. It's a date-night with the Lord.
If you are human, you will face temptation. Know how to turn away from it by Jesus' example.
Tempted in the wilderness, healing people, reading about Himself in scripture and casting out demons, just a day in the life of Jesus. Among all this, He still made time to be alone with the Father and seek His guidance.
John the Baptizer’s mission was to prepare for the Messiah’s arrival. His message on how to do that was to return to God, and that would be demonstrated by a specific moral re-alignment that would affect the way they treated others.
God arranged world events just to get a pregnant Jewish teenager where she needed to be so His word would come to pass. The same kind of care God extends to each of us in keeping His promises.
Mary and Joseph have made it to Bethlehem and the baby Jesus is born. God works all things so His word is fulfilled.
God uses "nobodies" so others will give honor to the glory of the Lord's work. Allow him to use you in His perfect plan because it's never too late.
The Lord loves the phrase, "Do not be afraid." He loves it so much because He loves us so much and wants us to live in freedom and not in bondage to fear. The absents of fear brings joy.
God wants Israel to drive out the Canaanites from the Promised Land, just like He wants us to drive out our flesh that causes us to sin.
Two of Israel’s tribes were content to settle East of the Jordan while God said the Promise was on the West side. We too can come short of all God has for us by settling for less and being content to live close to, but not IN the Promise.
Moses is told he can't enter the Promise Land because of his disobedience, but how he reacts is what is surprising.
The Israelites are about to enter into the Promise Land, but some of them decide to defect to the enemy.
The Israelites need to stop complaining and learn to trust God before Moses totally loses his temper.
God's judgement falls on Israel, but all they have to do to live is look at a cross. Today, it's no different.
Korah’s Rebellion serves as the backdrop for evaluating godly leadership and fleshly ambition.
The Israelites complain to God about not getting good food to eat. He Gives them what they want and more, but it's not good.
When Israel arrived at the border of Canaan, they balked on entering out of fear of the challenges that lay ahead. Joshua & Caleb called those challenges “bread,” meaning instead of standing in the way of blessing, they would be the means of it.
The Nazarite Vow was a way to set yourself apart to grow close to the Lord. The Lord gave the Israelites more instruction with traveling.
While Jesus came to give us an abundant life, He warned us we’d not be without trouble & tribulation. The attitude we bring to adversity is a direct reflection of our faith in God.
Pastor Lance Ralston wraps up the book of Leviticus and transitions into the book of Numbers. Learn how Socialism is anti-biblical.
Pastor Lance Ralston explores the book of Leviticus and God's statutes for the Law and sacrifice.
God’s commands promote human flourishing. Leviticus 18 is a list of prohibited sex acts in Israel that is controversial for today because of the moral revolution.
Pastor Rob Branchflower explores the book of Leviticus and how God gives us the social boundaries for how we are to interact with each other.
Jesus conquered death so that sin would no longer have any dominion over our lives. We need to live out that truth when the flesh is strong.
Pastor Jeff Atchison explores the book of Leviticus and the sacrifices to a holy God and the parallels to Jesus.
Pastor Lance Ralston explores the book of Leviticus and how important it is to respect the holiness of God.
Pastor Lance Ralston explores the worship practices of the Israelites and how it's a picture of God's holiness.
Pastor Lance Ralston introduces the book of Leviticus and then explores God's loving instructions to be pure.
Pastor Jeff Atchison finishes up the book of Mark and elaborates on how trust worthy the copies of scripture are that we have today.
When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom, signifying the barrier between God & man has been removed. God’s Kingdom is now “Open for business.”
Pastor Lance Ralston explores the Book of Mark with Jesus' trial and death on the cross.
Seven pastors from Calvary Chapel of Oxnard, each speak about the things Jesus said while on the cross.
As we follow Jesus, God warns us of the dangers that lie ahead. Sadly we don’t always heed them.
Pastor Rob Branchflower continues in the book of Mark and explores the last days of Jesus' earthly ministry.
If the greatest commandment is to love the Lord and your neighbor, what would be the greatest sin?
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Mark exploring the words of Jesus and the last days before His second coming.
What is our perspective of our faith? What is our perspective on who Jesus is? Are we greatly mistaken?
Pastor Jeff Atchison continues in the book of Mark examining Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem before He is crucified.
Pastor Lance continues in the book of Mark and explores chapter 10 and Jesus' mind bending ministry.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Mark examining how Jesus showed by example how to minister.
Why is the Bible full of people who are knuckleheads, prideful, stubborn, fearful, loudmouths and hot heads? It's so we can relate to them and see how much we need God's grace.
Pastor Eric Robbins continues the study in the book of Mark by examining the style and purpose of Jesus' ministry.
The contest between Jesus and Pharisees illustrates the perennial tension between mere religion and a genuine relationship with God.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Mark and explores the mastery that Jesus has over all things.
A woman suffered from a debilitating illness for 12 years that left her hopeless, helpless and alone. One touch from Jesus restored her in every way and moved her from isolation to celebration.
Pastor Rob Branchflower continues in the book of Mark and examines what it means to blaspheme the Holy Spirit.
In the midst of wild success, Jesus went to prayer to seek God for direction. What He received was very different from what human wisdom would recommend.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Mark looking in depth at Jesus' ministry and those who opposed Him.
The goal of being a disciple is to be just like the rabbi; in our case, being like OUR Rabbi – Jesus.
Pastor Lance Ralston begins the book of Mark. With historical background we see the perspective that Mark took when writing the gospel.
At this moment, we learn five truths about experiencing God’s presence and power - to keep us running the race.
At God’s command, Moses called for an offering of the materials to make the tabernacle and its service. His appeal was for willing hearts. The people gave in such abundance, they had to be told to stop.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues through the book of Exodus to look at Israel's repentance after they had messed up with the Golden calf.
Following their sin with the golden calf, when the Jews heard God was withdrawing His presence, they were ruined. They realized God’s presence was THE MOST IMPORTANT part of their covenant with Him. We’re called to a relationship not a religion.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Exodus. He goes over the various workings of the Tabernacle.
The Israelites are in the wilderness learning about God's laws and his plan for them to get to the promised land.
We learn from Israel’s conquest of Canaan that spiritual maturity and Christlikeness aren’t achieved quickly. They develop over time as we learn to walk with God and conquer self.
Following the 10 Commandments, God gave extensive guidelines for the judges of Israel on how to adjudicate justice. Here we take a look at just a few of them.
Pastor Lance Ralston goes through the judicial laws that God sets forth for the Hebrews. Laws that are based in judicial matters to this day.
The principle behind the 9th Commandment calls us to a commitment to truth, which is more than facts. Truth is compliance with a reality aligning with God’s Will.
Jeff Atchison covers the chapters in Exodus where God continues to show His people His provision, but they still complain. It's a very valuable lesson we can all learn.
The trials that God puts Christians through shows some how much they need to grow in their faith and show others how much they have grown in their faith.
Pharaoh tried to get Moses to compromise, but Moses refused because to do so would have been to disobey God. Salvation & Redemption are for ALL we are and have, not some little part of us.
This study looks at the first five plagues on Egypt. We will also consider how Jesus mirrored these curses, fulfilling them instead with mercy and blessing. The key lesson, though, is Pharaoh and his hardened heart.
God wants to and can use anyone. Being used by God is less about our ability than God’s.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Exodus with Moses being prepared by God to go to Egypt.
Life is precious. Jesus is all about life. From the story of Moses as a baby comes so many lessons and applications for the sanctity of life.
The ethical dilemma of choosing the lesser of two evils. In this study we will consider the midwives lying to pharaoh and God’s rewarding them. We’ll move from that to how we maintain fellowship when we differ in our ethical decisions.
Pastor Lance Ralston wraps up the book of Genesis studying the 12 tribes of Israel and prophecy.
The continued study in the book of Genesis and how Israel blessed Joseph's sons as God's promise comes to fruition.
Jacob prophesied over his son Joseph, calling him a fruitful bough. Joseph’s fruitfulness was rooted in his amazing trust in God, as demonstrated throughout his story. In John 15, Jesus calls us to be fruitful and tells us how. This is a timely word when
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Genesis with the story of Joseph and his forgiveness of his brothers for their betrayal.
Joseph forgave his brothers because he trusted God to work out the real “why” of all that happened. Some Christians are stuck in unforgiveness because they won’t trust God to redeem them.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Genesis looking at Joseph being patient and allowing God to fulfill His promises.
Joseph's time in jail helps us to see that God's timing is never the same as our timing. We as Christians learn a valuable lesson about waiting on the Lord.
Pastor Jeff continues the study in Genesis with a look at Joseph's journey in Egypt and God's blessing on his life.
Joseph’s commitment to God allowed him to endure great hardship without bitterness or compromise.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Genesis with a look at the life of Joseph's brothers and their example of how NOT to live for God.
The traditions of the Jewish wedding is what Jesus uses to describe how He will come back for the church...His bride.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Genesis and studies the reunion with Esau and Jacob and what Jacob did afterwards.
We see how the story of the Massacre of Shechem by Jacob’s sons speaks to us as modern-day followers of Jesus.
Follow Pastor Lance Ralston as he continues through the book of Genesis as Jacob becomes Israel.
Jacob wrestles all night with God, only to discover his real opponent was himself. It’s when he surrendered that he won. God memorialized the change in him by giving him a new name.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues the mid-week study looking at Jacob and how the Lord is faithful to fulfill His promises.
Marriage is meant to be a picture of the Gospel. Isaac, on the other hand, put his wife between a moral rock and a hard place. Isaac didn’t protect her or lead her as Jesus does with His Bride.
In a shocking repeat of his, father Abraham’s moral lapse in lying about Sarah, Isaac does the same foolish thing with his wife. We will deal with the error of “generational sins” in this study.
In the Old Testament’s premier picture of the Gospel, Abraham passes a major test God sets for him, proving his faith has finally matured past the fears of his past.
Lot’s family’s reluctance to leave Sodom in the face of judgment challenges us to consider where our real love lies. Even Jesus warned us to “Remember Lot’s Wife.”
Follow Pastor Jeff Atchison as he continues through the book of Genesis in chapter 15 and 16.
Where do you find your strength? Lot lived by the flesh and Abram lived by the Spirit. Which one are you?
God's grace is endless. There's nothing any of us can do do earn that endless grace...it's given to us from the love of Jesus.
Lot looked with eyes of flesh and Abram looked with eyes of faith. There is also a lesson about strife and servant-hood.
Abram disowned his wife out of fear for his own safety. This is not an example of a “godly man." Abram’s blunder was prompted by five wrong attitudes: making excuses, fear, selfishness, finding loopholes and habit.
These chapters record the human race’s shocking first steps down the same path that led to the ruin of the pre-flood world and how God graciously intervened by confusing their language.
Stepping out of the Ark, we see… CARELESSNESS = A Costly Carousal CRUELTY = A Curse on Canaan But mostly we’ll see COMPASSION = A Promise of Mercy
God is in to LIFE! HE desires all people to flourish. To that end, we find the basic mandate for Human civil government in Gen. 9:5-6. Human life is sacred because it bears the image of God.
The signs are there that the world is ready for judgement just as it was judged through the flood. The Lord's mercy is for a limited time only. Surrender to Jesus Christ now!
If the stone that sealed the tomb that Jesus' body was put in could speak, what would it say? It's an interesting perspective on an amazing and life changing event.
Richmond shares his story about being a child in poverty and being rescued from that life through the compassionate act of a teenager.
Enoch simply walked with God. So intimate and so close. So, why did God take up Enoch without death?
Based on the model of Cain and Able we see how we have a choice when we are caught in sin...to confess or to blame.
What was Man like before the Fall and what happened when sin entered into the world. Hint: It turned the Garden upside down.
Why did Adam and Eve fall in the garden? What lessons can be learned from disobeying God?
God created all an it was good expect for Adam being alone. Why did God allow that to happen? Why did God create the tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil if He didn't want Adam and Eve to eat of it?
A brief look at The Great Commission and the importance of sending out missionaries into the world.
Crucifixion is the worst form of execution known to man and Jesus bore that burden because He loves us.
Peter and Judas both felt regret for betraying Jesus, but the each handled it completely differently.
Everything about Jesus' arrest and trial was wrong and illegal, but God still revealed who He is among the injustice.
Becoming involved in the church family and living for Christ. Encouraging High School youth to become more involved in church and living a life for Jesus.
Jesus calls His followers to keep vigilant and watch for His return, but while we are we need to be active in His love.
Why is marriage under such attack and how can we see marriages turned around? The answer is found in the gospel. Marriage and the gospel are intrinsically connected.
Jesus allows the Spiritual leaders of the Temple examine Him like the sacrificial lamb and then calls them out for their hypocrisy.
Jesus clears the temple for the second time. We need to be careful how both we as individuals and how the local church represents God.
The opposition to Jesus grows as He approaches and begins His last week. He stops avoiding the acclaim of the people in His identity as Messiah and instead begins to push it.
Grace AND Truth – John 1 says Jesus is full of grace and truth, and of His fullness we have received. Grace and truth aren’t in tension with each other as some think. Real Grace and truth are interdependent.
Dealing with a sinning brother, Jesus peaks on marriage and divorce, Celibacy, Greatness, How God saves.
Though this is an oft repeated theme around CCO, we’re looking at it yet again. We need to because everything in the world conspires against it. Real greatness is being a servant. We’ll take a look at a play a couple disciples made for promotion and how Jesus used that to teach them about true greatness.
Prayer & Fasting Did Jesus pay taxes? The greatest in the Kingdom Dealing with offenses Pursuing holiness
Jesus explained that forgiveness isn’t something we pass out like candy at Halloween; it’s an attitude we’re to have towards others. Jesus repeatedly made it clear to be forgiven by God means to be forgiving of others.
See how Jesus uses Miracles and Events as provocative teaching lessons for His disciples.
Subjects in this study: The beheading of John the Baptist Jesus feeds 5000 Jesus & Peter walk on water Jesus teaches on worthless traditions Jesus teaches on what really defiles A foray into Gentile territory Jesus helps a Canaanite woman Jesus feeds 4000
Our Salvation is not just for our benefit, but for others to come to faith as well. Mission work is the key to this happening.
The same important instructions and assignments given by Jesus to the Apostles needs to be applied to our daily lives.
There is plenty of evidence to prove the truth of God. To not believe isn't a matter of a lack of evidence, but the will of the heart.
Why would Jesus tell us to come to Him for rest, but then speak of yoking us to Him...an instrument of labor?
Three healings of people supposed to be outside God's grace and mercy. God wants ALL to be saved...not just those "like" us.
The Sermon on the Mount shows that we as Christians have a God of blessing and not cursing. Join Pastor Lance as he continues through the book of Matthew.
Jesus taught His disciples from the Sermon on the Mount, an challenging new way to live our lives. His teaching serves us well as a guidepost in learning and living God’s Word daily.
Jesus warned His disciples about things to be on the lookout for. This message reminds us we can’t allow the intolerance of modern so-called “tolerance” to silence the Gospel.
Typology is exploring the connections between the Old Testament and the New Testament. This method can teach the Gospel using just the Book of Genesis. In short, the Old Testament concealed and the New Testament revealed.
There was a unique relationship between Rabbis & their Disciples in the 1st Century AD in Galilee. We see that in the call of the 12 to follow Jesus.
We all have something to repent from. If you're not sure what, just look at the fruit of your actions. Pastor Lance Ralston looks at the ministry of John the Baptist in the book of Matthew.
Genealogy tells us who we are and where we are from. It gives us an identity. See how the genealogy of Jesus shows who He is to all mankind. Join Pastor Lance Ralston as he begins the book of Matthew.
Pastor Lance Ralston wraps up the book of Revelation with the most beautiful image of what awaits all who call Jesus Lord.
The Lord wants you to come to Him. Are you thirsty for His love and grace? Pastor Lance Ralston begins to wrap up the book of Revelation.
Pastor Lance Ralston explains the comparison between an ancient Jewish wedding and how it mirrors the events leading up to the marriage supper with Christ.
To be blessed is to bless others. Keeping your financial matters in line allows you to do this. Join Pastor Sid Ward as he expounds on this simple truth.
Pastor John Parra examines a famous scene in the book of Matthew. Learn what the true purpose of storms are in our lives. Be blessed.
Join Elder Jeff Daniel as he goes through chapter 3 and 4 of Hebrews. Learn the simplicity of God's rest.
Without faith it is impossible to please God. Peter had little faith, even when he failed. Pastor Lance gives an encouraging teaching regarding faith and hearing from God. Be blessed.
Pastor Lance Ralston takes an integral look into the scriptures about what God's word has to say about homosexuality and how Christians are to respond.
Jesus doesn't need our worship and praise. It's for our benefit, not His. Learn more as Pastor Lance Ralston starts to wrap up Revelation.
Follow Pastor Lance Ralston as he continues his study of the book of Revelation chapter 17 and 18.
Joseph sets the perfect example of how Christians need to react when tempted to sin...run. But, the running away from sin isn't as important as to whom one is running to when escaping temptation. Follow Pastor Jeff Atchison through Genesis chapter 39.
Belief has power. What a Christian believes regarding who Jesus is, will effect their entire life and how they live. Join Pastor Rob Branchflower as he examines a small section of the book of Matthew.
What is Babylon all about? Why is it mentioned in Revelation? As Christians, how are we to identify with Babylon? Follow pastor Lance Ralston as he continues in the book of Revelation.
Are your garments clean? It's important that they are. Find out why as Pastor Lance Ralston examines verse 15 of chapter 16 in the book of Revelation.
Jesus is both shepherd and judge. He served His earthly ministry in grace and when He returns it will be to judge. Christians need to live their lives in both grace and truth. Discover why as Pastor Lance Ralston continues through the book of Revelation.
As a Christian male, being a father isn't just a biological issue. All men, single and married, need to embrace the true nature of a father demonstrated by the unending grace and love of our heavenly Father.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues through the book of Revelation and address these difficult to understand verses, but yet are very poignant for the times we live in.
What will the mark of the beast look like? What is it exactly? Is it a tattoo, a chip or a credit card? Pastor Lance Ralston examines these verses that are the most popular within the book of Revelation.
Revelation can be a very difficult book to understand. Follow Pastor Lance Ralston as he diligently dissects chapter 13 of the book of Revelation.
God has no opposite. Satan has no power aside from the power we give him. Learn what happens to Satan in the end times as Pastor Lance Ralston continues through the book of Revelation.
Pastor Lance continues the mid-week study in Revelation as he goes through chapters 11 and 12.
As Christians, what can we learn from the two witnesses during the Tribulation? Find out as Pastor Lance explores the first part of chapter 11 of the book of Revelation.
What is Preterism? What does it have to do with Revelation and the Tribulation? Find out as Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Revelation.
What will the world look like when the "salt and light" are removed? In the Tribulation we see exactly what it looks like. Some advice...don't be there for it. Accept the loving grace of Jesus Christ and avoid the coming judgement
Genetic mutation isn't just for TV and the movies. During the Tribulation there will be some weird creatures flying around. Learn more as Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Revelation.
What will it be like to live without the loving grace of God? We get a sample of what that will look like as Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Revelation
What are you wearing to church? How does it compare to your spiritual clothing? Are you wearing filthy rags or a white robe? Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Revelation and explores the truth of salvation.
Will there be Christians after the Rapture? If so, what will their purpose be? Find out as Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the book of Revelation.
The Christian faith all depends on the resurrection of Jesus. It proves that everything Jesus said is true. Is it true to you?
A lot can happen in one day. On the day that Jesus rode into Jerusalem a week before his crucifixion a lot happen that day.
Bad things happen to good people and we don't always need to know why. We please God through our faith and not through our understanding. Faith isn't dependent on "why" but rather on "Whom." Learn why this is as guest speaker Sandy Adams explores the book.
All Christians believe that Jesus will return some day. Where there are differences in the church are what events will occur prior to His return. Follow Pastor Lance Ralston as he continues the Foundations study and explores the end times.
Continuing through the Foundations of the Christian faith, Pastor Lance Ralston explores the Church and what it means to be called, "The Body of Christ."
Pastor Lance Ralston continues through the Foundations series as he explores the nature of the Holy Spirit. You will be blessed.
Discover the nature and character of Jesus as Pastor Lance Ralston explores the Bible and reveals who Jesus is.
Pastor Lance Ralston continues in the Foundations series with the nature of who God is. Learn the fundamentals of the Christian faith and grow closer to Jesus.
Pastor Lance Ralston begins a Foundations series that will cover the basics of the Christian faith. Todays lesson is about the holiness of God's word and the validity of the Bible.