Water's Edge: 2011 - 2014: Recent Episodes
Bill Crawford
(2011 - 2014) Archived Messages from Water's Edge. A church in the South Bay of Southern California.
God promised from the beginning that a savior would come in the form of a newborn child.
(2011 - 2014) Archived Messages from Water's Edge. A church in the South Bay of Southern California.
The psalmists were unrestrained in delivering their laments and complaints to God, because they knew that the sovereign God of the universe cared about them, and would do something to help them.
The High Priestly Prayer in John 17 gives us direct insight into how Jesus prayed for his disciples, and all of us.
(2011 - 2014) Archived Messages from Water's Edge. A church in the South Bay of Southern California.
When Jesus prayed "Give us today our daily bread," he was likely referencing an event in Israel's history that his disciples would have been very familiar with.
God's Kingdom is a place where God's will is done constantly, completely, humbly, and joyfully.
The disciples had a front-row seat to see the world's greatest pray-er in action, and He wants to teach us how to pray like Him.
Pastor Bill interviews couples from the City Church of Compton and Pastor Pat of City Church of Compton brings a message.
We will model our church after the Great Commission, creating new believers and building them up to do God's work on earth.
Corporate worship once a week just isn't enough - devote yourself to private worship daily.
Use your earthly resources wisely, so that you can store up eternal treasures in heaven.
Before Jesus asked Simon to follow Him, he made sure the fisherman passed the follower test. How would you do?
Never stop sowing seeds. "Christianity is simply one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread."
We all struggle with fatal flaws. This inspiring message given on Father's Day, challenges and equips us to identify and address fatal flaws. A message for all.
(2011 - 2014) Archived Messages from Water's Edge. A church in the South Bay of Southern California.
(2011 - 2014) Archived Messages from Water's Edge. A church in the South Bay of Southern California.
Learning to say "Yes" and "No" to the right things will save you and your family time, money, and stress.
Building a bridge of communication with your children requires time and genuine interest.
Parents don't have complete control over their children, but they do have lots of influence.
Jesus' resurrection didn't bring complacency; it brought great fear as well as resounding joy.
The events leading up to Good Friday were part of a complex political showdown between the Jewish chief priests and the Roman prefect Pontius Pilate.
When our need for material security becomes an obsession, we remove ourselves from the adventure of discipleship.
That's not the next Indiana Jones film; it's another thing that can separate you from God. According to Jesus, the only way up is down.
Every major brand has an easily recognized logo - what symbol represents Christianity, and why?
Pray for others, because Heaven has a different standard of productivity than the world does.
The best reason to keep praying: Answered prayer. The biggest challenge to praying: Unanswered prayer.
A message for the New Year, Psalm 19 is perfect for times of transition, when on the threshold of new things.
Christmas Sunday 2013; A special message given by Joanne Feldmeth to Water's Edge Church
Stories of encouragement and practical advice on how to encourage someone spiritually. The role of the local church in the development of spiritual gifts.
The message will help you gain an understanding of the spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit to every believer.
Pastor Bill explains the strategy road map for Water's Edge in the South Bay and what it means to be a member of the church.
Pastor Bill explains the strategy road map for Water's Edge in the South Bay and what it means to be a member of the church.
Tracing back our history to the early church and the third message in the new members orientation for those who wish to become members of Water's Edge.
First in the series of messages that serve as an introduction to Water's Edge Church; who we are and what do we believe. 1. What does it mean to be a Christian?
First in the series of messages that serve as an introduction to Water's Edge Church; who we are and what do we believe. 1. What does it mean to be a Christian?
Bill Crawford answers questions about baptism - Why was Jesus baptized? When should I be baptized? When are children ready to be baptized? Can I follow Jesus without being baptized?
An exploration of Jesus from three perspectives. What are your expectations of Jesus? Who is Jesus to you?
A look at the Apostle Peter's encounters with Jesus; highs, lows, denial and restoration.
Fear of faults, feelings, or freedom can keep people from being honest about their true self, resulting in being defensive, distant or demanding in relationships.
...speak the truth in love...
While building a godly home does not guarantee godly kids, there are things you can do to increase your successs
Does everything really happen for a reason? In this message, Pastor Bill gives two reasons why a bad thing might be good thing and four reasons why a bad thing might be a bad thing.
Overview of the Book of Daniel; his extraordinary life. We like Daniel must guard our true identity and citizenship. We are called to identify with Christ
What is your vocation for God's calling? Be an example in your faith. To be genuine. To be authentic. Focus on your character.
A Dicken's of a tale: As known - Scrooge's final transformation is a true spiritual rebirth, but also a story of redemption. How has God delivered you?
Angel of the Lord - the Lord is now among us after appearing to Mary and Joseph communicating God's deliverance of His son and our salvation.
God’s Justice + God’s Love
The Book of Ruth recalls the familiar story of Naomi, a Judean woman who lost her husband and two sons while living in Moab, and her devoted daughter-in-law Ruth, a Moabite. Out of loyalty to her mother-in-law, Ruth decides to return to Bethlehem with Naomi, rather than remaining with her own family in Moab. As these two destitutewidows return to Bethlehem, Naomi counsels Ruth on how to make her way and find acceptance in a new community.
The Call vs. The Culture - An Eternal Problem After the death of Joshua, God’s people felt this pull of worldly culture and a destructive pattern emerged: o Israel turned again and again to the worship of pagan gods. o God brought divine judgment. o Israel cried out for God’s help. o God raised up a judge to save them.
This cycle of sin became the pattern of life in Israel for the next 300 years.
God is never bashful about His intentions for His people. He never tolerates sin and, at the same time, never breaks His covenant with His people. Israel may not have fully understood God’s discipline, but over and over He had to bring them to their knees in order to bring them to Himself.
Punishing only those guilty of crimes (Deuteronomy 24:16)and limiting the use of deadly force to the defense of innocent others or oneself.
- The term “holy war” is never used in Scripture.
- The wars are, in part, an expression of judgment on the evil in certain cultures.
- Practices in worship of false gods seduces worship of the true God.
- God plays no favorites.
Wanderings - Faith in God’s promises will be rewarded. Doubt will be punished.
Joshua and Caleb said, “If the Lord is pleased with us, he’ll lead us into that land. … He’ll give it to us” (Numbers 14:8).
“[God's people] answered with one voice. They said, 'We will do everything the Lord has told us to do' " (Exodus 24:3).
Following God’s laws results in righteousness.
If Joseph’s life nearly gives the whole redemption thing away, then the story of Moses and the Exodus from Egypt removes all doubt; God doesn’t just telegraph where He might be going, He shows His hand, lays His cards on the table, and makes His long-term plan – The Upper Story – as clear as day.
Because of God’s personal involvement in Joseph's life, he was was able to save his family from hunger. Joseph was in position to bring his family to Egypt and give them the most fertile land to work.
Because of God’s personal involvement in Joseph's life, he was was able to save his family from hunger. Joseph was in position to bring his family to Egypt and give them the most fertile land to work.
This week in The Story, we see how God uses less than perfect people to do great things for His Kingdom when they walk in faith.
This week in The Story sermon series, Bill and Nate dived deeper into what we read, heard, and reflected on in the opening chapter of The Story.
We enjoyed an inspiring sermon this week by guest speaker Larry Patton, the founder of Hurdling Handicaps. Larry's personal testimony of living with cerebral palsy grips the hearts of audiences, inspiring them to overcome their own obstacles, just like Larry did.
Bill introduced our fall Sermon series entitled The Story. The Story's concurrent all-church sermons, small-group studies, and children's curriculum will sweep you into the unfolding progression of Bible characters and events chronologically from Genesis to Revelation.
This Sunday, we looked at the personal struggle between the fear of our own humanity and failures, and in light of them, allowing Jesus to help us live the life for His kingdom that He always imagined for us.
This Sunday, we learned about the importance of serving, both for the benefit of others, as well as for our own spiritual growth and fulfillment. Hear this week's sermon, and consider ways you can serve your co-workers, family, and the family of God.
At some point in our lives, we may feel a calling to short or long-term missions in order to tell others about Jesus Christ. But many times the mission field is a lot closer than we imagined. Bill preached this Sunday on John 4:31-39 with a message entitled "Field of Souls: Farming in the Neighborhood."
In an Olympic-admiring culture that prides itself on strength, competition, and an ongoing race to be number one, it is painful to accept, let alone admit our weaknesses.
Yet, remarkably, it is paradoxically through our weaknesses that Christ makes us strong.
Bill delivered an insightful message this Sunday on God's sufficient grace as explained through the illustration and writings of the Apostle Paul.
While it may be easy for us to intellectualize God's love for others, the real battle becomes in possessing the power to understand and accept God's great love for ourselves. We enjoyed a dynamic message on this theme and others found in the book of 1 John.
Just as we’re prone to take the reigns when God has restored our lives to a place of normalcy, the ancient Israelites were no different. In fact, they experienced the same tug-of-war of falling prostrate in submission to God, to replacing Him with their own sense of control and wandering focus as we do today.
This Sunday, we learned about women of influence as found in the book of Judges. We discovered how God used them in mighty ways to direct and win the war for His glory.
This Sunday, we looked at various dimensions of depression through the true story of Elijah, as well as the Biblical response to treating and responding to these real and significant areas of concern.
With the onset of summer, we conclude our Ephesians spring sermon series with a compelling message entitled "Honor Where Honor is Due." Transitioning from our Father’s Day message, we looked at the Biblical blueprint for effective parenting, the historical context, as well as Paul's radical warning and council to the 1st century Christian parents in Ephesus.
Fathers are notorious for imparting pieces of wisdom to their children, whether solicited or not. On this Father's Day, we looked at the ultimate parenting advice that Jesus provided during His ministry here on earth.
One of the cornerstones of a successful romantic relationship is faithfulness by both parties. And while God proves He is faithful to us, how good are we at reciprocating?
This Sunday, we discussed the stages of spiritual digression, as well as how to navigate a faithful relationship with God.
Does a worthy life relate to items, talents, friends, and gifts bestowed to us, or to assessing our behavior as we live out who we are in the day to day?
Great question! Dr. Nate Feldmeth answered this as we continued in our Ephesians sermon series, "Living Out Your Faith Beyond Just Believing."
Sure, we all possess an arsenal of tactics to help us win an argument against frustrating people, but do we possess the weapons and intense boot camp training needed to fight THE good fight?
Pastor Bill spoke on our battle beyond flesh and blood with spiritual warfare, and how to arm ourselves successfully against it.
Have you ever in school or work desperately wanted to redefine your identity with a group?
This Sunday, Nate preached on the pressing topic of identities. We paused to look at our personal identities, the former identities of the Jews and the Greeks, and how with Jesus, both we and them are reconciled to Christ in a united, new identity.
Mother's Day can be a blessed day for those with a lifetime of fond memories of their mom to choose from. And yet, this day poses such difficulty for many with painful pasts and even present strained relationships with their parents.
This Mother's Day, Pastor Bill appropriately spoke on Paul's call to the Ephesians to honor their mother and father. He discussed why God gave us this commandment, ways to honor our parents, and the blessings that can arise from doing so.
What a powerful prayer Paul gave over the Ephesians in chapter 3, verses 14-21, that Bill unpacked and dove into more deeply in his sermon.
How amazing that intelligent prayer includes understanding and accepting the immeasurable love of Christ, among many other important aspects.
As we embarked on Ephesians, chapter 2, Pastor Bill asked us to do some heavy-lifting thinking in his sermon entitled "Raised Up." As Bill meditated on the passage, we were invited to do some personal reflection to discern what areas of our life are either dead or alive to Christ. The answers may surprise you.
Continuing the compelling dialogue on chapter one of Ephesians, Nate discussed some of the poignant themes here, laid down key context and historical background on the book of Ephesians, as well as discussed Paul's beautiful and deeply moving prayer to the Ephesians that we find in this chapter.
Bill dived into Ephesians 1:4-14, preaching on the often-discussed hot theological topic, “Who Chooses Whom.” Pastor Bill’s sermon commenced our compelling spring sermon series, "Beyond Belief… Living Out Your Faith Beyond Just Believing--Themes From Ephesians."
Pastor Bill highlighted pivotal Easter sound bites from the Scripture, illuminating some of the essential reoccurring themes we find in them related to the Easter message.
Throughout history, God has required his followers to make difficult choices. God still presents us with difficult choices today, a point which Nate illuminated by discussing the volatile climate surrounding the events of Palm Sunday.
Pastor Bill addressed the topic of divorce and remarriage this Sunday in our sermon series, "Blueprint For A Fulfilling Marriage." Concerning this topic, he looked at how God intended marriage, Scriptural causes for divorce, as well as the potential for remarriage.
Pastor Bill discussed how to affair-proof your marriage as we continued in our sermon series, "Blueprint For A Fulfilling Marriage." From a Biblical point of view, Bill identified factors that can lead to an affair, how to stop an affair in progress, and moreover, how to prevent one from happening all together.
Pastor Bill preached on ways we can honor and love our significant other as part of our sermon series, "Blueprint For A Fulfilling Marriage." Specifically, Bill looked at the gifts of spiritual encouragement, relational closeness, and gracious honor, among important others.
Pastor Bill broached the difficult-to-discuss topic of sex as part of our sermon series, "Blueprint For A Fulfilling Marriage." In his sermon, "Urban Legends: Myths About Sex," Bill addressed a variety of myths people may hold related to sex, and the Biblical response to these perpetuated statements.
Nate Feldmeth blessed us with his preaching on how to build your marriage to last, as we continued on with our sermon series, "Blueprint For A Fulfilling Marriage." Specifically, Nate discussed the Biblical blueprint for marriage, what it means to honor your marriage, and the crucuial importance in doing so.
Our sermon this week engaged the difficult topic of how to defuse anger in your marriage or personal relationships. Whether single, dating, or married, we all can use help navigating our anger in a way Christ intended for us.
This Sunday, Bill looked at some principles from Abraham’s servant, Eliazar, who was sent to find a wife for his son Isaac.
Genesis 24 is the success chapter of the Bible. Five times it uses the word “success,” and it all relates to how to set and reach goals.
Do you ever struggle with praying--whether it's feeling heard, having faith, or a resistance to submit a struggle to prayer?
This week, Pastor Bill led us through integral elements to power praying, with guided time for you to reflect on your own praying process in the week to come.
Pastor Bill takes us through an incredible message related to Jesus' model for ministry. Specifically, he focuses on 10 very important steps that help us be all God created us to be when serving in his ministry.
Dr. Feldmeth delivered an inspiring meditation entitled "The Wonder of Christmas Light" to help prepare our hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus Christ.
Why doesn’t Christmas last? This Sunday we looked at how to sustain the spirit of Christmas in your life in this upcoming year.
Pastor Bill shared an inspiring message on how God has SHAPED us for ministry (SHAPE=spiritual gifts, heart, ability, personality and experience), and ways that you can discover the ministry God has specifically designed you for.
On this second week of Advent, a season of waiting, we look at two pivotal biblical players who spent a significant amount of their lives waiting for the consolation and redemption of Israel, which was realized in Christ Jesus.
Pastor Bill discussed how to know if God is truly speaking to you. He illuminated the difference between the word of God to everybody (logos), as can be found in the Bible, the word of God to you or I personally (rhema), and those remarkable instances when God uses a logos for a rhema moment.
Pastor Bill shed light on characteristics of people with generous hearts during our special service on being thankful.
Our sermon this week addressed the topic of the church. Specifically, we delved into what it means to be a church, our need for church, as well as the past, present, and future of God's church.
This week, we delved into the topic of prayer, in terms of the various types of psalms, their uses, and how they relate to our everyday lives
This week, Pastor Bill got us up to speed on all things Reformation-related. He preached on the causes of the Reformation, the leaders behind the Reformation movement, as well as the similarities and differences of the Protestant and Roman Catholic church.
This week, Pastor Bill handled the all-important, and rather difficult subject of life after death. Aspects Pastor Bill touched on include reasons to believe in an afterlife, descriptions of hell, as well as those great people each of us know that do not believe in Jesus Christ.
This week in our sermon series, Got?s... God Answers, we discussed essential, foundational background information on salvation, the scope of salvation, and the difference a "spiritual rebirth" can make in your life.
This week in our sermon series, Got?s... God Answers, we discussed the Holy Spirit in terms of His characteristics, role, as well as signs of the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.
In our sermon series, Got?s... God Answers, we discussed Jesus in terms of how others see him (great teacher, liar, lunatic, or the the Son of God...), the claims Jesus made about himself, some foundational facts about Jesus Christ, as well as the difference He can make in your life and mine.
We are embarking in the second week of our new sermon series, Got ?s...God Answers.
This week's sermon will discuss philosophical arguments for believing in God, various viewpoints of nonbelievers, as well as some of the pivotal attributes of our holy God.
This week kicked off our new sermon series, Got ?s...God Answers. On Sunday, we looked into how the Bible is unique, accurate, inspired, and yet is still disregarded by philosophers and laymen alike.
The 5/5 Challenge is to identify 5 neighbors, co-workers, or friends for whom you may be led to pray for. Commit to pray 5 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for the next 5 weeks.
We all owe a debt of gratitude to our fathers—they helped to give us our start in life.
Antidote for Dark Valleys: what to remember in dark valleys and what to do in dark valleys.
Wrestle with the question of when you check out in the story of Jesus healing the paralyzed man.
A special Christmas message as we are called to follow the example of the Wise Men and seek Jesus
Where do you find security? We look for it in many places but there is only one source of true security.