In this sermon, Ridley Barron preached about the enduring comfort and guidance found in Psalm 23, exploring the metaphor of God as our shepherd. Drawing on David’s experiences and the cultural context of shepherding in the ancient Near East, Barron highlighted the deep confidence believers can have in God’s presence and provision, even amid fear, chaos, and uncertainty. He addressed the ways fear is used to manipulate in today’s world, contrasted the promises of God with the empty assurances of society, and explained how true contentment and peace come from trusting the shepherd rather than focusing on our own desires or circumstances. Through practical illustrations and biblical teaching, Barron encouraged listeners to examine their relationship with the shepherd and to rest in the assurance that God is with them, even in their darkest valleys, providing for every need and inviting them to a life of trust, peace, and abundance.

Timestamps:

00:00 Psalm 23: Comfort and Confidence

03:59 "The Shepherd as Provider"

07:38 Align Desires with Divine Will

09:32 Trusting the Shepherd's Provision

13:48 Church Leadership and Community Peace

18:27 Embracing Fear for Closeness

22:12 Divine Peace Amidst Conflict

24:27 "Truly Knowing the Shepherd"

27:48 Guard Your Home's Influence

33:17 "Trust the Shepherd's Guidance"

34:12 "Invitation to Peace with God"

In this sermon, Ridley Barron preached about the profound difference between what we try to do for God and what God has already done for us. Drawing from 2 Samuel 7 and the story of King David, Barron explores the nature of God’s unconditional promises—specifically the Davidic covenant—and how our salvation is rooted in God’s initiative, not our own efforts or performance. Through practical examples, scriptural insights, and relatable humor, he addresses common struggles with performance-based faith, emphasizing that Christianity is about receiving grace, not earning it. Barron challenges listeners to consider how they use their time, talents, treasures, and testimonies out of gratitude for God’s grace, reminding the church that God’s love and forgiveness are unearned and freely given, and our call is simply to respond and join Him in His work.

Timestamps:

00:00 "How Much Must We Do?"

03:37 God's Message to Nathan

07:59 Prophetic Layering Explained

10:53 "Forgiveness Through Christ's Sacrifice"

14:07 "Embracing God's Grace"

18:25 "Salvation's Beginning and Principles"

22:31 "Sabbath: Embrace Stillness, Hear God"

23:14 Inability to Focus in Modern Society

29:53 "Everyone Has 168 Hours"

30:38 "Strengthening Your Relationship with God"

36:08 Gratefulness, Service, and Humility

38:52 "God: A Cyclone of Purpose"

40:37 Eternal Investments and Reunion

44:40 Invitation to Reflect on Faith

In this sermon, Ridley Barron preached about the concept of being ordinary people called to serve an extraordinary God. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the condition of our hearts over outward appearances or achievements, using the biblical story of David as an illustration. Barron encouraged the congregation to recognize their everyday roles and gifts as opportunities for divine purpose, reminding them that true significance and exceptionalism come not from human accolades but from being empowered by the Holy Spirit for God's glory. With inviting humility, he urged listeners to embrace their ordinariness as a platform for God's extraordinary work and to remain open to wherever He calls them, whether in public or private spaces.

Timestamps:

00:00 "Gospel Conversations Define Lasting Impact"

03:05 "Samuel: Last Judge, First Prophet"

06:11 Saul's Disobedience and Samuel's Rebuke

11:13 Samuel's Arrival: Fear and Sacrifice

13:39 "Embrace and Serve Your Faith"

16:24 "Prepare Internally for God's Use"

20:54 "True Humility Over Social Prestige"

26:10 "Parental Delusion in Sports Abilities"

26:54 Ordinary to Extraordinary Through God

31:42 "Divine Purpose in Everyday Tasks"

34:00 "Embracing the Extraordinary"

38:14 "Stop Excuses, Embrace the Call"

41:03 "Purposeful Callings Explored"