Dr. Erwin Lutzer explores the meaning of truth in a world filled with lies and deception. He reflects on how truth is often distorted or "constructed" by those in power, and how concepts like "truthiness" have emerged in modern culture. Through biblical insights and examples from history, he explores the importance of standing firm in objective truth, even when it's costly. Join us as we discuss how truth, rooted in God's character, remains timeless and unchanging.

Cornerstone's pastors lead the congregation in a night of prayer for important issues facing America.

Christians need to be engaged in the 2024 presidential election. The freedoms we enjoy and the country that we love are in jeopardy. But Christians must unite if we are to make a difference. If our voices are not heard, and our votes are not counted, then every evil, demonic philosophy will fill the vacuum. But what if you don’t particularly like either candidate? What if you feel apathetic about this year’s election? Pastor Gary makes the argument that voting is not just a right, but a duty, and he helps us to understand how Christians can be involved in the political process.

An in-depth study of 1 Thessalonians 4.

The Bible tells us that there are “spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms”, meaning that there is an unseen battle being waged over us and around us. The evil forces are led by Satan, also known as the Devil, the Dragon, the Serpent (and other titles). Satan, also called Lucifer, was once a beautiful angel in heaven who recruited one third of the other angels in an attempted coup against God. But Satan lost that battle and was expelled from heaven, along with his army of angels (now known as “demons”), and he roams the earth today “like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” In today’s teaching entitled “Crushing Satan”, Pastor Gary explains what spiritual warfare is, how we can withstand it, and how God fights for His children!

The Bible tells us that there are “spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms,” meaning that there is an unseen battle being waged over us and around us. The evil forces are led by Satan, also known as the Devil, the Dragon, the Serpent (and other titles). Satan, also called Lucifer, was once a beautiful angel in heaven who recruited a third of the other angels in an attempted coup against God. But Satan lost that battle and was expelled from heaven, along with his army of angels (now known as “demons”), and he roams the earth today “like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” In today’s teaching entitled “Crushing Satan”, Pastor Gary explains what spiritual warfare is, how we can withstand it, and how God fights for His children!

In Paul’s closing comments to the Church in Rome, he warns about the sin of divisiveness that can destroy a church, a family, or an organization. God hates divisiveness for two reasons—(1) because it is inconsistent with His nature, and (2) because the source of divisiveness is Satan. God is about reconciliation; Satan is about division. God brings together things that are broken; Satan breaks things that are brought together. Someone who is divisive is not operating in the spirit of Jesus, but in the spirit of Satan. This is why Paul warns about people who cause division. In today’s study, Pastor Gary explains how we can identity a divisive person from someone who is just different, with different ideas or opinions.

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 8:54-9:28.

Since life can be so challenging at times, all of us could use some extra patience, comfort, hope and grace. The good news is that God is all of those things and more! Paul writes in Romans 15 that God is the God of patience, the God of comfort, the God of hope, and the God of grace. In today’s study, Pastor Gary unpacks those titles for God and reminds us that He meets all of our needs in all those areas.

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 8.

The churches of Pergamum and Thyatira were really no different than the Church currently. The words Jesus spoke to these two churches are the same words He speaks to us today. By His help, may we overcome sin rather than overlook.

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 7.

Where there are differences among people, there is the potential for division. That is true in a business, a family, and certainly a church. Satan loves to take advantage of people’s differences to incite division, discord, and judgmentalism. This was the problem facing the church in Rome. So, Paul encourages them to accept one another as it relates to “disputable matters”—matters about which the Bible is either silent or not specific. In those cases, Paul wrote in Romans 14, we each must decide for ourselves what is right or wrong based on our own personal convictions. And then we must not judge one another for where our convictions might differ from someone else’s. Join Pastor Gary today as we learn how to keep unity and peace in the Body of Christ despite our many differences.

Paul tells us that we are living in the “last hour”. The Return of Christ is near. So how should we live while we are waiting in the constant expectancy of His Second Coming? Pastor Gary summarizes Paul’s instruction with five exhortations: (1) Wake up, (2) Cast off, (3) Put on, (4) Walk right, and (5) Think not about how to gratify sinful desires. Follow along in today’s study as we learn how to live godly lives while we wait for Christ’s Return.

An in-depth study of Luke 10:38-42.

It’s been said that love for God will get you to church but the fear of God will get you to Heaven. You see, many people say that they love God, but few people actually fear Him. But what does it even mean to fear the Lord? Should we be scared of God? In today’s message, Pastor Austin answers this question and touches on eight different benefits that the fear of the Lord produces in our lives.

An in-depth study of Psalm 25.

What does it take to stay in-love in our marriage? What if God created marriage to make us more loving and forgiving like Him? In this study, Pastor Andy discusses what we can learn in Scripture about True Love.

An in-depth study of Genesis 3-4.

An in-depth study of Psalm 42.

An In-depth study of Hosea 10:12

Dr. Jim Garlow talks through his new book, ReVersed

An in-depth study of Mark 8.

There are three institutions that God has ordained in this order: the Family, the Government, and the Church. In Romans 13, Paul describes the role of government and our responsibility to it. In today’s study, Pastor Gary answers four important questions about government: 1)What does the Bible say is the primary role of government? 2)Why should we submit to the governing authorities? 3)When is it OK to disobey governing authorities? 4)How did the Bible shape the United States government?

The first eleven chapters of Romans are DOCTRINAL, but the last five chapters of Romans are very PRACTICAL. And one of the themes Paul stresses in the last five chapters is our personal responsibility regarding how we treat one another. In fact, Paul uses the phrase “one another” ten times in the closing five chapters to help us understand the practical ways we can properly treat one another. How we treat one another is a direct reflection of our relationship with Christ.

An in-depth study of 1 Timothy 4

An in-depth study of Psalm 127:1-5.

An in-depth study of Hebrews 4.

Whenever we face a major decision in life, it’s important to discern God’s will on the matter. What is God’s will for where I live? Who I marry? What career path I take? The questions are endless. And God has a perfect will for your life. But even if you don’t hit the “bullseye” and discern His “perfect” will, there is still grace for God’s children. He will redirect your path to move you in step with His will as you humbly seek Him. In today’s study, Pastor Gary shares 5 principles for discerning God’s will.

Does God predetermine some people to go to Heaven and others to go to Hell?  Did Jesus die only for the Elect (those whom God decided to save)?  Does man have a free will to choose Jesus, or is that God’s choice?  Pastor Gary answers these questions and more in today’s teaching on predestination and election.

Does God predetermine some people to go to Heaven and others to go to Hell?  Did Jesus die only for the Elect (those whom God decided to save)?  Does man have a free will to choose Jesus, or is that God’s choice?  Pastor Gary answers these questions and more in today’s teaching on predestination and election.

An in-depth study of John 15.

Are the Jewish people God’s “chosen people”? And if so, why have most Jews not accepted Jesus as Messiah? Has the Church “replaced” Israel in terms of promises God made to her that now belong to the Church? Pastor Gary answers these and other questions in today’s study from Romans 9-11. In these three chapters, Paul addresses the subject of Israel and the Jewish people and how they fit into God’s redemptive plan.

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 5-6.

When life is good, it’s easy to quote Romans 8:28 that “all things work together for good.” But what about when life is not so good… is this verse still true? Are other verses in the Bible still true when our life circumstances do not fit with the promises of the Bibler? The answer is YES. It’s not that the Bible promise is lacking, it’s that our understanding or perspective is lacking. Today, Pastor Gary takes us through Romans 8:28 so that we can have a proper understanding and perspective of God’s promise that “all things work together for good.”

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 4.

“Why do good things happen to bad people?” This is a question that Asaph, the writer of Psalm 73, wrestles with as he juxtaposes the eternal destiny of the wicked with that of the righteous. Do you know where you would spend eternity if today were your last day on earth? In today’s message entitled “Which Side Are You On?”, Pastor Austin challenges us to no longer live in the “middle” but to pick a side and be all-in for Jesus no matter the cost.

An in-depth study of Mark 5.

Encountering Jesus changes lives from the inside out. He calls anyone to follow him, but it doesn’t come without sacrifice.  He came to us, He sees us, and we are found by Him.  Will you follow?

An In-depth study of 1 Kings 3.

Did you ever try running away from home as a kid hoping your parents would beg you to come back home? In Revelation 2, Jesus calls the Ephesian church to “Come back home!” Why? What were they doing wrong? Jesus actually commends them for all the things they’re doing well, but He says there is one thing they lack – Love. It’s possible to do a lot of things for God but not be in love with God. In today’s message, Pastor Austin challenges us to avoid cold, mechanical religion and to fall more in love with Jesus.

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 2.

For the Christian there is a battle within—a battle between our spirit that wants to please the Lord, and our flesh that wants to please self. In Romans 8, Paul gives us three encouraging ways that the Holy Spirit helps us to fight the battle of the flesh and spirit: He empowers us, adopts us, and prays for us. Pastor Gary explains all this in today’s teaching, “Winning the War Within.”

In Romans 8, Paul opens and close the chapter with two important exhortations: (1) There is no condemnation and (2) There is no separation from the love of God for those who are in Christ Jesus. Too many Christians still walk around under the heavy weight of condemnation, shame, and guilt. In addition, some Christians believe the lie that God doesn’t really love them. In today’s study, Pastor Gary exposes the lies we believe from either Satan, others, or ourselves. Follow along in today’s study entitled, “No Condemnation, No Separation.”

An in-depth study of 1 Kings 1.

Easter 2024 Service

Join us for our annual Passover service!

In Luke 19, Jesus sent two of His disciples to retrieve the young donkey on which He would ride for His triumphal entry into Jerusalem preceding His crucifixion. When the owners inquired as to why the disciples were taking their donkey, the disciples were to respond, "Because the Lord has need of it." The owners immediately and graciously complied. In this special Palm Sunday message from guest speaker Dr. Mark Rutland, we learn that we too can give and receive spontaneous grace, "because the Lord has need of it."

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 23-24.

Since Christians are under grace instead of the law, the question becomes—is the law of God pointless now? Some Christians think that! But Paul says otherwise. In Romans 7, Paul gives us three reasons why God’s law is important in the life of the Believer today. Pastor Gary unpacks Romans 7 and also helps us to understand the battle that lies within between wanting to please God and wanting to live for our own sinful pleasures.

An in-depth Bible study of 2 Samuel 21-22.

The Christian life will have its share of temptations. That’s because when a person trusts Christ as Lord and Savior, his or her spirit is regenerated but not the flesh. The flesh is constantly at war with the spirit so that the spirit wants to please God, but the flesh wants to please self. In Romans 6-8, Paul gives us a few directives about how to get victory over sin and temptation.

An in-depth study of Psalms 46.

When Adam and Eve sinned against God in the Garden of Eden by eating from the one tree that God had warned them not to eat, the human race became tainted. The genetic code of the human soul became permanently altered, and thus all of the descendants of Adam inherited the same sinful nature. That’s why Paul says in Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned”, and why David said in Psalm 51:5 that he was sinful from conception. But in Romans 5, Paul teaches us that what the first Adam ruined in the Garden, the “last Adam” (Jesus) redeemed on the cross! Paul contrasts the two lives of Adam and Jesus to help us understand that Jesus came as a cure to the sin problem that we all have.

An in-depth study of Genesis 22.

How do we follow Christ in a culture that celebrates wickedness? Bishop E.W. Jackson challenges us to rely on God’s power as we seek to steward all that God has given us, trusting in Him as the Anchor for the soul.

An in-depth study of Exodus 15.

The light of God’s glory in our nation has grown dim due to our rebellion and disobedience. God’s glory has even grown dim in the walls of our churches because we have strayed from His Word. This was the story of the Israelites in Exodus 33. God’s glory and presence would no longer travel with them to the Promised Land due to their sin and idolatry, but Moses begs God to show him His glory. Are you desperate like Moses to want more of God’s presence in your life? Do you want to go deeper with Him? In today’s message, Pastor Austin highlights four ways that God’s glory is at work in the life of the believer.

An in-depth study of Judges 6.

Join us as guest speaker, Pastor Stephan Tchividjian, shares about the heart of man vs. the heart of God in this study from Matthew 5:17-48.

An in-depth study of Exodus 17.

There are a lot of people in the world who have no hope—overwhelmed with grief, or pain, or sorrow, or anxiety—regretting the past, uncertain about the present, or worrying about the future. But God offers us a HOPE that the world does not have. In Romans 5, Paul tells us that there is a path toward hope that begins with suffering, and includes perseverance and character. Pastor Gary explains each of these steps toward HOPE in today’s study from Romans 5.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 20.

The world says, “Man is basically good.” But God’s Word says, “Man is basically bad and in need of a Savior!” Since man is guilty before God and deserves punishment, the question is—How can we be made right with God? Paul answers that question from three different angles. Join Pastor Gary as he teaches through Romans 3-4 to unpack what the Lord says through Paul in today’s study, “And Now, the Good News!”

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 19.

Some people are self-righteous and they judge everyone else by their own standard. Some people are overrighteous and they pride themselves in being better than everyone else. But both are sinful before God. In fact, ALL of us are “guilty as charged.” Paul makes the case that no one has an excuse for denying or disobeying God because He has revealed Himself through CREATION, CONSCIENCE, and COMMANDMENTS. But the good news is—God sent Jesus to save us from our sins! Join Pastor Gary as he takes us through Romans 2.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 18.

What does a culture of any nation look like when it excludes God? Take a look around at American culture right now. It looks like that! Even though Paul wrote Romans 1 in the first century A.D., what he describes then is just as apparent now. When man removes God from the equation, man resorts to his base nature, and our base nature is pretty perverse. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary deals with the sexual identity crisis, homosexuality, and the craziness of our culture with the hope that all will come to know the grace, forgiveness, and wholeness that is found through Jesus Christ.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 16-17.

There is a common saying… “There’s some good news, and there’s some bad news.” That saying could describe the book of Romans. It has a lot of good news (in fact, the word “gospel” means “good news”). But the book of Romans also has some bad news about God’s wrath and how we deserve it because of our sinfulness. Paul writes a commentary on the culture in Romans 1 like it’s today’s headlines—we are worshiping creation more than the Creator. There is more of an obsession about the planet and the environment than there is with God in our culture today. All this is symptomatic of a world that has denied the existence of God and disobeyed Him despite the fact that God has revealed Himself to an unrighteous world.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 15:7-37.

Join us for our 2023 Question and Answer Service where Pastor Gary and sons (Pastor Tyler and Pastor Austin) do their best to answer your Bible questions!

Join us as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ for our special Christmas at Cornerstone service.

Why did Jesus come to Earth when he did? Galatians 4 tells us that God sent his Son at just the right time. God is all about timing - throughout the pages of scripture, throughout history, and throughout each of our lives.

Two of the most dangerous words in the English language are “I promise”. Many of us have been hurt by broken promises, and others of us have not kept our word. Can we really trust God to make good on His promises in the Bible? In today’s message, Pastor Austin unpacks some of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah and reveals four promises every believer can cling to today.

In the closing chapter of Acts, Paul meets with some Jewish leaders to explain the truth about Jesus. Until his dying day, Paul used various encounters with people as opportunities to tell them about Jesus Christ. He always looked for a “relatable entry point” in connecting the hearts of people with the truth of Jesus. Paul’s approach to evangelism is a great example for us to follow in reaching people who cross our paths with the good news of Jesus Christ. Follow along as Pastor Gary encourages us to see the world around us with a heart for the lost.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Amir Tsarfati.

Gary Hamrick and Marwan Rifka share how God has blessed Cornerstone Chapel in 2023.

A special Wednesday night service celebrating what God has done in the lives of people from Cornerstone Chapel.

The most important part of a believer’s life is the part that only God sees – the hidden life. In Psalm 91, believed to be written by Moses, we see the importance of hiding in the Lord and seeking His presence as a place of refuge. Why do we need a place of refuge? Because we have an enemy, Satan, and demonic forces constantly setting traps for us. Join our Bible study to learn more about hiding in the Lord in the midst of spiritual attacks.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 14-15:6.

There are seasons when all of us may go through dark times. The emotional weight can be so heavy that it leaves us feeling hopeless. Today, Pastor Gary draws on a story from Acts 27 to bring hope to the hopeless, whatever the situation might be. Hope is like oxygen—with it we thrive; without it we can die. But God is the God of hope and comfort who will help us in our time of need. Listen as Pastor Gary shares six principles from Acts 27 to help us have God’s hope.

An in-depth study of 2 Kings 5.

There is a lot of cultural pressure today to conform to the latest majority opinion. Groupthink can be intimidating, and the “majority consensus” often causes people to either go silent in order to avoid ridicule, or to conform in order to fit in. But Paul said in Galatians 1:10, “If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” In other words, we can’t be a God-pleaser and a man-pleaser at the same time. Godly men and women in the Bible have always been willing to stand alone when necessary. Join today’s Bible study as Pastor Gary encourages us to stop listening to the majority and to start honoring God.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 12:24-13:39.

Life is full of twists and turns that we know nothing about in advance, but God does. And some of those twists and turns are intended as “divine detours” where God brings people along our path who need to hear about Jesus. The Lord desires to use Believers to share their testimony so that others can hear about a life-changing relationship with Jesus. In the book of Acts we see this played out in Paul’s life when he was in prison in Caesarea. While imprisoned there, God brought along five influential leaders to hear Paul testify of Jesus. It’s a good reminder to us that we should be looking for those “divine detours”—times when God brings people along our path to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ. May we be faithful to share with them our story for God’s glory!

Our limited perspective sometimes prevents us from viewing difficult circumstances with an eternal mindset, but God invites us, through the reading of His Word, to dive into the world of the unknown so that our eyes may be opened to the spiritual reality all around us.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 12:1-23.

In light of the war between Israel and Hamas, Pastor Gary Hamrick presents a Biblical perspective of the events. Who/What is Hamas? Why are they so intent on destroying Israel? Who are the Palestinians and why do many of them think of the Jews as "occupiers" and "colonialists"? And do these current events point to any particular Bible prophecy about the End Times? Pastor Gary answers these questions and more in today's teaching entitled, "Israel, Hamas, and End Times."

Join us for a special night of prayer for Israel.

The Bible speaks about JUDGMENT—a personal judgment when we have to stand before the Lord, and a global judgment for the wicked, known as the Great White Throne Judgment. For those who don’t know Christ as Lord and Savior, the idea of “judgment” might be scary. But to those who have a relationship with Jesus, there is nothing to be afraid of! John 5:24 tells us that Believers “shall not come into judgment but pass from death to life.” That’s because the punishment intended for us was taken by Jesus on the cross. Pastor Gary shares about “the judgment to come” from Acts 24.

A special midweek service with Jonathan Cahn.

In Acts 23, Paul is put in prison for his protection from an angry mob that is trying to kill him. While there, the Lord Jesus appears to him and says, “Be of good cheer” or literally, “Take courage!” Jesus knew exactly what Paul needed to hear in the midst of his discouragement. Our Lord is the dispenser of encouragement and He knows when we need it too. There are five separate occasions recorded in the Bible when Jesus spoke encouragement to individuals, and every time he did, it was to address their fear, worry, or discouragement. Do you need to hear Jesus say, “Take courage” today? Is there someone you could encourage today? Listen to today’s teaching as Pastor Gary takes us through Acts 23.

Join Pastor Erwin Lutzer as he shares 5 ways to deal with our darkness in order to walk in the Light from 1 John 1.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 10-11.

We all have an “internal moral compass” called a conscience. It is something that God has implanted in the soul of every human being. And since God is the standard for right and wrong, and since we are created in the image and likeness of God, then we all have the capacity to choose right over wrong. A conscience allows us to feel pleasure when we do what is right, and conviction when we do what is wrong. When Paul gives his defense for being unjustly imprisoned, he starts out by saying, “…I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1). Shouldn’t we all want to say that? In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary defines “conscience” and the different kinds of consciences that are in the Bible.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 8-9.

Does God still speak today? Yes and No. He does not supersede or contradict His Word (the Bible) with “new” revelation, but He does still speak tenderly to people. Jesus said that His sheep hear His voice (John 10:27). So how can we discern the voice of the Lord from all the other voices and noise in our world? Pastor Gary takes us into Acts 21 to answer that question in today’s study entitled, “Hearing God.”

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 6:10-7:27.

If you know that you will probably never see a friend or loved one again, you will probably exchange some tender, parting words. This was the case with Paul and the elders of the Ephesian church when he met with them in Miletus. He closes his remarks with some parting words of encouragement about God’s grace that is applicable to us today as well. Pastor Gary unpacks this final passage of Paul’s speech to the Ephesian elders and helps us to better understand God’s amazing grace.

In his farewell words to the elders of the church in Ephesus, Paul shares some important advice and warnings about how to keep the Church healthy and how to protect the Church from attacks without and attacks within. Even though his words are from the first century, they are timeless principles for the Church today. Pastor Gary takes Paul’s farewell speech and breaks down the application for us in today’s teaching, “Advice and Warnings to the Church.”

An in-depth study of Ephesians 1:1-13.

Six times in the New Testament living the Christian life is compared to “running a race”. The starting line is when we trust Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. The finish line is when we die and go to Heaven or when Christ returns to take us Home, whichever happens first. The time in between the start and the finish is the race we are to run as Believers in Jesus. In Acts 20, Paul teaches us by his example three important aspects of running the race: HUMILITY, ENDURANCE, and ABANDONMENT. Follow along as Pastor Gary shares about “running the race.”

An in-depth study of 1 Thessalonians 5.

Temptation is a part of everyday life, so what does the Bible say on how to combat it? Matthew 4 tells us the Spirit compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness where he would fast 40 days and suffer temptation from Satan himself. Jesus being fully God and fully human was tempted in every way, just as we are, yet was without sin (Hebrews 4:15). He was victorious over the enemy and temptation and the Believer can be victorious as well in Jesus Christ.

An in-depth study of 1 Thessalonians 4.

Join us as Pastor Tony Clark explores the question, "What does the Holy Spirit look like?" Drawing inspiration from Ephesians 5:15-33, He delves into the tangible manifestations of the Holy Spirit in our lives, highlighting the transformative power of His presence and how it impacts our relationships, worship, and daily walk with God. Join us as we uncover the beauty and significance of a Spirit-filled life.

An in-depth study of 1 Thessalonians 2:13-3:13.

God uses Amos to prophecy to the kingdom of Israel about the impending judgment that will come upon them. God says He will send a famine on the land – not a famine of bread or water, but a famine of “hearing the words of the LORD”. As believers, we can easily see the effects of spiritual famine nationally and globally in our day, but sometimes it’s difficult to spot spiritual famine in our own lives. Join us for today’s message as Pastor Austin unpacks the seven signs of spiritual famine.

An in-depth study of 1 Thessalonians 1-2:12.

Join Author, Speaker and Activist John Amanchukwu as he draws powerful parallels between the present sufferings of this world and the future glory promised in Romans 8:18, using the compelling examples of the Martyrdom of Stephen, Polycarp, and Eulalia of Barcelona.

Join us for a special midweek service with Jim Garlow and Gary Hamrick.

Wherever Christ is preached there is usually one of two responses—either revival or revolt.  When the light of Jesus is turned on, it confronts the darkness of whatever it touches.  If the response is contrition and humility, the result is revival.  But if the response is confusion and hostility, the result is revolt. In Acts 19, we see both responses.  Pastor Gary compares the revolt in Ephesus to our current culture, and highlights five points of revival that are still true today.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 5:6-6:9

People who don’t normally come to church or know anything about the Bible will not understand who Jesus is unless Christians tell them. In Acts 17, Paul went to the “marketplace” and explained Jesus in terms that “unchurched” people could understand. His conversation and interaction with the pagan people of Athens teaches us some important things about taking Jesus to a lost world outside the church.

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 3-5:10

In this July 4th weekend teaching, Pastor Gary explores our country’s historical Christian heritage as well as our freedom in Christ. Faith and Freedom go together—both physical and spiritual. Many men and women laid down their lives to secure our liberties, and the Church should continue to be salt and light in our world to preserve and maintain those liberties. Special musical guest, Mary Millben, joins Pastor Gary for this patriotic service.

There are times in the course of life when things are hard and life is difficult. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas had been beaten and thrown into prison. They didn’t know whether they would be rescued or whether they would be killed for their faith. Nevertheless, they “prayed and sang” to the Lord because God is worthy of our worship no matter our circumstances. It’s easy to sing when times are good, but how easily do you sing when times are bad? In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary invites us to pray, “Lord, teach me to sing in the darkness.” In other words, even when things are bad in life, may we still have a song on our lips for the One who is worthy of our worship!

An in-depth study of 2 Samuel 1-2.

If you are going through a difficult time, you are not alone. Plenty of people suffer in this life. But for the Christian, there are things we can learn through adversity. In Acts 14:22 it says, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” Pastor Gary unpacks this verse and teaches four things that we can learn through tough times.

Pastor Gary and Israel tour guide Ronnie Cohen sit down to talk all things Israel in this special Q & A service.

Did you know that being a “good person” is not good enough? The Bible tells us that the human condition is broken and sinful and therefore we need a Savior—Jesus. We can’t do or say enough good things to overcome our broken condition. But here’s the good news—God offers us forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus and what He did on the cross when he died for our sins. That act of kindness and mercy is God’s grace. In today’s teaching from a sermon that Paul delivered in Acts 13, Pastor Gary urges us to embrace God’s grace and receive the forgiveness we all need!

In this teaching Pastor Gary gives a Biblical response to the cultural chaos and the corporate controversy that has overtaken our country with gender confusion, sexual perversion, and a “woke” agenda. How can we navigate all the madness without losing our hearts for those who are caught up in the madness? We should be outraged by all the cultural evil, but we should never lose the mission of the church because of our outrage over the madness of the world. At the same time, we must never condone the evil or affirm the delusion. Pastor Gary explains the “WHY” behind the madness and “WHAT” we should do in response.

We tend to view events and circumstances in life as either “fair” or “unfair”. Sometimes it’s hard to reconcile situations that don’t make sense to us. What do you do when God doesn’t do what you want Him to do? In Acts 12, two of Jesus’ original Twelve Disciples, James and Peter, are arrested by King Herod because of the on-going persecution against Christians. Peter gets miraculously delivered from prison by an angel sent by God, but James gets martyred. Why did God rescue one but allow the other to be executed? Pastor Gary tackles this theological dilemma in today’s study entitled, “That’s Not Fair!”

How do we respond when we feel like the world is falling apart around us? Do we get angry and fight? Stick our head in the sand? In this special message from Kirk Cameron, we learn that the best approach is a Gospel-centered one.

Some people believe they are relatively good and don’t really need God. Others believe they are too bad for God to forgive them. Truth is, it doesn’t matter what we think about ourselves. What matters is what God thinks. And what God thinks is that everyone needs a Savior because no one is good enough to get to Heaven on their own or bad enough to be excluded. Jesus died for all that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Al Robertson pastored for more than 22 years at Whites Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, LA. Now he travels with his wife, Lisa, sharing their story of redemption and grace at marriage conferences. Al is the oldest son of the Duck Dynasty family. In today’s teaching he shares the family story and encourages us to live “the unashamed life” in Christ.

The Bible is a book about two kingdoms – the Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness. We see the Kingdom of Darkness interact with the Kingdom of Light throughout the book of Acts as Satan opposes the work the Lord does through His followers. How should we approach the topic of spiritual warfare, Satan, demons and occult practices? Some have an unhealthy interest in these things and others dismiss them altogether. In today’s message, Pastor Austin gives us five ways to guard ourselves against spiritual warfare.

One of the most dramatic conversion stories is recorded in Acts 9 when Saul (Paul) meets Jesus on the road to Damascus. This encounter will forever transform his life. Paul will go from being a persecutor and murderer of Christians to becoming a Believer himself who will, next to Jesus, have the most profound impact on the world for Jesus. It is a testament to the transforming power of Jesus and how He can radically change a person from the inside. Pastor Gary shares Paul’s conversion story and how it applies to all of us today in a similar way because Jesus is still transforming lives!

Have you ever battled bitterness? It’s not that uncommon. Bitterness usually sets in after one painful or disappointing event, or series of events, that rob people of the joy they once had. Sometimes bitterness is expressed outwardly—people who are mean, angry, moody, and negative. But sometimes bitterness is internal—people who are suffering on the inside but smiling on the outside. Whether external or internal, God wants to heal us of bitterness and restore the joy of our salvation. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary shares six common causes of bitterness and then prays for God to heal those who want to be free of bitterness.

The world is feeding us self-affirming lies that we are all OK. The narrative goes like this: “You be you, and I’ll be me; we are all fine. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.” But we are not OK. And if we were, then why have suicide rates steadily increased in American over the past two decades? Truth is, the Bible explains that the human condition is lost and sinful without God. But the good news is that we can have hope and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ who died on a cross and rose from the dead to save us! That’s what Easter is all about—a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and how we can have a personal relationship with Him. Join Pastor Gary for today’s Easter message entitled, “Jesus is the Cure!”

When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem during the week of Passover--just before His crucifixion--He was worshipped openly as the Messiah. Join Pastor Mike McClure from Calvary Chapel San Jose as he discusses Jesus through the eyes of the people He encountered along the way.

The first martyr of the Early Church was a man named Stephen. He was killed defending his faith in Jesus Christ. His life and death serve as a great example for Christians today and also challenges us with three questions: (1) Do I love God more than my own life? (2) Do I forgive others who have wronged me? and (3) Am I prepared to see the Lord when I die? Pastor Gary teaches through these questions today and encourages us to pray for the same courage and boldness that Stephen had.

The Early Church was united around common beliefs and common burdens—the belief in Jesus as Lord and Savior, and the burden of being persecuted by those who opposed them. Jews in the first century who believed in Jesus as Lord and Savior were killed at worst and cancelled at best. As a result of facing such real persecution, the Early Church pooled their resources and shared them with each other as needed. It was not socialism, it was survivalism. In addition, when God struck down Ananias and Sapphira for their deception, the Early Church learned quickly that “the Church pure is the Church powerful” (as G. Campbell Morgan once said). They developed a healthy “fear of the Lord” and walked in holiness before God. The Early Church serves as good examples for the Church today.

Why does Hollywood love to make apocalyptic movies about the end of the world? Believer and unbeliever alike understand that our time on earth will eventually come to an end! The Bible describes this great and awesome day as the "Coming Day of the Lord," or simply, "That Day." But what exactly is this “Day” all about, when will it happen, and how should we live in the meantime? Join us in 2 Peter 3 as Pastor Austin unpacks this topic. 

Join Pastor Gary Hamrick as he gives a special teaching in Caesarea, Israel from Acts 24.

At some point every Christian’s faith will be tested in the area of conscience and duty—to see whether you will have the courage to obey God rather than man wherever man’s law and authority contradicts the higher law and authority of God. The Early Church practiced civil disobedience wherever that contradiction existed. We have been living in a time more recently when government and/or employer policies, laws, and ordinances are increasingly at odds with God—with God’s policies, laws, and ordinances. And Christians in America are having to decide who is really Lord? And whom will you obey—God or man? Christians should be the best citizens, living in subjection to governing authority, praying and respecting our leaders. But where the contradiction exists, may God help us to say as the Early Church did—“We must obey God rather than men!” (Acts 5:29)

In 1869, the tallest lighthouse in America was built in Cape Hatteras, NC. It was built ½ mile from the coast, but after more than a hundred years of beach erosion, the Army Corps of Engineers had to relocate the lighthouse another ½ mile inland. The erosion threatened the foundation of the lighthouse. In a similar way, the Church is to be like a lighthouse—guiding people, warning people, and helping people to get safely home to Jesus. But unfortunately, there has been a slow erosion of some of the foundational elements of the Church that threaten the Church’s ability to be that beacon of light that we are called to be. In Acts 2:42, we learn about four foundational elements that defined the Early Church—things that should still define the Church today. Find out what they are and how our church endeavors to stay on solid ground.

In today’s study, Pastor Gary teaches about one of the gifts of the Spirit that manifests in Acts 2 known as “tongues.” Tongues is a known language, except to the person speaking, that God gives a Believer for the purpose of prayer and/or praise to God. But is it still available today? Should all Believers speak in tongues? And why would God give the gift of a language to people who cannot understand it themselves? Pastor Gary addresses these and other key questions in today’s teaching on the gift of tongues.

The followers of Jesus, who numbered about 120, were told to wait in Jerusalem until the “Promise” of the Holy Spirit. When the Day of Pentecost came, God poured out the Holy Spirit on all who had gathered in that Upper Room. It was an AUDIBLE, VISIBLE, and VERBAL event—the sound like a rushing wind, the sight of flames of fire lighting on each person, and people speaking in “tongues.” In today’s study, Pastor Gary gives the history of Pentecost and covers the AUDIBLE and VISIBLE aspects of what happened when God’s Spirit was poured out in Acts 2.

Some Christians feel powerless—struggling to have victory over sin, unable to be bold in their witness, tired of running the race, wondering if there is more to the Christian life than just biding their time until Jesus returns. Maybe this describes you, and maybe it’s all because there is an absence of God’s power without the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Join Pastor Gary as he teaches from Acts 1 about the person and power of the Holy Spirit available to all Believers, and learn what it means to be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

In our society we typically throw away things that are broken or in terrible condition. But not God! He loves what is broken and discarded because then He can mend them and reclaim them for His glory. In other words, God is the God of restoration. Biblical restoration is when God takes something broken and makes it brand new! And when God restores broken things and broken people, the final state is actually better than the original condition! In John 21, Jesus restores Peter after Peter had denied knowing Jesus around the time of Jesus’ crucifixion. After His resurrection, Jesus has an exclusive conversation with Peter, only recorded in John’s gospel, that brings restoration to Peter’s life. God is still restoring broken lives, and broken marriages, and broken things for His glory! He is the God of Restoration.

In Jeremiah 29, the prophet Jeremiah communicated the Lord’s instructions for the Israelites during their exile from Israel and captivity in Babylon. At the heart of these instructions, God exhorted the Israelites to focus on their families. Even as the Israelites endured the consequences of their failure to follow God (resulting in their exile), God had a plan for them to thrive and ultimately be restored to their home country. Join Pastor Brian Shannon as he shares why the family was such an essential part of God’s plan for the Israelites, and how those principles directly apply to God’s plans for all of mankind today.

Pontius Pilate was the Prefect appointed by Rome to oversee central Israel, including the city of Jerusalem, during the time of Christ. In fact, he became the pivotal figure in sentencing Jesus to death by crucifixion. Ironically, Pilate had determined three times that Jesus was not guilty of being condemned to death. So then why did he end up sentencing Him to death after all? Answer? Because Pilate had a weakness for what other people thought; and that weakness moved Pilate off center from what he knew was right. Truth is, all of us can be captive to the fear of people and trapped by a desire to always please people. Pastor Gary draws on this story from John’s gospel to help us recognize any of that sin in our own lives so that we can instead live to please God and fear Him alone.

Pastor Gary Hamrick, along with his two sons Tyler & Austin, attempt to answer your Bible questions.

Christmas day is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ! He was God’s greatest Gift to the world. In fact, it’s why we give gifts at Christmas time—to commemorate the Gift and the Gift-Giver! In today’s short teaching, Pastor Gary uses “GIFTS” as an acronym to remember that God Is Faithful To Save! God gave Jesus to the world so that by faith in Him we might be saved—forgiven from sin and guaranteed Heaven when we die. The baby born in a manger 2000 years ago grew up to die on a cross because of His love for the world. Won’t you trust Him as your personal Lord and Savior?

At the first Christmas 2000 years ago, God used different events and objects to direct people to Jesus—to behold the One who was born to save the world. He used a census to lead Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem where Jesus was to be born. He used an angel to lead shepherds to witness the newborn King. And God used a star to lead Wise Men from the east to worship Jesus. What events and circumstances is God using in your own life to bring you to an encounter with Jesus? A hardship? A difficulty? Or maybe you’ve been living “the good life” but you realize something—or Someone—is missing! God is still leading people to Jesus today.

Matthew 1 takes us to the scene of Joseph taking Mary as his wife and adopting Jesus as his own. God chose Joseph for a specific purpose - to raise His only Son. Joseph’s example gives us a glimpse of God the Father, who loves us and has chosen us for a specific purpose. How can we apply this wonderful promise to our own lives?

Mary the mother of Jesus plays a significant role in the Christmas story, but she also has been a figure of confusion over the centuries. Who was Mary according to the Bible? How do our views differ from the views of the Roman Catholic Church regarding Mary’s life and legacy? And what can we learn from her life and apply today? Open your Bible to Luke 1 to learn more.

When Jesus prays for us in John 17, He asks the Father to give us UNITY. But what kind of “unity” is Jesus speaking of? Does He mean that we should just all “get along,” accepting everything and anything under the “umbrella of unity?” Not at all. Unfortunately, some Christians and/or churches, in pursuit of unity, have forsaken integrity and doctrinal purity. So how do we receive and maintain the kind of unity that Jesus prays about for us? Pastor Gary shares four points about Biblical unity in today’s study from John 17.

Every year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, we take some time to praise the Lord and honor Him for all that He did at Cornerstone over the last year. We are humbled to be a part of God’s work, and we praise Him for who He is and all He has done! Join us as we take a look back and celebrate God’s goodness to us in 2022.

Join us as we hear testimonies of God's faithfulness in the lives of our congregation in 2022.

Jesus talks more about the Holy Spirit than any other single subject during His closing words to the Disciples gathered in the Upper Room for their last Passover together. He wants to assure them that even though He is going away (when He ascends back into Heaven after His crucifixion and resurrection), He will not leave them as orphans. He will send the “Helper” or “Counselor” or “Comforter” to be with them—the Holy Spirit! But who is the Holy Spirit? And what is the role of the Holy Spirit in the world today and in the life of the Believer? Pastor Gary discusses this and more in today’s study from John 14-16.

Join us as Pastor Gary Hamrick talks with special guest Eric Metaxas about his newest book "Letter to the American Church".

Everyone has probably prayed at some point in their lives—either out of desperation or celebration. But fewer actually practice prayer as a spiritual discipline. A “spiritual discipline” is a habit, practice, or experience designed to develop, grow, and strengthen one’s relationship with the Lord. Bible study, periodic fasting, attending church would all be examples of “spiritual disciplines”; and so is PRAYER. Prayer is communing and connecting with God. It can be audible, or from the heart; in public, or in private; while standing or sitting; with open eyes or closed eyes. God just wants to hear our hearts—not with lofty, lengthy prayers but with sincerity. In today’s study, Pastor Gary gives us three “MUSTS” about prayer in order for us to “Pray like Jesus.”

An in-depth study of 1 Samuel 5-6.

What will Heaven be like? How can we get there? Pastor Gary answers these two questions today’s study from John 14. Many people think that if they are good enough they will get to Heaven when they die, but then the question becomes, “How good is good enough?” Thankfully, Jesus died on a cross for our sins because He knew that we are not good enough—there is nothing we can do to earn or deserve Heaven. Yet Jesus opened Heaven wide through His sacrifice on the cross for all who would believe, and then He made a bold declaration that He is the only way to Heaven! Heaven is a choice. At the close of today’s teaching, Pastor Gary will help you to understand how to make that choice for Jesus so that you can go to Heaven when you die.

Jesus tells us to “love one another” as He has loved us, and that when we do, it will show the world that we are His disciples.  But how is love defined in the Bible?  And how are we to demonstrate this kind of love to others?  The world today defines love in a very different way.  It uses “love” as a cover for tolerating and accepting all kinds of sinful behavior, and if you object, you are labeled as unloving.  But true love reflects the love of the Lord as revealed in the Bible—sometimes it’s tough, sometimes tender; sometimes confronting, sometimes caring; sometimes challenging, sometimes encouraging.  Our job is to know Jesus so that we can show the love of Jesus to a world that needs to know His transforming love.

An in-depth study of 1 Samuel 3-4.

If Satan can’t defeat us through disobedience, he will try to defeat us through discouragement. Many things about life can easily take a toll on us and the Enemy will do all he can to capitalize on those things in order to bring us down—but we can learn from the story of Nehemiah about how he continued to do the work of the Lord and refused to sink down to the level of his enemy. You’ll be encouraged today in a message from Nehemiah 6 by Pastor Garid Beeler.

In today’s study from John 13, Pastor Gary teaches about the time when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. It was a pure gesture of love and humility. The God of the Universe stooped down to wash the dirty feet of sinners! And then He tells us to “follow His example.” How are we to serve others in humility, especially those who have betrayed or mistreated us? Pastor Gary draws out four important points on the topic of serving one another in humility in today’s study entitled, “Serve Like Jesus.”

The Bible uses multiple references to “light” and “darkness”—good and evil—right and wrong. Jesus stepped into our dark world as the Light of the world. He died on a cross to bring us into the light and to rescue us from the dominion of darkness. In today’s study, Pastor Gary talks about these terms of contrast and how we can be saved from a dark world, dark hearts, dark minds, and dark deeds.

In today’s teaching, Dr. Erwin Lutzer exposes how the culture is collapsing and how Christians will need to stand alone on God’s truth. Drawn from the example of Daniel’s three friends in Daniel chapter 3, sometimes we must live counter to the culture and trust God to deliver us, either in this life or in the life to come.

Join guest speaker Pastor Don McClure as he shares a special message from Habakkuk, providing encouragement as we navigate the issues facing our world today.

Some people think that singing is the only way to worship the Lord.  But in John 12, Martha, Lazarus, and Mary (adult siblings) invited Jesus to their home and demonstrated three different ways to worship Him.  They model for us the diverse ways that we can honor and thank the Lord for who He is and what He has done.  Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching on “Ways to Worship.”

In one of the most beloved stories in the Bible, Jesus shows compassion, tenderness, and emotion in response to a very sad and tragic event—the untimely death of a close, personal friend named Lazarus.   Although Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, had asked Jesus to come quickly, Jesus delayed coming until Lazarus had died so that He could display a greater miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead! In this story from John 11, Pastor Gary answers two questions: (1) what does it teach us about Jesus that we should emulate? and (2) what does it teach us about death that we should anticipate? Follow along in today’s study entitled, “Raising Lazarus.”

There are a lot of views and opinions in the world about who Jesus is.  Many world religions say that He was a prophet, or a great teacher, or an enlightened man. But the best way we can understand the identity of Jesus is to examine His words and His works in the Bible—who He said He was and what He did to prove His identity.  Jesus teaches us plainly that He is God, but we may not understand it if we don’t know the language and context behind His words and works.  Join Pastor Gary today as he teaches today from John 10 on the identity and deity of Jesus.

There are plenty of people who have physical sight but are spiritually blind. In other words, they can see things with the natural eye but they are blind to the things of God and who Jesus is. In today’s study from John 9, Jesus heals a man born blind who also later receives the miracle of spiritual sight. Jesus opens the eyes of his heart to understand who He is. We all need that miracle—but beware, there will be people who will not share your joy of knowing Jesus. Some will reject you, disown you, or dismiss you, but none of that matters. Jesus accepts you, loves you, and died to save you.

Join us for a special midweek service with guest speaker John Amanchukwu!

What is TRUTH?  It is a question that Pontius Pilate asked Jesus before His crucifixion, and it is a question people are still asking today. There is great confusion in our world about truth. You will hear people say, “My truth vs. your truth” and “Truth is relative—it depends on the person and the situation,” but in response to Pilate’s question, Jesus said, “…For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” (John 18:37). For us to understand truth in a relative world, we must rely on God and His Word (the Bible) as the source and standard by which we evaluate what is true and what is false. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary discusses some of the false narrative that the culture is presenting as truth and gives a Biblical perspective on the topic of truth from John 8.

Join us for the conclusion of our Questions, Answers & More series.

Join us for a special evening service with the CEO of the Babylon Bee, Seth Dillon!

One of the most vivid and tender stories about God’s grace is found in John 8. A woman was caught in adultery and was brought to Jesus and publicly humiliated before a crowd. It was all a set-up in an attempt to test or trap Jesus. The religious leaders quoted the Old Testament law that this woman should be stoned to death for committing adultery and they wanted to know what Jesus thought. The Lord’s response was that “whoever is without sin should throw the first stone at her.” All the accusers walked away being “convicted in their conscience.” Jesus showed the woman tender grace and then told her to leave her life of sin. No person is better or worse than another—we ALL are in desperate need of God’s grace. Pastor Gary teaches about God’s grace in today’s study from John 8 and concludes with the background on the song, Amazing Grace, by John Newton.

Just us for part 5 of our Questions,Answers & More series.

Waiting can be a challenge. We know God loves us, but do we trust His timing? James chapter 5 encourages us to be patient during times of uncertainty. When we remember that God is patient with us, we can grow in our patience and learn to wait well.

Join us for part two of a two part series with apologist Frank Turek!

Join us for part one of a two part series with apologist Frank Turek!

Join Dr. Michael Farris for part three in his series called, “The Bible and the Constitution”.

Join Dr. Michael Farris in part two of three in his series called, “The Bible and the Constitution,” as he shares about the establishment and free exercise clauses of the first amendment and why the birth of religious freedom was a result of biblical Christianity.

On the eve of our National Independence, Pastor Gary delivers a message about the influence of Christianity upon our Founding Fathers which ultimately shaped our nation.  Although the United States of America is a country that values the freedom of religion—the freedom to practice whatever faith, or no faith at all—when it comes to the founding principles of our nation, Christianity had the greatest impact. Join us today for a patriotic service about faith and freedom as Pastor Gary reviews the Christian heritage of our nation and what has led to its decline.

Join Dr. Michael Farris in part one of three of his series called, “The Bible and the Constitution.” He shares about originalism and the Constitution and how a biblical approach to government is the best way to ensure freedom and equality for all.

The Church in America has become weak, ineffective, cowardly and has strayed from preaching the full counsel of God to the ecclesia (aka church). The Church no longer holds the line of truth, not because the world took it, but because we gave it. To reclaim the ground of truth, we need to be holy grounded in the truth and boldly proclaim the truth. The Church is the institution entrusted with the ministry of truth and it is the truth that frames reality and sets man free.

Brigitte Gabriel, author, speaker, and founder of actforamerica.org, gives her testimony of growing up in war-torn Lebanon under Islamic rule and answers questions from viewers with Pastor Gary Hamrick.

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity—one God who reveals Himself in three persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit. In John 7, Jesus introduces us to the Holy Spirit by referring to Him as “living water.” In today’s study Pastor Gary teaches about the person and role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Believer.

Sometimes people look to Jesus for what He can do for them instead of simply for who He is. We often want Him to “perform” for us – to meet our needs and to answer our prayers – but do we seek His face as much as we seek His hand? Pastor Gary tackles John 6 to challenge us about our own relationship with Jesus.

The third of a four-part series in which Pastor Gary Hamrick answers viewers' questions about the Bible!

In John 5 there was a “great multitude” of sick, lame, and paralyzed people lying around a pool in Jerusalem hoping for a miracle.  One man was there who was an invalid for 38 years.  Jesus was directed by the Father to heal that one man among the many who were sick.  Why did He only heal that one person?  And what must have all the others thought when they were stepped over for their miracle?  Pastor Gary shares two perspectives on this story—one from the angle of what ministry is supposed to really look like, and one from the human angle of what it must have felt like to be stepped over for a miracle.

The second of a four-part question and answers series. This week, Andy Wagner, Austin Hamrick, and Tyler Hamrick answer viewers' questions about the Bible!

In John 4, Jesus has a divine appointment with a woman at a well that will be life-changing for her.  She had been on a search for love—married five time and living with a sixth man who was not her husband.  As only Jesus can do, he tenderly performs heart surgery on her by exposing the great longing of her heart—a longing that can only be filled by Jesus.  She represents all of us who have gone from one relationship to another, one drink to another, one drug to another, one sexual encounter to another trying to fill that hole in our soul.  Today’s teaching by Pastor Gary is a message that will help us to see how only Jesus can really complete us and make us whole!

There is a difference between PHYSICAL birth and SPIRITUAL birth. Physical birth was the will and decision of others, but spiritual birth is your choice. There was a Jewish man named Nicodemus who didn’t understand spiritual birth. Like so many people today, people are confused and curious about Jesus. The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3 helps us to understand what it means to be “born again.” Have you been born again?

The first of a four-part series in which Pastor Gary Hamrick answers viewers' questions about the Bible!

The first miracle that Jesus performed during His earthly ministry was the changing of water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana.  No one was healed, no one was raised from the dead, and no one was fed by a few loaves and fish.  This miracle was purely for the enjoyment of the wedding guests.  Like a parent who loves to bless his children, God loves to bless us not based on our performance but based on His goodness.  The wine that Jesus miraculously produced at the end of the wedding banquet was the best wine of the banquet—a reminder to us that God has saved the best for last!

An in-depth study of Ruth 4.

There are many opinions in the world today about who Jesus is.  Some say He is just a prophet, some say He is a created being, some don’t believe in Him at all.  But exactly who is Jesus?  The apostle John goes into great detail in John 1 about the true identity and deity of Jesus.  Pastor Gary points out five things that John explains about the identity of Jesus.  It is essential to have a proper understanding of Jesus in order to understand salvation that came through Him!

An in-depth study of Ruth 3.

Luke 24 is often seen as a model of the journey that Jesus makes with many of us today. Two followers of Jesus don’t even recognize their risen Lord as they walk along the road and have conversation with Him. Suddenly, their eyes are opened, and their deep discouragement turns into passion. Similarly, as followers of Jesus, we all at times will experience discouragement and apathy in our own walks with the Lord. What is the remedy to discouragement and spiritual blindness in the life of the believer? Join our Bible study today to find out.

An in-depth study of Matthew 1:21

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is an historical fact that is unique to Christianity.  No other world religion makes the claim that their leader, prophet, or king died and rose from the dead.  People around the world are still celebrating a Risen Savior!  In Luke 24, Jesus appears to His disciples and imparts to them the same things He still imparts to us today—evidence for the head, and hope for the heart.  Listen to Pastor Gary as he shares this hopeful, eternal message of the Risen Lord Jesus!

What exactly was Jesus charged with that led to His crucifixion?  What was His crime?  There were two—BLASPHEMY and SEDITION.  The charges were not legitimate but they were trumped up by His adversaries.  The Jews demanded that Pontius Pilate release Barabbas and crucify Jesus instead.  There is an irony in that exchange that Pastor Gary explains for us in today’s teaching entitled, “We are Barabbas.”

An in-depth study of Ruth 2.

Two of Jesus’ Disciples failed Him.  One denied Him; one betrayed Him.  One recovered and was restored; the other tragically took his own life and died in his failure.  These are the stories of Peter and Judas.  Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, but Peter wept over his denial of Jesus. Peter was broken over his sin and he repented, so Jesus was able to restore him and use him for God’s glory.  Join Pastor Gary today in our study of Luke 22 as he reminds us that God is the God of second chances and He restores broken people!

An in-depth study of Ruth 1.

For centuries Jews around the world have celebrated Passover to commemorate their deliverance from slavery in Egypt.  But when Jesus shared His last Passover with His disciples, He expanded their understanding of Passover—that it was not simply looking back to their deliverance from the slavery of Egypt, but looking forward to a greater deliverance for all people from the slavery of sin!  Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching as he compares the Old Testament regulations for Passover to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ!

An in-depth study of Judges 20-21.

The Bible says that Jesus is coming again!  Jesus gives a list of events in Luke 21 to help us recognize certain indicators that we are drawing near to His Return.  Among those things, Jesus says, will be “wars and commotions” and that “nation will rise against nation” and “kingdom against kingdom.”  In the current war between Russia and Ukraine—an unprovoked attack by Russia against a sovereign nation—people have questions about whether this pertains to the End Times.  Ezekiel 38 tells us that Russia will be the predominant player in a military campaign against Israel in the future.  Join Pastor Gary as he shares about “The Rise of Russia and the End Times.”

An in-depth study of Judges 19-20.

In Luke 20, Jesus gives us a glimpse of what Heaven will be like—not in appearance, but in experience. He tells us two things: (a) there will be no marriage; relationships will be different, and (b) there will be no death; we will be like the angels in Heaven. Heaven is the eternal home for those who know Jesus as Lord and Savior. Are you ready? Do you know for certain that you will go to Heaven when you die? You can be! Listen today as Pastor Gary teaches about what Heaven will be like and how to be sure that you will go there when you die

An in-depth study of Philippians 4:4-13.

In a tragic scene on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Jesus weeps for the people who have seen Him, known Him, witnessed His miracles, heard His teachings, and yet have rejected Him as the Messiah.  He weeps for the peace that they will miss and the judgment that they will experience for their refusal to believe.  Truth is, God is still brokenhearted for those who don’t recognize Him!  How many times and in how many ways has God tried to get your attention?  He loves you and wants a relationship with you.  Don’t miss the time of God’s coming to you like most Jews did in Jesus’ day.

An in-depth study of Judges 17-18

In Luke 19 there is a story of a man named Zacchaeus who had a personal encounter with Jesus. The Bible describes him as having a “short stature” but the change that happened in his heart was huge. Zacchaeus was a hated tax collector who had fleeced his own Jewish people with extra taxation in order to enrich his personal life. But after he put his faith in Jesus, Zacchaeus not only got right with God but he also got right with those he had wronged. When Jesus changes our heart, we become at peace with God and at peace with others. Listen today to the story about a man whose life was radically changed by the power of Jesus.

An in-depth study of Judges 16.

Is there a desperate cry of your heart for something that would require a miracle from God?  Maybe for your health, your marriage, a prodigal child, deliverance from an addiction?  Whatever the need, we serve a miracle-working God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.  In today’s study from Luke 18, Pastor Gary shares the miraculous story of how a blind man named Bartimaeus received his sight from the Lord.  In his desperation he cried out to Jesus when Jesus was passing by Jericho on His way to Jerusalem.  If Jesus were passing by you today, what would be the one thing for which you desperately need a miracle?  What is the one thing that you would ask Him for?  Join us for today’s study as we trust God for a miracle today.

An in-depth study of Judges 14-15.

Sometimes when we pray we don’t always get WHAT we want, WHEN we want it.  Nevertheless, Jesus encourages us to keep on praying and to not become discouraged.  He teaches a parable about a widow who continually appealed to a judge for justice until the judge finally granted her wish.  The point of the parable is this—if a cold-hearted judge can give a poor widow what she needs, how much more will our warm-hearted Father give to His children what we need!  Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching about the importance of persistent prayer.

An in-depth study of Judges 13-14:11.

What will the SOCIAL and SPIRITUAL condition of the culture look like just prior to Jesus’ return? In Luke 17 Jesus says it will be like the days of Noah and the days of Lot—a righteous minority living among a wicked majority. The wickedness in the world will not only be tolerated but celebrated too and people will think it is “normal.” So how do we maintain the Biblical mission to win the world for Christ without allowing the world to influence us while we wait for Christ’s return? Pastor Gary shares the answer to that question in today’s teaching from Luke 17.

An in-depth study of Judges 11:29-12.

In Luke 17 Jesus encounters ten men afflicted with leprosy—a debilitating and ultimately deadly disease that is mentioned 68 times in the Bible.  Jesus miraculously healed all ten men but only one returned to give thanks to Jesus.  When he did, he received even more than the other nine—salvation.  All ten men received physical healing, but only one—the one who returned to thank Jesus—got healing for his soul as well.  This life is only temporary, but there is a life to come that is eternal!  Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching entitled, “Where Are the Nine?”

An in-depth study of Judges 10-11.

Whenever a sensitive or controversial topic comes up, it is the Church’s responsibility to address it with GRACE and TRUTH. Such is the case with the topic of abortion. Today’s teaching marks the 38th anniversary of the Sanctity of Human Life Sunday since President Ronald Reagan made the first proclamation in 1984, eleven years after the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision by the Supreme Court that legalized abortion.  Pastor Gary explains the value of every human life and prays for God’s healing touch upon those women and fathers who have been impacted by abortion.  

An in-depth study of Judges 9.

Most people have a curiosity about the afterlife. That’s because the Bible says that “God has set eternity in the hearts of men” (Ecc. 3:11). The eternal God has put an eternal awareness in the hearts of every human being. In Luke 16 Jesus tells one of the most insightful stories about the afterlife. He details the deaths of two men and the different places they went after they died. One man went to a place of Torment where he suffered, and the other man (named Lazarus) went to a place of Paradise where he was comforted. How is Paradise different from Heaven? What happens when we die? Pastor Gary answers these questions and more as he teaches through Luke 16.

An in-depth study of Judges 8.

In an unfamiliar parable told only by Luke, Jesus wants us to understand that money and material things by themselves are not bad. In fact, they can and should be used for good… just don’t love stuff as much or more than you love God. Pastor Gary shares five important principles from this parable about the role that money and material possessions play in the life of a Believer who wants to honor God as Lord of everything.

An in-depth study of Judges 7.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem He completely changed the world. More poems, songs, and books have been written about Him than any other person in human history. We even mark time around the world based on His birth (B.C. and A.D.). How is it possible that a little baby born in an obscure village 2000 years ago is still impacting the world today? Because He was no ordinary child. Christmas is about when God stepped into our world and wrapped Himself with humanity to live among us and die for us because He wants a personal relationship with each of us! Won’t you surrender your life to the One who changed the world? Listen as Pastor Gary shares this timeless story about the God who loves you.

What did the ancient prophets have to say about the birth of the Messiah?  Matthew, in his gospel, quotes five prophecies from his Jewish Scriptures (our Old Testament) about the birth of the Messiah that were fulfilled by Jesus Christ.  Why is it important for us to know this—that Jesus fulfilled ancient prophecies written hundreds of years before His birth?  It’s important for two reasons: (1) it VALIDATES that God is faithful to His promises, and (2) it VERIFIES that Jesus is the Messiah!  Join Pastor Gary as we connect the dots of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the birth of Jesus Christ.  

People are either “lost” or “found”. That is, we are either estranged from God or we know Him in a personal relationship through Jesus. In Luke 15 Jesus describes different types of people in their lost condition and what we are supposed to do to help them become “found”. Jesus shares three parables that describe people like sheep, a coin, or the prodigal son. Join Pastor Gary in today’s teaching from Luke 15.

An in-depth study of Isaiah 1:10-20.

The Kingdom of Israel is divided, and the leader of Judah, King Jehoshaphat, is terrified by the news he just received regarding a triple-threat alliance of foreign enemies marching against Jerusalem. There are three things King Jehoshaphat does in the midst of his fear and the impending battle. These same three things are crucial for us as Believers to learn and apply to the different “battles” we face in life. Join Pastor Austin to learn about these three spiritual weapons of warfare.

Every year on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, Pastor Gary Hamrick and Marwan Rifka give an update on how and what Cornerstone Chapel is doing. It is a way to draw attention to the goodness of God and to give Him thanks and glory for all the wonderful ways He has blessed us and used us for the Kingdom. In this service, we highlight the various ministries of the church, give a financial update, and explain how we are endeavoring to impact the world for the glory of God.

Our annual Thanksgiving Eve service of testimonies and giving God praise and thanks for all He has done over the past year.

An in-depth study of Judges 6:11-40.

The Bible describes salvation like a gate or a door.  It is open to all, but it is narrow and it won’t stay open forever.  We are invited to walk through that door of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.  He will take us just as we are—broken and bruised, dirty and ashamed—and He will make us whole!  Follow along with Pastor Gary in today’s teaching from Luke 13

An in-depth study of Judges 5-6:12.

All of our lives will be touched by something tragic at some point—death, disease, grief, sorrow, betrayal, abuse, etc.—you name it, we live in a world corrupted by sin and evil and it is unavoidable.  And yet, how do we reconcile all this with an all-loving God who allows these things to happen?  In today’s study, Pastor Gary draws on a passage from Luke 13 dealing with two tragic events that resulted in the deaths of many people.  We will examine what Jesus teaches us about dealing with tragedy in our lives in today’s study entitled, “The Theology of Tragedy.”

An in-depth study of Judges 3:31-4:24.

An in-depth study of Acts 17:16-34.

All of us worry some of the time, and some of us worry all of the time, but Jesus tells us not to worry any of the time!  Yes, worry is a sin!  Jesus addressed the topic of worry and anxiety head-on in Luke 12.  In today’s study, Pastor Gary will unpack this passage and encourage us to give our worries and anxieties to the only One who can help us—the Lord Jesus.

An in-depth study of Judges 2-3:30

An in-depth study of Judges 1.

Felt busy lately? We all have! But someone once said, “If Satan can’t make you bad, he will make you busy.”  Satan loves to get us off track by stealing our time.  There is no shortage of stuff to keep us busy!  Life can be crushing at times… and consequently a lot of things suffer because of it—marriages, health, relationships with children, and most importantly our relationship with Jesus.  In today’s study from Luke 10, Pastor Gary looks at a familiar story between two sisters—Mary and Martha.  Martha was frantic, busy, and distracted while Mary was calm and sitting at Jesus’ feet listening to Him.  Jesus admonishes Martha for being so worried and anxious, but he commended Mary for being so calm and devoted.  How can we manage the time God has given us to fight against the busy demands of life?  Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching entitled, “An Enemy Named Busy.”

#1 New York Times bestselling author, Eric Metaxas, encourages the Church with some of the latest scientific and biblical archaeological evidence for God. From his latest book, Is Atheism Dead, Eric also discusses how two of the best-known atheists of our time eventually came to faith in Christ through an honest observation of undeniable evidence.  Eric’s teaching will help to equip Believers in their faith as they engage the culture for Christ.

An in-depth study of Joshua 22-24.

God has used Israel and the Jewish people to introduce salvation to the world through Jesus Christ.  But God is not finished with Israel or the Jewish people.  The Church has NOT replaced Israel.  Amir Tsarfati shares the truth of God’s Word from the perspective of a Jewish Believer from Israel.

Jesus lived with others in mind. That’s a theme from Luke and the entire New Testament. The challenge for His followers is to rely on Him so that we can follow His example despite our circumstances.

An in-depth study of Joshua 20-22:12

The story of the Good Samaritan is found only in the gospel of Luke but is probably the most familiar parable that Jesus taught. Despite how many, even secular sociologists, have used this parable to motivate people to do good deeds, it’s really not about that. It’s about eternal life. Jesus helps us to understand how to love God and love people through a personal relationship with Him.

An in-depth study of Joshua 16-19.

There are several times that the Bible uses paradoxes as teaching tools.  A paradox is “a statement that seems contradictory or absurd but is actually valid or true.”  Pastor Gary takes a look at five paradoxes that seem contradictory but are, in fact, important principles for us.  These are counterintuitive statements from God that prove to be true and valuable lessons for life.

Jesus had a unique way of loving and relating to people so that both sinful, secular people and righteous, religious people were drawn to Him.  He had a wonderful way of helping people feel welcomed and valued in the eyes of God that endeared them to Him.  How can we live our lives in a similar way so that people are drawn to Jesus through us?  Sometimes Christians are living dangerously like the world, and other times Christians are living in a Christian bubble with no influence on the world.  Both extremes are wrong.  How can we find the balance that Jesus did so that people are drawn to Him through us? Join Pastor Gary for this study from Luke 7.

An in-depth study of Joshua 14-15.

There is a little obscure village in Israel called Nain. It’s only mentioned one time in the entire Bible (Luke 7), and it’s the location of a miraculous event where Jesus raised a young man from the dead. The story is a display of Jesus’ compassion for a woman who had already buried her husband and now was about to bury her only son until Jesus intervened. But it is also a glimpse into the permanent resurrection from the dead that Jesus offers all who believe in Him. Join Pastor Gary as he retells this story and explains how we too can be raised from the dead to live with the Lord forever!

An in-depth study of Joshua 12-13

Life can take a toll on a person’s soul and body. Such was the case of a man in the Bible who desperately needed help.  He had four friends who cared about him enough to bring him to Jesus.  The encounter the man had with Jesus would dramatically change his life—both spiritually and physically.  We can experience the same today when we have a personal encounter with Jesus too.  He is still actively healing people, soul and body.

An in-depth study of Joshua 11.

Jesus grew up in Nazareth and returned there at the beginning of His ministry to teach in the synagogue.  When He read a Messianic passage from the book of Isaiah and then said that it applied to Himself, the people were “filled with wrath” and tried to kill Him.  Why was their reaction so violent to what Jesus had said?  Pastor Gary unpacks the story today and shares three points that we can learn for our lives today from the reaction and response of the people.

An in-depth study of Joshua 10.

Have you ever thought that God was silent in your life—indifferent about what you might be going through? There was a time in Biblical history when God was silent for 400 years but He was not absent or indifferent! He was planning things according to His timing and purposes that would fulfill the words of the prophet Micah with the birth of John the Baptist. It is a reminder to us of God’s faithfulness to all His promises. He has not forgotten you! He is working on your behalf. His silence does not mean His absence or indifference.

An in-depth study of Hebrews 11:8

An in-depth study of Hebrews 11:5

An in-depth study of Hebrews 11:23-29.

An in-depth study of Joshua 9:14-27.

An in-depth study of Joshua 9.

At the exact moment that Jesus was crucified, the Bible says that the curtain (or “veil”) in the Temple tore “from top to bottom.” Why did that happen and what did it mean that the curtain tore “from top to bottom”? It is an often overlooked verse in the Bible surrounding the events of the crucifixion of Christ, but it is also one of the most liberating verses in all of the Bible because it speaks of new FREEDOM for humanity. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary shares three significant reasons why God tore the curtain in the Temple and what it means for us today.

In Mark 12 Jesus observes a poor widow putting 2 coins—worth a fraction of a penny—into the Temple treasury. We learn that she gave all that she had—her entire life’s savings. Generosity to God is measured not by the amount but by the sacrifice. And there will be certain sacrifices we must make as followers of Jesus—not just financially, but practically, materially, emotionally, and even physically. What does it really “cost” us to be followers of Jesus? Pastor Gary challenges us with the example of the poor widow in today’s study.

An in-depth study of Joshua 8:30-9.

An in-depth study of Joshua 8:1-29.

There were three groups that held religious and political sway over people in Jesus' day: the Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees. Normally they were not in agreement about much, but there was one thing they were united about—their opposition to Jesus and His ministry. Sadly, the same three types of groups are working today to undermine the ministry of Jesus and His True Church. We must be careful to avoid this modern version of this ungodly influence that takes the form of: religious piety, political correctness, and liberal theology.

An in-depth study of Joshua 7.

In life we can have “mountain-top” experiences and “valley-low” experiences. Most of life is lived somewhere between these two extremes. But the truth is, since we live in a fallen, sinful world, it is more common for us to live in or near the “valley” rather than on the “mountain top.” In Mark 9 there are two stories back-to-back: the first story takes place on a high mountain where Jesus is glorified; the second story takes place in the valley where there is a demon-possessed boy and a desperate father. These are two very different stories, but whether we are on the mountain or in the valley… Jesus is right there with us!

An in-depth study of Joshua 6.

Too often people find themselves harboring bitterness or resentment for an offense committed against them (either real or perceived). But holding a grudge can be personally destructive and God encourages us to forgive "as the Lord has forgiven you" (Col. 3:13). That's not always easy, but it is vitally necessary so that bitterness and resentment don't take us captive. In Mark 6, there is a story about a woman named Herodias who held a grudge so deeply that it ultimately led to the execution of John the Baptist, and it was all because she wanted revenge. Pastor Gary teaches today about the destructive nature of bitterness and how we can be free by God's grace through forgiveness.

An in-depth study of Joshua 4-5.

When the Bible calls us to be “fruitful” it means that the qualities, characteristics, and virtues of Jesus should be more and more evident in our lives. But what are some things that hinder that fruitfulness? Jesus explains three things that hinder our fruitfulness in the Parable of the Sower. Join Pastor Gary for today’s teaching as we learn about three particular things that threaten our fruitfulness—Satan, persecution, and the world.

When asked a question about fasting, Jesus gives an answer that goes beyond the subject of fasting and addresses the purpose for His coming—He didn’t come to patch up an old system but to bring something brand new. The New Covenant is not a patch on the Old Covenant; it is something brand new. The same can be said about what Christ came to do for us—He didn’t come to patch up our old lives but to bring us new life in Him! Join Pastor Gary today as he explains what it means to “put off” the old ways of the world and to “put on” the new ways of Christ.

Prayer is conversation, communication, and communion with God. Sometimes it involves speaking, sometimes listening, and sometimes just being silent and still before Him. But prayer is a gift that connects us to our Heavenly Father. And yet, most people would say that they don’t utilize this gift as often as they should. In today’s study, Pastor Gary takes us through the first chapter of Mark to examine the prayer life of Jesus—how He got up early before sunrise to pray despite the fact that the day and night before were extremely demanding. We can learn from His example and discipline our lives to “pray like Jesus”.

In the closing verses of Matthew, Jesus gives a directive to His disciples known as “The Great Commission.” He calls us to “make disciples” of all nations. But what defines a “disciple?” And what demonstrates that you are one? In today’s study, Pastor Gary differentiates between a convert to Christianity and a disciple of Christ. Becoming a convert can happen in a moment, but becoming a disciple of Christ takes a lifetime. Find out in today’s study what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

In the last week of Jesus’ life before His crucifixion, He was betrayed by one friend and denied by another. The one who betrayed Him was Judas; the one who denied Him was Peter. The story of Judas ended with condemnation; the story of Peter ended with restoration. Two of His closest friends failed Him, but only one recovered—Peter. Truth is, we have ALL failed Jesus because ALL have SINNED. But we can learn from the life of Peter and how he joined remorse with repentance and experienced restoration. God is the God of second chances, not just for Peter, but for all of us like him!

In the third part of a three-part series, Pastor Gary unpacks the Parable of the Talents. A “talent” in the Bible is not what we might commonly think. It has nothing to do with human ability, but rather is a unit of measurement. A biblical talent weighed about 75 pounds and was used in the Bible as a value for money—either a talent of silver or a talent of gold. In the parable, Jesus is teaching us about how we should manage well what He has entrusted to us while He is away. But it has more to do with the ETERNAL than the PRACTICAL. Find out the meaning of this parable as Pastor Gary shares from Matthew 25:14-30.

Between Matthew 24-25, Jesus teaches three parables to help us get READY for His Second Coming. In today’s study of The Parable of the 10 Virgins, Jesus warns us that some will be ready and some will not. The ones who will not be ready are not even really Believers. They go to church, sing the songs, give their money, volunteer their time, but they don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus. One of the saddest things in any church is a Nonbeliever who thinks that he or she is a Believer… who “plays the part but lacks the heart.” In today’s study, Pastor Gary encourages us to be certain of our salvation so that we can be ready whenever we die or Christ returns, whichever happens first.

A special question and answer service on the book of Revelation.

The Bible teaches that Jesus is coming again! In fact, there are almost three times as many prophecies predicting the Second Coming of Christ as there were prophecies predicting His First Coming. In Matthew 24:44, Jesus exhorts us to “be ready” for His Second Coming. But since we don’t know exactly when Jesus will return we have to be watching and waiting patiently. Between Matthew 24-25, Jesus teaches three parables to help us get ready for His Second Coming. Pastor Gary teaches the first of the three parables today in a 3-part series entitled, “Get Ready ‘cause Here I Come.”

In Matthew 24, Jesus tells us different events that will happen just prior to His Second Coming. Many of the things that we read in Matthew 24 are happening in our day! And even though we don’t know the exact day Jesus will return, we can certainly sense the season. In today’s study, Pastor Gary unpacks Matthew 24 to show the three phases of events leading up to the Second Coming of Christ entitled, “Signs of the Times.”

Hypocrisy involves some kind of inconsistency or contradiction in our lives. And unless we have never contradicted ourselves in speech, thought, or action then we are guilty of it like everyone else. In Matthew 23, Jesus rebukes the religious leaders of His day for their hypocrisy. Seven times He calls them “hypocrites” and challenges them about their inconsistent lives. We all have room to be challenged in our own lives about any hypocrisy toward others, within self, or toward God in today’s study entitled, “Don’t Be a Hypocrite.”

In Matthew 22 some religious and political leaders, who were opposed to Jesus, plotted to trap Him in His words with a question about taxes. They assumed that the controversial topic would cause Jesus to alienate people depending on His answer. But Jesus responds with the wisdom of heaven and encourages people to give “to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” Yes, he made a statement that it’s our civic duty to pay our taxes, but the bigger point He was making had to do with giving to God what belongs to Him—our very lives. We bear His image and were made in His likeness and we will only find real fulfillment and purpose in life when we return to our rightful owner—Jesus.

A Nationwide Town Hall.

Have you ever thought about what makes God angry? There is a scene in the Temple of Jerusalem where Jesus is so angry that He overthrows tables and drives out people who have misused the House of God (even using a whip, according to John’s gospel). It’s important to understand this aspect of God’s nature—that He can get angry—because without that understanding, we are liable to treat God with disrespect and disobedience if we only see Him as a lovable Teddy Bear. And that is partly true, but there is also a Grizzly Bear side of God that you don’t want to mess with. Yet, the Bible tells us some wonderful aspects about the anger of God that Pastor Gary will share at the conclusion of today’s teaching entitle, “Understanding God’s Anger.”

Whether a person comes to faith in Jesus early in life or late in life, the reward is the same—forgiveness of sins and the assurance of Heaven upon a person’s death. Jesus teaches a parable in Matthew 20 to caution those who have gotten saved early in life not to be jealous of those who get saved late in life who receive the same rewards. The “benefit package” is the same for ALL who trust Christ as Savior, no matter when they get saved or what kind of terrible sins they’ve committed. God is generous with His grace and does not give us what we deserve. We should all be thankful for that! Follow today’s study with Pastor Gary entitled, “Grace is Not Fair.”

According to recent polls, the majority of Americans see themselves as “basically good.” But the Bible teaches otherwise. And when people believe the narrative that they are basically good, they will not see their need for God. In Matthew 19 there is a story about a rich, young man who is a picture of the majority of the world—he’s a good guy who thinks that doing good things is the key to getting into heaven. But he was wrong, and so are those who believe the same. Pastor Gary shares the answer to the young man’s questions, “What good thing must I do to have eternal life?”

The Bible teaches us that God has a big heart for all people, but especially for children. Between Matthew 18-19, children are mentioned nine times. In particular, those references teach us (1) the example of children, (2) the warning against harming children, (3) the angelic protection of children, and (4) the eternal reward for children. Have you ever wondered what happens to children when they die before they have a chance to accept Jesus? What happens to the souls of aborted or miscarried babies? What can we learn from children? Join us for a Sanctity of Life teaching as Pastor Gary shares about the value and importance of children.

There are many views about the identity of Jesus. Was he just a good teacher, an enlightened man, or popular prophet? Modern religions think so. But Jesus is more than those things. In Matthew 16, Jesus takes His disciples to a place called Caesarea Philippi to discuss His true identity as the Christ, the Son of God. Join Pastor Gary as he exposes the historical and modern myths about who Jesus is and then takes us to Scripture to prove His true identity.

Join us for our Annual Question and Answer service.

In the Christmas carol, O Holy Night, there’s a line in the first stanza that reads: “A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices.” If ever there was a time when a weary world needed something to rejoice about, it’s now. 2020 has been a challenging year for many people on many levels. The world is more discouraged than ever before and feeling pretty hopeless. But the source of true hope entered the world 2000 years ago when Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He came to save us from our sins by dying on a cross. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary invites you to receive Jesus as Lord and Savior—the greatest gift every given to mankind.

At Christmas we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, which is good news for all! For the Christian, this brings great joy. But what is true joy exactly? Is it the same as mere happiness or is it different? How does one experience real, genuine joy? Join our study today as we look into God’s Word on how Joy is something that is not temporal, but eternal.

The CDC put out a report in late August saying that nearly half of American adults reported struggling with mental health or substance abuse due to the pandemic. Having peace is something that alludes many people today. However, the word “peace” is mentioned 420 times in the Bible, and it also appears at all three significant stages of Jesus’ life: His birth, death, and resurrection. Why is peace so greatly emphasized at all three stages of His life? And how can I finally be at peace with God, peace with others, and peace with myself? Join our study today to see exactly why the Christmas season can always be remembered as the time where Peace for the broken human heart entered the world.

Who is “king” of your life? In Matthew 13, Jesus teaches about “the Kingdom of Heaven” where Jesus is king and those who have surrendered their lives to His rule and reign make up the Kingdom of Heaven. “The Kingdom of Heaven” is both a physical kingdom (because Heaven is a real place) and a spiritual kingdom (because it’s about God ruling not just in a “place” but also in a “person”—our hearts and lives). In Matthew 13 Jesus teaches seven parables, six of which are specifically about the Kingdom of Heaven. What can we learn about this Kingdom? Who can be a part of it? How can we be sure that we belong to the Kingdom of Heaven and that we will enjoy all the many benefits as citizens of that Kingdom? Join us for today’s study from Matthew 13.

Every year on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, Pastor Gary Hamrick and Marwan Rifka give an update on how and what Cornerstone Chapel is doing. It is a way to draw attention to the goodness of God and to give Him thanks and glory for all the wonderful ways He has blessed us and used us for the Kingdom. In this service, we highlight the various ministries of the church, give a financial update, and explain how we are endeavoring to impact the world for the glory of God.

Our annual Thanksgiving Eve service of testimonies and giving God praise and thanks for all He has done over the past year.

God has created a “pause” for our work week with what the Bible calls a “Sabbath”. The Sabbath is to be a time of rest and is intended to benefit us both PHYSICALLY and SPIRITUALLY. We need to rest physically—to be “off” and recharge our batteries, so to speak. But even more than that, we need rest for our souls that can only be found in a relationship with Jesus. There are a lot of tired and weary people in our world—tired of running from God, tired of an empty life, tired of the lies, and the shame and the weight of sin. Jesus invites us to come to Him and find rest for our souls. But there are three things that can hinder entering God’s Rest. Join Pastor Gary as he discusses these things and teaches about what it means “to find rest for your soul.”

Many times in life we get disappointed when things don’t go according to what we had expected. When that happens with God—when He doesn’t do what we had hoped or expected—it can lead to a frustration with God. In Matthew 11 we see this happening with John the Baptist when he finds himself in prison and God seemingly ignoring his situation. John begins to question whether Jesus really is the Messiah. Have you ever struggled with frustration or discouragement because God didn’t do what you had hoped He would do? It’s not uncommon. And God can handle our discouragement. In fact, He is the One who can help us through it. Follow along with Pastor Gary in today’s Bible study entitled, “Expectation Frustration.”

Following the 2020 election results, Pastor Gary Hamrick delivers a reminder from Matthew 10 on how we are to live as followers of Christ no matter who occupies the White House. The American Christian life has been too comfortable for too long. But times are changing. Lines are being drawn in the sand. Christians cannot remain silent or complacent. Just look at the early disciples and how they were martyred for their faith! Jesus says that when we live for Him we should expect opposition and hostility even from within our own families. He is sending us out “as sheep among wolves.”

In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary challenges Millennials and GenZ young adults to prioritize their compassion for others and to be guided by objective truth rather than subjective emotion. Is it OK to be a “single issue voter”? Should abortion be more important than other issues in an Election like immigration, health care, the environment, and social justice? Pastor Gary answers these questions and more in today’s study from Matthew 8. He also reminds us that at the end of the day, no matter who gets elected, our hope is in the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth.

In Matthew 8, Jesus heals a man with leprosy. In Biblical times leprosy was a debilitating, deadly disease. It was commonly thought that God would strike a person with leprosy as punishment for sin in his/her life. But that wasn’t true; leprosy wasn’t a punishment for sin but it was a picture of sin. There are several parallels between leprosy and our sin nature. And the cure that the man in Matthew 8 received for his leprosy is the same cure that we need for our sinfulness—a miracle from God. Through his sacrifice on the cross, Jesus offers us that miraculous cure for our terminal illness (our leprosy). We can be cleansed from the disease that is killing us and be made brand new creatures in Christ!

On the eve of the 2020 Presidential Election, Pastor Gary delivers a sermon to challenge the church in America to “wake up!” Our nation is at a crossroads and our only hope is for Christians to stand for righteousness and vote our values! To be disengaged and apathetic will result in the advancement of a liberal, progressive, demonic-inspired agenda that is bent on the destruction of America. Christians need to wake up and realize that we are in a spiritual battle for the heart and soul of our nation and the heart and soul of the next generation. Stand up for righteousness! Stand up for truth! And let your voices be heard for the glory of God!

In the closing verses of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges His hearers about whether they really belong to Him or not. The lengthiest sermon ever recorded that Jesus gave is not just about how to live, but whether or not we will do what He says. Being on “Team Jesus” means we have a relationship with Him and will obey Him. The Sermon on the Mount is not just about words, but a way of life for followers of Jesus Christ. He is the narrow way that leads to life. He is the Rock on whom we build our lives.

We are familiar with the “Golden Rule” that Jesus taught (treating others the way we want to be treated), but there are also some other “Golden” principles that Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount about prayer and about how God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Prayer is a vital part of our walk with the Lord and Jesus has much to say about Asking, Seeking, and Knocking. In today’s message, Pastor Gary focuses on the topic of prayer from Matthew 7.

Contrary to popular belief, Jesus didn’t say that we can’t judge others or even that we shouldn’t; in fact, in Matthew 7:15-16 He says that we should be judging when it comes to certain people like false prophets. We have to be wise and discerning about others. But it can’t be based on assumptions, appearances, or our personal preferences. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches us the difference between making right judgments (which is good) and being judgmental (which is bad). Join Pastor Gary today as he tackles this topic in today’s Bible study from Matthew 7.

How are Christians supposed to be responsible for the material aspects of life without the need for material things becoming a greed for material things? The material is certainly not sinful; it’s needful. But how much is enough? And how can we use what God has given us to make an eternal difference in the lives of people? These are questions Pastor Gary answers from the counsel Jesus gives us in the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 6. Join us for today’s study on “Material Management”.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches us about three particular disciplines of the faith—GIVING, PRAYING, and FASTING. Spiritual disciplines are NOT religious rituals; they are habits, practices, and experiences that are designed to develop, grow, and strengthen one’s spirit—to build the “muscles” of one’s character as a follower of Christ. So why are we to practice these? And how? Follow along in today’s study as Pastor Gary shares on the topic of “holy habits.”

The standard that Jesus sets about how to relate to others is very different from the world’s standard. Jesus teaches things like: we are to keep the promises we make; we are to “turn the other cheek” when insulted; and we are to love those who mistreat or malign us. The world’s approach is completely the opposite. But as Christians we must follow His example even when the rest of the world lives and acts differently. Jesus is not calling us to be pacifists or to roll over and let people take advantage of us. But He is calling us to take the higher road, to honor Him, and to let God deal with those who might mistreat or malign us.

Jesus had many uncomfortable things to say in His Sermon on the Mount.  Among the issues He covered was the topic of divorce.  And as uncomfortable as the subject is, as followers of Jesus Christ we must have a Biblical understanding of marriage and divorce. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary shares the two Biblical grounds for divorce and sensitively discusses the topic with grace and truth.

Unity is challenging to find in today's divisive world. Together we study the unity in Christ that the Church of Ephesus and the Apostle Paul enjoyed, and the fellowship believers today can benefit from.

The story of the Apostle Paul as recorded in the Book of Acts is a great example of the transforming work of God. The story reminds us that a life that is surrendered to God can be transformed by God. In this study, we examine three principles of a transformed life taken from Acts 11-15.

Christianity is not a religion; it’s a relationship with Jesus Christ. We will see 3 characters in Acts 8-10 that will discover this truth - that doing religion without a relationship with Jesus is worthless.

The Holy Spirit can often be a controversial topic in the church. Some spheres of the church seldom talk about the Holy Spirit because it makes them feel uncomfortable; while other spheres of the church put an unhealthy emphasis on the Holy Spirit and the gifts of the Spirit. In today’s message, Pastor Austin addresses who the Holy Spirit it, what His purpose is in our lives, and how we can be filled with His power.

As we read through the book of Proverbs, we notice that Self-Control and Humility are the hallmarks of Wisdom. But Self-Control and Humility don't come naturally with age. Join us as we learn more about Wisdom so that we can avoid the foolish ways that lead to sin and death.

Many people today wonder what the purpose is for the Old Testament—after all, isn’t it all about rules, regulations, and rituals? Doesn’t it contain a lot of information about bloodshed, wars, death, and disease? And aren’t we under the new covenant now—the New Testament—so we don’t really need the Old Testament, right? WRONG. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said that He didn’t come to do away with the Law, but to fulfill it. So how are we to understand the Old Testament and its application to us today? Join Pastor Gary for this study in Matthew 5 for that answer.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus uses two metaphors to describe His followers: “salt of the earth”, and “light of the world”. He expects His followers to impact and influence the world for His glory. We are to invade our culture in the way that salt invades food and light invades the darkness. Christians must get off the side-lines and get into the game! We cannot be silent, passive, or irrelevant. We must engage the culture, promote Biblical values, speak the truth, and live for Jesus and tell people about Jesus wherever and whenever we can—this is being salt and light.

The longest recorded and most familiar sermon of Jesus is referred to as “The Sermon on the Mount.” All of Matthew 5-7 is devoted to this teaching and the purpose of it is to explain to us what it looks like to live as a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, motivated by the heart rather than by the law. The first part of the sermon is called “The Beatitudes” (which means “Blessings”). There are eight Beatitudes, and they are all intended to be read and lived as a package, not as multiple choice. Join us today as Pastor Gary begins a series through The Sermon on the Mount explaining the 8 Beatitudes.

1 & 2 Thessalonians

In Matthew 4, Satan comes to tempt Jesus. The tactics he uses exposes three common ways that Satan tries to tempt us as well: the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. Each time that Jesus was tempted, He responded with Scripture as his “weapon”. In today’s study, Pastor Gary explains who Satan is, what temptation is, and how we can withstand temptation. Since all of us experience various temptations, today’s study is an important reminder to strengthen us in our faith.

In Matthew 3 we are introduced to John the Baptist—the one the Old Testament prophets predicted would come to herald the arrival of the Messiah. In Matthew 3:11, John the Baptist spoke of three types of baptisms: water, Holy Spirit, and fire. In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary tells us that all Believers either should or will experience all three of these baptisms. But what does “baptism” exactly mean? And how is it that we may experience these different baptisms? Pastor Gary answers these questions and more in today’s study from Matthew 3.

None of us chose our family of origin. We are born into a family without any choice about that. Sometimes that proves to be a good thing, and sometimes not. There are tragic stories of alcoholic parents, abusive family members, abandonment, divorce, poverty, etc. Children grow up to become adults who sometimes repeat those patterns, and the cycle continues. But what if that cycle could be broken? What if a person could actually live life without their family history defining them? It’s possible in a relationship with Christ! He gives us a new heart, a new start, and a new identity. The heritage we receive is not as important as the legacy we leave. Jesus’ own family tree was littered with human failure, and yet it did not define Him. In addition, God used imperfect people in that family tree to accomplish His perfect purposes. Join us for today’s study from Matthew chapter 1.

In the last in the series “Jesus is the I AM”, Pastor Gary teaches through John 15:1-8 where Jesus says, “I AM the true vine.” Every Christian is supposed to be a fruitful Christian exemplifying the character of Christ. But how do we become more fruitful? Jesus tells us the answer in this passage—when we ABIDE in Christ, when we are LIFTED by Christ, and when we are PRUNED by Christ. Pastor Gary explains all these points today in our conclusion of the “I AM” series.

In John 14:6, Jesus makes a very exclusive claim—that the only way to get to God and the only way to go to Heaven is through Jesus Christ. There is no other process and no other person through which we can be saved. The idea that there is only “one way” to God (instead of multiple paths) leaves some to believe that Christianity is narrow-minded and bigoted. But would those same people believe the same thing if just one cure were found for cancer, or one door led you out of a burning building? Of course not! They would welcome the single way to be cured or rescued without feeling deprived that there were not many ways. So it is with Jesus Christ—He is God’s one way to be saved. Amazingly, God has provided Him to all who would believe and receive. There is room in Heaven for you!

In one of the most beloved scenes in the Bible—the death of Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus,—Jesus shows us his tender, emotional side as He grieves for his friend. But He also shows us His miraculous, powerful side when He defies the grave by raising Lazarus from the dead! And though Lazarus was only raised temporarily (he would die again later), it is a picture of how Jesus has the power over death and the grave. This is the reason Jesus said, “I AM the resurrection and the life.” For Believers, we have the assurance that there is life after death! Heaven is real, but so is Hell. And Heaven is open wide to all who would believe and receive Jesus as the resurrection and the life! You’ll be encouraged from today’s study as we examine three things about death and the assurance of Heaven in today’s study from John 11.

In our on-going study of the "I AM" statements of Jesus through the Gospel of John, Pastor Gary examines the fourth of seven statements when Jesus said, "I AM the good shepherd." In John 10 Jesus uses the illustration of sheep and a shepherd to express His heart toward us -- that we are like sheep and He is like a shepherd who lovingly, tenderly cares for us. There are four primary things we can learn from what Jesus told us in John 10 about Himself and what it all means for us. Join us for today's encouraging word about our Good Shepherd, Jesus.

In ancient Israel, sheep and shepherds were common themes used to communicate spiritual truths. Jesus said that He was “the door of the sheep” in an illustration He gave to help us understand how He is the only way to have access to the sheep pen (which is a picture of the Church, the family of God). At the same time, Jesus warned about “thieves and robbers” who pose a threat to the sheep, and then encourages us about how He came to give us abundant life. Join Pastor Gary in today’s teaching as he continues in the “I AM” series through the Gospel of John.

Light and darkness are used in the Bible as metaphors for good and evil, right and wrong, truth and error. Jesus said, “I AM the light of the world.” He came to illuminate dark hearts, dark minds, dark deeds, and a dark world. He is the contrast to everything that is hidden, secretive, sinful, and covert. And He calls us to step into the light—to come into relationship with Him and allow Him to cleanse our sinful, secretive hearts and deliver us from a dark, covert world. Jesus wants to RESCUE and REPURPOSE us. He wants to take us out of darkness into His wonderful light and then use us to shine His light in a dark world. Open your Bibles to John 8:12 and join Pastor Gary in today’s study about how Jesus is the Light of the World.

Pastor Gary continues with the “I AM” series looking at the words of Jesus from John 6:35 when He said, “I AM the Bread of Life.” Many people try to fulfill certain longings of the human heart with physical or material solutions, only to find that they still feel empty. The reason? Because only Jesus can really satisfy the deepest longings of the soul. Every person has four basic needs for love, acceptance, identity, and security. Unfortunately many people try to get those needs met in ways that don’t really satisfy and that sometimes lead to addiction in the attempt to fulfill those needs. Learn today why Jesus is the only real solution to the deepest needs of the human heart.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus makes seven “I AM” statements that express who He is and how He relates to humanity. In this introduction to the series, Pastor Gary explains that when Jesus said “I AM” He was actually connecting His words with an event from Exodus 3 when God used the same expression in giving His proper Name to Moses. Thus, Jesus was explicitly asserting His divinity—that He is God. Join Pastor Gary for part one of an 8-part series on “Jesus is the I AM”.

Easter is about the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the Dead! It is one of the holiest days on the Christian calendar. This year due to COVID-19 we are meeting on-line only as Pastor Gary delivers a message entitled, “Road to the Resurrection”. He outlines three things that pave this road—TEARS, TORTURE, and TRIUMPH—Jesus wept, Jesus was crucified, and Jesus rose from the dead! Every other religious leader who has died still occupies a tomb. Only the tomb of Jesus Christ is empty! Jesus died and rose from the dead conquering sin and death on our behalf, and now through Him we can have a relationship with God. We invite you to listen to today’s broadcast and then open your heart and trust Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

When Jesus came into Jerusalem on that first Palm Sunday, he was met by four reactions from people—some saw him as the Miracle-Worker, others hailed him as King, and still others believed him to be a Prophet. It is true that Jesus was and is all those things—a Miracle-Worker, King, and Prophet… but Jesus is more than that! And the only group of people who embraced Jesus for His true identity were the children! In Matthew 21 when Jesus came into Jerusalem after riding a donkey down the Palm Sunday road, the children exclaimed, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” The title “Son of David” is a Messianic title. In other words, the children were ascribing to Jesus the title reserved exclusively for the One who would come as Savior and Lord! Join us for on-line church as Pastor Gary retells the Palm Sunday story.

Pastor Gary sits down with local pastors, and two of his close personal friends, Brett Fuller and Mike Minter to discuss the at-hand issue of COVID-19. They share encouragement and each of their unique perspectives on how we as Christians can be at prayer for our nation, and how to see the hope of Christ in this difficult time.

Join us for our Old Testament and Current Events Q&A service.

In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that our world is facing, Pastor Gary gives a message about how we can have the Lord’s peace in the midst of the world’s panic. The teaching is entitled “Infectious Faith” as a play on words because we are dealing with an infectious disease and the infectious fear that goes along with it. But how can we as Christians have such a trusting faith in God during times like these that our faith is infectious to those around us who are anxious and worried? Pastor Gary first shares an historical perspective on viruses in our world and whether this COVID-19 is somehow related to the End Times. He then teaches a Biblical perspective of how we can lean on the Lord and have His peace during times like these. Join us today for “Infectious Faith.”

Matt Maher presents this question in his teaching, weaving his own story with biblical truth to demonstrate what the Bible has to say about issues such as anxiety, guilt, and depression. In those moments when our hearts are heaviest, God calls us to lean all the more into His Word and that peace that only comes from knowing Him.

In the days of Malachi, the people had become spiritually lazy and morally apathetic about things. They had grown complacent about Ministry (to God), about Marriage, and about Money. These are important areas for us to examine in our own lives as well. What does our devotion to God look like? Are we committed to marriage or do we have a casual view of divorce? How do we manage the resources God has given us? These are all questions we need to face too. Join us for our study in Malachi as Pastor Gary addresses these issues.

The prophet Zechariah tells us more things about the First and Second Coming of Jesus Christ than all the other Minor Prophets combined. The main theme of his letter is the hope and encouragement we have in knowing that our Messiah is coming… as Meek Messiah, as Suffering Savior, and as Coming King. Follow along in today’s study as Pastor Gary unpacks Bible prophecy about the First and Second Coming of Christ from the book of Zechariah and how Jesus is the hope of the Church!

An introduction to the book of Revelation.