Bedrock Church Sarasota

Why Does God Allow Suffering? | Dr. Kevin Richard

In the face of life's most challenging moments, we're confronted with the age-old question: Why does a good God allow suffering? This powerful message delves into the heart of this dilemma, reminding us that while we may not have all the answers, we can develop a framework for enduring evil and suffering while remaining grounded in faith. At the core of this framework is the profound truth that 'God is love' - a statement that gives us a glimpse into the very nature of the divine. As beings created in God's image, we too are designed for love, but our freedom allows for the possibility of choosing against God. This choice has brought death and decay into the world, setting the stage for the ultimate redemption story. The gospel, as Jesus himself proclaimed, is not just about personal salvation, but about the coming of God's kingdom - a restoration and renewal of all creation. We're called to live in this 'already but not yet' reality, where suffering still exists, but where we can also witness and participate in God's ongoing work of redemption. This message challenges us to see beyond our immediate circumstances and to trust in the ultimate goodness of a God who stepped down to sacrifice Himself for us.

Give Peace a Chance | John Cartwright

In our exploration of Philippians 4, we discover a profound truth: God offers us His peace, but we must first empty our hands to receive it. This peace surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It's not the absence of challenges, but rather a sustaining force that carries us through life's storms. We're encouraged to find our joy in the Lord, not in our circumstances, and to practice graciousness in our relationships. By letting go of our burdens - difficult days, dysfunctional dynamics, and deep distresses - we create space for God's peace to fill us. This message challenges us to shift our focus from earthly troubles to the unchanging nature of God, reminding us that our ultimate security lies in His love and provision.

A Second Rescue | Pastor Ryan McDermott

In this powerful message, we're challenged to examine our spiritual lives through the lens of Lazarus' resurrection. The story in John 11 isn't just about physical resurrection, but spiritual rebirth and freedom. We're asked to consider: are we truly living in the fullness of our faith, or are we still bound by our 'grave clothes'? These grave clothes represent sins we can't leave behind, hurts we've received, or lies we've believed. The message reminds us that Jesus not only brings us to life spiritually but desires to set us free from these lingering bondages. We're encouraged to identify our own grave clothes and seek God's help in removing them, emphasizing that true freedom comes not just from being saved, but from fully embracing the new life Christ offers.

Are You All In? | Kyle Mason

In this powerful exploration of 1 Kings 18, we're confronted with a timeless question: How long will we waver between two opinions? The story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal serves as a stark reminder of our tendency to divide our loyalties between God and worldly idols. Just as the Israelites struggled to fully commit to God, we often find ourselves caught between faith and doubt, obedience and compromise. The dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel isn't just ancient history—it's a mirror reflecting our own spiritual battles. Are we, like the people of Israel, waiting for a spectacular display before we'll commit? Or can we recognize the 'still, small voice' of God in our daily lives? This message challenges us to examine the areas where we're 'limping between two opinions' and calls us to make a decisive choice for God, letting His consuming fire purify every aspect of our lives.

Tired of Waiting | Pastor Blake Harcup

In this powerful message, we're challenged to confront our impatience and its potentially devastating consequences. The story of the Israelites creating a golden calf while waiting for Moses on Mount Sinai serves as a stark reminder of how easily we can stray when we rush ahead of God's timing. We're encouraged to reflect on areas in our lives where impatience might be leading us astray - whether in relationships, finances, or spiritual growth. The sermon draws fascinating parallels between the Israelites' actions and our modern tendencies to create 'easy-bake gods' that suit our immediate desires. This thought-provoking analogy urges us to examine our own lives for false idols we may have erected. Ultimately, we're reminded of God's patient love for us, even as He remains intolerant of sin. The message challenges us to trust in God's process, understanding that His timing, though sometimes frustratingly slow to us, is always perfect and aimed at our ultimate good.

Go With GOD | Pastor Blake Harcup

Are we truly walking with God, or just going through the motions? This powerful message challenges us to examine the depth of our relationship with the Divine. Drawing from the book of Exodus, we're reminded that God desires more than our physical presence - He wants our hearts fully engaged. Just as Israel was called to be a 'kingdom of priests and a holy nation,' we too are invited to live set apart lives that reflect God's character to the world. The message emphasizes that holiness isn't about behavior modification, but life transformation. It's a call to be different, to prioritize our time with God, and to treat others with justice and compassion. As we navigate life's challenges, let's remember: God wants to go with us, but we must choose to go with Him. This isn't just about proximity, but about aligning our will with His purpose for our lives.

A Biblical Model for Church Growth | Pastor Blake Harcup

In this powerful message, we're invited to reflect on the birth of the early church as described in Acts 2. The story of Pentecost reminds us of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the importance of responding to God's call. We see how Peter's bold proclamation of Jesus as Lord and Messiah led to the conversion of thousands. This challenges us to consider: Who is Jesus to us? Are we willing to repent, believe, and be baptized? The early believers' devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer serves as a model for us today. Their Spirit-filled living attracted others to the faith, showing us that our lives can be a powerful testimony. As we contemplate making more room in our hearts and communities for God's work, let's be inspired by the early church's example of radical generosity, community, and commitment to the Gospel.

Tragedy Isn't The End | Pastor Blake Harcup

In Luke 24, we witness a powerful moment of revelation and restoration. After the crucifixion, the disciples are overwhelmed with grief and disappointment—their hopes shattered, their vision clouded. But as the risen Jesus walks alongside them, they don’t recognize Him. This Easter sermon explores how the tragedy they experienced distorted their understanding of God, causing them to miss His presence even when He was right in front of them. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, God is closer than we think—walking with us, speaking to us, and ready to open our eyes.

For Freedoms Sake | Pastor Blake Harcup

In this powerful exploration of the Ten Commandments, we're challenged to view God's law not as a burden, but as a loving boundary set for our freedom and protection. Just as a video game's boundaries keep players alive, God's commandments are designed to preserve our spiritual life and relationship with Him. We're reminded that the law isn't meant to condemn us, but to reveal our need for God and point us towards Jesus, who fulfilled the law on our behalf. This message encourages us to examine our hearts, recognizing that true obedience stems from love for God and others. It's a call to live within God's boundaries, finding freedom and purpose in aligning our lives with His design.

Satan is a Punk | Pastor Blake Harcup

In this powerful message, we're reminded that our greatest enemy - Satan - is relentless but ultimately weak. The story of the Amalekites attacking Israel in Exodus 17 serves as a metaphor for our spiritual battles. Just as the Amalekites attacked when Israel was weary, Satan often strikes when we're at our weakest. However, we learn that our weakness can become our strength when we rely on God and our community. The image of Moses holding up his arms, supported by Aaron and Hur, beautifully illustrates how we need both divine intervention and human support in our struggles. This message challenges us to remain vigilant, to build altars of remembrance for God's victories in our lives, and to live under the banner of Christ rather than worldly identities. It's a call to embrace our vulnerability, allowing God's strength to shine through our weakness.