By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | March 8, 2026

There are moments in history when God calls His people back to something they once abandoned. Not a new idea. Not a trendy movement. Something ancient. Something foundational. Something that once stood at the center of life with God.

The altar.

Scripture records a powerful moment when the prophet Elijah cried out to God in despair. In Romans 11:2–5, Paul recounts Elijah’s lament:

“Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me.”

Elijah believed he was alone. The nation had turned away from God. The prophets were gone. The altars of the Lord had been dismantled. Everything sacred had been replaced. But God answered him with a surprising word:

“I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.”

In other words, there was still a remnant...And the same is true today.

There is still a remnant of people who have not bowed to the idols of culture, comfort, or compromise. There are still men and women who feel the stirring of the Holy Spirit calling them back to something deeper, something purer, something holy.

God is calling a remnant to rebuild the altar.

Here is the central truth we must understand: when altars fall, sin rises. When altars are restored, revival begins.

The Lie of Isolated Faith
One of the enemy’s most effective strategies in our generation has been convincing believers that faith is meant to be private. You hear it all the time. “My relationship with Jesus is personal.”, “I don’t need the church.”, “I follow God in my own way.”...

But Scripture does not support this idea. Christianity is personal, but it was never meant to be private. Salvation is individual, but discipleship is communal.

The New Testament consistently describes believers as a body, not a collection of independent parts. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12 that just as a body has many parts, so it is with Christ. Every believer belongs to the others.

The author of Hebrews reinforces this:
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24–25

The Christian life was never designed to be lived in isolation. Scripture calls believers to mutual accountability, confession, and spiritual restoration.
James writes:
“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

Paul instructs believers in Galatians 6 to restore one another when someone falls into sin and to carry each other’s burdens.

Even spiritual leadership is part of God’s design for the health of the church. Hebrews commands believers to submit to those who watch over their souls because those leaders will one day give an account to God.

From the beginning, the church lived this way. Acts tells us the early believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to breaking bread, and to prayer.

The point is simple: Christianity has always been a shared life.
And this matters deeply when we talk about altars.

Altars may be built in private obedience, but they become places of public encounter. One person may build the altar, but many encounter God because of it. Altars are born in personal intimacy with God, yet they are never meant to serve only the person who built them.
When God answers by fire, the whole community is changed.

1. What Is an Altar?
In Scripture, an altar is a designated place where people meet with God through sacrifice, worship, prayer, or covenant.

In the Old Testament, altars were often simple structures made from earth or uncut stones. God specifically instructed Israel not to shape the stones with iron tools.
Why? Because the altar was meant to reflect the work of God, not human craftsmanship.
Altars were not monuments to human achievement. They were places where heaven touched earth.

The first altar clearly described in Scripture was built by Noah after the flood:
“Then Noah built an altar to the Lord.” (Genesis 8:20)
After surviving the judgment of the flood, Noah’s first act was not building a house. It was building an altar.
Abraham built altars wherever God spoke to him. Isaac built an altar when God reaffirmed the covenant. Jacob built altars after divine encounters with the Lord.

Altars marked sacred moments. They were places of worship, sacrifice, repentance, prayer, and covenant.

Later in Israel’s history, God established national altars for worship in the Tabernacle and eventually the Temple in Jerusalem. On these altars sacrifices were offered for sin, thanksgiving, and national repentance.

The altar represented the relationship between God and His people. And whenever that altar was abandoned, the nation drifted.

2. How Altars Are Dismantled
Altars are rarely destroyed overnight. They erode slowly through neglect, compromise, and substitution.

The first way altars fall is through idolatry.
2 Kings tells us that Israel set up sacred stones and Asherah poles on every hill and under every tree. Instead of worshiping the Lord, the people adopted the practices of surrounding nations. They didn’t simply abandon God’s altars. They replaced them.

Sin never leaves a vacuum. If true worship disappears, false worship fills the space.

Another example appears in the reign of Jeroboam. In 1 Kings 12, Jeroboam created alternative altars with golden calves so the people would not travel to Jerusalem to worship.

His reasoning was simple: it was inconvenient.
He essentially told the people, “Worship here instead. It’s easier.”
Convenience replaced obedience.

This moment reveals something dangerous about human nature. When worship becomes a matter of preference or comfort, it quickly becomes counterfeit.

Politics, personal preference, and compromise dismantled the true worship of God.
But there is an even more subtle way altars collapse.
Sometimes the altar still exists, but God is no longer present there.
Through the prophet Isaiah, God rebuked Israel:
“Stop bringing meaningless offerings… When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you.” Isaiah 1:13–15

The sacrifices continued. The prayers continued. The gatherings continued.
But God was no longer listening.
The altar was active, but it was disconnected from His presence.

Altars can be dismantled by rebellion, idolatry, corruption, and hypocrisy. They are rarely destroyed first by enemies; they are weakened first by neglect.

If we are honest, many believers have allowed the place of encounter with God to erode.
The television is louder than prayer. Sleep is more appealing than seeking the Lord. Convenience often wins over devotion. And slowly, quietly, the altar disappears.

3. What Happens When Altars Are Abandoned
Scripture shows a consistent pattern: when the altars of God disappear, wickedness increases.

During Elijah’s time, the altars of the Lord had been torn down and replaced by altars to Baal. The nation had descended into idolatry and corruption under the influence of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel.

Elijah described the spiritual condition of the nation in despair. God’s covenant had been rejected, the prophets had been killed, and the altars had been destroyed.

The collapse of worship led to the collapse of the culture.
This pattern repeated throughout Israel’s history. When kings permitted pagan altars to flourish, moral corruption spread. Idolatry produced injustice, spiritual blindness, and rebellion against God.

The condition of the altar reflected the condition of the people.

4. When Altars Are Restored
But there is another pattern in Scripture that is just as powerful.
Whenever the altar was restored, revival followed.
In 1 Kings 18, Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Before calling on God to send fire, Elijah did something significant.

He repaired the altar of the Lord that had been torn down. Only after the altar was restored did the fire fall from heaven. And when the people saw it, they fell to the ground and cried out:
“The Lord—He is God! The Lord—He is God!” (1 Kings 18:39)

Revival began with a repaired altar.

The same pattern occurred during the reign of King Hezekiah. When he became king, he immediately reopened the temple and restored proper worship.
National repentance followed. The people returned to God when the altar was restored.

The Principle Still Applies
The altar represented worship, sacrifice, repentance, and covenant. When these disappear, society drifts. When they return, spiritual awakening begins.

The biblical pattern is clear:
No altar leads to no sacrifice. No sacrifice leads to no repentance. No repentance leads to increased sin.
But when the altar is restored, worship returns. Repentance returns. And the presence of God returns.

Under the New Covenant, the altar is no longer limited to a physical structure. The altar becomes something deeper and more personal.
Paul writes in Romans 12:1:
“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

In the Old Testament God dwelled in tempels. In the NEw Testament, God dwells within the hearts of his people.

The altar now involves our lives.
Our obedience becomes the sacrifice.
Our devotion becomes the offering.
Our surrender becomes the worship.

The Altars of Our Culture
Whether people realize it or not, our culture is full of altars.
There are altars to pride, altars to ego, altars to pleasure, altars to power, altars to personal identity. Entire industries are built around worshiping the self.

These high places promise freedom but produce chaos. They promise fulfillment but deliver emptiness.

And while the world builds these altars, the people of God must make a choice. Will we follow the pattern of culture, or will we rebuild the altar of the Lord?

Throughout Scripture, God raised up individuals like Gideon and Elijah who were willing to tear down false altars and rebuild true ones.

That is the call of this generation.

In this desperate hour, God is speaking again to a remnant. Not everyone will answer, but some will. Some will rebuild what others abandoned. Some will restore what culture has forgotten.

And when the altar is restored, the fire of God always follows.
The question is not whether God will answer.
The real question is this:
Will we rebuild the altar?

By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | February 15th, 2026

It Is for Your Good
In Gospel of John 16:7–15, Jesus tells His disciples something that must have unsettled them: “It is for your good that I am going away.” For their good? The One they left everything to follow was saying His departure would somehow benefit them.

He explains that unless He departs, the Advocate will not come. But if He goes, He will send Him. And when He comes, “He will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.”

That word prove carries the language of conviction. It is courtroom language. It is the language of verdict. And conviction that leads to repentance is not cruelty. It is mercy in motion.

A Kingdom and an Advocate
Conviction is a legal term. It refers to a verdict rendered by a judge. Scripture consistently uses legal imagery because the Kingdom of God is not governed by popular vote or cultural consensus. It is ruled by a King. There are laws. There are decrees. There is truth that does not bend to preference.

And in this Kingdom, we are not left defenseless. We are given an Advocate.

Jesus calls Him the Paraklētos—Counselor, Comforter, Legal Representative. He is not an impersonal force. He is not spiritual energy. He is certainly not some vague, feminine cosmic atmosphere. He is a Person. He speaks. He moves. He reveals. He convicts.

Throughout Scripture He is called the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Holiness, the Spirit of Grace. He is fully God, actively working in the world and within the hearts and lives of believers.

The Work of Conviction
One of His primary works is conviction. When Jesus says, “He will convict the world,” the meaning is to expose, to bring to light, to render a verdict. The Holy Spirit reveals what is wrong, what is righteous, and what is already judged.

This is where many believers misunderstand their role. We are not the ones who render the verdict. God does that. We are not called to replace the Spirit’s work but to yield to it.

Yes, sin must be called what it is. Wickedness is not to be rebranded or excused. But the One who searches motives and sees beneath the surface is God. The Holy Spirit convicts from within. We are invited to cooperate with Him, not compete with Him.

Conviction always has direction. It either draws you toward God or, when resisted, pushes you into condemnation. If it drives you into the arms of Jesus, it is the work of the Spirit. If it drives you into hiding, despair, and distance, that is condemnation. Condemnation is not what HE (the Spirit) does.

Sorry or Sorrow?
There is a difference between being sorry and being repentant.

Many people apologize because they feel cornered, not because they feel broken. They are frustrated that they were confronted, not grieved that they caused harm. When you wrong someone, do you wish the moment had never happened because it fractured relationship? Or do you wish they had never “made you” react?

When confronted, do you instinctively ask, “What did you do?” or “What have I done?”
And what about when we wrong God?

Conviction is ultimately about relationship with Him. The Holy Spirit pulls us back to Jesus. Every time we say yes to the Spirit’s prompting and yes to God’s Word, something forms in us. We grow in righteousness, godliness, and holiness. But when we repeatedly say no, we drift.
The most dangerous part of drift is that it feels normal. We convince ourselves we are fine while slowly moving away from truth.

The Posture of Resistance or Surrender
Scripture makes it clear that the Holy Spirit can be resisted. In Acts 7:51, Stephen rebukes his hearers: “You always resist the Holy Spirit.” That resistance is not accidental. It is a posture.
At the same time, Romans 6 calls believers to 'present themselves to God'. God is sovereign, yet He manifests where He is welcomed. He moves where He is yielded to. This is why we pray, “I surrender.” It is not emotional theatrics. It is alignment. It is a heart saying, “I will not fight Your verdict.”

Conviction or Preference?
In our culture, the phrase “that’s my conviction” is common. Often, however, what people mean is preference.

Romans 14 does address matters of conscience in disputable areas. There is room for liberty in non-essential matters. But Scripture never turns conviction into a license for sin. Without a higher law, conviction collapses into preference. Without absolute truth, everything becomes negotiable.

We are living in a time described in Second Timothy 4:3–4, when people gather teachers to suit their desires and turn their ears away from truth. The problem is not that truth has changed. The problem is that hearts no longer want to respond to it.

When Truth Is Rejected
Romans 1 paints a sobering picture. Three times the text says that God “gave them over.” This is not God ceasing to love. It is God allowing chosen rebellion to run its course.

Conviction resisted long enough results in increasing darkness. The moral confusion and spiritual perversion visible in our world are not merely social trends. They are evidence of what happens when truth is continually suppressed and conviction repeatedly rejected.

Yet even here, mercy remains available.

The antidote is not opinion but revelation. The Holy Scriptures make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Truth is not discovered by looking inward. It is revealed by the Spirit of God through His Word.

The alternative is deception.

Deception is the byproduct of refusing to love the truth. It forms slowly, like a callous. Repeated resistance hardens the heart until it becomes seared—like flesh branded with a hot iron. A brand marks ownership. Scripture speaks of consciences seared through continual rejection. Over time, repeated refusal marks us. We become desensitized. Numb.
A seared conscience does not develop in a moment. It develops through repeated no’s.

If You Can Still Feel It
If you can still feel conviction, that is grace.
If your heart still stirs when the Word confronts you, that is mercy.
A conscience that can still be pierced is a conscience that has not been abandoned.

And what does that conviction produce? Sorrow.
In 2 Corinthians 7, Paul distinguishes between worldly sorrow and godly sorrow. Worldly sorrow grieves consequences. It says, “I got caught.” Godly sorrow grieves relationship. It says, “I have wounded fellowship with God.”

Godly sorrow produces repentance. It leads to earnestness, renewed obedience, and restored joy. Conviction reveals truth. Godly sorrow embraces it. Repentance responds to it.

The Invitation
The invitation is not complicated, but it is costly. If you hear His voice, do not harden your heart. Ask Him to search you. Ask Him to soften you. Ask Him to make you sensitive again.
We do not want a fleeting spiritual moment. We want to become a habitation for His presence.
Here is the steady line that helps us discern what we are experiencing: if it drives you toward God, it is conviction. If it drives you away from Him, it is condemnation.

The Holy Spirit convicts in order to restore. He exposes in order to heal. He renders a verdict not to destroy, but to rescue.
And that is mercy.

By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Nov 30th, 2025

There’s a war happening inside every human being, and you don’t need a theology degree to know it’s true. Just look at your daily life. One part of you honestly wants to honor God. The other part wants cheesecake at 11 p.m., revenge on the person who offended you in the group chat, and the last word in every argument.

Yeah… that part. Paul calls it the flesh. And it’s noisy. The Struggle Is Real — And It’s Scriptural
In Romans 7:14–21, Paul lays himself bare:

“For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do… it is sin living in me.”

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I keep doing the thing I swore I’d stop doing?”—you’re already in the conversation Paul started 2,000 years ago. That tension, that pull, that wrestling is not proof that you’re failing. It’s proof that God’s Spirit is alive in you.

Before salvation, that longing for goodness has nowhere to land—so people try to fill it with good deeds, humanitarian efforts, “good karma,” or crossing their fingers hoping their “good outweighs their bad” when they meet God.

But after salvation, everything changes. Your sinful nature loses legal rights. It loses power. A new nature awakens. But that old nature? Oh, it still shouts. Loudly.
And so begins the conflict of natures.

The Real Key Isn’t Trying Harder — It’s Surrendering Deeper
People wear themselves out trying to “behave better.” Christianity wasn’t meant to be a spiritual treadmill where you run harder but go nowhere. The Bible is not behavior modification. It’s life transformation.

The key to victory is simple and powerful: Surrender to the Holy Spirit. Yield to Him. Rely on Him. Walk with Him.

Romans 6 says it plainly:

“Count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God… do not let sin reign… offer every part of yourself to God.”

This is the kind of surrender that leads to actual peace, not self-condemnation or religious exhaustion.

Your Flesh Craves Junk
Let’s be honest: nobody ever says, “You know what I’m craving right now? A bowl of steamed broccoli.”
One of my friends just completed a 50-day juice fast—fifty days of liquid sadness. When it ended, she didn’t crave carrots or cucumbers. She craved cheesecake. Cookies. Sugar. Anything bad.
Why?
Because our flesh naturally gravitates toward the junk. That’s why Paul calls the flesh ruthless.
And he lists its fruit in Galatians 5: sexual immorality, jealousy, rage, selfish ambition, envy, drunkenness… it’s basically a highlight reel of our pre-Jesus life. But thank God that’s not the end of the story.

The Spirit produces something entirely different:
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
When the Spirit leads, your nature changes. You don’t have to force fruit to grow. Fruit grows naturally from the nature that’s in you.

Why the Law Can’t Save You — But It Can Locate You
Paul brings up the law again and again, so here’s the refresher:

1. The Law exposes you.
2. Grace transforms you.

The law wasn’t given so you could “try again” and hopefully get it right this time. The law was given as a mirror.

Romans 3 gives a list that could easily describe half of every Thanksgiving table in America:

“Their tongues practice deceit… their mouths are full of cursing… ruin and misery mark their ways…” Paul says, “Look closely. This is what the law reveals.”

But then he takes a Spirit-filled turn:
“There is therefore now no condemnation…” — Romans 8:1
The law locates your problem. The Spirit brings the solution.

When you come to Christ:

• You’re not under condemnation.
• You’re not under the flesh.
• You’re not under the law of sin and death.
• You are under the Spirit of life.

That’s the reality you get to live in. So What Does It Mean to Be a Person of the Spirit?
Romans 8 gives us the answer:

“If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live… for those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

Being a person of the Spirit means:

• You reject the world’s voice.
• You silence the flesh’s demands.
• You invite the Holy Spirit to govern your desires.
• You see obedience not as fear-driven slavery—but as joyful responsibility.

It also means this:
You’re going to face rejection like Jesus did. That’s what Paul means when he talks about “suffering with Christ” (sympaschō)—not helplessness, but identification.

The world may not applaud you. That’s fine. Heaven does.

Have You Received the Holy Spirit?
This is where Acts 19 hits home.
Paul meets disciples who were believers… baptized… sincere… but still missing something:

“We have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”

So Paul lays hands on them. Their hearts are open. And God fills them.

This is New Testament Christianity.
Not dry doctrine.
Not religious routine.
A Spirit-filled life.
And we’re not talking about chasing manifestations for their own sake. This is about a heart posture that says:

“Holy Spirit, I want everything You want to give me.
I will obey whatever You ask.
My life is Yours.”

Tongues? Beautiful.
Prophecy? Powerful.
But the most important evidence is surrender. A humble, open, obedient heart.

So How Do We Live This Out?
Paul gives practical instructions in 2 Timothy 2:

• Flee youthful passions.
• Pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.
• Avoid foolish arguments.
• Be kind, teachable, humble, and patient.
• Be ready for every good work.
• Turn from wickedness.

And Peter adds in 2 Peter 3:

• Live holy and godly lives.
• Make every effort to be spotless.
• Stay at peace with God.
• Keep your eyes fixed on the coming Kingdom.

This is Spirit-empowered living. Not perfect, but surrendered. Not behavior modification—heart transformation.
Ask With Confidence — God Gives the Spirit Freely
Jesus said in Luke 11:

“How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

Not to those who earn it.
Not to those who perform well.
To those who ask.
James adds:

“Ask in faith, without doubting.”

God is not holding Himself at a distance.
He is not stingy with His Spirit.
He is not reluctant.
He is a Father who loves to fill His children.
Your Invitation Today
So here’s the question:
Have you truly received the Holy Spirit?
Not “Have you been around church?”
Not “Have you been baptized?”
Not even “Have you believed?”
But:
Have you opened your heart fully for the Spirit of God to transform you?
You don’t have to be afraid of what God might do to you or through you - i think we can agress its much better than what the devil is looking to do...

You don’t have to figure it all out.
You don’t have to control the outcome.
Just open. Ask. Receive. Surrender. Obey.

Because the life He wants to give you isn’t a life of constant struggle—it’s a life of Spirit-led freedom, joy, and victory. Struggles will happen - they're meant to highlight the victories ahead.

This is the conflict of natures…
But the Holy Spirit always wins when you yield.
And your life—your joy, your peace, your transformation—begins on the other side of one simple prayer:

“Holy Spirit… I’m Yours.”

By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Nov 16th

There is a moment in Scripture where the noise of the enemy is so loud, so constant, and so overwhelming that it paralyzes an entire nation. It’s 1 Samuel 17—the famous standoff between David and Goliath. But if you look closer, it’s more than a children’s story about a brave boy and a big giant. It’s a spiritual blueprint revealing how the enemy uses intimidation as a weapon… and how God anoints His people to overcome it.

Fear’s First Strategy: Intimidation
Goliath never threw a punch before Israel fled in fear.
He didn’t need to.
All he had to do was shout, flex, and appear unbeatable. Scripture tells us:

“On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.”
—1 Samuel 17:11

Intimidation won the battle long before the fight ever began.
Isn’t that exactly how our giants operate today?
Fear screams. Anxiety mocks. Circumstances stand tall with oversized armor and inflated threats. And before we even pray, we’re already planning our retreat.

The Hidden Parallel: Goliath & Leviathan
As I prayed over this passage, the Lord highlighted a powerful parallel: Goliath mirrors Leviathan, the biblical symbol of spiritual pride and intimidation in Job 41.

• Goliath’s scale armor echoes Leviathan’s impenetrable scales.
• Goliath appears peerless; Leviathan is described as having no equal.
• Both use fear before force, intimidation before impact.

The enemy’s greatest weapon isn’t strength—it’s the illusion of strength.
Not power—but pride dressed up as power.

Anointing Breaks Intimidation
Israel stood frozen for 40 days.
Forty days of shouting. Forty days of fear.
Forty days of thinking, “This giant is too big.”
But the moment David steps forward—anointed, confident, grounded in God’s presence—the atmosphere shifts. He doesn’t see the giant… he sees the God standing behind him.

“You come against me with sword and spear… but I come against you in the name of the Lord.”
—1 Samuel 17:45

David wasn’t the biggest, strongest, or most experienced—yet he was the most dangerous.
Why? Because intimidation collapses when it meets anointing.

Your Giant Is Loud, But It’s Not Lord
If fear has been shouting at you…If anxiety has been mocking your faith… If intimidation has been telling you to step back…
Hear this clearly:
The giant in front of you is not greater than the God within you. Pride always goes before the fall. And every Goliath ultimately bows to the name of Jesus.
You don’t defeat your battles by being bigger—you defeat them by being anointed.
By standing in the presence of God. By renewing your mind. By refusing to surrender to fear’s narrative. Step Forward!

David’s victory was not random. It was intentional.
He remembered the lion. He remembered the bear. He remembered the faithfulness of God in the hidden places.

Your past victories matter.
Your testimony matters. Your anointing matters. And today—your giant falls. Not by sword. Not by spear. Not by might. But by the Spirit of the Living God.

Take heart, the enemy’s weapon is intimidation—but your weapon is the anointing.
Stand firm.
Step forward. And watch God bring the victory.

By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Nov 9th

When God Chooses the Unlikely
Every generation seems to think they’ve cornered the market on “unqualified people doing extraordinary things.” But long before TED Talks and leadership podcasts, God had already made a habit of it. Judges 3 gives us the story of Ehud—an unlikely hero, a left-handed man from the smallest tribe, who God used to deliver Israel from eighteen years of oppression under Moab.

His story isn’t just an ancient war tale—it’s a mirror for our own walk with God.

The Cycle We Keep Repeating
After the death of Joshua, Scripture says, “Another generation grew up who knew neither the Lord nor what He had done for Israel” (Judges 2:10).

That’s chilling. How does an entire generation forget God? Through silence and compromise.

And so begins the tragic pattern of Judges:
Sin → Oppression → Repentance → Deliverance → Peace → Repeat.

Israel didn’t know the Lord—not really. And when we lose sight of who God is, we lose sight of who we are. The result? Cycles. Cycles of sin, struggle, and shallow repentance. But here’s the grace of God: every time they cried out, He still sent a deliverer. Because oppression isn’t always abandonment—it’s often the ground where God trains us to war and walk in victory.

The Enemy Wants Your Fertile Ground
The Moabites, descendants of Lot, invaded and took the City of Palms—a lush, fruitful region. Why there? Because the enemy never attacks wastelands; he targets your fertile places—your family, your faith, your gifts, your calling. If you’ve been under attack, it’s probably because you have something worth stealing.

Israel endured eighteen years before crying out. Eighteen years of silence, frustration, and compromise before someone finally said, “Enough.”
Sometimes, breakthrough starts with simply getting tired of bondage.

God’s Odd Choice: A Left-Handed Deliverer
Enter Ehud, the son of Gera—a left-handed Benjamite. In those days, left-handedness was often seen as weakness or even defect. Yet God raised him up when others would have passed him over.

Ehud forged a short, double-edged sword and strapped it to his right thigh—exactly where no one would look. The details matter because God doesn’t waste them. What others overlook, He uses strategically. Your “handicap” might just be heaven’s hidden weapon.

When the time came, Ehud approached King Eglon, an obese, oppressive ruler sitting comfortably in his arrogance. With divine precision, Ehud delivered the fatal blow—ending the reign of Moab’s tyranny. It was messy, unconventional, even shocking—but it was effective.
God used what was unexpected, unconventional, and underestimated to bring freedom.

From Oppression to Victory
Ehud escaped unnoticed, blew a trumpet in the hills of Ephraim, and rallied Israel to fight. “Follow me,” he said, “for the Lord has given Moab, your enemy, into your hands.” The oppressed became the victorious. The fearful became the fearless. That day, ten thousand Moabites fell, and Israel experienced eighty years of peace. Eighty years—all because one man believed God could use him, left hand and all.

The Gospel Hidden in the Story
Ehud’s story points us to Jesus—the Greater Deliverer. Just as Ehud was underestimated and rejected, so was Christ.
“The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone”
Psalm 118:22

Colossians 2:15 declares,
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

The cross was heaven’s hidden weapon. To the world, it looked like defeat; to hell, it was humiliation. Jesus didn’t just beat the enemy—He made a spectacle of him.

Lessons for Us Today

• Don’t despise your difference. What disqualifies you in man’s eyes might be what qualifies you in God’s.
• Don’t appease what God told you to confront. Israel tried to pacify Eglon with tribute instead of trusting God for deliverance. You can’t negotiate with what’s trying to destroy you.
• Don’t delay your cry. It took Israel 18 years to cry out. Don’t let pride prolong your pain.
• Don’t forget your victory. When Ehud passed the stone idols the second time, he did so as a conqueror. What once mocked him now stood silent before the power of God.

The Unlikely Ones Still Rise
If you’ve ever felt overlooked, underqualified, or unfit for what God’s called you to—take heart. God’s specialty is using ordinary people in extraordinary ways. He delights in raising deliverers out of obscurity.

Like Ehud, you might just be the “unlikely” God is about to use to break a cycle, silence an oppressor, and bring peace to your land.

“Follow me,” he said, “for the Lord has given your enemy into your hands.” May you rise with that same boldness today.

By Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | October 12th, 2025
Series Conclusion

The Story Beneath the Crown
Every great story has both triumph and tragedy. David’s story—the man after God’s own heart—is no exception. From shepherd’s fields to palace halls, from psalms to scandals, David’s journey is a raw portrait of human weakness colliding with divine mercy.
Over the past nine weeks, we’ve walked through his highs and lows. We’ve seen faith, failure, and forgiveness play out in real time. But as the curtain falls on this series, we’re reminded that God doesn’t tell these stories to entertain us—He tells them to transform us.
Just like David, many of us stand on the edge of establishment. God wants to bring you out of your wilderness, out of delay and disappointment, into a season of purpose and strength. But hear me clearly: God will not build your platform and ignore your private life.

Lets walk through 7 powerful take away from this series

1. The Promise of Establishment

“I took you from the pasture... I will raise up your offspring after you... and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.”
— 2 Samuel 7:8–13

God’s covenant with David was not a reward—it was a reflection of His faithfulness. This promise pointed beyond David’s lifetime to the coming of Christ, the eternal Son of David.
But even divine favor demands human faithfulness. If God elevates you without healing what’s broken inside you, what He builds can still collapse.

Lesson: Don’t mistake promotion for perfection. God may have established you, but He’s still forming you. The work will not be done until we are with the Lord.

“When Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” — 1 John 3:2

2. Covenant Kindness: Grace at the Table

“Is there anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”
— 2 Samuel 9:1

In one of the most beautiful scenes in Scripture, David brings Mephibosheth—a crippled, forgotten descendant of Saul—from Lo-Debar (“no pasture”) to his royal table.
This is a prophetic snapshot of salvation. We were all Mephibosheths—broken, undeserving, and far from God—yet the King invited us to sit at His table.
Grace doesn’t erase the process; it initiates it. The table is not the finish line—it’s the starting line of transformation.

Lesson: Grace seats you. Character keeps you. Gratitude sustains you.

3. The Danger of Complacency

“In the spring, when kings go off to war... David remained in Jerusalem.”
— 2 Samuel 11:1

David’s greatest fall didn’t begin with lust—it began with idleness.
When he should’ve been at war, he stayed home. One night of comfort turned into adultery, deception, and murder.

When you avoid your assignment, you create space for the enemy to assign you something else.

Assignments from God are not burdens—they’re boundaries. They keep you aligned and accountable.

“I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.”
— 2 Timothy 1:12

Lesson: Guard your calling. Guard your purity. Guard your post. Idle moments become spiritual landmines.

4. Confrontation and Repentance

“Then Nathan said to David, ‘You are the man!’ ... Then David said, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’”
— 2 Samuel 12:7, 13

Nathan’s confrontation wasn’t condemnation—it was mercy in motion. David’s repentance separates him from Saul. Saul defended. David collapsed.

Even so, sin carried consequences—the innocent child died. Yet even this became a prophetic glimpse of the Gospel: an innocent Son would one day bear the guilt of the guilty.

Lesson: Correction is not rejection. It’s love wearing the face of discipline.

Repentance is not a single moment—it’s a posture.
Stay yielded. Stay soft. Stay surrendered.

5. Unaddressed Sin and Its Legacy

“When King David heard of all this, he was furious.”
— 2 Samuel 13:21

David’s son Amnon commits a horrific act against his half-sister Tamar. David hears about it—and does nothing.
Why? Guilt. His own past failure disarmed his authority.

Unresolved sin produces paralysis—it robs leaders of their voice.
In the silence, another son, Absalom, takes vengeance into his own hands.
When fathers fail to confront, sons learn to rebel.

Lesson: What you ignore in your house will grow in your legacy.

Absaloms are born when righteous authority goes silent.
But take heart—God is restoring the roar of fathers, husbands, and leaders who will rise again with courage and conviction.

6. Reconciliation Without Repentance

“He must go to his own house; he must not see my face.”
— 2 Samuel 14:24

David brings Absalom home—but not into his heart. Absalom’s exile ends, but his pride remains. He is reconciled in location, not in spirit.
Soon, he begins stealing the hearts of Israel—using charm, charisma, and calculated deceit. His rebellion is built on flattery and wounded ambition.

Lesson: Reconciliation without repentance only breeds rebellion.
Absalom’s beauty, especially his long hair, becomes symbolic of his vanity—and eventually, the very thing that kills him. Pride always hangs itself.

7. The Final Curtain: Tragedy and Redemption
When Absalom dies—caught by his own hair, pierced through the heart—David’s cry is gut-wrenching:

“O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you!”
— 2 Samuel 18:33

It’s the cry of regret, of a father who realizes too late that what he avoided has destroyed what he loved.
But even here—God redeems.
David’s throne would be restored.
And through his bloodline would come the true and perfect Son—Jesus—who would not rebel, who would not fail, and who would die to redeem His Father’s house.

This is the Gospel. What David could not do for Absalom, Jesus did for us.

Conclusion: A Call to the Altar
You can be anointed and still unhealed.
You can win public battles and still lose private ones.
You can build something great and still watch it fall apart if sin remains unchecked.
But the good news is this: God’s mercy doesn’t end with our mistakes.
So I ask you—

• Has sin or silence consumed your home?
• Has guilt muted your voice?
• Have you mistaken activity for healing?

Then it’s time to come back to the altar.

Pray as David once prayed:

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23)

Let there be no trace of Absalom’s rebellion in us—
and no trace of David’s avoidance either.
Lord, deal with us. Fully. Deeply. Honestly.
And then—establish us for real.
Amen.

Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Sept 14th, 2025

Cry Loud, Spare Not: Why the Church Must Speak Now

"Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the descendants of Jacob their sins." — Isaiah 58:1 (NIV)

After last week’s message, a deep conviction settled in: many believers don’t know what to say in public. In a time of confusion, compromise, and spiritual cowardice, God is calling His people to rediscover their voice. The Church has been silent for too long. The spirit of Absalom thrives in the vacuum of spiritual leadership. But God is restoring a prophetic voice—rooted in His Word and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

What Are We Speaking?
Jesus declared, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses..." (Acts 1:8 NASB). That power isn’t just for Sunday services; it’s for bold witness in a broken world. But if we’re not grounded in the Word or spending time in God’s presence, we can’t speak with Kingdom authority.

Many Christians today are unsure of their beliefs. And where conviction is absent, silence reigns. We are not called to echo opinions—we are called to declare truth.

"If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God..." — 1 Peter 4:11 (NIV)

No Word, no power. No presence, no boldness.
Sin can silence your voice. So can fear. But the Holy Spirit doesn’t just stir emotions—He brings divine recall (John 14:26) and holy boldness.

Let’s be clear: Kingdom truth will often sound like hate speech to a culture in love with sin. Not all hate speech is Kingdom truth, but real truth confronts sin, injustice, and immorality. And yes, it offends.

We don’t speak to provoke—we speak to liberate.
"The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving..." — 2 Corinthians 4:4 (NASB)

What the Word Speaks To
The Bible speaks with clarity on today’s pressing issues. If God spoke, we must echo Him.
1. Life, the Womb, and Human Dignity
Life begins in the womb and is sacred:

• Jeremiah 1:4-5
• Luke 1:15
• Psalm 139:13–16

Abortion is not merely political—it’s a Kingdom concern. And if you've walked that road, know this: there's mercy at the cross. Jesus restores.

2. Marriage, Sexuality & Family
Marriage is God’s design—one man and one woman:

• Genesis 2:24
• Matthew 19:4-6

Sexual purity isn’t cultural—it’s divine. If you're wrestling with identity, know that freedom is found in Jesus.

3. Immigration & Compassion
God commands care for the vulnerable:

• Amos 5
• Deuteronomy 10:18
• Exodus 22:21

But compassion is not chaos. We welcome the foreigner, but we do not bless crime or laziness. Kingdom compassion includes justice and wisdom.

4. Justice, Order & Safety
God is a God of order:

• 2 Thessalonians 3:10
• Proverbs 25:28
• Nehemiah 4 & 6

Loving others does not mean self-destruction. Stewardship matters. Justice matters.

5. Kingdom Economics
The Bible teaches stewardship over ideology:

• Matthew 22:21
• 1 Timothy 5:8
• 2 Corinthians 9:6
• Luke 13:6-9

Work hard. Be generous. Bear fruit. Grace doesn’t erase responsibility.

6. Israel & God's Covenant
God’s covenant with Israel still stands:

• Psalm 122:6
• Joel 3:2
• Romans 11:17

Support for Israel isn’t about politics—it’s about promise.

7. Salvation, Holiness & Living Right
Salvation transforms how we live:

• Titus 2:11-12
• 2 Timothy 3:16

Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and live in righteousness.

Kingdom vs. Culture
Some believers want to keep faith separate from politics. You may have heard the term "Christian Nationalism." Let’s be real—you can’t legislate salvation. But if I follow Jesus, I must align my vote and values with His Word - i am unashamedly a patriot. I am unashamedly a Christian. These do not necessarily have to be two separate postures. They can be one identity - however, my allegiance is to the kingdom of Heaven.

This creates tension. It may cost us friends, influence, or favor. But we’re not here for popularity—we’re here for Kingdom alignment.

Takeaways:

• Truth offends because it confronts sin.
• If you speak boldly, you’ll be labeled. Praise God.
• We’re not here to please culture—we’re here to preach Kingdom.
• The world doesn’t want separation of church and state—they want separation of truth from influence.

The Church’s Role: Cry Loud, Spare Not
Jesus confronted sin. We must too. We’re confused on Kingdom truth because we’re unfamiliar with the Bible. What grieves the Father should grieve us.

So How Should We Pray?
"Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." — Matthew 6:10 (NIV)
We pray for godly leaders, teachers, parents, and Kingdom clarity. And even if opposition comes—we won’t back down.

We don’t stand on opinion. We stand on the Word.
It’s time to rise. Cry loud. Spare not.
Let the Holy Spirit empower your voice.
Let the Word of God illuminate your understanding.
Let’s go speak what God is speaking.

Pastor Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Sept 14th, 2025

A World Crying Out for Justice
In recent weeks, tragedy has shaken our nation:

• August 22: Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was murdered on a Charlotte light rail train.
• August 27: Two children were killed in a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis.
• September 10: A Colorado student opened fire at Evergreen High School before taking his own life.
• September 10: Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University.

Different cities, different stories—but the same thread: violence, hatred, injustice, and silence. The silence of leaders. The silence of neighbors. The silence of systems that should protect. And it’s that silence we see in Scripture, too.

Silence in David’s House
2 Samuel 13 paints a painful picture. Tamar is violated by her brother Amnon. King David burns with anger but does nothing. Tamar lives desolate. Absalom simmers in fury, and two years later he murders Amnon.

• Tamar wept in silence.
• David raged in silence.
  
• Absalom plotted in silence.

And silence became the breeding ground for tragedy.

The Spirit of Absalom
This is where the “spirit of Absalom” takes root. It starts with indignation at injustice but refuses to trust God’s justice. It thrives in bitterness, resentment, and a demand for vengeance. It whispers, “God, if You won’t act, I will.”

But here’s the truth: in God’s Kingdom there are no vigilantes. There is law, order, and justice—but no place for revenge.

Why Good Beginnings Go Bad
David started well, but parts of his life were never fully surrendered. He had a passion for God, but the same passion made him reckless with violence. Remember when he almost wiped out Nabal’s household over an insult (1 Samuel 25)?

This is the danger: current sin always erases the memory of God’s past faithfulness. David’s failures muted him. His guilt stole his authority. Instead of confronting sin, he stood paralyzed.

And when leaders go silent, cycles of brokenness are unleashed.

How Silence Feeds Sin
Sin doesn’t just stain—it silences. It robs boldness and convinces us we have no right to speak. But when silence fills the room, sin multiplies:

• Compromise becomes culture.
• Bitterness becomes identity.
• Brokenness passes to the next generation.

What we refuse to confront today will rise up against us tomorrow.

The Holy Spirit calls us to a different posture: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

If We Don’t Speak, Pain Will
David’s silence created space for Absalom’s vengeance. Where the father’s voice was missing, the brother’s sword stepped in. Absalom had the potential to be a prince, but bitterness twisted him into a rebel. This is what silence does: it doesn’t just avoid conflict—it releases cycles of destruction. Unchecked bitterness doesn’t stay personal; it defiles many (Hebrews 12:15). And when the Church avoids truth in the name of love, it leaves a vacuum for anger, resentment, and false voices to rise.

The Danger of Untreated Anger
Paul warns: “In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26–27).
Anger left untreated grows roots. Roots give life to trees that will eventually bear fruit. And the fruit of untreated anger is violence, division, betrayal, and rebellion. What could have been healed or at least mediated by David, becomes hostile. and Absalom, who should have became a prince becomes a nemesis.

Breaking the Cycle
Each of us has a choice:

• Be like Amnon—sinning without restraint.
• Be like Tamar—trapped in silence and shame.
• Be like Absalom—seeking justice through vengeance.
• Be like David—paralyzed by guilt and inaction.

Or—be like Jesus.

Jesus stepped in where others stayed silent. He healed what others ignored. He broke the cycle and set captives free. That’s the call for us today: don’t let silence raise your Absalom. Let truth and boldness raise your sons and daughters.

Final Charge
This generation isn’t broken because of one offense—it’s bearing the weight of generations of silence, compromise, and untreated sin. But God is raising up men and women who will not bow, will not be silent, and will not let cycles continue.

The Gospel doesn’t silence sin—it confronts it. Not to condemn, but to redeem.
So break your silence. Break the cycle. Let your voice carry the fire of the Holy Spirit. Because if we don’t speak, the enemy surely will.

Dr. Michael Caparrelli | Garden City Church | Aug 31st, 2025

When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” - John 5:6

The lame man needed more than a touch - he needed a talk. Jesus discerned, that after being sick for "a long time", the chronic sickness undermined his will to get better. Hence, the Savior propounds a question that he must reflect upon, Do you want to get well?

Warnings
Three factors stand in the way of the man receiving His healing - his experiences, his excuses and his exemptions.

First, his experiences
After 38 years of being taken care of by someone else, it becomes comfortable to remain in such a helpless condition. Take heed to what you practice continually, because it wires your brain on an instinctual level.

Second, his excuses
The man claims he had nobody to help him into the pool at the moment the angel stirred the water. But he found someone to get him to the pool from wherever he lived! Could this be a lame man with a lame excuse?  Furthermore, he's waiting for someone else to help him when he is the one he's been waiting for. Hence, Jesus mandates him "Pick up your man and walk!"

Third, his exemptions
The man returns to the outer courts of the temple in verse 14. Why? At the outer courts, sick people beg for money. The man clearly didn't want to give up his mat/sickness because it afforded him certain perks. Jesus tells him, "Your well!".  

Reflections
Answering the question, Do you want to get well? - requires deep thought. What have our experiences conditioned us to believe? What excuses are delaying our progress? How have we benefited from staying sick? All of these underpinnings must be mulled over before answering that question. Surely, there's more to your life than being stuck on a mat.

About Dr. Michael A. Caparrelli
Dr. Michael A. Caparrelli is a pastor, author, professor, and speaker with a passion for helping the broken find hope and healing through Christ. As founder of UnMuted, he has traveled nationally and internationally, ministering in churches, prisons, and recovery centers while authoring several books that equip people to turn pain into purpose. Learn more about his ministry and resources at www.unmutedchurch.org.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Aug 17th, 2025

2 Samuel 12:1–15 (NIV)
(vs. 7) Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man!”

The Lord sent Nathan to David with a story—one rich man, one poor—to reveal the sin David thought he had buried. David, stirred with righteous anger, judged the rich man harshly... until Nathan looked him in the eye and declared, “You are the man!” God’s love had come—not to coddle, but to confront. David repented, but the consequences wouldn’t vanish. The sword would remain in his house, a painful reminder that even forgiven sin still leaves a mark.

The Underlying Warning
David’s journey took him from shepherd boy to warrior, from wilderness fugitive to king. He was a man of covenant, mercy, and bold faith. But in the comfort of his throne room, when he should’ve been watchful, he compromised.

It wasn’t the battlefield that took David down—it was the comfort of his own castle.

It’s often not a giant that brings us down—but small, neglected compromises. The foxes that ruin the vine are rarely seen coming. Though the crown remained, the story changed. He wasn’t abandoned—but everything looked different.

Too many of us cling to a past version of ourselves, chasing what was instead of embracing what is. But God’s grace can still work through the change—even if we walk with a limp. We may mourn, but purpose still waits on the other side.

Reflection:
What takeaways from David’s journey should we prayerfully consider? How can we guard our hearts and walk more intentionally?

When Dignity Meets Discipline
1. Nathan’s Confrontation – Grace That Calls Out
“You are the man.”

Here, grace meets sin—not with condemnation, but with confrontation. Humility was David’s key back to God—just as arrogance had led to his fall.
Nathan didn’t confront David out of suspicion. He spoke the word of the Lord.
There’s a lesson here:

• We need Nathans—people who hear clearly from God, who speak not from opinion, but from divine insight.
• And we must be ready to receive those words with humility, even when they sting.

Question:
When the word of the Lord comes—can you receive it with humility and respond in obedience?

2. “The Sword Shall Never Depart…” – The Cost of Covenant Failure
David’s house, once marked by victory, became a house of conflict. Where sin remains hidden, chaos will feel normal. God’s heart for families is not constant drama—it’s divine order. If scandal and strife are ruling the home, it’s time to confront the root.

God wants to guard your home from drama, and surround it with peace. But that starts with repentance and spiritual alignment.

3. Judgment is Real – God Brings Us Back Through Holiness
David’s child became ill—and died. The consequences of sin hit close to home. This is hard to process, but Scripture is clear: God afflicted the child.

When I wrestled with this passage in prayer, I said, “Lord, this is hard. It hurts.”
And I sensed the Lord respond:
“Do you think I don’t know loss? That child died for David’s sin... My Son died for yours.”
That’s the gospel.
Jesus became the child who died—not for His sins, but for ours.
That’s why we don’t hide from hard Scriptures. They show us the cost—and the cross.

Why Did God Afflict the Child?

• Position doesn’t protect from judgment. David wasn’t exempt.
• Sin invites disruption—even for kings.
• Grace still covers—but not without teaching.
• And yes—the child’s death points us back to Jesus, who took our place.

Christ’s Atonement vs. David’s Sword
Yes, God warns. Yes, sin carries weight. But on the other side of Calvary—death becomes the doorway to redemption. Jesus bore the sword so we could walk in forgiveness, restoration, and peace. He took our judgment so we could live free.

So let’s move forward—changed, maybe scarred, but still chosen.
Still loved.
Still used.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | Aug 10th, 2025

Altered but Not Abandoned
Let’s begin with a truth that’s both weighty and full of hope:
David remained king—but his story changed. The crown stayed on his head, but the path beneath his feet shifted. Grace still covered him, but the legacy bore the scars. He was still anointed, but his journey was undeniably redirected.

Too many believers treat grace like a revolving door—walking in and out of sin like it’s no big deal...But what if it is a big deal?

What if sin, like grace, has the power to shape us—just in a very different direction?

Romans 6:1–2 (NIV):
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”

Grace isn’t just a reset button. It’s a holy invitation—one that demands a timely response.

Hebrews 3:15 (NASB):
“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV):
“Now is the time of God’s favor; now is the day of salvation.”

God’s call doesn’t wait forever. It comes in windows and seasons—and when we ignore it, we don’t just delay the promise… we distort it.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NASB):
“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

Yes, the consequences of disobedience are real.
But so is the hope—because God is in the business of reclaiming stories.

Joel 2:25 (NIV):
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”

Your story may be altered—but grace still has the final word.
You may be scarred—but you are not hopeless.

Psalm 37:23–24 (NIV):
“Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”

Three Postures That Redirected David’s Path
1. Idleness Breeds Idolatry: 2 Samuel 11:1–5:
David stayed behind when kings went to war. That’s where it started. It wasn’t just lust—it was complacency. In addition to not stepping up to his kingly duties, we find that David also sent someone else in his place. When kings go to war, David sent his general. A general might be a great position, but a general cannot fulfill the role of a king.

Delegation isn’t sinful, but disengagement is dangerous.
When we stop depending on God, we open the door to everything else that is NOT of God.
This moment of disengagement opened the door to a moment that would forever transform Davids dynasty.

Maybe you’ve never pursued someone else’s spouse—but are envying someone else's platform, finances, lifestyle, gifting or calling? What are you letting steal your gaze from God? For David it was Bathsheba. For you and me... the options are limitless.

Colossians 3:5 (NIV):
“Put to death… evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”

Idolatry doesn’t always look like a golden calf.

2. Power Misused Becomes Spiritual Abuse
David didn’t just sin—he sinned with power. He used his position to override someone else’s dignity. He had access—but no permission. Scripture tells us that it was from the high tower that David could spy out Bathesheba. Though Davids position granted his view point, it was not intended for indulgence but rather for for oversight.

God will raise people up and in that elevation, leaders will gain new perspectives and vantage points, but God gives those insights so leaders can be responsible. David was irresponsible. Just because he could see Bathesheba does not mean he should have watched.
Leadership isn’t about what you can do—sometimes it’s about what you won’t do.
Jesus had all the advantage any person could have hoped for - yet, he chose to remain low and humble, and not exploit his position or power.

Philippians 2:6 (NASB):
“Though He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped...”

In the Kingdom, elevation means more self-denial—not less.

1 Peter 5:3 (NIV):
“Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

Bathsheba was in a sacred space—but David twisted it. Some things are simply not yours to look at, no matter your title. And the higher you climb, the more sacred your restraint becomes.

3. Leader Postures That Last
Dr. Chris Green once described three postures of lasting leadership: The Rock. The Wet Nurse. The Eunuch. Each one reveals how a leader handles what’s entrusted to them.

a. The Rock – Steady Under Pressure
Moses struck the rock—but it still gave water. Even when mishandled, it released what God had placed within it.
1 Corinthians 10:4 (NASB):
“They were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ.”

If you're called to lead, don’t let offense or exhaustion stop the flow. God still expects the output, even when you feel overlooked.

b. The Wet Nurse – Serve Without Possessing
The wet nurse feeds, changes, nurtures a child that isn’t hers. She loves it—but doesn’t own it.
John 3:30 (NIV):
“He must become greater; I must become less.”

1 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV):
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.”

That church? That ministry? That breakthrough? It’s not yours. You serve it. You don’t possess it.

c. The Eunuch – Serve With Integrity, Without Agenda
Eunuchs were entrusted with guarding the bride—because they had no intention of exploiting her. Can God trust you with His bride? Are you near her for protection—or possession?

2 Corinthians 11:2 (NIV):
“I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him.”

Kingdom leadership isn’t about being seen. It’s about guarding what belongs to Jesus with no strings attached.

Finally... Scarred but Still Standing
David’s winning streak ended in a single moment. The worshipper who danced before the Lord got caught in temptation—and the consequences were deep.

2 Samuel 12:10 (NIV):
“Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house...”

But here’s the grace: David repented. He didn’t hide—he cried out.

Psalm 51:1–2 (NIV):
“Have mercy on me, O God... Wash away all my iniquity…”
Yes, grace covers. But it doesn’t cancel every consequence. Sometimes It redeems them.

Galatians 6:7 (NIV):
“A man reaps what he sows.”

Sin's ultimate cost—death—has been paid at the cross.

Romans 6:23 (NIV):
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life…”

But even if you walk with a limp, that limp can preach. It’s not a mark of failure—it’s a testimony of grace.

Genesis 32:31 (NIV):
“He was limping because of his hip.”

You may be scarred—but you’re still here. And that means God’s not done with you.

Final Reflections:

• Grace runs deeper than your sin.
• Your calling isn’t erased by misstep—it may just be redirected.
• Leadership never means entitlement—it always demands selflessness.
• Scars can become hallmarks—if you let them be.

Your story isn’t over. It’s just being re-written by the same grace that held David.
Let that grace hold you, steady you, and carry you as you step into the next chapter.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | July 27th, 2025

2 Samuel 11:1–4 (NIV)

“In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king’s men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem. One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof… He saw a woman bathing… She was Bathsheba… the wife of Uriah the Hittite. Then David sent messengers to get her… He slept with her… She conceived and sent word to David, saying, 'I am pregnant.'”

The Last Victories Before the Fall
So before I dive in, I really want to linger on one phrase: “In the spring, when kings go off to war...” (v. 1). That’s far more than a date in the text—it’s theology. It points us straight to Jesus.

This season is rooted deep in biblical symbolism. The month of Nisan (formerly called Aviv) wasn’t just spring—it was the first month, the dawn of new creation and redemption (Exodus 12:2).

That’s where everything starts: creation, Exodus, Noah’s renewal, King Saul’s fall, Abraham’s testing, and ultimately, Jesus’ crucifixion. The momentum of God’s redemptive action all moves through Nisan. When kings go to war—that’s the season God moves.
So here’s the heart of it: don’t be asleep in your season. David missed his moment to go out. Jesus—perfect King—went straight through. Victory.

Divine Momentum Before the Collapse
Before his moral failure, David had undeniable divine momentum. Everything he touched—God gave him success. These victories weren’t just military wins; they were spiritual metaphors.

• Philistines (2 Samuel 5:17–25)
  The persistent enemy rose again—and David asked God for breakthrough. He won. The Philistines represent recurring cycles of affliction only broken by bold faith.
• Moabites (2 Samuel 8:2)
  These stood for idolatry and corruption. David’s victory symbolized breaking false gods and generational perversion.
• Hadadezer of Zobah / Aramean alliances (2 Samuel 8:3–4; 10:15–19)
  Ungodly coalitions meant to overwhelm—but David shattered them. New-level breakthroughs often come with strategic attacks.
• Arameans of Damascus (2 Samuel 8:5–6)
  Distractions turned into dominion. What was meant to crush became footstool—God turned threats into testimony.
• Edomites (2 Samuel 8:13–14)
  The flesh resisted—but David dealt with carnality decisively. Victory over Edom calls us to crucify compromise and worldly allure.

When David moved in covenant fidelity and hunger, God gave victory wherever he went (2 Samuel 8:6, 14). That same promise belongs to us (2 Corinthians 2:14).

The Big Pivot – On the Rooftop
Then it happens—not in battle, but in comfort. David reclines while kings go to war. Delegation became disengagement. Familiarity bred indifference.

David who once served out of humility, now presumes on his blessings. He lost his awe. His gratitude became assumption. That rooftop—the place of peace—became the place of greatest failure.

Scripture teaches us to learn from history (Romans 15:4). What keeps us faithful? Fear of God. Awe. Remembering what He’s done.

What Could Have Saved Him?

• Engagement: David stayed home instead of stepping up. Comfort didn’t kill his enemies—it just let them creep in.
• Gratitude: When blessings become routine, worship becomes optional. Remember what the Lord has brought you through.
• Vigilance: Don’t let serenity steal your assignment. Complacency waits until you feel safe.

Takeaway: When You Rise, Stay Humble
Look to Christ: He won every battle, yet remained humble to the end (Philippians 2:5–8). The higher your calling, the lower your posture needs to be.

Your mission doesn’t make you immune—it demands humility. Humble yourself so God can lift you higher.
Personal Check

• Are your blessings still sacred?
• Are you still in awe of God?
• Are you alert, humble, grateful?

Remeber: God brought you here. Don’t lose Him in the view.

Reflection Questions:

1. What stronghold in your life has God already disrupted—and how can you celebrate that testimony today?
2. Where might you be delegating your spiritual responsibilities—but God is calling you to engage?
3. Are there comforts creeping in that might be dulling your spiritual edge?

Lean into bold faith. Stay engaged in spiritual warfare. Honor God in every season—and guard what He’s entrusted you with.

Gibert Carreras | Garden City Church | July 20th, 2025

Let’s be honest—talk about evangelism can get complicated. In a world that often questions the why behind our bold declarations of faith, it’s easy to feel uncertain. But as believers, we can’t afford to let culture shape our mission. We’ve got to go back to the source—God’s Word—and ask: Why do we proclaim the Gospel in the first place? What’s our foundation?

Take a moment:
What’s your current approach to evangelism? Do you feel a fire in your heart for it? Let's examine 8 reasons evangelism is not simply relevant, but necessary.

1. Because God Loved First
John 3:16 (NIV) — “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Evangelism begins with love. Not guilt. Not pressure. But the kind of radical love that would send Jesus to save broken, wandering people. That’s the heart of the Gospel—and it should be the heart behind our outreach.
How does God’s love shape your heart toward others?

2. Because Jesus Lived It
Luke 19:10; Mark 1:14 (NIV) — “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” / “Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.”
Jesus didn’t just come with a mission—He embodied it. Whether at a well, over a meal, or in front of crowds, He was always proclaiming good news. If we want to look like Jesus, our lives should echo His message.
How can your everyday spaces become places of Gospel conversations?

3. Because Jesus Commanded It
Matthew 28:18–20 (NIV) — “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...’”
This isn’t optional. It’s not reserved for pastors, missionaries, or extroverts. It’s a call for every believer—to go, to share, and to disciple.
Are you living in obedience to the Great Commission?

4. Because the Holy Spirit Empowers Us
Acts 1:8 (NIV) — “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…”
God doesn’t leave us hanging. He fills us with power to proclaim Jesus boldly—across cultures, languages, and comfort zones. You’re not alone in this mission.
Do you rely on the Spirit’s power when you share your faith?

5. Because the Apostles Didn’t Back Down
Acts 2:38 (NIV) — “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…’”
After being filled with the Spirit, the apostles stood up and preached with fire. The same fire that filled them is available to you. Their boldness sets a precedent we’re meant to follow.
Is your message aligned with Jesus and His apostles?

6. Because Some Paid the Ultimate Price
Acts 7 (NIV) — "Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, boldly declared Jesus even as stones rained down. He died proclaiming the truth."
Why? Because once you’ve seen the risen Savior and felt the Spirit’s fire, silence isn’t an option. Evangelism might cost us—but it’s worth it.
Would you be willing to suffer for the Gospel? What’s holding you back?

7. Because Paul Laid the Theology Down
Romans 1:16; 10:14; 2 Timothy 4:5 (NIV)
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation…”
“How can they hear without someone preaching to them?”
“Do the work of an evangelist…”
Paul reminds us: Evangelism isn’t emotional hype—it’s theological necessity. People can’t believe what they haven’t heard. And they can’t hear unless we speak.
How does your theology shape your urgency for evangelism?

8. Because People Are in the Fire
Jude 1:23 (NIV) — “Save others by snatching them from the fire…”
This is where it gets raw. People are on the edge of eternal destruction. And we’re called to rescue them—not with judgment, but with urgency and compassion. Let your hands get burned if it means pulling someone from the flames.
Does the eternal reality of others stir your heart? Do you carry urgency or apathy?

Final Thought:
Evangelism isn’t outdated. It’s not reserved for platforms or extroverts. It’s the burning heartbeat of God—and it’s meant to set your hands on fire. Not from applause, but from rescuing people out of darkness.
May your hands be burned.

From the fire of love, the power of the Spirit, and the urgency of heaven’s call.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | July 13th, 2025

2 Samuel 9 (NIV)
“Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”

The answer? Mephibosheth—a wounded, forgotten prince hiding in Lo Debar, a place that literally means “nowhere.” And yet, because of a covenant David made with Jonathan years earlier, Mephibosheth is brought from obscurity to honor, from shame to sonship. He didn’t earn it. He didn’t request it. It was all grace.

From Lo Debar to the Table
Last week, we unpacked how David’s invitation to Mephibosheth reflects the very heart of God. This week, we’re going deeper—into what happens when fathers fail, but mercy still finds a way.

David’s commitment to Jonathan didn’t waver, even after Saul’s rebellion. God’s mercy didn’t fail, even when the bloodline did.
This is a story of covenant, restoration, and a God who keeps His word when everyone else breaks theirs.

Mercy in the Midst of Mess...lets look at a few areas where God is at work even in the midst of the mess:

1. Grace Isn’t Earned. It’s Given.

“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” —Romans 5:8

Just like Mephibosheth, we were spiritually lame—carrying shame from someone else’s sin, distant from God, living beneath our identity. But grace found us. Mercy summoned us. The table was already set before we even knew we were invited.

2. Sin’s Fallout Is Real—But So Is God’s Faithfulness.
Saul Failed.

“To obey is better than sacrifice...” —1 Samuel 15:22
Saul’s rebellion wasn’t just disobedience; it was arrogance wrapped in religion. God had raised him from nothing, but he forgot who put him there. When we trade obedience for performance, we lose sight of grace.

Jonathan Suffered.
He was loyal, but caught in a legacy that was crumbling. Like so many of us who grew up in divided homes or chaotic households, Jonathan’s story is a mirror. He knew David was God’s chosen, but stayed tethered to Saul’s house—and died under its judgment.

“Don’t be afraid... You will be king... and I will be second to you.” —1 Samuel 23:17
Sometimes loyalty to family must bow to loyalty to God. The Kingdom comes first.

Mephibosheth Was Blessed.
Though crippled and overlooked, he receives restoration—not because of who he is, but because of WHOSE he is. His blessing is the overflow of a covenant he never made.

What This Teaches Us
1. God’s Mercy Isn’t Performance-Based
David wasn’t perfect. He was flawed, reactive, even reckless at times. But he was a man after God's own heart—because he knew how to repent. Grace isn’t for the flawless. It’s for the humble.

“Be perfect... as your heavenly Father is perfect.” —Matthew 5:48
Jesus isn’t calling us to perfection through effort, but through surrender.

2. Covenant Outlasts Cancel Culture
In a world quick to throw people away, God restores.
In a culture eager to discard the broken, God sets a place at His table.

“So Mephibosheth ate at David’s table like one of the king’s sons.” —2 Samuel 9:11
We don’t just visit the table—we become family.

The Power of Covenant
David honored his vow to Jonathan, years after the battle, years after the bloodshed. That’s what covenant does—it reaches beyond the grave.

“Let your ‘yes’ be yes, and your ‘no’ be no.” —Matthew 5:37

God is a covenant-keeping God. He doesn’t cancel promises just because the people attached to them fall short.

We’re called to reflect that faithfulness:

• In marriage
• In ministry
• In salvation

Covenant isn’t about emotion. It’s about faithfulness even when it hurts.

“Christ died for us while we were still sinners.”

Mercy Must Flow
Because you were shown mercy, extend mercy.
Because you were forgiven, forgive.
Because you were once the Mephibosheth in the story—don’t forget the view from Lo Debar.

“The one who is forgiven much, loves much.”

Finally, Are You Living Like a Covenant Child?
The enemy’s strategy is simple:

• If he can’t steal your salvation, he’ll try to rob your confidence.
• If he can’t stop your future, he’ll try to bind you in religious fear.
• If he can’t disqualify you, he’ll convince you you’re powerless.

But God says:

“You are no longer a slave... but a child... an heir.” —Galatians 4:7
“You are a chosen people... God’s special possession...” —1 Peter 2:9

You’re not in Lo Debar anymore.
You’re at the table.
Live like it. Love like it. Lead like it.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | July 6th, 2025

As we step into a new series exploring the rise and fall of Absalom, one of King David’s sons, we begin not with conflict or betrayal—but with mercy. This week, we turn our eyes to a lesser-known character with a powerful story.

His Name Was Mephibosheth
Found in 2 Samuel 9, Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul. When tragedy struck—his father and grandfather killed in battle—he was just five years old. In the chaos, his nurse fled with him, only to drop him, leaving him crippled in both feet (2 Samuel 4:4). A child of royalty, suddenly marked by pain, loss, and disability—not because of anything he did, but because of the times he was born into.

Sound familiar?
Many of us come into this world carrying wounds that weren’t our fault—born into brokenness, trauma, even spiritual exile. Like Mephibosheth, we find ourselves living in Lo Debar—a place whose name literally means “no pasture,” “no word,” or “nowhere.”

The Kindness of a King
But here’s where the story flips. In 2 Samuel 9, David—now established as king—asks, “Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Samuel 9:1, NIV).

David could have ignored Saul’s bloodline. He could have seen Mephibosheth as a threat. Instead, he shows him kindness—not because Mephibosheth earned it, but because of a covenant with Jonathan.

David sends for him. And when Mephibosheth arrives, limping and lowly, David says something unexpected: “Don’t be afraid… you will always eat at my table” (2 Samuel 9:7, NIV). That’s grace.

From Lo Debar to the King’s Table
This is a gospel moment. David’s invitation prefigures the heart of Jesus, who says, “Let the little children come to me,” who touches lepers, who heals the lame, who breaks bread with outcasts. God doesn’t just restore Mephibosheth’s land; He restores his identity. He is called not “the cripple,” but “the son of Jonathan.” His lineage matters. His place is restored.

So many of us settle for Lo Debar—living in spiritual no-man’s-land, thinking we’re forgotten or disqualified. But our King is calling. Not just to visit His palace—but to sit at His table, daily, as one of His children.

Mercy for the Wounded
This story reminds us:

• God sees the broken and invites them in.
• Mercy isn’t earned—it’s extended.
• Our past, our pain, our place of exile does not cancel our invitation.

We are Mephibosheth—wounded, yes, but welcomed. The King hasn’t forgotten us. There is still a seat at the table.

Final Takeaway
Fear may have dropped you. Life may have left its mark. But grace will always lift you back up. In God’s Kingdom, even the lame dine like royalty.
Pull up your seat. The table is set.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | June 29th, 2025

John 6:35 NIV
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.

There is a hunger that every soul carries. It is deeper than appetite, stronger than desire, and more enduring than emotion. It is the ache for something eternal—something real.
We were created with this hunger—not to be filled with distraction or temporary pleasure, but with the very presence of God.

In John 6, Jesus addresses a crowd who had just witnessed a miracle—the feeding of the five thousand. But when they returned the next day, it wasn’t because they understood the significance of what had happened. It was because they were physically satisfied. Their stomachs were full, but their spirits were still starving.

Jesus, knowing their motives, lovingly confronts them and offers something greater:
“I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)

Jesus Didn’t Offer More Bread—He Offered Himself
This was not the message the crowd expected. They wanted another sign. Jesus offered sustenance for the soul. He wasn’t presenting a religion, a rulebook, or a ritual—He was offering relationship and radical communion.

Then He says something deeply challenging:
“Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.” (John 6:53)

This wasn’t a call to literal action—it was a call to intimacy and dependence. It was His way of saying: “You cannot receive life unless you fully partake in Me.”

Many were offended. They walked away. But one stayed. Peter’s response echoes through the centuries:
“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68)

Peter didn’t stay because he understood everything. He stayed because he was hungry. And he recognized that only Jesus could satisfy.

Hunger Without Direction Leads to Destruction
We live in a generation that is spiritually hungry but often feeding on the wrong things. When we fail to discern the true source of nourishment, we fill our souls with things that only leave us emptier—relationships, substances, distractions, and even religious activity.

Unfocused hunger can lead to compromise. Cravings without discernment can lead to chaos. But when our craving is Christ, that hunger becomes holy. It moves us toward repentance, renewal, and revival.

So I ask: Is your hunger driving you toward Jesus… or just toward relief?

Jesus Is the Bread—And the Body
In ancient times, bread was not optional—it was survival. To eat was to live. Jesus wasn’t using poetic imagery; He was making a definitive statement:
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven.” (John 6:51)

When we receive Jesus, we don’t just observe His life—we participate in it. His life becomes our source. His death becomes our freedom. His body becomes our nourishment.

This is why the Church matters so deeply. We are called the Body of Christ—not a random gathering, but a living, breathing, unified people meant to reflect His presence. And if we love the Bread, we must also honor the Body.

Let us not be a church that feeds on gossip, criticism, or division. A body that consumes itself is a body in crisis. We are called to build up, not break down.

Following When It’s Hard
Peter’s confession in John 6 is profoundly honest. He doesn’t claim to fully understand Jesus’ teaching. But he recognizes the truth: “You have the words of eternal life.”

This is discipleship—not having all the answers, but being unwilling to walk away from the One who does.

You may have questions. You may not understand every part of the journey. But you can still choose to stay. You can still choose to trust. That’s what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

So—Are You Hungry?
Not for church activity. Not for blessings. Not for answers. But for Him.

Has anything you’ve chased truly satisfied your soul? If not, perhaps today is the day to stop striving, and start craving the one thing that never runs out—the presence of Jesus.
This hunger is not a flaw—it’s an invitation. And Jesus never turns away the hungry.
He draws near. He fills. He transforms.

Let us be a church that is not known simply for our programs, personalities, or even our preaching—but a church known for one thing: We are a people hungry for His presence.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | June 22nd, 2025

2 Corinthians 6:3–10 (NIV)
“We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited… through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown…”

The Apostle Paul didn’t sugarcoat ministry. He laid it all out—beatings, hunger, sleepless nights, and rejection. Not because he failed, but because he followed. In this passage, Paul exposes a rarely discussed truth: living righteously often leads to real struggle.

Not all hardship is punishment. Some of it is proof—that you're living in step with the Spirit in a world hostile to truth.

Don’t Confuse Consequences
There’s a big difference between the consequences of sin and the cost of obedience. Before we can talk about the righteous struggle, we must first examine the consequences of sin.

Sin Brings Fallout:

• James 4:4 – “Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
• Proverbs 19:3 – “A person’s own folly leads to their ruin, yet their heart rages against the Lord.”
• Isaiah 59:2 – “Your sins have hidden His face from you.”
• Acts 3:19 – “Repent… that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

Sin will always cost more than you planned to pay. But here’s the good news: it can be repented of. Forgiven. Overcome.

Righteousness Brings Resistance:
The irony? Obedience has a cost, too. But it’s a cost that carries blessing. “Don’t mistake spiritual opposition for divine punishment. Sometimes the storm proves you're sailing in the right direction.”

The Weight of Righteousness
Here’s the tension every believer faces: We want favor without friction. Calling without conflict.
But the Bible tells a different story.

The Righteous Struggle Includes:

• Being misunderstood (v.8)
• Being rejected (v.9)
• Having little, but possessing everything (v.10)
• Long nights, tears, and trials (v.5)

But buried in all of that pain is this: glory.

Why Perseverance Matters
The Bible consistently lifts up perseverance—not as an option, but as a necessity.

• Romans 5:3–5 – Suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope.
• James 1:12 – The crown of life is promised to those who endure.
• Hebrews 12:1–2 – “Run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
• Galatians 6:9 – Don’t quit before harvest.
• 2 Corinthians 4:17 – “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory.”
• Hebrews 11:25–26 – Moses chose disgrace for the sake of Christ rather than the fleeting pleasures of Egypt.

If you quit in the process, you’ll miss the promise.

The Blessings Hidden in Hardship
Let’s break down Paul’s list in 2 Corinthians 6 and see the treasure buried beneath the tension:

1. Live Above Reproach (v.3): Don't become someone’s excuse to walk away from faith.
2. Identity Transformation (v.4): Hardship forges who you are.
3. Patient Endurance (v.4): Maturity doesn't come microwaved.
4. Accept the Consequences (v.5): Obedience sometimes draws fire.
5. Reveal True Character (v.6): Crisis reveals the real you.
6. No Compromise (v.7): Hold the line—truth matters.
7. No Regard for Reputation (v.8): Please God, not public opinion.
8. Rejection by the World (v.9): Heaven sees what earth overlooks.
9. Possessing Everything in Christ (v.10): You may lack possessions, but you carry eternal treasure.

The True Treasure
Psalm 16:11 (NIV) – “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

You don’t persevere for the applause.
You don’t endure just for the breakthrough.
You do it because He is worth it.
Final Thought: Don’t Give Up Yet
Could it be that your current struggle is not the problem—it’s the platform?
Could it be that the very obstacles in your way are setting the stage for God's glory to be revealed in your life?
The righteous struggle isn’t punishment—it’s preparation.
Hang on. His presence is worth the pain.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | June 15th, 2025

Matthew 14:22-31 (NASB)
"Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. 23 After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. 24 But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. 26 When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, 'It is a ghost!' And they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.' 28 Peter responded and said to Him, 'Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.' 29 And He said, 'Come!' And Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. 30 But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and when he began to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!' 31 Immediately Jesus reached out with His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, 'You of little faith, why did you doubt?'"

This past Sunday carried a word you don’t want to miss. It wasn’t just a message—it was a moment. One of those divine setups where God speaks to the storm inside you by showing you the storm in Scripture.

We dug into the story of Peter walking on water. Yeah—that story. But maybe you’ve heard it so much you’ve stopped hearing it. We slowed it down, broke it open, and asked the hard questions: Why did Peter doubt? Why does God sometimes send us into storms? And how do we keep walking when everything around us says sink?
Let me walk you through what God unpacked.

1. Jesus Made Them Get in the Boat

“Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat…” (v. 22)

Jesus didn’t suggest it. He didn’t offer it up as an option. He made them get in the boat—and He knew exactly what was coming.

How many times have we looked at a situation in life and said, “I didn’t ask for this”? Truth is, you didn’t have to. Sometimes, obedience looks like being pushed into a place you didn’t plan—because that’s where transformation happens.

He made them go. The question is: how do you respond when Jesus sends you into something hard? When what He asks of you feels nothing like the peaceful path you were praying for?

Do you obey because He’s Lord? Or do you follow only when the path feels smooth?
Obedience isn’t about comfort. It’s about surrender.

2. When It Feels Like Jesus Missed the Boat
The disciples are out at sea—far from land, waves pounding, wind screaming—and Jesus is nowhere to be found. Sound familiar?

Ever felt like you followed God, honored Him in your choices, and still ended up in chaos? Ever said, “Lord, I did what You asked—and now this?”

Here’s what’s wild: Jesus was praying. He wasn’t absent. He wasn’t unaware. He was up on a mountain, interceding. Not panicked. Not pacing. Praying.

That silence you’ve been feeling? That delay? Don’t confuse it for abandonment. You’re not alone. You’re being prayed for.

“He always lives to make intercession…” (Hebrews 7:25)

3. Fourth Watch Faith
It’s around 3 to 6 a.m.—the “fourth watch.” They’re exhausted. No sleep. No rescue in sight. And suddenly they see someone walking on the water.

They think it’s a ghost. Fear will twist your vision. Fatigue will mess with your faith.
Sometimes the difference between panic and peace is just rest. The disciples couldn’t recognize Jesus because they were running on empty. You can’t always trust your instincts when your spirit’s depleted.

Peter does something bold—he speaks out into the wind: “If it’s You, tell me to come.”
And Jesus says, “Come.”
Not a speech. Not a sermon. One word. That’s all Peter needed. That’s all you need.

4. Stepping Out—and Sinking
Peter steps out. And for a moment—he’s doing it. He’s walking on the impossible. But then the wind reminds him it’s dangerous. The waves tell him he shouldn’t be here. His senses scream that this isn’t safe. He looks away from Jesus, and just like that—he sinks.

But before he can go under, he cries out: “Lord, save me!” And Jesus does. Immediately. No delay. No hesitation. Just a hand. A grip. A rescue.

Then comes the question: “Why did you doubt?”
It’s not a slam. It’s an invitation. Jesus is showing Peter—and us—that even when faith fails, He doesn’t.

5. The Storm Had a Purpose
The end of the story isn’t Peter’s doubt—it’s everyone’s worship.

“And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are truly God’s Son!’” (v. 33)

The storm set the stage for a revelation. The winds, the waves, the fear—it all led to a deeper understanding of who Jesus is. That’s the kind of storm you’re in right now. One designed not to break you, but to reveal Him.

6. What’s on the Other Side?
Remember Matthew 8? Another storm, another boat. But that one ended with deliverance—the Gadarene demoniac set free. There’s always something powerful waiting on the other side of obedience.

So, what’s waiting for you?
You might feel restless. Hopeless. Like you’re in the fourth watch of your life. But Jesus rescues His own. You’re not called to drown. You’re called to walk on water—and if you start to sink, He’ll still catch you.

Get in the boat. Step out of the boat. But above all—keep your eyes on Jesus.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | June 8th, 2025

Mark 4:1–20 (NIV)
Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water’s edge. 2 He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: 3 “Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times.” 9 Then Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.” 10 When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. 11 He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables 12 so that, ‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!’” 13 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 

14 The farmer sows the word. 15 Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16 Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18 Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20 Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”

Have you ever asked yourself, “Where’s my heart really at with God?” Not the surface-level, “I go to church” answer. But deep down—beneath the Sunday routine, the Christian T-shirt, the worship playlist—where is your heart?

This past Sunday, we sat with Jesus by the lake as He taught a crowd so big He had to preach from a boat. And what He gave them was more than a parable—it was a mirror. A heart check.

The Story That Reads You
Jesus told a simple story about a farmer, some seed, and different types of soil. But this wasn’t just about agriculture—it was about anatomy. The soil? That’s your heart. The seed? That’s the living, breathing, Spirit-filled Word of God—rhema.

He ends the parable with this mic-drop moment:
“Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.” (Mark 4:9)

Translation? Don’t just listen—understand. Because if you miss this parable, you’ll miss everything.

Four Kinds of Soil—Four Kinds of Hearts
1. The Passive Heart – Seed on the Path
This is the “I grew up in church” crowd. Faith passed down like hand-me-down clothes, never worn properly, never made personal. It’s a word heard but not understood, and because it never took root, Satan steals it before it can even sprout.

But here’s the good news: God knows how to use rain and wind—His Spirit—to move even the misplaced seed into good ground. Your story isn’t over just because it didn’t start right.

2. The Surface-Level Heart – Seed on Rocky Ground
This heart receives the word with joy. The shout, the tears, the “Amen!” But when storms hit, when the pressure shows up, it folds. Because it had no roots.

This is shallow faith. Excitement without endurance.

Jesus isn’t looking for emotional hype—He’s looking for spiritual depth. And let’s be honest: if your roots don’t go deep, you're one storm away from walking away. But our God is a rock-breaker. He will dig. He will burn. He will till your heart—if you let Him.

3. The Divided Heart – Seed Among Thorns
This one’s tough. It’s the believer trying to grow in toxic soil—crowded with anxiety, addiction to success, and a lust for other options. Jesus becomes one of many tabs open in the browser of your soul.

Maybe you were taught a version of faith where Jesus was your genie—solving your problems, blessing your plans. And when that didn’t happen, you turned elsewhere.

“Worry is the evidence of a divided mind.” – Bill Johnson
Sometimes we lose faith not because of the attack—but because we never burned the bridge back to Egypt. Too many options. Too many backup plans. But the strongest faith says, “I’ve got no other hand to play.” Our minds become divided when we have to many options apart from Christ. Make Jesus you plan-A and do away with every other option.

4. The Surrendered Heart – Seed on Good Soil
This heart hears. This heart understands. This heart obeys.
And the result? Fruit. Real, multiplying, undeniable fruit—thirty, sixty, even a hundredfold.

Not overnight. Not without work. But it's real.
Even good soil needs care. The seed has power—but it’s the soil that determines growth.

The Heart of the Matter
Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us:
“The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked; who can know it?”

You may not be able to fully trust your own heart—but you can submit it. And that’s the point.

So ask yourself:

• Am I living on someone else’s faith?
• Is my faith shallow—rooted in feelings instead of truth?
• Am I trying to grow surrounded by thorns I refuse to remove?
• Or am I fully surrendered, saying, “God, till this soil—whatever it takes”?

Final Word: What Kind of Soil Are You?
You might not be able to change your environment. But you can choose your response.
Jesus isn’t just scattering seed—He’s searching for hearts. Not perfect ones, but surrendered ones.

So here’s the question: Will you be the kind of soil that grows something eternal?

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | May 18th, 2025

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us... so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.”
— Galatians 3:13-14 (NIV)

What if I told you God has more for you?
Not more performance. Not more pressure. Not more hoops to jump through. But more blessing. More favor. More purpose.

I know—that word “blessing” can make some Christians squirm. We've seen it abused. Twisted into parking-lot prayers for luxury cars and name-it-claim-it nonsense. But let's not throw out the truth with the counterfeit. Because here's the reality: God wants to bless His children. And that includes you!

Will You Rely on What You DO—or on What Jesus Has DONE?
Paul wrote the book of Galatians to a church that was getting it wrong.
They started their walk with Jesus in faith, but somewhere along the way, they picked up the lie that they needed to earn God’s approval by following the old Jewish laws. They were mixing grace with works. Jesus with Moses. But Paul pulls no punches. He says plainly:

“All who rely on the works of the law are under a curse.” - Galatians 3:10

Why? Because you can’t keep the Law perfectly. No one can. And if you fail at one point, you're guilty of it all. That’s why Jesus came. To break the curse. To do for us what we could never do for ourselves.

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us... so that by faith we might receive the promise...” - Galatians 3:13–14

Faith Isn’t Just a Feeling—It’s a Foundation
The Christian life isn’t built on hype or hollow positivity. It’s built on faith—a deep, unshakable confidence that God will do what He said.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
— Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

Faith isn’t wishful thinking. It’s the substance—the spiritual material from which blessings are built. It’s the invisible force that pulls the unseen promises of heaven into visible reality on earth.
It’s saying: “I already have it in the Spirit—even before I hold it in the natural.”

If your faith feels weak, don’t beat yourself up. Just do what Romans 10:17 tells us:
Faith comes by hearing—and hearing by the Rhema (spoken word) of God.
You Are Blessed With Abraham

Through Christ, you’ve been brought into a new covenant—the Blessing of Abraham.

“I will bless you... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
— Genesis 12:2–3

You’re not trying to be blessed. You already are.
Not because of your performance, but because of your position—in Christ. You’ve Been Redeemed from the Curse - Jesus didn’t just cover your sin—He canceled your curse.

“Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree...” — Galatians 3:13

He took your place, so you could stand in His.
Where you once had lack—now you have access.
Where you once had bondage—now you have blessing.
That’s not prosperity hype. That’s Bible.

“You are the righteousness of God in Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 5:21

What Does the Blessing Actually Look Like?
Let’s break it down. Deuteronomy 28 lists the practical impact of God’s blessing:

• Blessed in the city and the country
• Abundant provision
• Victory over enemies
• Prosperity in your work
• Head and not the tail
• Always at the top, never at the bottom

That’s not just poetic language—it’s God’s desire for His covenant people.

“The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to.”
— Deuteronomy 28:8

And guess what? Through Christ, that blessing is now yours. You’ve Been Elevated

“God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in heavenly places.”
— Ephesians 2:6

That means you're not beneath the problem—you’re above it.
You see from a higher perspective. You war from a place of victory, not desperation.
God Is Raising Up Troublers of Trouble

Just like Elijah was called a "troubler of Israel," when in reality he was the answer to the crisis, God is raising up people like you—those who will trouble the trouble.
You’re not weak. You’re not forgotten.
You’re not meant to barely survive—you’re called to boldly thrive.
You carry authority. You carry answers. You carry the Spirit of Christ.
So What’s Our Part?

In the New Testament, obedience isn’t about keeping 613 Old Testament rules.
It’s about believing in Jesus and walking in love.

“This is His command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another.” — 1 John 3:23

“‘Love the Lord your God... and love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Matthew 22:37–39

Let Your Faith Speak
If you believe you are blessed—speak like it.
If you believe God is faithful—act like it.
Let your words align with God’s Word. Let your mouth declare the promises of heaven until your heart is fully persuaded.

Final Word: Believe Bigger
You were never meant to live burdened, broken, or barely getting by. That is not your portion.

“When the Lord your God brings you into the land... with flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide…”
— Deuteronomy 6:10–11

That’s grace—and it’s accessed by faith.

Today, make a decision:
I will believe.
I will walk in the blessing.
I will live from victory.
And when the doubt creeps in, whisper the same prayer as the father in Mark 9:24:

“Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”

If this blessed you, share it with someone who needs to remember:
You are already blessed—now it’s time to walk like it.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | May 11, 2025

Mother’s Day is often a time filled with flowers, cards, and well-deserved recognition. But if we're honest, this day also stirs up complex emotions for many. Some are filled with gratitude and joy—others, with grief, regret, or even resentment. So today, instead of painting only with pastel colors, I want to broaden the canvas.
Let’s talk honestly.

Maybe you’ve heard moving sermons about godly women—Sarah, Ruth, Mary—champions of faith who shaped the biblical narrative. You’ve nodded along, felt inspired… but also thought, “That’s great—but I’m not her.” Or maybe you thought something harder: “I didn’t have a mother like that. I hate my mother.”
If that’s you, you’re not alone. This message is for all of us—not just the idealized versions of womanhood and motherhood. Because Scripture doesn't just honor the saintly—it tells the stories of the struggling, the scandalous, the broken… and how God still worked through them.

The Gospel Doesn’t Ignore Our Wounds
It meets us right there.
Whether you were raised by a single mom, a stepmom, no mom, or a mom who hurt you more than helped you—the good news is that you are not disqualified from the promise of God. If you’re a mother who feels like you’ve failed, or a father raising children without a partner, or a child still carrying the wounds of the past—the Gospel has a word for you.
Let’s look at five real women—mothers in Scripture—not because they were perfect, but because they were real. Their stories give us permission to bring our broken pieces to the table and trust God to make something beautiful.

1. Sarah – The Controlling Mother
Sarah wanted so badly for God’s promise to come to pass that she took matters into her own hands, giving her servant Hagar to Abraham. She meant well—but produced pain. Sound familiar?

“Cast out this slave woman with her son…” – Genesis 21:10

Modern-day Sarahs are the “helicopter moms,” the overbearing voices that push too hard, fearing the promise won’t come unless they force it. Maybe your mom tried to do a good thing in a harmful way. Maybe she overfed the soil of your life with worry, protection, or control—leaving you struggling with passivity or rebellion.

Redemptive Insight: Sarah's boldness wasn’t evil—it was misdirected faith. But when refined, this same boldness becomes a fierce protector of destiny. God can turn control into courage and fear into faithful leadership.

2. Rebekah – The Manipulative Mother
Rebekah helped her son Jacob trick his father into giving him the blessing meant for Esau. She chose a favorite. She chose deception. And it cost her greatly.

“Now my son, listen carefully… Go out to the flock and bring me two choice young goats.” – Genesis 27:8–9

Maybe your story includes emotional manipulation or feeling like love was something to be earned. Rebekah shows us what happens when a mother confuses control with care.

Redemptive Insight: Rebekah’s passion came from deep love, but it was misplaced. God can redeem manipulation into discernment, turning schemers into intercessors—women who know how to war in prayer, not in politics.

3. Naomi – The Absent Mother
Naomi lost everything: husband, sons, security. She was physically present, but emotionally unavailable—so much so that she renamed herself Mara, meaning bitter.

“Call me Mara… for the Almighty has made my life very bitter.” – Ruth 1:20

Some of us were raised by mothers who were numb, grieving, or too overwhelmed to be there for us. That emotional void leaves children looking for affection in the wrong places, or shutting down to survive.

Redemptive Insight: Naomi’s pain wasn’t her end. Through Ruth, she found purpose again. Even when motherhood feels like it’s over—God restores legacy. Your honesty may be the very bridge to healing.

4. Deborah – The Wise and Courageous Mother of a Nation
Not all stories are broken. Some shine brightly. Deborah was a prophetess and judge—a woman who led with conviction and clarity.

“Up! For this is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands.” – Judges 4:14

Deborah wasn’t defined by domestic roles alone—she was a national voice, a strategic leader, a woman of valor.

Redemptive Insight: For those who think, “Is there a place for my strength in motherhood?”—Deborah says yes. She proves that spiritual authority isn’t gender-bound, and that women can lead homes, churches, and nations with grace and power.

5. Eve – The Wounded Mother, the Formative Mother
The first woman. The first mother. The first heartbreak.
Eve has long been cast as “the one who ruined it all.” But she was also the first to endure the grief of loss, the first to parent without precedent, and the first to bring forth life in a broken world.

“With the help of the Lord I have brought forth a man.” – Genesis 4:1

That verse carries all the weight of pain and promise.

Maybe your life has been marked by trauma, shame, or mistakes. Maybe you’re parenting through a mess of your own making. But Eve's story tells us this: your failures don’t cancel your future. Even after Eden, God still had a plan. Cain and Abel weren’t the end of her story—Jesus was coming through it.

Redemptive Insight: Eve shows us that from the deepest pain can come the greatest redemption. God builds legacy through broken people.

Why This Matters for All of Us
Whether you’re a mother or not—male or female—this conversation belongs to you. Because how we relate to the maternal figures in our lives impacts everything: our marriages, our faith, our identity, our understanding of love and discipline.

The enemy has always known that if he can distort the mother-child relationship, he can distort generations. But the good news? God restores what the enemy tried to rewrite.
If your story includes failure, absence, manipulation, or trauma—you’re not disqualified. You’re not too late. You’re not too broken.

Because in the end, this isn’t a story about perfect mothers. It’s a story about a perfect God working through imperfect people.

So here’s my encouragement to you:

• If you’re a mom, you don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
• If your mom failed you, God hasn’t.
• If you’re still grieving or growing, you’re not alone—and you’re not forgotten.
• If you’ve never known the love of a mother, Jesus has always known your name.

Let your story be a part of God’s redemptive plan—not in spite of the pain, but because of what He can do with it.

Look what God can do.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | May 4, 2025

What You Say Shapes What You See
Let’s start with a bold truth: your words are building your world—for better or for worse.
It might sound mystical or even controversial, especially in church circles. Some shy away from this idea, afraid it edges too close to “name it and claim it” theology. But let’s not throw out a biblical principle just because some have twisted it.
Jesus said it clearly:

"It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you, but what comes out of your mouth—that’s what defiles you."
— Matthew 15:11

Words matter. They reveal your heart, shape your mindset, and often determine the direction of your life.

A Quick Story: Kenneth Hagin and the Power of Confession
Kenneth Hagin, one of the fathers of the modern faith movement, once shared the story of a woman who came to one of his healing meetings. She was prayed for, felt God’s power, and showed early signs of improvement. But afterward, she kept saying things like:

“I don’t think I’ll ever get better.” “I hope I’m healed, but I don’t feel any different.”

Despite receiving prayer, her words betrayed her faith. Hagin referenced Mark 11:23, where Jesus said:

“He shall have whatsoever he saith.”

In Hagin’s words:

“You can’t walk in victory when your mouth agrees with the enemy. Your confession locates you.”

Faith > Feelings
Now, this isn’t about shaming people with weak faith—but it is about raising the standard. We must be more committed to believing God’s Word than we are to comforting feelings that contradict it.
James 1:6-8 puts it like this:

“The one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind... such a person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.”

War Over Words: Jesus and the Pharisees
In Matthew 15, the Pharisees came at Jesus, accusing His disciples of breaking tradition by not washing their hands before eating. But Jesus flips it:

“You break God’s commands for the sake of your tradition… You honor Me with your lips, but your heart is far from Me.” (vv. 4, 8)

They said the right things but lived out something else entirely.
Jesus points out that spiritual defilement comes from the mouth—not because of dietary violations, but because of the words we speak.
You Are Living in the Fruit of Your Words

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
— Proverbs 18:21

Many believers are unknowingly eating the fruit of their own negative confessions. Jesus, the Word made flesh, manifested the Father’s will through what He said—and your life often reveals what your mouth has been declaring.

Science Agrees: Words Are Powerful
Even secular research confirms what Scripture has said for thousands of years:

• Words change your brain.
  “A single word has the power to influence the expression of genes that regulate physical and emotional stress.” — Dr. Andrew Newberg, neuroscientist
• Words shape identity.
  “Self-talk shapes our confidence, decisions, and resilience.” — Dr. Ethan Kross, author of Chatter
• Negative words can rewire your brain for stress.
  “Holding a negative word in your mind stimulates stress-producing hormones.” — Mark Waldman, neuroscientist
• Words influence performance.
  “The words you speak become the house you live in.” — Hafiz, Persian poet
• Words heal trauma.
  “Verbal expression is a powerful tool for healing.” — Dr. James Pennebaker

Even science can’t escape this truth:

Life and death are in the power of the tongue. — Proverbs 18:21

The Gospel: Words Unlock Kingdom Authority
Jesus didn’t just teach with words—He transformed realities with them.

• The Centurion's servant was healed through a single sentence (Matt. 8:8).
• Jesus calmed a storm by speaking to it (Mark 4:39).
• Lazarus was raised with three words: “Lazarus, come out!” (John 11:43).
• Peter healed a lame man through a declaration (Acts 3:6).
• Paul cast out a demon with a verbal command (Acts 16:18).
• Even the woman with the issue of blood was healed after telling herself, “If I touch His garment, I will be healed” (Mark 5:28).

Words didn’t just announce the miracle—they activated it.

You Don’t Replace God—You Imitate Him
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about pretending to be God.
- God creates ex nihilo (from nothing).
- Man creates ex Deo (from what God has given).
We don’t speak galaxies into existence. But we do bring invisible ideas into reality—through our words: Art, music, relationships, even sin—they all begin with thoughts, become words, and turn into action.

“When lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin...”
— James 1:15

If the enemy can infiltrate your thoughts and your mouth, he can infiltrate your reality.

Closing Challenge:
Check your mouth.
What are you speaking over your life?
Your body?
Your family?
Your future?
Are your words echoing God’s truth—or empowering the lies of the enemy?

Speak life.
Speak truth.
Speak God’s Word. And watch the fruit of faith grow in your life.

Aaron Rios | Garden City Church | April 20, 2025

Will You Follow Him?
This Easter—Resurrection Sunday—God is drawing us into something deeper than tradition, deeper than religion. He’s calling us to discipleship.
The question Jesus poses today is piercing and unavoidable:
Will you follow Him?
Not simply affiliate with a church.
Not just pray when you're desperate.
But will you surrender your life, take up your cross, and pursue Him with everything you've got?
This is more than an invitation—it's a summons. And if you're wondering why this matters so much, stay with me.
First, we need to understand the Gospel—the good news that changes everything.

The Gospel: A Narrow Road
The Gospel isn't one option among many—it’s the only path to life.
Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."

This Gospel is powerful because it rescues us from eternal separation from God.
It's not advice. It's not a suggestion. It’s good news because without it, we are hopelessly lost.
Romans 1:16 (NIV)

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes..."

Why We Need Good News
We were created for life with God. Yet every one of us has sinned—missed the mark of God's perfect standard—and the cost of that sin is steep:
Romans 6:23 (NIV)

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Sin isn't just "bad behavior." It's a terminal diagnosis.
And no one is exempt:
Romans 3:23 (ESV)

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

1 John 1:8 (ESV)

"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."

Every act of pride, every flash of anger, every seed of bitterness... they all stack up before a holy God.

What God Did About It
Here’s the breathtaking part: God didn’t leave us to die in our guilt. He came for us.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV)

"For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."

Imagine standing guilty in court, awaiting sentencing—and then someone steps forward and takes your place.
Justice is served. Mercy is given. That’s what Jesus did.
Mercy. Grace. Resurrection.
When we were dead in our sin, God acted:
Ephesians 2:4-5 (NIV)

"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."

Salvation isn't something you earn. It's a gift you receive by faith. A gift sealed by an empty tomb.
1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

Easter isn't just a religious holiday—it's a declaration that death has been defeated!
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher - Your eternity—your forever—hangs in the balance.
The end of the story has already been written:
Revelation 21:3-5 (NIV)

"God’s dwelling place is now among the people... ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!'"

But those who reject Christ will experience a separation from God that never ends.
Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)

"Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment."

There is no reincarnation. No second chance beyond the grave.
The decision you make about Jesus in this life determines your eternity.
The Only Way
Jesus is not one option among many. He is the only way.
John 14:6 (NIV)

"Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’"

The world says there are many paths.
Jesus says there is only One—and He paid for it with His blood.

Your Invitation
Today, whether you’re hearing this message for the first time or the thousandth, one question remains:
Have you surrendered?
Not, "Are you religious?"
Not, "Have you been a good person?"
But—have you humbled yourself before Jesus, confessed your sin, repented, and asked Him to make you new?
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)

"If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Today, you can cross from death to life.
Today, you can be forgiven.
Today, you can follow the One who conquered the grave—and find the life you were created for.

Will you follow Him?
The cross is heavy—but the grave is empty. This is the Good News.

Mark 3:13-15 (NASB)
"And He went up on the mountain and summoned those whom He Himself wanted, and they came to Him. And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him, and that He could send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out the demons."

The Journey of a Disciple
When we think about being a disciple of Jesus, we need to recognize something: it’s a journey.

It’s not instant. It’s not microwave Christianity. It's not "say a prayer" and get a badge. Discipleship unfolds in stages, just like it did for the first followers of Christ.
Today, many are making half-hearted commitments to Jesus — they want the benefits of salvation without the burden of surrender. They want the privileges without the price. But anointing costs. True discipleship demands a daily choice to follow Jesus, not just an emotional decision at an altar.

Here’s how the journey of a disciple looks:

1. Watcher – Observing Jesus
(John 1:35-39)
Before you ever become a worker for Christ, you become a watcher. You’re drawn in, you observe. You hear about Him, you lean in. "Come and see," Jesus said — and they did.

2. Follower – Choosing to Walk After Him
(Matthew 4:19-20)
At some point, the invitation demands action. Jesus says, "Follow Me," and real disciples drop their nets — their old life — and pursue Him.

3. Learner – Receiving His Teaching
(Matthew 11:28-29)
Jesus doesn't just want followers; He wants students. Learners. Those who take His yoke, submit to His ways, and are willing to be shaped.

4. Worker – Carrying Out His Mission
(Matthew 10:1)
Disciples eventually become workers. Jesus anoints them, authorizes them, and sends them out — not just to be saved but to be sent.

5. Friend – Becoming Trusted
(John 15:15)
And eventually, those who endure the shaping process become something beautiful: Friends of God — trusted with His heart, His secrets, His mission.

Qualities of a Disciple
The call to discipleship isn’t vague — Jesus modeled and demanded clear traits in His followers.

1. Disciples Are Teachable
A disciple must be correctable — willing to be rebuked, willing to be wrong.
Proverbs 3:11-12 reminds us, "My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline... because the Lord disciplines those He loves."
Jesus didn’t hesitate to correct:

• Rebuked their unbelief (Luke 9:37-41)
• Rebuked their pride (Luke 9:46-48)
• Rebuked their intolerance and bigotry (Luke 9:49-56)
• Corrected misunderstandings (Luke 9:44-45)

Even Peter — Jesus’ closest disciple — got corrected harshly more than once! (Matthew 16:23)
Correction isn’t to destroy you — it’s to shape you.

If you can’t be corrected by Jesus, you can’t be commissioned by Jesus.

2. Disciples Are Humble and Submissive
Matthew 14:22 says Jesus made the disciples get into the boat. He didn’t ask — He commanded. And real disciples obey.
Luke 6:46 challenges us, "Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?"
Discipleship means saying yes — even when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or unclear.

3. Disciples Move in Power
Disciples are not weaklings — they are filled with the Holy Spirit’s power.
Acts 1:8 promises, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you."
But beware: the Sons of Sceva learned the hard way (Acts 19:11-20) that authority doesn't come from quoting the right words — it comes from walking in true relationship with Christ.

Hell recognizes real disciples. Does it recognize you?

4. Disciples May Fall — But Are Always Restored
Disciples stumble — even Peter denied Christ three times — but they are not discarded.
Jesus restores the broken disciple. True discipleship is not measured by how perfect you are, but by how willing you are to be restored.

5. Disciples Reject the World's Pressure
When Peter and John were commanded not to speak about Jesus, they boldly replied:
"Which is right in God's eyes: to listen to you, or to Him?" (Acts 4:19)
Disciples fear God more than man — no compromise.
Discipleship Demands Community and Commitment
Following Jesus isn’t just a personal experience — it’s a community commitment.
The early Church modeled it:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship..." (Acts 2:42)
You’re not just saved into a personal relationship — you’re saved into a family.
Discipleship demands devotion, discipline, and doing life together.

Who Is Not a Disciple?
Let’s be clear:

• Pharisees weren’t disciples.
• The Sadducees weren’t disciples.
• Those looking for handouts weren’t disciples.

Disciples are teachable, correctable, humble, submissive, loving, and Spirit-led.
Those who resist the Holy Spirit, refuse correction, and cling to pride disqualify themselves.
"You stiff-necked people! You always resist the Holy Spirit!" (Acts 7:51)
Rebellion is serious business — it’s compared to witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:23). A heart that refuses God’s leading cannot claim discipleship.

Final Call: Be Available. Be Teachable.
The invitation is open — but it’s costly.
Jesus is calling watchers to become followers. Followers to become learners. Learners to become workers. Workers to become friends.
He’s looking for disciples — not distant admirers.
The question is: Will you answer the call?

There are moments in life when everything hinges on one question. This is one of them. Jesus didn’t ask it to gain information. He asked it to bring revelation.

The Question That Changes Everything
Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “Who do people say I am?”
They answered with comparisons:
- “John the Baptist.”
- “Elijah.”
- “Jeremiah.”
- “Maybe just one of the prophets.”

In other words: a fiery preacher, a miracle worker, a compassionate voice, a random eligious icon. People tried to make sense of Jesus through human logic and experience. And people still do that today.

But then Jesus asked the real question:
“But who do you say I am?”

This wasn’t about public opinion. This was personal.
Because until your revelation of Jesus becomes personal, your faith will always be second-hand, fragile, and borrowed.

Revelation Forms You
Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
And with that revelation, Peter wasn’t just applauded—he was transformed. Jesus said, “You are Peter (Petros, the Rock), and on this rock I will build my Church.”
Peter didn’t become a rock on his own. He was unstable, emotional, and impulsive. But the revelation from Heaven changed him. And it will change you, too. Not just what you do, but who you are. Revelation doesn’t just inform your obedience—it transforms your identity.

Several Take Aways to Consider:
1. The Battle Between the Carnal and the Spiritual Mind
We often approach life through human reasoning—trying to make sense of God and His will by logic, emotion, or imitation. But there’s a kind of clarity that only comes from the Spirit.

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
— Romans 8:6 (NIV)

The carnal mind:

• Hesitates to commit
• Lacks discernment
• Fights against surrender

It always falls short of God's best. But the spiritual mind—led by revelation—sees with Heaven’s perspective.

2. You Cannot Be Transformed Without Revelation
Breakthrough doesn’t come just by trying harder. You need heaven-born revelation.

“And we all… are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:18

Spiritual maturity looks like transformation—not perfection, but progress. It’s the fruit of intimacy with God, not just exposure to religious culture.

3. The Great Exchange: Flesh Wants to Bargain, the Spirit Calls You to Trade
Peter had a divine moment of clarity—and just moments later, tried to correct Jesus.
Jesus responded:

“Get behind me, Satan! … You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
— Matthew 16:23

We often do the same. We receive something holy… then try to make it fit our flesh.
Here’s what that looks like:
Carnal BehaviorTwisted Question

Sexual immorality	“How can Jesus make me feel okay about this?”
Wild living	“How far can I go before it's wrong?”
Idolatry	“Can Jesus help me chase my dreams?”
Witchcraft/control	“Can I use prayer to get what I want?”
Hatred	“Can I stay angry and still be righteous?”
Envy	“Why did they get what I prayed for?”

When your hands are full of your own plans, you’ll never be able to receive revelation. But when you surrender, revelation flows freely.

“Whoever sows to please their flesh… will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit… will reap eternal life.”
— Galatians 6:8

4. Revelation > Rationalization
Look at Nathanael in John 1. Jesus saw him under the fig tree—a sacred place of prayer and hope. Nathanael exclaimed, “You are the Son of God!”
It was a right confession—but there’s no record of a radical transformation like Peter’s. Recognition isn’t the same as revelation. And revelation always costs something.

You don’t become unshakable through understanding—you become unshakable through encounter.

5. Rational Faith Will Admire Jesus—Revealed Faith Will Follow Him
Peter’s revelation cost him. It shaped him. And ultimately, it gave him authority.

“I will give you the keys of the kingdom…”
— Matthew 16:19

You can know the right words and still miss the transformation. But when you receive a revelation of Jesus—not just as a religious figure or moral guide, but as Messiah, Lord, and King—everything changes.

So, Who Do YOU Say He Is?

This is the question. Not what your church says. Not what your family says. Not what your emotions or your intellect say.

But what the Holy Spirit says by the Word of God (the bible), when the Father reveals Christ to you.
Let this be your moment—not just of clarity, but of transformation.

Let your answer not just echo truth—but birth new identity, bold obedience, and unshakable faith.

Because when you truly know who He is…You’ll finally understand who you are.
A soul in need of a savior!