You Want to Be Like Jesus... But Do You Really?

You Want to Be Like Jesus... But Do You Really?

Most Christians want to be more like Jesus—but what if becoming like Him means more than being kind, patient, and loving? In Acts 6–7, Stephen becomes the first Christian martyr, and the more his story unfolds, the more he looks like Jesus. He faces false accusations, rejection, suffering, and ultimately death—all while reflecting Christ's character and extending forgiveness to his enemies. This message challenges a difficult question: Do we really want to look like Jesus...or just the parts of Jesus that are comfortable? If following Christ begins to cost us our comfort, reputation, relationships, dreams, or security, will we still say yes? In this sermon, you'll discover: Why Stephen's life mirrors Jesus in remarkable ways The difference between genuine discipleship and comfortable religion Why sacrifice reveals what we truly believe What it really means to take up your cross and follow Christ How God often does His greatest work through surrendered lives Following Jesus has never been about playing it safe. The invitation has always been the same: Come and die so you can truly live. If this message encourages or challenges you, consider subscribing for more biblical teaching through our study of the book of Acts. Sunday Teachings drop every Monday and new episodes of The Extra Point drop every Tuesday! To hear the Sunday teachings that are discussed for the Extra Point, visit the previously aired episode of The Southridge Church Podcast.

The Extra Point - Complexities of Challenges, Complaints, and Conflict

The complexities that come with growth are many, and it can be hard to discern what to handle and how to handle it. Acts 6 teaches us how to move from comfort to mission in a way that creates and demonstrates mutual expectation. Listen to Episode 227 as Pastors Scott and Cheryl dive deeper into these concepts and give practical tips for faith and life.  Sunday Teachings drop every Monday and new episodes of The Extra Point drop every Tuesday! To hear the Sunday teachings that are discussed for the Extra Point, visit the previously aired episode of The Southridge Church Podcast.

When Growth Creates Problems

Growth is a blessing—but it also creates complexity. In Acts 6, the early church is experiencing explosive growth. Thousands are coming to faith, lives are being transformed, and the gospel is spreading throughout the city. But as the church grows, a real problem emerges: people begin to be overlooked. The solution wasn't to stop growing. The solution wasn't to shrink back to what felt comfortable. The solution was to reorganize, specialize, and empower more people to use the gifts God had given them. In this message, you'll discover: * Why growth naturally creates complexity. * Why healthy churches don't shrink—they adapt. * The biblical principle of delegation and specialization. * Why every believer has a unique role in God's mission. * How using your spiritual gifts helps the Church care for people while continuing to reach more people with the gospel. The Church was never meant to be built around a few people doing everything. God designed His Church like a body, with every believer contributing their unique gifts and calling. When each person steps into the role God created them for, the Church becomes healthier, stronger, and more effective at making disciples. If you've ever wondered where you fit, what your purpose is, or why serving matters, this message from Acts 6 will encourage and challenge you to take your next step. Sunday Teachings drop every Monday and new episodes of The Extra Point drop every Tuesday! To hear the Sunday teachings that are discussed for the Extra Point, visit the previously aired episode of The Southridge Church Podcast.

The Extra Point - Obedience now gives credibility later...

When it comes to learning a new way of life, it's hard to take someone serious who isn't living it or hasn't been through it. However, we see that the obedience Peter and the Apostles have in Acts give them credibility when they later write letters to the early church. They show in Acts 5 how to be courageous and live in bold obedience to the mission and message of Christ. Listen to Episode 226 as Pastors Cheryl and Anna dive deeper into these concepts, as well as some deeper understanding of Peter's references and what that looks like for us today.  Sunday Teachings drop every Monday and new episodes of The Extra Point drop every Tuesday! To hear the Sunday teachings that are discussed for the Extra Point, visit the previously aired episode of The Southridge Church Podcast.

The Force Behind the Church | Why the Enemy Can’t Stop What God Starts

What happens when the enemy does everything possible to stop God's people? In Acts 5, the apostles are arrested, threatened, beaten, and commanded to stop preaching about Jesus. Yet every attempt to silence them only fuels the spread of the Gospel. Why? Because the power behind the movement wasn't human determination...it was God Himself. Using the picture of a beach ball pushed underwater, this message reminds us that there is a greater force at work in the life of every believer. Opposition may come. Fear may rise. People may criticize. But when God is behind what He's called you to do, no prison, no threat, and no enemy can stop His purpose. If you've ever questioned your calling, felt intimidated by opposition, or wondered if you have what it takes to live on mission, this message is for you. 📖 Scripture: Acts 5:17 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_Z4vLcoXP4&t=317s]-42 In this message you'll discover: • Why courage grows when you know who's fighting for you • How God strengthens His people through opposition • Why the enemy cannot stop what God has determined to accomplish • How to stand firm when sharing your faith feels difficult • What it means to trust God's power instead of your own The same Spirit that empowered the early church lives in believers today. You are not fighting alone. Sunday Teachings drop every Monday and new episodes of The Extra Point drop every Tuesday! To hear the Sunday teachings that are discussed for the Extra Point, visit the previously aired episode of The Southridge Church Podcast.