A Closer Look

In this episode, we take a closer look at Luke 19:1–10 and Zacchaeus’s encounter with Jesus. Pastor David unpacks why Zacchaeus’s restitution is fruit of salvation—not a way to earn it—showing how grace, not law, truly changes people from the inside out. We also clarify two common questions from the text: what “small in stature” likely means (both literally and socially) and how to read Zacchaeus’s “if I have defrauded” statement. Along the way, we briefly explain when and why our church addresses major cultural moments during worship, and we offer pastoral help on the difference between temptation and sin and the wise place of boundaries in the Christian life.

17 Syys 22min

This week on A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David reflect on Luke 18 and the healing of the blind man. They discuss how the gospel writers emphasize different details without contradiction, why the blind man’s cry of “Son of David” is so significant, and how physical healing points to the greater spiritual healing Jesus brings. The conversation also looks at the blind man’s response of worship, connects it to other transformed lives like Zacchaeus, and challenges us to ask: Am I living for myself, or has grace truly changed me?

9 Syys 17min

In this episode of the Valley Center Community Church podcast, Jason Smith and Pastor David reflect on the Fall Kickoff Sunday under the tent—a time of worship, fellowship, and celebration of God’s faithfulness. They discuss why the church pauses to “celebrate what God has done,” how numbers reflect lives transformed by grace, and the biblical mission of being witnesses—both in word and in life. The conversation also explores the hope of Christ’s return, the call to reach the nations, and the encouragement that every believer, young or old, has a God-given purpose as His ambassador.

3 Syys 16min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason and Pastor David reflect on Luke 18:18–30 and the story of the rich ruler. They unpack the meaning of eternal zoe—true life as God intended—and contrast the “ladder” of religion with the gift of the cross of Christ. Along the way, they share personal reflections from Sunday’s worship, highlight how grace shapes our parenting and relationships, and point to the freedom that comes from trusting in Christ’s finished work. The conversation also looks ahead to VCCC’s upcoming Fall Kickoff and what it means for us as a church family.

25 Elo 20min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David dive into Luke 18:15–17, where parents bring even infants to Jesus. They explore the cultural view of children in Jesus’ day versus the biblical truth that every child is a blessing, created for God’s glory. Together, they discuss what it means for parents to prepare their children not just for careers or success, but to become disciples of Jesus Christ. They highlight the danger of child-centered parenting that fosters self-focus, and instead emphasize practical discipleship in the home—modeling worship, prayer, Bible study, and gospel-shaped priorities. The conversation also unpacks what Jesus meant by “childlike faith,” showing that entrance into God’s kingdom requires dependence and humility, not innocence or effort.

19 Elo 20min

This week on A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David explore Luke 17:20–37 and Jesus’ teaching on the coming of the kingdom of God. What kind of kingdom were the people expecting — and what kind of kingdom did Jesus actually bring? They also discuss the meaning of being "taken" in this passage, whether it's a reference to the rapture, and what Scripture really teaches about that final day. It's a conversation filled with context, clarity, and hope — pointing us to the return of Christ and our call to live with faithful expectation.

30 Heinä 20min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David dive into Luke 17:11–19 and the story of the ten lepers. Why does Luke emphasize Jesus' journey to Jerusalem? What distinguishes the one healed leper who returns from the nine who don’t? And does Jesus’ statement, “Your faith has made you well,” mean physical healing always comes through faith? Join us as we explore the themes of common grace, true worship, gratitude, and the difference between experiencing God’s blessings and truly belonging to Christ. Plus, a preview of next week's passage on the coming of the kingdom.

21 Heinä 19min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David explore Luke 17 and tackle a challenging question: Are Christians called to forgive even when someone hasn’t repented? Drawing from Scripture and real-life examples, they discuss the difference between transactional and attitudinal forgiveness, the heart posture Christ calls us to, and how to walk in grace while pursuing truth and justice.

15 Heinä 18min