Highland Church Podcast

What’s really happening in baptism—and why does it matter? In this powerful message, Eric unpacks the meaning, purpose, and timing of baptism, answering common questions with both humor and biblical depth. Why was Jesus baptized, and why does He command it for His followers? What does it mean to be united with Christ in His death and resurrection through water and Spirit? Eric walks through key scriptures to show how baptism is not a human work but God’s rescue mission—our moment of transformation, forgiveness, and new life. Whether you’re wondering if you’re ready or reflecting on your own baptism, this message offers clarity, encouragement, and hope.

In this sermon, Eric Gentry explores the powerful truth found in Ephesians 2:4–5—“But God…”—two words that change everything. Dead in our sin and unable to save ourselves, we are made alive with Christ, not because of our righteousness, but because of God’s great love and rich mercy. This message unpacks the staggering grace of God—a grace so vast, we need new words to describe it. Whether you feel weighed down by guilt, failure, or simply the weight of life, this sermon will remind you: Grace wins every time.

Have you ever experienced the power of a true blessing? In this heartfelt Senior Sunday message, Eric shares a personal story of being blessed in a moment of fear and uncertainty — a reminder of how deeply the gift of blessing can renew and strengthen us. If you’re new to faith or still exploring, this is the perfect Sunday to jump in: you’ll see the heart of our church’s vision — building up the next generation. Eric unpacks how God’s blessing isn’t just words, but a way to bring heaven’s power into our lives, teaching us how to call down His joy and peace over others. You’ll leave reminded that the greatest gift we can give our seniors — or anyone — is not more stuff, but the shining face of God over their lives.

In this Easter Sunday message, Eric explores the most powerful sign in John’s Gospel—the resurrection of Jesus. From Mary Magdalene’s tearful encounter at the empty tomb to Thomas’s declaration of faith, “My Lord and my God,” this sermon walks through the eyewitness moments that changed history. Eric tackles the honest doubts many have about the resurrection, asking: Did it really happen? With thoughtful evidence and personal stories, he makes the case for a living Savior who conquered death. This isn’t blind faith—it’s belief rooted in history, testimony, and transformation. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s all real, this message is for you.

In this sermon, Eric explores the final moments of Jesus’ life and the deep meaning behind two powerful words: Fulfilled and Finished. He unpacks why Jesus’ death on the cross was not a tragic accident but the very plan of God—foretold in Scripture and completed in perfect obedience. Eric helps us see how the Lamb of God truly takes away the sin of the world. The cross is not the end of the story, but the victorious fulfillment of it. This message will deepen your understanding of why Jesus matters—and why his final breath changes everything.

In this sermon, Eric Gentry walks through John 11 and the raising of Lazarus to show us how Jesus meets us in our deepest pain. Even as we face the harsh truth that death is inevitable, Jesus reveals a greater reality: death does not have the final word. With tenderness and power, Jesus enters our grief not to explain it away, but to transform it with his glory. What looks like delay is actually love—because knowing Him is eternal life. This message invites us to trust the Teacher when our math doesn’t make sense and believe that in Christ, we are made alive—even when all seems lost. Join us as we explore how the resurrection of Lazarus speaks hope into our own stories of sorrow.

Based on John 9, this message explores the miraculous healing of a man born blind and the deeper truth it reveals—Jesus as the light of the world. Through this sign, we see not only physical sight restored but also spiritual blindness confronted. Like the blind man who came to see and believe, we are invited to step into the light of Christ, gaining clarity in a world clouded by darkness. With reflections on Amazing Grace, C.S. Lewis, and the life-changing power of grace, this sermon challenges us to ask: Are we truly seeing? Join us as we seek the light that makes all things clear.

Eric's sermon, “The Signs: Walking on Water,” takes you deep into the miraculous moment when Jesus walked across the stormy Sea of Galilee to reach his disciples. Through John 6:16-21, Eric unpacks how Jesus’ presence in the midst of darkness and chaos brings peace, security, and purpose. He connects this powerful story to Moses’ plea in Exodus 33—a reminder that we should never go where God’s presence does not lead. Just as Jesus calmed the storm and brought his disciples safely to shore, He still does the same for us today. If you’ve ever felt lost, afraid, or overwhelmed, this message will remind you that no distance, darkness, or storm can keep Jesus from coming to you.

Josh Ray’s sermon, “When God Turns Off the Lights,” explores the profound moments when God allows darkness to fall—both literally and spiritually—to reveal His greater purpose. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9, he reminds us that even in the deepest darkness, God calls His people into His marvelous light. Through the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:21-23) and Pharaoh’s defiance (Exodus 5:2), we see how God’s power is displayed when human pride resists His will. Yet, in Exodus 6:1, God promises deliverance, showing that His light will always overcome the darkness. This sermon will challenge and encourage you to trust in God’s plan, even when the lights go out, knowing He is working for your ultimate freedom and transformation.

Today's message is from one of Eric's good friends, Wilson McCoy. Wilson’s sermon, “Disciples of the Word,” is a powerful call to deepen our relationship with Christ through Scripture. Drawing from 2 Peter 1:1-21, he reminds us that discipleship is not just about knowledge but about transformation—becoming participants in the divine nature and reflecting the light of Christ in a dark world. Through Peter’s journey, from fisherman to bold preacher, McCoy highlights how true faith requires perseverance, love, and an unwavering commitment to Jesus. He challenges us to read Scripture not just for information but for encounter—to see Jesus clearly and be shaped by His presence. This sermon will inspire you to attend to God’s Word with fresh devotion, allowing it to guide your life and prepare you for eternity in His kingdom.

Eric’s sermon, The Signs: Feeding the 5,000/ The Bread of Life, is a powerful message that challenges us to consider what truly satisfies our deepest hunger. Through the miraculous story in John 6, we see how Jesus not only fed a massive crowd but revealed Himself as the Bread of Life, offering eternal satisfaction beyond physical needs. Drawing connections from history, culture, and even Steve Jobs’ famous words, “Stay hungry. Stay foolish,” this sermon invites us to rethink where we seek fulfillment. Jesus’ invitation isn’t just to receive but to participate—He calls His disciples, then and now, to be part of His mission. Don’t miss this eye-opening message that reminds us: staying hungry is foolish when Jesus offers the only bread that truly satisfies.

Eric’s sermon, The Signs: Healing the Lame Man, dives deep into John 5:1-18, exploring Jesus’ miraculous healing and its powerful implications. He challenges us to consider whether we truly want to be healed, recognizing that healing comes with new responsibilities and faith steps. Through the story of the lame man, we see how Jesus exposes the emptiness of worldly solutions and calls us to trust in Him alone. This sermon will inspire you to reflect on your own spiritual journey—where are you resisting healing, and where is Jesus calling you to step forward? Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the transformative power of Christ’s grace and authority!

Eric’s sermon, The Signs: Healing of the Royal Son, is a powerful message about faith, persistence, and recognizing who Jesus truly is. Through the story of a desperate father seeking healing for his son, we see an example of deep trust and transformation—one that still speaks to parents and believers today. Eric explores how Jesus’ miracles are more than just signs of power; they reveal His identity as the Savior of the World. He challenges us to move beyond simply welcoming Jesus into our lives and instead honor Him with true belief. Don’t miss this compelling message that will inspire you to take Jesus at His word and trust Him fully.

Eric’s sermon, The Signs: Water to Wine, reveals the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ first miracle in John 2:1-11. More than just turning water into wine, this moment is a powerful sign—a glimpse into Jesus’ divine power, his desire for our joy, and his grace that takes our emptiness and fills it with abundance. Eric unpacks how this miracle points to Jesus as the Son of God, the giver of true life. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve run out—out of strength, out of hope, out of joy—this message will show you how Jesus steps in at just the right moment. Don’t miss this powerful sermon that invites you to see the signs, believe in Jesus, and experience the life he offers.

Start 2025 with a renewed focus on God’s Word! In this message, Eric Gentry introduces our Memory Verses for 2025, beginning with Hebrews 13:15-16—a call to a life of worship, words, work, and generosity that pleases God. Through engaging stories and deep biblical insight, you’ll discover how continuous praise and daily acts of service can be a living sacrifice to the Lord. This is more than just a verse to memorize—it’s a challenge to shape your everyday life around worship and action. Don’t miss this first step in a year-long journey of hiding God’s Word in your heart!

Are you searching for a deeper sense of contentment in life? Join us for Eric’s final sermon from Hebrews, titled “A Pleasing Life: Content”, where he unpacks the timeless truths of Hebrews 13:5-6. With rich insights from Charles Spurgeon, Richard Burroughs, and stories of faith like Elizabeth Elliot’s, Eric explores how God’s unchanging promise—“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you”—offers us all we need. Discover how contentment isn’t about what we have but Who we trust, and how breaking free from the love of money leads to true joy. This powerful and life-giving message could reshape your heart and your view on life.

Discover why honoring marriage and living a holy life matters to everyone, not just the married. Eric dives deep into God’s Word to unpack how purity reflects the loving union Christ shares with His Church. But this message doesn’t stop at why—you’ll gain practical, Spirit-led steps on how to break free from the chains of sin and pursue holiness. This is a kid-safe sermon filled with grace, truth, and hope for all who seek freedom. Don’t miss this chance to draw closer to God’s plan for a life that truly pleases Him.

Start your 2025 with a message that speaks to your heart and encourages meaningful change. In this week’s lesson, Eric looks at Hebrews 13:1-3, exploring the power of love in three vital relationships: siblings, strangers, and sufferers. Eric challenges us to embrace love as an expression of gratitude for all we’ve received from God. Whether it’s deepening family bonds, showing hospitality to those we don’t know, or empathizing with the suffering, this message invites us to live a life that pleases God and transforms others. Don’t miss this chance to begin your year with love in action.

Discover the secret to a life that truly pleases God with today’s lesson called, “A Pleasing Life: To Please God.” Journey through the remarkable faith of Enoch, who was commended by God for his unwavering belief, and explore how this same faith—rooted in trust and endurance—can transform your own walk with Christ. Eric unpacks powerful truths from Hebrews 11, reminding us that pleasing God starts with faith that sees, believes, and perseveres through life’s challenges. Be encouraged by stories of human endurance, like Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic journey, and see how Jesus empowers us to endure and thrive, even in weakness. This message will challenge, uplift, and remind you to live for “One Well Done.”

This lesson is from HYG student, Caleb Jackson. Caleb preaches out of Luke 15:11-32 and asks us to examine our own heart this morning. This message will encourage you to think about where your desires are as we end 2024 and begin 2025.