In this week's teaching from Calvary Monterey, I'll examine the dramatic arrival of John the Baptist in Matthew 3. While John's message to "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" can sound harsh, this sermon uncovers the profound and surprising joy found in preparing our lives for King Jesus. I'll explain how John's call leads us into the liberating joy of true repentance, the refreshing joy of authenticity before God, and the deep joy of expiation—the complete cleansing from sin that only Jesus can provide. This is a foundational teaching on what it means to clear the way for the King to work in our lives.
Read moreChapter 4. The King in Humble Glory (Matthew 2:13-23)
In this week's teaching from Calvary Monterey, Pastor Nate Holdridge examines Matthew 2:13-23, a passage filled with divine guidance, dangerous threats, and deep sorrow. Follow the young Messiah's family as they flee to Egypt, witness the fulfillment of prophecy in the midst of Herod's horrific cruelty, and discover the significance of their return to the obscure town of Nazareth. This sermon illustrates how Jesus is our true exodus from sin, our real return from spiritual exile, and the ultimate embodiment of a humble, servant King.
Read moreChapter 3. Responding to the Legitimate King (Matthew 2:1-12)
Series: The Promised King and His Good Kingdom
Part 1: The Incarnate King
Chapter 3. Responding to the Legitimate King (Matthew 2:1-12)
Preached: October 9-12, 2025
Read moreThe Promised King and His Good Kingdom—Chapter 2. His Identity and Purpose (Matthew 1:18-25)
Chapter 2. His Identity and Purpose (Matthew 1:18-25)
Read moreHis Message: Jesus Is the King of the Kingdom (Mark 1:14-15)
His Message: Jesus Is the King of the Kingdom
(Mark 1:14-15)
With the beginning of Jesus' preaching ministry, we have a conclusion, of sorts, to Mark's introduction. He had said, "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1). And now that he's covered Jesus' forerunner, baptism, and temptation, all he has left is the summary statement of Jesus' preaching ministry. It was simple: The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel. (5 Minutes/1300 Words)
Read moreArchival Post: Living In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 1
Living In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 1
Archival Post
Abram had stepped up to serve as a blessing in Lot's life. God had told him his name would be great, and that he'd be a blessing. And, after Abram rescued Lot from invading kings, Lot would agree.
Read moreGenesis 40-41
Welcome everyone to our through the Bible study of the book of Genesis. We're going to be in Genesis chapter 40 and 41 if you'd like to turn there in your Bible.
Read moreLiving In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 3 (Genesis 15)
Living In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 3
When you are living in between the promise and the fulfillment, when the world seems dark and ominous, it is important to look to the cross of Christ. There, we are reminded of God's great love for us, and his promise to make all things new. (5 Minutes/1400)
Read moreLiving In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 2 (Genesis 15)
Living In Between the Promise and Fulfillment,
Part 2
(Genesis 15)
The life lived in between the promise and the fulfillment, must be able to see past circumstances. All Abram could see what Eliezer. But God could see descendants as numerous as the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore! God could see way beyond what Abram could see. (7 Minutes/1800 Words)
Read moreLiving In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 1 (Genesis 15)
Living In Between the Promise and
Fulfillment, Part 1
(Genesis 15)
After defeating the four invading kings and returning the goods and peoples of the weaker kings, Abram had a meeting with the King of Salem and the King of Sodom. The King of Salem was named Melchizedek, and he was the priest of God Most High. Melchizedek was Abram's spiritual superior, and he extended a blessing from God onto Abram. (7 Minutes, 1800 Words)
Read more