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 moreWait for the Lord (Psalm 27)
Sunday Sermon: Wait for the Lord (Psalm 27)
Read moreGod’s Wisdom for a Complex World 20: Decision Making
Sunday Teaching: God’s Wisdom for a Complex World 20—Decision Making
Read moreConcluding Galatians (Galatians 6:11-18)
Concluding Galatians
Galatians 6:11-18
Paul started Galatians with his melodic line when he stated he was astonished that some in Galatia were turning so quickly from the grace of Christ to a different, therefore false, gospel (Gal. 1:6-7).
Read moreThe Gospel of Grace Brought the Spirit to Us (Galatians 3:10–14, ESV)
The Gospel of Grace Brought the Spirit to Us
Galatians 3:10 -14
Through this passage over the past couple of weeks, we’ve examined two reasons the gospel of grace transfers us from curse to blessing: it shows us the way of faith and that Christ is the one to consume the curse. The third reason the gospel transfers us from curse to blessing is that it brought the Spirit to us. Because Jesus died and rose, when we believe in him, we become recipients of the Holy Spirit (cf. Eph. 1:13-14, 2 Cor. 1:22). He is God, and he makes his home in us. Paul explained this truth this way:
Read moreThe Gospel of Grace Promotes the Way of Faith (Galatians 3:10-14)
The Gospel of Grace Promotes the Way of Faith
Galatians 3:10-14
How can someone enjoy and experience God? How can we become fully human as God intended? How can we be released from paralyzing guilt and shame? How can we attain abundant life? How can we be free?
Read moreKnowing God 17—God's Presence—Exodus 35-40
Sunday Sermon: Knowing God 17—God's Presence—Exodus 35-40
In this Calvary Monterey sermon, our final study of Exodus, we delve into "Knowing God 17—God's Presence—Exodus 35-40." This sermon takes us on a journey through the final chapters of Exodus, exploring the construction of the Tabernacle and its significance in the Israelites' relationship with God. We examine the themes of sacrifice, priesthood, and the necessity of a sacred meeting space, and how these elements point towards the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This episode offers a vivid interpretation of Moses' experiences and the transformative power of God's presence, inviting listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journey and relationship with God. Join us as we uncover the depth and beauty of God's word and its relevance to our daily lives.
Read moreKnowing God 16—God's Nature—Exodus 32-34
Sunday Teaching: Knowing God 16—God's Nature—Exodus 32-34
Read more