Santa Cruz Baptist Church Sermons

A sermon preached by Drew Cunningham at Santa Cruz Baptist Church's Palm Sunday Service (March 29th, 2026) on the topic of "According to God's Plan" based on the text of John 19:23-30.

A reflective walk through John 19 that slows down at the crucifixion to explore its theological shape. The preacher traces Old Testament echoes, sacrificial imagery, and the significance of Jesus bearing wrath and dying outside the city. Scenes like the three crosses and the placard’s languages highlight kingship, substitution, and a call to respond in faith.

A close reading of John 19 that slows the final 24 hours of Jesus' story. Graphic explanation of Roman flogging and the mock crown and robe. Pilate’s complicated words and motives are unpacked, along with the crowd’s demand for crucifixion. Connections to Isaiah, Old Testament themes, and why authority ultimately belongs to God are highlighted.

A preacher walks through Jesus’ transfer to Pilate and the political theater of the trial. He explores Pilate’s character, the leaders’ hypocrisy, and the reshaped charges against Jesus. The sermon contrasts worldly power with a different kind of kingship and explains Jesus’ purpose as a witness to truth. It closes with the dramatic contrast between Barabbas’ release and Jesus’ condemnation.

A sermon preached by Chris Davis on John 18:12-27 at Santa Cruz Baptist Church on March 1st, 2026.

A preacher traces John 18:1-11 through the final hours before the crucifixion. He highlights the Kidron brook's sacrificial symbolism and Jesus’ sovereign control during his arrest. The narrative explores the theological weight of the 'I Am' name and the startling moment soldiers fall. Themes of protection, misguided violence, and the cup Jesus accepts are also examined.

A clear survey of the church’s core purposes with a focus on five ministries that glorify God. Practical talk about evangelism as proclaiming the good news and everyday ways to witness. Emphasis on shared fellowship, regular gathering, and small groups to spur growth. Practical discipleship habits and resources for ongoing spiritual formation.

A sermon exploring why the church exists and laying out five ministries aimed at glorifying God. It examines common misconceptions and ties the Great Commandment and Commission to worship, ministry, evangelism, fellowship, and discipleship. Practical examples from Acts and everyday life show how believers serve and worship. The talk encourages every member to use their gifts in love and mission.

A sermon exploring how Christ's lordship shapes gospel clarity and church life. Listens to why costly discipleship and daily repentance matter. Compares two responses to discipline and defines formative versus corrective practices. Covers Matthew 18 steps, excommunication as a last resort, who is subject to discipline, and practical church procedures and motives.

A sermon on why clear, regenerate church membership matters for identity and accountability. Definitions of regenerate membership and its biblical markers are explored. Discussion covers scriptural metaphors, discipline in 1 Corinthians 5, and Matthew 16 on authority. Early church practices and a local membership process are described, with an invitation for newcomers to respond.