Ring the Bells

Nov 10, 2025

This discussion challenges listeners to center their faith on Jesus amid cultural distortions. It addresses the dangers of a counterfeit gospel that merges Christianity with nationalism and political power. The message emphasizes Jesus' mission to uplift the oppressed and the importance of true discipleship over partisan views. Listeners are urged to engage with scripture responsibly and to practice mercy, love, and community. The call to action includes being bold in faith while confronting contemporary societal issues.

52:27

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ANECDOTE

Childhood Warning That Frames The Talk

Josh Crane tells a childhood story about sneaking into a pond and nearly getting caught by his father with a rifle.
He uses it to introduce the need to heed warnings about spiritual and communal danger.

insights

INSIGHT

Bells Are Call And Warning

Medieval church bells signaled worship and warned communities of danger, a dual metaphor Crane uses for today's call.
He wants churches to both call people to Jesus and warn against a counterfeit gospel.

insights

INSIGHT

Political Diversity, Unity At The Cross

Verve City Church is politically diverse: roughly 32% conservative, 35% moderate, 27% progressive.
Crane emphasizes unity at the cross as the church's binding identity above politics.

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Heeding Warnings and Bells' Historical Role

00:36 • 1min

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Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up

02:03 • 4min

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Jesus' Mission Statement from Luke 4

06:12 • 2min

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Identifying a Counterfeit Gospel

07:49 • 1min

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Counterfeit Move 1: Replacing Jesus' Lordship

08:50 • 4min

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Counterfeit Move 2: Replacing Love with Defeat

12:27 • 5min

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Counterfeit Move 3: Replacing the Church Community

17:32 • 2min

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Why This Message Is Not Partisan

19:11 • 8min

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Government Messaging Using Scripture

27:01 • 1min

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DHS Video Using Isaiah: Problematic Context

28:17 • 2min

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Consequences of a Baptized State Gospel

30:12 • 2min

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Political Fundraising Using Scripture

32:05 • 3min

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Calling Out Counterfeit Claims Regardless of Party

35:10 • 4min

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We Are Discipled More by Algorithm Than Jesus

38:51 • 4min

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Practical Responses for Churches and Individuals

42:45 • 5min

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Be Bold, Courageous, and Peaceful in Jesus' Way

48:06 • 2min

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This special message, Ring the Bells, calls our church to stay centered on Jesus, even when faith is being distorted for political or cultural power. This message isn’t about taking sides; it’s about reminding people what it means to actually follow Christ. We’re naming the danger of a counterfeit gospel that uses Christian language to justify harm, control, or nationalism, and we’re calling people back to Jesus’ way of humility, mercy, and love. Speaking up may feel risky, but we believe faithfulness to Jesus sometimes requires courage that’s grounded in grace.

This message borrows its title and emotional heartbeat from the song “Ring the Bells” by Johnnyswim. Listen to the song here: https://youtu.be/gANVqIxyj_o

Learn more about Verve City Church at vervecity.church

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