The Locker Room

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Klyne Snodgrass, a prominent New Testament scholar famous for his book on Jesus' parables, illuminates the purpose and power of storytelling. He explains how parables function as prophetic tools that provoke thought and inspire action. From the parable of the Good Samaritan to the Prodigal Son, Klyne discusses how these stories reveal deep insights about the Kingdom of God and human nature. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural context and suggests ways to apply these timeless lessons today.

In this episode, we sit down with longtime Crossroads member Dr. Brad Bengtson to dive deep into the chronology of the birth of Christ. Can we know the exact date of Jesus' birth? Does it even matter? Together, we explore these questions and more, uncovering fascinating insights about the prophetic announcement of Christ’s arrival and the historical events unfolding at that time. Dr. Bengtson takes us through the cultural and historical backdrop of the nativity story, shedding light on the significance of key moments, figures, and prophecies that set the stage for the birth of the Savior. From the Roman census to the timing of the star of Bethlehem, we examine how these details fit into the larger narrative of God’s plan. Check out Crossroads U classes: HERE

In this episode, we dive into Luke 2:8-20. Often overlooked, the shepherds were the first to hear the message of Jesus’ birth—the greatest announcement in history. We explore why these humble, lowly figures were chosen to receive God’s revelation, and what this means for how we view God's message and His priorities. The episode unpacks the revelation itself: the good news of the birth of a Savior in a humble manger, and the functional gospels in our life. We reflect on the significance of the shepherds’ response—not just to marvel at the message but to act on it by telling others the good news they received. Join us as we explore the deeper meanings behind this passage: Who are the recipients of God's message? How does God reveal Himself to us today? And how can we respond like the shepherds—by sharing the joy and hope of Christ’s birth with others? Preacher: Tryg Veker Passage: Luke 2:8-20 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

Neil Martin is a Pastor at Oxford Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Oxford, England. He is also the Director of B Less Oxford. He completed his DPhil in New Testament at the University of Oxford and is a member of the St. John Fellowship of the Center for Pastor Theologians. He also previously served as a Pastor at our very own Crossroads Bible Church. Preacher: Neil Martin Passage: Matthew 1:18-25 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

In this episode, we explore the Advent narrative of Zechariah and Elizabeth from Luke 1:5-22, focusing on the themes of faith versus religion, waiting versus instant gratification, and silence versus noise. Zechariah and Elizabeth, despite their deep religious devotion, struggle with the tension between outward faith and inward doubt, reminding us that true faith often grows in the spaces of silence and unanswered prayers. In a culture that demands immediate results, their long wait for a child challenges our desire for instant gratification, while Zechariah’s moment of divine silence—muted by God after his doubt—reveals how God’s quiet presence can be more profound than a world filled with noise and quick answers. This story invites us to reflect on how we navigate the quiet moments of our own faith journeys and the tension between our desires for immediate responses and the deeper growth that comes through patience. Preacher: Rod VanSolkema Passage: Luke 1:5-23 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

We sit down with Sam Sterk (vice-chair of Crossroads Elder Board) as we dive into the often difficult topic of forgiveness, Using the powerful story in Genesis 50 as our backdrop, we look at Joseph's reconciliation with his brothers and how it offers profound insights into the challenges of forgiveness and the healing power it can bring. But we don’t stop there. We take a step back to explore the larger meta-narrative of Scripture—the overarching story of Creation, Fall, Redemption, and New Creation. From the good world God intended in Genesis 1 to the brokenness brought by sin, and the redemptive work of Jesus on the cross, forgiveness is at the heart of God's plan for restoring all things. Join us as we wrestle with why forgiveness is so hard, how God models it throughout Scripture, and the transformative power it holds for both individuals and communities. Preacher: Rod VanSolkema Passage: Genesis 50 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

We sit down with Jason Botbyl and Jamie Bartlett as we explore the powerful themes of grief and faith found in Genesis 48 and 49. As Jacob prepares to bless his sons and share his final words, we witness a profound journey of loss, remembrance, and hope. How did Jacob confront the sorrow of his life and the painful separation from his beloved son Joseph? How did his faith sustain him through these trials? Join us as we dive into the biblical narrative to reflect on how we can process grief and trust God’s faithfulness in the midst of life’s most challenging seasons. Whether you’re navigating your own grief or simply seeking deeper spiritual insight, this episode will offer you encouragement, wisdom, and hope for the journey ahead. Preacher: Tryg Veker Passage: Genesis 49:1-28 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

We sit down with pastor and author AJ Sherill to talk about Advent and his new book Rediscovering Christmas. Are you tired of feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and empty during the holiday season? Instead of getting caught up in the hustle and bustle, are you ready to slow down, catch your breath, and rediscover the true beauty of Christmas?This captivating collection of readings explores the intersection where the ancient context meets the present moment. Pastor AJ Sherrill invites you into an experience designed to renew your mind, reawaken your heart, rekindle your awe, and restore your body. Rediscovering Christmas is divided into two sections: Advent, which teaches the purpose of waiting, and Christmas, which reveals the joy of receiving. Through meaningful reflections, practices, and illustrations, you’ll see the diverse characters of the first Christmas in a new light—and comprehend just how their stories intertwine with your own.

We sit down with Crossroads Staff members Stephanie Teslaa, and Jason Botbyl to dive into Genesis 45 and explore one of the most powerful moments of reconciliation in the Bible—Joseph being reunited with his brothers after years of separation. After suffering betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment, Joseph’s journey comes full circle as he forgives his brothers, revealing his identity to them in a dramatic, emotion-filled encounter. We’ll reflect on the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and God's sovereignty in the midst of our struggles. How does Joseph's response to his brothers teach us about grace, mercy, and the possibility of healing broken relationships? Join us as we unpack the depths of this chapter, and what it means to be reconciled to one another. Preacher: Jason Botbyl Passage: Genesis 45-46 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org

We sit down with longtime Crossroads member Ashlea Russ as we explore the powerful theme of repentance in Genesis 42-44. As Joseph’s brothers (more specifically Judah) face the fallout from their past actions, we watch their guilt turn into genuine remorse and a desire to make things right. From their first encounter with Joseph in Egypt to their emotional confessions, these chapters show us the messy but redemptive process of facing our mistakes and seeking forgiveness. We’ll unpack what true repentance looks like, how God works in the midst of it, and how we can learn from their journey, as reflect on the power of turning back and finding grace. Preacher: Rod VanSolkema Passage: Genesis 42-44 Sermon Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Questions for The Locker Room? email: lockerroom@crossroads-bible.org