

Heritage Baptist Church Haslet
Pastor Eric Crawford
Loving God, Growing Together, Serving Others
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 9, 2025 • 40min
Learning from Joseph: Overcoming Temptation
Pastor Crawford delves into the life of Joseph, focusing on the theme of temptation and how it manifests even during times of success. He highlights that temptations often arise unexpectedly, particularly when one's circumstances are improving, as seen in Joseph's rise to prominence in Potiphar's house. The discussion emphasizes that integrity and strong convictions are crucial in resisting such temptations, as Joseph exemplified when confronted by Potiphar's wife. Pastor Crawford explains that yielding to temptation may provide immediate benefits but ultimately leads to long-term consequences, impacting not only one’s character but also their relationship with God. Through Joseph's story, he encourages listeners to rely on faith and character to navigate life's challenges, reinforcing the importance of making choices that align with one's values and beliefs.The podcast episode provides an insightful exploration of the life of Joseph as detailed in the book of Genesis, specifically focusing on Genesis chapter 39. The speaker, referred to as Speaker A, emphasizes the significance of learning from biblical figures, highlighting that their experiences serve as lessons for contemporary audiences. Throughout the discussion, Speaker A reflects on Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery by his own brothers to rising to a position of prominence in Potiphar's house. A key theme presented is the concept of character and integrity, which Speaker A argues were pivotal in Joseph's success. He points out that prosperity in life is often a result of diligent effort and strong moral values, as demonstrated by Joseph's actions in a challenging environment. By illustrating how Joseph's faith and hard work attracted God's blessings, Speaker A encourages listeners to apply these lessons in their own lives, particularly in terms of work ethic and moral decision-making.In a deep dive into the temptations faced by Joseph, Speaker A details the significant moment when Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce him. Joseph's response to this temptation is framed as a pivotal lesson in resisting moral compromises, particularly when such choices could lead to immediate benefits. Speaker A notes that temptations often arise unexpectedly, even when life seems to be going well, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's convictions in the face of challenges. He stresses that Joseph's refusal to yield was not only an act of personal integrity but also a recognition of the broader spiritual implications of sin. The episode reinforces that true strength lies in standing firm against temptation, guided by faith and a commitment to doing what is right, even when circumstances might suggest otherwise.Additionally, the episode serves as a reminder of the daily nature of temptation and the necessity of being vigilant in one's spiritual life. Speaker A discusses how Joseph's enduring faith amidst trials, including imprisonment due to false accusations, exemplifies resilience and trust in divine providence. The discussion concludes with a call to action for listeners to actively cultivate their spiritual health by engaging in prayer, studying biblical teachings, and fostering character traits that lead to a fulfilling and prosperous life. Speaker A encapsulates the overarching message that by adhering to principles of integrity and faith, individuals can navigate life's challenges with grace and strength, much like Joseph did during his trials.Takeaways: Joseph's life exemplifies the importance of maintaining integrity, especially during times of temptation. Temptation often arises when one is experiencing success or prosperity, necessitating vigilance. The source of temptation can be unexpected, as demonstrated by the actions of Potiphar's wife towards Joseph. Making choices based on convictions rather than immediate benefits is crucial in resisting temptation. Understanding that sin ultimately offends God should guide one's decisions during moments of temptation. Resisting temptation requires a proactive approach, such as fleeing from situations that compromise one's integrity. Companies mentioned in this episode: Lockheed

Oct 5, 2025 • 34min
The 70 Weeks of Daniel: What They Mean for Today
The discussion centers on the prophetic significance of Daniel's 70 weeks, emphasizing that these weeks symbolize a divinely designated timeline for Israel. The speaker elucidates how this prophecy outlines the historical and future events that will unfold, particularly the coming of the Messiah and the eventual acceptance of Jesus by the Jewish nation. He highlights that while the first 69 weeks have been fulfilled, the final week remains, which is marked by significant turmoil and the actions of the Antichrist. The speaker further reflects on the importance of prayer, illustrating Daniel's model of prayer that includes praise, repentance, and supplication. Ultimately, the episode serves to reassure listeners of God's sovereignty over human affairs and the unfolding of His prophetic calendar, encouraging them to remain vigilant and hopeful for the future.A profound exploration of Daniel's prophetic insights unfolds as Speaker A delves into Chapter 9, emphasizing the significance of God's sovereignty in human history. He articulates the narrative of Daniel's prayer, during which he earnestly seeks forgiveness for his sins and the transgressions of his people. The speaker presents a detailed examination of the 70 weeks prophecy, a pivotal element in biblical eschatology that outlines the timeline for the Jewish people and the coming of the Messiah. The speaker asserts that this prophecy is crucial for understanding God's plan for Israel, framing it within the historical context of the Medo-Persian Empire's rise and the subsequent significance of Jerusalem's restoration. He articulates the theological implications of Israel's eventual acceptance of Jesus as the Messiah, highlighting the paradox of their initial rejection and anticipated future acceptance. This exploration not only underscores the intricate relationship between prayer and divine revelation but also emphasizes the overarching theme of God's control over earthly affairs, inviting listeners to reflect on the profound mysteries of faith and prophecy.

Oct 5, 2025 • 37min
Living a Victorious Life: Lessons from Joshua
The podcast episode centers on the theme of living a victorious Christian life, as emphasized by the speaker's reflections on biblical narratives, particularly from the book of Joshua. He expresses gratitude for his family, illustrating the importance of support and faith in one's community. The speaker draws parallels between the struggles faced by the Israelites and the challenges that modern Christians encounter, highlighting the necessity of prayer and dependence on God in overcoming life's obstacles. He warns against the deceptive tactics of the enemy, asserting that spiritual vigilance is essential for maintaining faith and integrity. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that God's desire for each individual is to lead a life of purpose and triumph through faith and daily spiritual disciplines.Takeaways: Speaker A emphasized the importance of living a victorious Christian life, which is rooted in faith and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He reminded listeners that Christianity is not merely a religion defined by rules, but a relationship with God who loves unconditionally. The speaker discussed the necessity of prayer and dependence on God, highlighting that neglecting prayer signifies pride and a lack of reliance on divine guidance. He warned that the enemy uses deceitful tactics, urging listeners to remain vigilant and to recognize the subtle ways Satan can lead them astray. The episode underscored the concept that God's desire is for every Christian to achieve greater spiritual heights, often referred to as 'higher ground'. Speaker A concluded with a powerful reminder that mistakes and sins can ultimately bring individuals closer to God if they seek forgiveness and restoration.

Oct 2, 2025 • 42min
The Power of Character: Joseph's Faithful Walk with God
Pastor Eric Crawford emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and integrity in his message centered on the life of Joseph. He discusses how Joseph's unwavering trust in God, even amidst adversity, serves as a powerful example for believers today. The episode delves into the challenges Joseph faced, including betrayal by his brothers and being sold into slavery, yet he remained committed to his values and his relationship with God. Pastor Crawford highlights that true prosperity comes from a life dedicated to serving the Lord and trusting in His plan, as demonstrated by Joseph’s eventual rise to prominence in Egypt. Through this exploration, the message encourages listeners to cultivate their character and faithfulness, reflecting on how God works all things together for good to those who love Him.Pastor Eric Crawford delves into the profound life of Joseph, a biblical figure renowned for his unwavering faithfulness and his intimate relationship with God. Through a detailed examination of Genesis 39, he unfolds the lessons that can be drawn from Joseph's experiences, particularly focusing on the trials he faced after being sold into slavery by his brothers. Pastor Crawford emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and trust in God amidst adversity, using Joseph's steadfast nature as a model for listeners. He highlights how, even in the depths of despair, Joseph's character and dedication to God led him to prosper in Potiphar's house, illustrating the biblical truth that 'all things work together for good to those who love God.' This powerful message encourages listeners to reflect on their own faith journeys, urging them to trust in God's plan and remain faithful in their walk with Him.In addition to exploring Joseph's trials, Pastor Crawford draws parallels between Joseph's life and that of Jesus Christ, presenting Joseph not just as a historical figure but as a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. This connection deepens the understanding of Joseph's experiences and the significance of his faithfulness. Pastor Crawford concludes with practical applications for contemporary life, challenging his audience to consider how they can embody Joseph's integrity and reliance on God in their everyday situations. By doing so, they not only honor God but also pave the way for their own spiritual growth and blessings.Overall, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of faithfulness and character, regardless of the circumstances one may face. Pastor Crawford's message reinforces the idea that true prosperity comes from a life dedicated to God, and that even in our darkest moments, we can find hope and purpose when we trust in His divine plan.Takeaways: Pastor Eric Crawford emphasizes the importance of trusting God completely, similar to how children trust their parents, illustrating Joseph's unwavering faith during his trials. In discussing Joseph's life, he highlights that God's hand was upon Joseph, leading him to prosperity despite being sold into slavery, showcasing God's providence. The message stresses that rejection of God's word, as seen with Joseph's brothers, does not thwart God's plans but rather propels them forward, emphasizing divine purpose. A key lesson from the podcast is the need for character and integrity in one's life, which enables individuals to rise above their circumstances, just as Joseph did. Pastor Crawford draws attention to the need for parents to avoid favoritism in their children, as it can lead to jealousy and division, reflecting on Jacob's relationship with his sons. The pastor encourages listeners to meditate on God's word and walk closely with Him, asserting that this leads to true prosperity, evidenced by Joseph's faithful life.

Sep 29, 2025 • 44min
Exploring Daniel's Model Prayer: A Blueprint for Effective Communication with God
A profound exploration of prayer as modeled in the Biblical text of Daniel Chapter 9 unfolds, emphasizing its critical role in the believer's life. The speaker elucidates the significance of Daniel's prayer, linking it to the overarching theme of God's sovereignty in human affairs. He notes that Daniel, during a pivotal moment in history, reflects on the prophetic writings of Jeremiah, specifically the prophesied seventy years of captivity. This reflection serves as a catalyst for Daniel's earnest supplication to God, demonstrating his humility and recognition of Israel's collective sin. The speaker stresses that prayer is not merely a ritual but an act of sincere communication with God, where believers are encouraged to identify with their communities and confess their transgressions. Through this narrative, listeners are urged to cultivate a deeper prayer life, recognizing the necessity of approaching God with both reverence and faith, as Daniel did, pleading for mercy and restoration.Takeaways: The significance of prayer is emphasized as a vital practice in the Christian faith, encouraging individuals to engage consistently with God. Daniel's prayer serves as a model for believers, illustrating the importance of repentance and humility when approaching the Lord. Understanding the context of Daniel's prophecies, particularly the 70 weeks, is key to grasping God's overarching plan for humanity and the fulfillment of His promises. The necessity of acknowledging God’s attributes, such as His mercy and righteousness, is highlighted as part of a sincere approach to prayer. Believers are reminded that God desires a personal relationship, which requires open communication through prayer and supplication. Daniel's identification with the sins of his people shows the importance of collective repentance and seeking God's forgiveness for communal transgressions.

Sep 28, 2025 • 1h 15min
Victory is given by the Lord
Joshua 8:1Stay focused on Jesus.Joshua 8:30-35Deuteronomy 11:26-29 (Sermons by Moses)Deuteronomy 27:1-26 (Sermons by Moses)Romans 8:1-4The things God wants for your life:Salvation

Sep 25, 2025 • 33min
Revitalizing Faith: Restoring Dwindling Churches in America
Church Planter Daniel Martinez delivers a powerful message during the final night of the Mission Conference, focusing on the critical need for church revitalization. He highlights the challenges faced by many churches, particularly those that have suffered significant declines due to the impact of COVID-19. Throughout his address, he emphasizes the importance of faith as a driving force for healing and restoration, sharing personal testimonies of individuals whose lives have been transformed through their belief in Jesus. Martinez urges listeners to persist in their faith, seek personal encounters with God, and take bold steps in their spiritual journeys. His call to action encourages the congregation to share the gospel and support each other in their faith, reinforcing the idea that Jesus is the ultimate solution to their struggles and anxieties.Takeaways: Pastor Eric Crawford emphasized the importance of revitalizing struggling churches affected by recent challenges, including Covid-19. Daniel Martinez shared testimonies of personal transformation through faith, highlighting the power of Jesus to change lives in profound ways. The speakers discussed the critical role of community support and prayer in the revitalization process of churches facing decline. The message conveyed that true satisfaction and completeness in life come from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They expressed the notion that faith is essential not only for salvation but also for overcoming life's obstacles and challenges. The importance of taking bold actions in faith was highlighted, encouraging individuals to seek personal encounters with God during difficult times.

Sep 24, 2025 • 40min
Lessons from Philemon: Embracing Forgiveness and Acceptance
The podcast episode focuses on the importance of personal investment in ministry and the profound impact of individual transformation through faith. The speaker, while expressing gratitude to the church community in Haslett, Texas, emphasizes that true understanding and appreciation of one's contributions can only be realized through visible outcomes. He draws from the biblical book of Philemon to illustrate how personal relationships and spiritual connections foster meaningful change, advocating for a faith that transcends political and cultural boundaries. The discussion also highlights the necessity of prayer and community support in advancing the Gospel, reinforcing that real change begins within the heart of each individual. Ultimately, the speaker encourages listeners to embrace their roles as partners in faith, contributing to a collective effort to share Christ's message effectively.The discussion revolves around the importance of community and individual contributions to faith-based missions, particularly as highlighted through the relationship between Paul and Philemon. The speaker emphasizes the significance of personal investment in ministry and the emotional impact of witnessing the fruits of one's labor. He elaborates that while it's easier to understand the value of one’s contributions through tangible demonstrations, such as video testimonies, it is often challenging to convey the spiritual significance of those efforts. The speaker makes a poignant comparison, likening the difficulty of expressing the depth of spiritual investments to attempting to give a haircut over the phone. This analogy serves to underline the importance of direct engagement and the necessity for shared experiences in faith communities. The narrative transitions to the speaker's personal experiences in Haslett, Texas, where he expresses gratitude for the relationships cultivated there, drawing parallels to the broader theme of community within the church. He introduces Akhil, a young man whose journey exemplifies the transformative power of faith and education, highlighting the role of mentorship and the importance of nurturing relationships in spiritual growth. Through this, the speaker encourages the audience to continue investing in their community and to view their collective efforts as part of a greater mission to spread the Gospel. The speaker wraps up by inviting reflection on these themes, urging listeners to consider how they can contribute to the mission of the church in their unique contexts, thereby reinforcing the core message of unity and service in faith. A significant theme explored is the concept of partnership in faith, as illustrated through the bond between Paul and Philemon. The speaker articulates that the essence of Christianity is not merely a political movement but a transformative journey that begins within individuals, ultimately affecting broader societal change. Paul’s letter to Philemon serves as a case study in the complexities of interpersonal relationships within the church, particularly in dealing with societal issues such as slavery. The speaker discusses how Paul chose a gentle approach, urging Philemon to embrace Onesimus not simply as a servant but as a brother in Christ. This invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and how they can embody forgiveness and acceptance in their interactions. The narrative is enriched with historical context, linking the struggles of early Christians with contemporary issues, thus grounding the discussion in reality and making it relatable to the audience. The speaker’s insistence on personal responsibility and the call to action for individuals to live out their faith in tangible ways resonates deeply, prompting the audience to consider how they can actively participate in their communities and embody the principles of love and acceptance that Christ exemplified. Ultimately, the speaker encourages a mindset shift from viewing faith as a solely personal journey to recognizing it as a collective effort that can lead to profound change within communities.The episode delves into the broader implications of faith in action, particularly in the context of community service and engagement. The speaker emphasizes that true change begins within individuals and extends outward, advocating for a practical application of faith principles in everyday life. He articulates that the Christian message is one that promotes unity, love, and partnership, drawing on the example of Paul’s appeal to Philemon to receive Onesimus back as a brother. This appeal underscores the idea that faith transcends societal roles and should be reflected in how individuals treat one another, regardless of their background or past actions. The speaker invites listeners to consider their role in fostering a supportive community, stressing the importance of prayer and collaboration within the church to achieve shared goals. The discussion highlights the necessity of nurturing relationships and building connections that can withstand societal pressures, encouraging a culture of support and forgiveness. By sharing personal anecdotes and biblical insights, the speaker crafts a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, urging the audience to reflect on how they can contribute positively to their communities through acts of service, understanding, and love. The episode concludes with a call to action, inspiring listeners to embody the principles of compassion and partnership in their daily lives, reinforcing the notion that collective efforts in faith can lead to lasting impact and transformation.Takeaways: The speaker emphasized the importance of visual storytelling in communicating impactful messages about faith and community involvement. He expressed gratitude for the congregation's dedication and service, highlighting the personal connections formed through shared faith journeys. The speaker noted that true understanding of one's investments in ministry often comes through direct experience and personal engagement with the mission. He discussed how Paul’s letter to Philemon illustrates the necessity of personal relationships in fostering forgiveness and reconciliation in a faith context.

Sep 23, 2025 • 48min
Embracing the Miracle of Normal: A Journey of Faith in Hondo
Russell James, the pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hondo, Texas, shares his journey of establishing the church and emphasizes the significance of community ministry. He recounts how, after a long period of serving as an assistant pastor, he felt a divine calling to lead his own congregation, which began on October 15, 2025. Throughout the episode, James highlights the church's growth over the past three years, including the number of converts and the outreach efforts that have led to many finding faith in Christ. He also discusses the importance of support from fellow churches, expressing gratitude for their contributions to the mission. The episode culminates in a powerful message about the joy of restoring relationships, drawing parallels between biblical parables and the transformative experience of faith.Russell James, the pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hondo, Texas, takes listeners on an insightful journey through his experiences in establishing a church dedicated to serving the local community. He begins by painting a vivid picture of Hondo, a small town that he describes as the heart of Medina County, where he and his wife, Rebecca, felt a divine calling to minister. Their church began its mission in October 2025, and Russell shares the trials and triumphs they faced in their first three years, marking the occasion with an upcoming anniversary service that promises to be a celebration of faith and community.Throughout his address, Russell emphasizes the importance of outreach, highlighting numerous individuals from diverse backgrounds who have found solace and purpose in their faith through the church's efforts. He expresses gratitude towards other churches for their support, which has been vital in their journey. With 52 adult members and a Sunday attendance averaging in the mid-70s, the church exemplifies the power of community, with every contribution to their mission translating into spiritual fruit. Russell's tone is earnest as he details the logistics of their church operations, including the creative use of rented spaces and the shared facilities that have enabled them to conduct services and programs effectively.The narrative crescendos as Russell discusses the church's vision for the future, focusing on their recent acquisition of land for a permanent building, which represents a significant step towards fulfilling their mission. He passionately conveys his belief that investing in the propagation of the gospel is the greatest endeavor one can undertake, as every soul saved adds to their collective eternal rewards. By the end of the episode, Russell's message resonates with a profound sense of hope, urging listeners to recognize the importance of their contributions and to celebrate the miracles of faith and community that define their journey.Takeaways: In the podcast, Speaker A describes their journey of establishing Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hondo, Texas, which serves a community of about 10,000 people and aims to minister to the entire Medina County. Speaker A emphasizes the importance of outreach, stating that many individuals were waiting for the church to come and were able to be baptized, showcasing the impact of their ministry in the community. The speaker shares a significant milestone, mentioning that after three years, the church has grown to 52 adult members with an attendance averaging in the mid-70s, indicating a steady progress in their mission. Speaker A discusses the emotional aspect of ministry, reflecting on the joy of bringing lost individuals back to faith, comparing it to the joy of a father when his lost son returns home. The podcast highlights the importance of community support, as Speaker A expresses gratitude for the contributions from other churches, noting that every effort made towards missions contributes to the spiritual growth of everyone involved. Finally, Speaker A concludes with a call to appreciate the 'miracle of normal' in the Christian life, emphasizing the value of everyday faith and the community built through shared beliefs.

Sep 21, 2025 • 1h 23min
Missions Conference 2025 - Day 1 am
Matthew 16:13-182 Samual 17:40&49David and GoliathThe stone represents you and I.The sling represents our soles for the Lord.