

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

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.

Sep 18, 2025 • 42min
A Call to Stand: Lessons from Elijah's Trials
Noah Day, the Children's Pastor, delivers a compelling message centered around the profound lessons found in the story of Elijah from First Kings. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's power, the decisions Christians face in times of loneliness, and the divine plan that unfolds even in difficult circumstances. Noah draws parallels between Elijah's struggles and the current challenges faced by believers, encouraging listeners to stand firm in their faith despite feelings of isolation or despair. He highlights that, like Elijah, many may feel alone in their journey, but there remains a remnant of faithful believers. The episode serves as a reminder that God is not finished with anyone, and He continues to have a purpose for each individual's life.Noah Day, serving as the Children's Pastor, conveys a profound message about faith and resilience through the lens of the biblical story of Elijah. He opens with personal reflections on his journey within the church community, expressing gratitude for the mutual ministry shared with those who have influenced his life. Noah skillfully navigates the narrative in First Kings, detailing the dramatic confrontation between Elijah and the prophets of Baal, illustrating not only the power of God but also the vulnerability of His prophet. He highlights the duality of Elijah's experience—celebrating a monumental victory on Mount Carmel followed by a crippling fear of Jezebel's threats, which leads him to flee into the wilderness. Through this lens, Noah draws attention to the modern Christian's struggle with feelings of isolation and despair. He outlines three significant lessons that emerge from Elijah's experience: the recognition of God's power, the importance of making a conscious decision to remain faithful amidst trials, and the assurance that God has a purposeful plan for each believer's life. Noah's message is an invitation to reflect on personal faith journeys and the choices that shape them, encouraging individuals to embrace their identity as part of God's remnant. With clarity and conviction, he reassures his audience that they are not alone, invoking a sense of communal strength and purpose among believers, and ultimately urging them to actively engage with their faith in a world that often feels hostile.Takeaways: Noah emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's power in challenging times, as demonstrated through Elijah's experiences. Elijah's story illustrates that even after great victories, feelings of loneliness and doubt can arise among believers. Noah discusses the significance of decision-making in faith, encouraging listeners to stand firm in their beliefs despite adversity. The podcast highlights that God has a plan for each individual, even when they feel alone or defeated in their spiritual journey. Noah challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives and the decisions they make regarding their faith and commitment to God. The episode serves as a reminder that, like Elijah, believers may feel isolated, but they must remember that they are not alone in their faith.

Sep 15, 2025 • 35min
Antiochus Epiphanes: A Foreshadowing of the Antichrist
The podcast episode focuses on the theme of divine sovereignty as illustrated in Daniel chapter 8, emphasizing that God rules in the affairs of humanity. The speaker provides a detailed commentary on the historical context of the prophecies, particularly addressing the significance of Antiochus Epiphanes and his foreshadowing of the Antichrist. He elaborates on the visions of the Medo-Persian and Grecian empires, highlighting how these prophecies were fulfilled with remarkable precision. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the Jewish people during Antiochus' reign, illustrating their responses ranging from compromise to rebellion. Ultimately, the speaker reassures listeners of God's control over future events, encouraging faith and trust in divine providence amidst societal challenges.Takeaways: The theme of the book of Daniel emphasizes that God is in control of human affairs, which serves as a reminder of divine sovereignty in uncertain times. Daniel chapter 8 presents a vision that connects historical events, such as the rise and fall of empires, to God's prophetic timeline, illustrating His omniscience. Antiochus Epiphanes is portrayed as both a historical figure and a foreshadowing of the Antichrist, showcasing the dual fulfillment of biblical prophecies. The precise timing of the Maccabean revolt, as prophesied in Daniel, demonstrates the accuracy of biblical prophecy, reinforcing faith in God's plans for His people. The significance of the Maccabean revolt is highlighted as a symbol of resistance against oppression, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith amidst societal challenges. God's intimate involvement in the lives of believers is emphasized, assuring them that He is aware of their struggles and encourages them to cast their cares upon Him.

Sep 14, 2025 • 27min
First Responder Sunday 2025 - (We should love one another.)
Matthew 7:12John 15:12 (Jesus's command is to love one another)2 Timothy 1:7John 4Proverbs 13:20Ephesians 4:15

Sep 11, 2025 • 41min
Unpacking the Life of Joseph: Lessons from Genesis 37
Pastor Eric Crawford delivers an insightful sermon on the life of Joseph, emphasizing the profound lessons that can be drawn from his experiences. He highlights that Joseph, despite being favored by his father Jacob, faced severe jealousy and hatred from his brothers, which ultimately led to his betrayal and sale into slavery. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of envy and malice, illustrating how such emotions can drive individuals to commit harmful actions against those closest to them. Pastor Crawford further explores the notion that God's divine plan often unfolds through life's trials, as Joseph's hardships ultimately positioned him to save not only his family but an entire nation during a time of famine. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the importance of character in overcoming adversity and the necessity of love in dispelling jealousy and resentment.Takeaways: Pastor Eric Crawford emphasizes the importance of character through Joseph's life, demonstrating how he stood against his brothers' envy and malice. The podcast highlights the dysfunctional family dynamics present in Joseph's story, showcasing the detrimental impact of favoritism and jealousy. Listeners learn that Joseph's dreams were divine revelations from God, indicating his future leadership role within his family. The message conveys that attempts to thwart God's plans are futile, as evidenced by Joseph's brothers' actions ultimately leading to the fulfillment of his dreams. Joseph's experience serves as a reminder of the dangers of envy and jealousy, which can lead to destructive actions among family members. The podcast encourages individuals to seek God's love and guidance to overcome jealousy and cultivate a more harmonious family environment.


