Welcome back to the New Life Community Podcast! In this episode, host Nolan Crooks and Pastor Ron Brown, Executive Director of Teen Challenge of Southern California, unpack Chapter 1 of the New Life Community curriculum: Finding New Life When You’ve Lost Yourself. 🌱 Key Themes We Explore Together: ✅ What does it truly mean to find new life in Christ when you’ve lost yourself in addiction and brokenness? ✅ Why your true identity in Christ is the foundation for lasting freedom. ✅ How to break free not just from substances, but also from shame, bitterness, and the old labels that chain you to the past. ✅ The power of forgiveness — forgiving others, receiving forgiveness, and learning to forgive yourself. ✅ How your brokenness is not your disqualification — it’s an invitation to intimacy with the Father. 💬 Key Questions to Ponder This Week: Who or what have you allowed to define your identity? Have you accepted that Jesus came looking for you, even when you felt unworthy? What labels from your past do you need to lay down today? Is there bitterness or self-loathing you need to surrender so you can walk freely as God’s child? How could your brokenness become a place where God’s glory shines through you to others? 📖 Powerful Quotes from This Episode: “When I thought I lost me, He knew where I left me — and He reintroduced me to His love.” “Addiction robs you of your humanity and traps you in guilt and shame — but Jesus paid it all, and cleared the debt so you can live free.” “If you believe you’re an addict, you’ll act like an addict. But if you believe you’re a child of God, freedom follows.” “Self-loathing is the enemy of freedom. Magnify God more than your mistakes, and watch chains break.” “Brokenness is an invitation for God’s glory to flood in and flow out — just like the alabaster box poured out its fragrance when broken.” “God places the lonely in families — that’s what New Life Community is: your spiritual family for this journey.” “Bless the Lord, O my soul… He redeems your life from destruction!” (Psalm 103) 📖 Key Scriptures: “It was for freedom that Christ has set us free…” (Galatians 5:1) “As a man believes in his heart, so is he…” (Proverbs 23:7) “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits… who redeems your life from destruction…” (Psalm 103:2–4) “God places the solitary in families…” (Psalm 68:6) 🌍 Ready to Go Deeper ➡️ Visit newlifetc.org to: ✅ Download the New Life Community curriculum FREE ✅ Watch real stories of freedom and redemption ✅ Find practical tools and resources to start a group in your church or community 📲 Stay Connected & Encouraged: Follow Teen Challenge of Southern California for stories, hope, and fresh encouragement: 👉 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🎧 Keep Walking the Journey: This podcast is just one piece of the journey — subscribe, comment, and share so more lives can find new life through Jesus. No matter how far you’ve fallen, no one is beyond the reach of Christ’s redemption. Let’s walk in freedom together.
🎧 New Life Community Podcast: Episode 1 — Carrying God’s Heart to the Addicted and Broken In this powerful launch episode, Nolan Crooks (host) sits down with Pastor Ron Brown, Executive Director of Teen Challenge of Southern California, to unpack the heartbeat of New Life Community — a brand-new ministry calling local churches to the frontlines of addiction recovery. 🔥 What is New Life Community? It’s more than a curriculum — it’s a Holy Spirit–fueled movement designed to empower leaders, ignite healing, and awaken people to the transforming power of Jesus Christ. In this episode, you’ll hear: ✅ How no one comes out of addiction alone — it takes the whole Body of Christ, walking together in grace. ✅ Why leaders must walk closely with the Good Shepherd to effectively minister to the addicted and broken. ✅ How New Life Community creates an atmosphere not just for teaching, but for encounter — where the Holy Spirit moves and transforms. ✅ Why every leader must believe: no one is too far gone, and nothing is impossible with God. ✅ How God’s design is not just to set you free but to lift you up so you can bring freedom to others. 💬 Key Quotes from the Episode: “We’re not here to run programs — we’re here to create a space where the Holy Spirit shows up and people encounter God.” “If your heart doesn’t break for the addicted, this isn’t your role. We must carry the Father’s heart.” “Jesus can do more in one encounter than we could ever do in years of counseling.” “The church is God’s answer to the fentanyl crisis, the opioid epidemic, and the hopelessness gripping our generation.” “Our transformed lives become Exhibit A — proof that Jesus is still setting captives free.” 🌍 Get Involved Today → Visit newlifetc.org to: ✅ Download the New Life Community curriculum FREE ✅ Watch powerful transformation stories ✅ Get leader resources and tools to launch a group 📲 Stay Connected with Us Follow Teen Challenge of Southern California on social: 👉 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube → @socalteenchallenge Tag us and share your testimony, your group moments, and what God is doing in your community! 🙏 Stay on the Journey This is just the beginning. Subscribe and join us each episode as we walk together on the New Life Community journey — trusting God for the impossible, believing that no one is beyond the reach of Christ’s redemption.
In one of the most personal and powerful messages of Spiritual Emphasis 2025, Pastor Walter Colace shares his journey through cancer, radiation, and chemotherapy — and how God used every step of suffering to shine His light more brightly. Preached directly to our Teen Challenge alumni, this is a testimony that goes beyond healing; it is a lesson in walking through the fire with the peace of God and the presence of Jesus. Drawing from Isaiah 26:3, Isaiah 50:10, Psalm 103:1-5, and Daniel 3, Pastor Walter speaks candidly about fear, faith, and the supernatural peace that sustained him: “Ever since I came to Teen Challenge almost 34 years ago, God has had my life in His hands.” “When there was no answer from doctors, I leaned on God’s Word.” “You say, 'You're a puzzle to us.' No, I'm a miracle because Jesus is my healer.” Even as he sat in the darkest rooms of the cancer center, Pastor Walter carried a radiant hope and used every moment to share Christ with patients, nurses, and even his oncologist. When doctors said he would lose his ability to eat, speak, or avoid a feeding tube, the Lord sustained him with energy, healing, and boldness to pray for others. “Suffering will always squeeze out of you who you really are. And when the pressure came, Jesus came out.” This message reminds us that suffering is not the end of the story. Just as God protected Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3), Pastor Walter reminds us: “They said I would burn, but God said, ‘I’ll shield you from the effects.’” At the core of this message is the unshakable truth that the light of Christ shines brightest in our darkest seasons. “God puts a comma where Satan tries to put a period. The story isn’t over.” If you or someone you know is walking through a season of pain, trial, or uncertainty, let this message give you fresh faith. God is not finished with you. His light will break through. ✨ Stay connected: YouTube | Instagram | Facebook: @socalteenchallenge X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge Website: teenchallenge.org
“Just as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” – Colossians 2:6 In this passionate, down-to-earth message, Micah Hale returns to the house where his life was radically changed—Teen Challenge. Preaching from Colossians 2 and 3, Micah urges us to not just start the journey with Christ, but to continue in Him. The walk of faith isn’t just about a moment—it’s about every step after. With humor, vulnerability, and prophetic challenge, Micah shares what it means to secure your spiritual oxygen mask, put on your new identity, and live out the calling God has placed on your life. From personal stories of loss and transformation to strong reminders about gossip, honor, gentleness, and sacrificial love—this message is a spiritual wake-up call. “Faith isn’t just what you say with your mouth. Faith has feet.” “Put off gossip. Put on gentleness. You’ve never tried this new wardrobe on before.” “Stop trying to earn God’s love—He already put His name on you.” “You’ve been baptized in His love so you can go show it to the world.” 🗝️ Key Themes: • Continuing to walk in Jesus after receiving Him (Colossians 2:6) • Depending on God daily—like securing your own oxygen mask before helping others • The struggle between old identity and new creation • Putting off shame, gossip, pride—and putting on gentleness, honor, and forgiveness • Living as a spiritual warrior born and trained in God’s house • Showing others the love and mercy you’ve received 📖 Scripture References: • Colossians 2:6–7 – “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him.” • Colossians 3:10–14 – “Put on the new self… put on compassion, kindness, humility…” • 1 Corinthians 13:11 – “When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” • Romans 12:10 – “Outdo one another in showing honor.” • Exodus 6:9 – “They did not listen… because of their broken spirit and cruel slavery.” • Ephesians 6:15 – “With your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” 🙏 A Word for You: Have you started the walk, but you're struggling to keep going? Are you facing daily decisions where your flesh wants to go back, but the Spirit is calling you forward? God is not finished with you. He’s training you, clothing you, strengthening you—and He’s not giving up. 👟 Faith has feet. Keep walking. 🧥 Put on your new self. You were made for this. ❤️🔥 You’re loved—and it’s time to share that love with others. 🔗 Follow & Connect: 📲 Instagram: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X: @scteenchallenge 📘 Facebook: @socalteenchallenge 🌐 Learn more or get help: teenchallenge.org
“This is not a sunset—this is a sunrise.” In this powerful message from Mike Conway, we are invited into a deeper revelation of what it means to live unveiled—free from religious striving, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and transformed by the glory of God. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3:7–18, Mike calls us to stop clinging to performance-based religion and instead surrender to the radiant love and presence of God. The law engraved on stone brought condemnation, but the ministry of the Spirit brings freedom and lasting transformation. What God is doing in you may look messy—but that’s exactly where His glory shows up. “God doesn’t want your effort—He wants your face.” “Hope glows in the dark.” “God’s glory rests on the biggest mess.” Using the contrast between a veiled and unveiled life, this message challenges you to let go of fear, control, and performance and step into the childlike dependence that invites God’s presence. You don’t have to figure it all out—just reflect His light. 🗝️ Key Themes: • Living with unveiled faces: surrendering control and embracing dependence on God • Process sanctification vs. religious performance • The difference between fear and freedom • Reflecting God's glory in our weakness • The presence of God as our greatest treasure 📖 Scripture References: • 2 Corinthians 3:7–18 — “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” • Exodus 32–34 — Moses' encounter with God, the golden calf, and God's glory • Jeremiah (referenced) — “Return to Me, give Me back your face…” 💬 Viewer Invitation: Are you still striving? Still trying to hold it all together with religious effort? Jesus invites you to let go of the pegs, take off the veil, and come back to Him with your whole heart. Return to the presence. Return to love. And let His Spirit transform you—glory to glory. Drop a comment below if God spoke to you through this message. We’d love to hear how He’s unveiling His glory in your life. 🔗 Follow & Connect: 📲 Instagram: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge 📘 Facebook: @socalteenchallenge 🌐 Learn more or get help at: teenchallenge.org
The Ready Heart: Living Fully Surrendered to God Walter Colace delivers a Spirit-led, heart-searching message about what it means to be ready for God's presence. Drawing from Scripture and a lifetime of faithful ministry, he calls us to examine our hearts, lay down our pride, and allow the Holy Spirit to prepare us for a move of God. 💬 “The fire of God only falls on the altar of full surrender.” 💬 “Don’t harden your heart—let the Holy Spirit soften it today.” 💬 “God isn’t looking for perfection—He’s looking for a ready heart.” 💬 “It’s not about your past. It’s about your posture right now.” 🔑 Key Themes: • Readiness is a heart posture of humility and surrender • The Holy Spirit works in hearts that are soft, not resistant • God’s presence comes to those who make room for Him • Transformation begins when you stop resisting and start responding • The fire of revival falls on surrendered hearts 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • 2 Chronicles 16:9 – “The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” • Psalm 51:17 – “A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” • Hebrews 3:15 – “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” • Romans 12:1 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice…” • James 4:6–8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” 🙏 A Word for You: Has your heart grown calloused? Are you resisting the very God who wants to heal and restore you? Today is the day to respond. 🛐 Lay down your pride. 🔥 Open up your heart. 🙏 Invite the Holy Spirit to change you from the inside out. You don’t need to fix yourself first—just bring your whole self to God in surrender. He’ll do the rest. He’s not waiting for your perfection. He’s waiting for your “yes.” 📲 Find more messages of hope and transformation: 🔗 teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
He Took the Stone Away: Resurrection Life Is Yours in Christ In this powerful Spiritual Emphasis message, we are reminded that the same Jesus who rose from the grave is still rolling stones away today—stones of addiction, shame, spiritual death, and broken identity. But more than just moved aside, the stone was taken away. Gone. Removed forever. 💬 “Jesus ruins every funeral He walks into.” 💬 “That old man is not in there anymore—the stone has been taken away.” 💬 “You have a memorial stone in heaven with your story carved into it.” Pastor Gary Wilkerson shares a deeply personal and prophetic word rooted in John 11 and John 20, weaving together the resurrection of Lazarus, the empty tomb, and the unbinding of the grave clothes. With honest vulnerability, he testifies of watching his own son go from passed out in a rehab center bathroom to graduating seminary with highest honors—because Jesus took the stone away. 📖 Scriptures Referenced: John 11:38–44 — Lazarus raised from the dead John 20:1 — The stone was taken away 2 Corinthians 5:17 — “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” Romans 6:4 — “We too might walk in newness of life.” Key Themes: Jesus not only forgives—you are made new. Your identity is forever changed when the stone is lifted. Spiritual death isn’t the end—resurrection power is available now. Healing takes place not just instantly but through community. Discipleship is the unwrapping of grave clothes. You’re Not Who You Were. That part of you—the bound-up, broken, addicted part—was buried. But Jesus didn’t just roll the stone aside. He took it away. And just like Lazarus, you are being unwrapped by love, community, and truth. Let others help you. Embrace correction. Receive your freedom. 🎯 What will you do with this moment? Will you live like the stone is still there? Or will you run into the light of your glorious day? 🕊️ Response Invitation: If there are still “grave clothes” clinging to you—discouragement, isolation, anger, unforgiveness—let Jesus and the community He’s placed around you pull them off. Don’t walk out of the grave just to stay bound. Walk free. Live unwrapped. 📲 Stay connected for more life-changing messages: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube: @socalteenchallenge X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge Learn more: teenchallenge.org
From Death to Life: Your New Identity in Christ In this moving and powerful message, Evan Wilkerson opens up about his personal journey through addiction, shame, and hopelessness—and the overwhelming mercy and love of God that brought him back to life. Preaching from Ephesians 2, Evan reminds us that we were once dead in sin, but God, rich in mercy, raised us up and seated us in heavenly places with Christ. You are no longer defined by your past. You are now a beloved child of God, fully forgiven and deeply loved. 💬 “I was once a child of wrath. But God, being rich in mercy, made me alive with Christ.” 💬 “What the enemy meant to destroy me—God turned into a weapon for His glory.” 💬 “You don’t have to strive anymore. You can rest in His love.” 💬 “The same love the Father has for Jesus… He now has for you.” 💬 “You’ve been raised to new life. You’re not who you used to be.” 🔑 Key Themes: • Identity in Christ: dead to sin, alive in Christ • God’s mercy and grace are greater than your past • Spiritual blessings have been freely given to believers • The believer is fully accepted and loved like Jesus • Rest replaces striving when you understand your identity 📖 Scriptures Referenced: Ephesians 2:1–6 – “But God, being rich in mercy…” Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ…” John 17:23 – “You have loved them even as You loved Me” Romans 6:4 – “We were buried with Him… so that we may walk in newness of life” 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us…” Colossians 3:3 – “Your life is now hidden with Christ in God” 🙏 An Invitation to Respond: Are you tired of trying to prove yourself? Do you feel disqualified by your past? 👉 You don’t have to strive anymore. Jesus already paid it all. 👉 You’ve been raised to new life. 👉 God has already accepted you—not for what you’ve done, but because of what Jesus did. 💥 Let go of shame. Let go of guilt. 📖 Go back to Ephesians 2 and remember: You were dead—but now you’re alive in Christ. You’re not just forgiven… you’re beloved. You’re not just restored… you’re seated in heavenly places. You’re not just surviving… you’re chosen, adopted, and transformed. 📲 Stay connected and find more stories of hope: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
The Word Will Keep You: Finding Light in Dark Times Rosie Weir delivers a passionate and truth-filled message on the transforming power of God’s Word. With bold conviction and motherly love, she reminds us that we are here today by the grace of God—and if we want to stay free, we must let the truth of Scripture renew our minds, expose lies, and fill our lives with light. 💬 “You didn’t save yourself. You didn’t even know how to get here—but God rescued you.” 💬 “The devil’s a liar. He can’t stand when you speak the Word of God, because he knows it’s your weapon.” 💬 “You don’t need 100 prayers. Sometimes all you need is one cry: ‘Help.’ And God shows up.” 💬 “You have a way out now. You don’t have to live in fear, depression, addiction, or shame anymore.” 💬 “Read it. Speak it. Believe it. The Word will keep you.” 🔑 Key Themes: • The Word of God is alive and sharper than any sword • Lies are broken when truth enters your mind • Real repentance is a change in thinking, not just emotion • Trusting God like a child brings supernatural peace • You have hope, a future, and a reason to keep going 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Psalm 119:130 – “The entrance of Your words gives light…” • Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You.” • Matthew 6:27, 31, 34 – “Take no thought… do not worry about tomorrow.” • Romans 12:2 – “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Hebrews 4:12 – “The Word of God is living and active, dividing soul and spirit…” • John 8:32 – “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” 🙏 A Word for You: Are you tired of trying to figure life out on your own? Are your thoughts heavy, anxious, or stuck in lies? 👉 God’s Word is your anchor. 👉 Speak it out loud. Read it every day. Let it renew your mind. 👉 You can live in peace. You can break free from old patterns. 👉 You don’t need to know everything—just trust like a child. The Word will light your path and keep you steady. 🛐 Prayer: “Jesus, I’m done trying to fix my life in my own strength. I receive Your Word, and I ask You to transform the way I think. I choose truth over lies, peace over fear, and trust over control. Keep me on the narrow path.” 📲 Stay connected and find more stories of hope: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
Don’t Be Scared. Don’t Run. Just Walk. In this passionate and deeply personal message, Pastor Jamal Alexander speaks to the heart of every man and woman in the fight of their life—walking through darkness, struggling with purpose, and tempted to give up. With clarity, compassion, and conviction, he reminds us that darkness is not the end of the story—it’s the beginning of creation, the stage of redemption, and the proving ground of purpose. 💬 “In the beginning, God saw the darkness—and started creating.” 💬 “Don’t run from the darkness. Walk through it. God is forming you.” 💬 “Even Jesus, in His darkest moment, said: ‘Not my will, but Yours be done.’” 💬 “The Holy Spirit wasn’t just hovering over creation—He’s hovering over your life too.” 💬 “Your shepherd is walking with you, guiding you, and forming you—for life beyond the valley.” 🔑 Key Themes: • Finding purpose in the middle of darkness • Embracing God’s process of formation, even in pain • Staying focused when everything around you is chaotic • The power of the Holy Spirit to help you walk, not run • Honesty before God is the gateway to transformation 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • Genesis 1:1–3 – God speaks light into the darkness • Matthew 27 – Jesus faces the cross and darkness falls • Psalm 23 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley…” • Luke 22:42 – “Not my will, but Yours be done” • Romans 8:11 – The Spirit who raised Jesus gives life to your mortal body 🙏 Challenge to the Viewer: Are you in a dark place right now? Do you feel like giving up, like the process is too much? God’s not afraid of your darkness—He moves in it. 👉 Don’t run. Don’t panic. Just walk. 👉 Get honest with God. Cry out to Him. Tell Him how you really feel. 👉 The Spirit of God is with you. He’s forming you. Shaping you. Strengthening you. 👉 This valley is not your end—it’s where resurrection life begins. “I feel like going on… though trials come on every hand, I feel like going on.” 📲 Stay connected and find more stories of hope: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
Your Attitude of Approach: Finding Joy in Life’s Roller Coaster Life has its ups and downs—twists, turns, and unexpected drops. In this powerful and deeply personal message, John Meadors shares how your attitude of approach to life determines whether you live defeated or full of joy. From wooden roller coasters to painful trials, this message weaves humor, heartbreak, and hope into a compelling call to rejoice in the Lord always. 💬 “Rejoicing is not ignoring reality—it’s recognizing a new reality.” 💬 “Your circumstances don’t define your identity—God’s Word does.” 💬 “When you lose your joy, you lose your strength. But joy comes when you remember who you are and whose you are.” 💬 “Dreams rise out of the fog when you trust that God still loves you—and still has a plan.” 🔑 Key Themes: • Joy is a decision, not an emotion • Don’t let circumstances or people steal your joy • Focus on eternal realities, not temporary setbacks • God-given dreams are worth believing in • Rejoicing is the gateway to spiritual resilience 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • Philippians 4:4 – “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” • 2 Corinthians 11:24–27 – Paul’s hardships and perseverance • James 1:2–4 – “Count it all joy when you face various trials” • Psalm 20:4 – “May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed” • Philippians 4:8 – “Whatever is true, noble, right, pure… think on these things” • Job 19:25–27 – “I know that my Redeemer lives…” 🙏 A Heartfelt Challenge: What is your attitude of approach? Are you living under the weight of disappointment, fear, or negative self-talk? 👉 Rejoicing doesn’t mean denying pain—it means choosing to trust God anyway. 👉 Don’t let joy slip away. God loves you, He sees you, and He’s working—even when you don’t feel it. 🛐 Pray today: “Lord, help me shift my focus. Let me rejoice in who You are and who You say I am. Teach me to live with eternal vision, confident that You are guiding me.” 📲 Stay connected and find more stories of hope: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
Faith That Moves You Forward: Step Out and Trust God In this dynamic and faith-building message, Pastor John Martin delivers a powerful reminder: God didn’t call you to stand still—He called you to walk by faith. Whether you're just beginning your journey or have been following Jesus for years, this message will stir your heart to move forward with bold, persevering, life-transforming faith. 💬 “If you want to walk on water, you’ve got to get out of the boat.” 💬 “You may be in the fire, but you're not alone—God is in it with you.” 💬 “Faith that doesn’t move is faith that dies. But faith that moves... transforms.” 🔑 Key Themes: • You already have a measure of faith—now activate it • Faith initiates: it takes the first step, like Peter stepping out of the boat • Faith perseveres: like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refusing to bow • Faith transforms: when you stay the course, God changes your life and others around you • Don’t give up before the breakthrough—your obedience makes room for miracles 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • Romans 12:3 – “Each of us has been given a measure of faith” • James 2:26 – “Faith without works is dead” • Matthew 14:27–29 – Peter walks on water • Daniel 3 – Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the furnace • John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life” • Hebrews 12:2 – “Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith” 🙏 Personal Challenge: God didn’t save you to keep you safe—He saved you to send you. He’s not just calling you out of something—He’s calling you into something greater. ✔️ Will you trust Him and take the first step? ✔️ Will you keep going when it gets hard? ✔️ Will you let your faith shine so others can see Christ in you? 📌 Don’t settle for surface-level faith. Let God use your story, your struggles, and your steps to reveal His glory. 🕊️ How to Respond: • Initiate: take a step of faith today • Persevere: don’t give up in the fire • Transform: let your life shine with God’s power Pray today: “Lord, take this mustard seed of faith and use it to change my life—and change the world through me.” 📲 Stay connected: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
The Wonderful Cross: From the Thief’s Last Breath to Eternal Life In this compelling and grace-filled message, Pastor Daniel Bentley walks us back to the scene of Calvary—where two criminals hung next to Jesus, but only one walked into Paradise. This is the story of that man, the thief who put his faith in the dying Savior. It’s a story that reveals the beauty, simplicity, and power of the Gospel. 💬 “The cross may seem foolish to the world, but to those of us being saved, it is the very power of God.” 💬 “He didn’t say the perfect prayer. He didn’t attend church. But he called Jesus ‘Lord’—and that was enough.” 💬 “It’s never too late to give your life to Jesus.” 🔑 Key Themes: • The transforming power of the cross • Salvation by grace alone—no works required • The thief on the cross: a picture of all of us • It’s never too late to receive eternal life • The decision that determines your eternity 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • Luke 23:32–43 – “Today you will be with Me in Paradise.” • 1 Corinthians 1:18 – “The message of the cross is the power of God.” • Romans 10:9 – “If you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart…” • Ephesians 2:8–9 – “It is by grace you have been saved.” • Deuteronomy 30:19 – “Choose life so that you may live.” 🙏 A Personal Reflection: You’re one decision away from eternity. You don’t have to have it all together. You just have to come to the One who died for you. Whether you're on the edge of belief or clinging to hope, the cross invites you: Come and die… so that you might truly live. 🕊️ It's not too late. 🕊️ You’re not too far gone. 🕊️ The Man on the middle cross says you can come. 📲 Stay connected: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
The Battle of Submission: Letting God’s Will Win In this anointed message, Pastor Ron Brown delivers a heartfelt call to deeper surrender. Drawing from James 4, John 8, and the lives of Peter, Paul, and Moses, Ron calls us to stop trying to do things our way—and let Jesus have full control. Because real spiritual warfare begins not with shouting at the devil—but with submitting to God. 💬 “Submission is not about being passive. It’s a battle. It’s the battle to say, ‘Not my will, but Yours be done.’” 💬 “Jesus didn’t say shout at the devil—He said submit to God, then resist, and the enemy will flee.” 💬 “Your life doesn’t belong to you. It belongs to Jesus.” 🔑 Key Themes: • The true fight is for daily submission, not just freedom from addiction • Grace increases when we humble ourselves • The devil flees only from surrendered people • Real transformation begins when you lay down your own will • Heroes of faith—Peter, Paul, Moses—all had to fight this same battle 📖 Scriptures Referenced: • James 4:6–7 — “Submit yourselves to God, resist the devil…” • John 8:12 — “I am the light of the world…” • Romans 5:9 — “Justified by His blood…” • 2 Corinthians 5:17 — “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Jeremiah 29:11 — “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” • Galatians 2:20 — “I have been crucified with Christ…” 🙏 A Personal Challenge from Pastor Ron: Who are you really listening to? The voice of your past, your trauma, your plans—or the voice of God? ✔️ Are you trying to unbind yourself? ✔️ Are you shouting at the devil but not surrendered to the Lord? ✔️ Are you holding back your voice, your heart, your future? The victory doesn’t come from resisting first—it comes from submitting first. Let God speak. Let His grace flood your life. And then walk in the power of freedom. 🕊️ Take Action Today: • Lay down your plans. • Surrender your past. • Receive more grace by walking in the light of Jesus. Declare it now: “I’m Yours, Lord. I submit my life to You.” 📲 Stay connected: 🔗 Website: teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
Be Afraid—Be Very, Very Afraid: Harnessing Healthy Fear What if the very thing you’re told never to feel—fear—could actually propel you into the life God has for you? In this candid message, Gary Wilkerson reframes fear from a paralyzing enemy into a healthy signal that you’re on the brink of something significant. Drawing on heroes like Nehemiah and David—men who admitted their fear yet pressed on—Gary shows how “good fear” prompts us to step out in faith and trust God for the extraordinary. 💬 “Be afraid—be very, very afraid. But let that fear move you where God would have you to be.” 💬 “David cried out to the Lord, and He delivered him from all his fears.” 💬 “Fear signals that something matters—so don’t run from it. Let it fuel your courage.” 🔑 Key Themes • Healthy Fear vs. Paralyzing Fear • Fear as a Signal: “If it doesn’t scare you, it might not be worth doing.” • Biblical Heroes Who Felt Fear • Stepping Into God-Sized Dreams • Turning Fear into Faith in Action 📖 Scriptures Referenced • Nehemiah 2:2 – “Then I was very much afraid, and I said to the king…” • Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the Lord, and He delivered me from all my fears.” • Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you…” • Matthew 14:27 – “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 🙏 A Call to Courage 1. Identify Your Fears: Write down the one or two things you’re most afraid to attempt. 2. Acknowledge Them Before God: Confess your fear, then ask Him to turn it into fuel. 3. Take One Faith-Step: Do the thing that scares you most—ask that person to forgive you, begin your dream project, share your testimony, or apply for that job. 4. Speak Scripture Over It: Use verses like Isaiah 41:10 or Psalm 34:4 to remind your heart that God is with you. ➡️ “When fear knocks, let faith open the door.” 📲 Stay connected and share your step of faith: 🔗 teenchallenge.org 📱 Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge
“The devil has tried to de-story your life—through addiction, trauma, and shame. But this is not where your story ends. God is ready to re-story your life by His love, grace, and power.” In this deeply personal and Spirit-filled message, Nolan Crooks shares his journey of deliverance—from addiction and brokenness into restoration and purpose. Speaking with raw transparency and Holy Spirit fire, Nolan draws a line in the sand for every listener: “What will you do with this moment?” “Some of you have lived so long in the land of grief, you think it's home. But God is calling you out.” “There’s a real enemy trying to steal your voice, hijack your identity, and lock you in silence—but God is the Author, and He’s not finished writing.” “If you don’t surrender it now, it will keep you bound later.” “You’ve gotten sober—but are you free?” “Every scar, every sin, every secret—God’s not afraid of any of it. He wants to speak light into your darkest place.” “Jesus doesn’t do partial healing. He comes to make all things new.” “You may have walked into this room in shame—but you can walk out in freedom.” This message is not entertainment. It’s a summons. 📖 Key Scripture Themes: • Isaiah 8:22–9:2 – From distress, darkness, and fearful gloom… to the dawning of glorious light • Isaiah 61:1–3 – Beauty for ashes, joy for mourning • Mark 9:14–29 – “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief” • Psalm 126 – “Those who sow in tears will reap with joy” 💭 Reflect + Respond: • Are you still living in the land of grief, even though God has called you out? • What would it look like to let Jesus rewrite your story—not just forgive your past, but redefine your future? 🙌 This is your moment. The altar is open. Grace is here. The presence of God is here to rewrite what the enemy tried to erase. 📱 Stay Connected: • Instagram, Facebook & YouTube → @socalteenchallenge • X → @scteenchallenge • Free resources, stories of transformation, and support options at → teenchallenge.org
"God, we’re not just asking You to clear the cobwebs—we’re asking You to kill the spider.” 🔥 In this raw and powerful message from Pastor Jeremy Mayol at Spiritual Emphasis, we confront the deep-rooted idols that quietly steal our devotion, disrupt our purpose, and pull us back into captivity. With passion, humor, and a convicting biblical foundation, Pastor Jeremy exposes the lies we believe and the illusions we cling to—then points us back to Jesus, the only One worthy of our full surrender. “We make the devil’s job too easy.” “If you can’t go 24 hours without it, it might be an idol.” “Whatever idol you're clinging to—it's promising a lot, but delivering nothing.” “What we idolize, we often end up demonizing.” “Teen Challenge hasn’t invested this much in you just for you to go back.” “God doesn’t want 98%. The 2% you hold back is all the enemy needs.” “Don’t just cut the weeds. Pull them out by the root.” “Idols survive in the shadows, but they die in the light.” “This isn’t about cobwebs. It’s time to kill the spider.” “You don’t even have a plan for what you’re holding on to—but God does.” 🕸️ Whether it's addiction, identity, pride, or isolation, this message calls each of us to lay it all down and walk fully in the light of Christ. Pastor Jeremy challenges us not to be content with emotional highs, but to build spiritual endurance by killing what’s killing us. 📖 Key Scriptures: • 2 Chronicles 30–33 (Hezekiah & Manasseh) • Galatians 4:8–11 • 1 Timothy 1:5 • 1 Corinthians 10:12 • 1 John 5:19–21 💭 Reflection Prompt: What idol is your clenched fist still holding onto? Is it time to open your hand and release it to Jesus? 🙏 Take action: Let this moment be more than an emotional experience—make it a turning point. Don’t settle for surface-level change. Let the Holy Spirit uproot what doesn’t belong, and allow Jesus to have 100% of your life. 💥 Stay connected with us: YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook → @socalteenchallenge X (Twitter) → @scteenchallenge 🌐 Website → teenchallenge.org
In this tender yet bold declaration, Pastor Ron speaks freedom, identity, and spiritual direction over every listener. You are no longer being dragged from place to place by old wounds or former mistakes—you are led by the Spirit as a beloved child of God. 🗝️ Key Themes: • God hears and responds to the deep cries of your soul • Deliverance from spiritual bondage and emotional burdens • Being unyoked from past pain and joined to the Spirit • True freedom comes from surrender, not control • Sonship, identity, and walking with your Heavenly Father 📖 Scripture References: • Exodus 6:6–7 – “I will free you from being slaves… I will take you as my own people.” • Romans 8:14 – “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” • Matthew 11:28–30 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me… my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” • John 8:36 – “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.” 🙏 A Word for You: Are you tired of being dragged around by guilt, shame, and fear? Jesus says, “Take My yoke.” You were made to be led—not by pain, but by peace. Not by addiction, but by the Spirit. Not by shame, but by the Father’s love. Today is your freedom day. ✨ Let go of the old yoke. Be led by the Spirit. Live as a child of God. Repeat this with us: “From this day forward, I will be led by the Holy Spirit, because I am a child of God.” 🔗 Follow & Connect: 📲 Instagram: @socalteenchallenge 🐦 X: @scteenchallenge 📘 Facebook: @socalteenchallenge 🌐 Learn more or get help: teenchallenge.org
What a tragedy it would be to go through Teen Challenge and only leave sober. In this vulnerable, Spirit-breathed message, Pastor Alex Delgado pleads with this generation to stop hiding behind sobriety, gifts, and good behavior—and let God shine His healing light on the root. “We’re asking for fruit—sobriety, a wife, finances—but God is after the root. Why are you going back? What’s the pain behind the pattern?” “Let there be light was not God’s first suggestion—it was His first command.” “God won’t reveal what He’s not ready to heal.” “Stop begging for sobriety—you’re already sober. Start thanking God and let the light go deeper.” This is more than a message—it’s a moment. Alex shares his own story of father wounds, buried grief, and the 35 years of unresolved pain that God unearthed when it was time for healing. “I never let the light shine on the bitterness in my heart. I used to shine it on my calling, my gifts—but never on my brokenness.” “Hurt people hurt people. And hurt people in ministry is a tragedy.” “Ministry is not about a microphone—it’s about washing feet.” “Let the light do its full work. Don’t stay dead at the altar—let God resurrect what’s been lost.” This message also carries a tender prophetic word for women who’ve experienced abortion: “When you release your grip on guilt and shame, the tide of God’s grace will wash it away. That baby has been made new—and so have you.” Alex challenges the listener to shift how they see submission, leadership, and spiritual authority. “You’re not submitting to Teen Challenge—you’re submitting to Jesus.” “You may not understand the process, but God is already doing something in the spiritual. Your body’s just catching up.” 🙏 Reflect and Respond: • What dark place have you refused to let God shine His light on? • Are you only letting God touch the symptoms—or are you ready for the root? • What pain have you buried that He’s now ready to heal? “Let there be light on the abortion. Let there be light on the father wound. Let there be light on the guilt. And let it all die at the altar so resurrection can begin.” 📲 Stay connected for more stories and Spirit-led teaching: • Instagram, Facebook, YouTube: @socalteenchallenge • X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge • Learn more or get help: teenchallenge.org
This isn’t the time to play church. It’s the time to repent, get right, and follow Jesus with everything. In this fire-filled message, Ryan Ries confronts a generation that’s addicted to comfort, compromise, and surface-level Christianity. Drawing from Luke 9:23, he reminds us: “If anyone wants to follow Jesus, you must deny yourself, pick up your cross daily, and follow Him.” Christianity isn’t a spectator sport. “Faith is a verb.” And it requires full surrender. “You can’t follow Jesus and live in sin. It doesn’t work like that.” “God’s not looking for perfect people. He’s looking for surrendered people.” Ryan shares his own story — the drugs, the porn, the money, the fame — and how it all left him empty until he met the real Jesus. And that same Jesus is calling out to you. “Some of you are addicted. Some of you are in sexual sin. Some of you are in religious bondage. And Jesus is saying, ‘Come out of the shadows.’” He doesn’t pull punches: “You’re either all in, or you’re not in at all.” “You want to experience the power of God? Repent. Turn from your sin. Seek Him. And watch what He does.” Through story, scripture, and a powerful altar call, Ryan reminds us that Jesus didn’t come to make us better people — He came to bring dead people to life. 🙏 Reflect and Respond: • Are you following Jesus or just following rules? • What sin are you hiding that needs to come into the light? • When will you stop running and finally surrender? “This might be your last chance to repent. Do it now. Don’t wait.” “The Holy Spirit doesn’t come to play games. He comes to bring transformation.” 📲 Stay connected for more life-changing messages: • Instagram, Facebook, YouTube: @socalteenchallenge • X (Twitter): @scteenchallenge • Learn more: teenchallenge.org