Highland Church Podcast

In week two of What’s a Dad to Do?, Jim Martin encourages fathers to release the pressure of perfection and instead focus on steady growth. This session reminds us that being a great dad isn’t about getting everything right—it’s about showing up, learning, and becoming just a little better each day.

Episode 1: A Call to Honor – The Father’s Assignment In the opening week of What’s a Dad to Do?, Jim Martin challenges dads to take a fresh look at the calling and responsibility God has given them. Whether you’re raising little ones or navigating the teenage years, this session reminds us that fatherhood isn’t about being perfect—it’s about choosing to grow, to honor God, and to commit to being better dads each day. Here a 4 principles that will help you become a better dad.

This week, Eric walked us through one of the most practical and hope-filled verses in all of Scripture: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6–7). In this message, we see that humility isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a daily choice to trust God’s strength, timing, and care. Eric unpacks how pride can show up not only in self-reliance but also in the anxiety we carry when we forget we’re not alone. If you’ve ever struggled with control, worry, or waiting on God, this message will remind you that His hand is strong and His heart is for you. Don’t miss this encouraging word about humility, trust, and the freedom found in casting your cares on the Lord.

In Psalm 23:1–3, David makes a bold claim: “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” But how can that be true when we often feel empty, restless, or in need? In this message, Eric Gentry shows how the rest of the psalm explains this radical promise—our Shepherd feeds us until we can rest, protects us when predators circle, and leads us on right paths for His glory. Unlike lions, who are always hungry and vulnerable, sheep with a strong shepherd are fully provided for and secure. Eric reminds us that God’s provision isn’t just about meeting our needs, but about displaying His name to the world through His care for His people. If you’ve ever wondered how to live content, even in seasons of struggle, this sermon will help you see why in Christ you truly “lack nothing.”

In this opening message on Psalm 23, Eric Gentry invites us to slow down and really see the first line: “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” At first, it feels impossible—we can name plenty of things we don’t have. But Eric helps us see that the comfort of this verse isn’t in what we hold, but in who holds us. Behind the title “the LORD” is God’s personal name, the great I AM—the One who is completely self-sufficient and unlimited in both resources and love. Unlike us, He never runs out, never tires, and never fails to provide. When Jesus says, “I am the Good Shepherd,” He is claiming Psalm 23 for Himself, and promising us the same truth: with Him, there is no lack. If you’ve ever wondered how to live with confidence and peace in a world of scarcity, this message will remind you that your Shepherd has everything you need—and He is yours.

Are you moving, heading to college, or starting a new chapter? Then you need a church—and not just any church. In this message, Eric Gentry walks through four ways people approach finding a church, and he helps you shift from asking, “Do I like it?” to “Is God glorified here?” With biblical insight, he gives five powerful questions to help guide your search: Is God the greatest here? Is Jesus the focus? Is the Spirit the power? Is Scripture the standard? Is joy the norm? If you’re looking for a new church—or simply want to think more deeply about what church is meant to be—this message is for you.

In this timely message from John 10, Eric helps us wrestle with a vital question: Is Jesus truly good—even when life feels dangerous, chaotic, or unfair? In a world that questions the goodness of Christianity, Jesus steps forward as the Good Shepherd who doesn’t run when wolves attack—but lays down His life to save the sheep. Eric explores how our culture has shifted the standard of “goodness,” and why God’s character—not our opinions—is the true measure of what is good. Through biblical truth, powerful illustrations, and modern examples, we’re reminded that Jesus’ goodness isn’t just claimed—it’s proven at the cross. When we doubt He is good, we remember: He died for us.

In this message from John 10, Eric invites us to see Jesus not only as the Good Shepherd—but also as the Gate. In a world full of thieves and threats that try to steal our hope and distort our identity, Jesus offers safety, direction, and fullness of life through Him. Drawing from rich biblical imagery and personal reflection, Eric shows how the life we long for comes from staying close to the Shepherd and connecting with Him throughout our day. Just like sheep pass through the gate to find both protection and pasture, we’re invited into a rhythm of daily trust, intimacy, and dependence on Jesus. If you feel scattered, disconnected, or spiritually at risk, this message is a timely reminder: the grace and strength we need are always found through Him.

In this powerful message from John 10, Eric explores what it means to follow the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd who calls his sheep by name and leads them from the front. Unlike cattle who are driven from behind, Jesus leads with care, love, and gentleness—especially for those carrying the weight of parenting, pain, or uncertainty. But how do we recognize His voice in a noisy world? Eric introduces helpful tools like the “Three Lights” and the character of Christ to guide us in hearing and discerning God’s voice. Through stories, Scripture, and encouragement, this sermon reminds us that following Jesus is not about static belief but an ongoing relationship of listening and responding. If you need direction or long to hear God more clearly, this message will help you move forward with confidence and peace.

In this message from John 10, Eric invites us to see the beauty and depth of Jesus’ words: “I am the Good Shepherd.” Far from being just a metaphor, this truth reveals a personal Savior who knows each of us by name and calls us with love, not obligation. In a world where value is often based on achievement or popularity, Jesus flips the script—He loves us first, and that gives us value. Eric explores what it means to be truly known and cared for by the Shepherd who doesn’t run when trouble comes, but lays down His life for His sheep. If you’ve ever felt unseen or unsure of your worth, this message is for you. Come be reminded that to Jesus, you are not just one of many—you are His, and He knows your name.

In this message on Ephesians 1:17, Eric Gentry reminds us that the deepest need in our lives is to truly know God—not just facts about Him, but personal closeness with the Father of glory. Using the metaphor of a telescope turned the wrong way, he shows how easily we shrink God in our minds and let life’s problems grow too large. Paul’s prayer is a powerful one: that God would give us the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that we might know Him better. This kind of knowing is a gift, not an achievement—something God longs to give if we’ll only ask. Knowing God transforms our perspective, fills us with peace and courage, and shapes every part of how we live. It’s time to turn the lens, enlarge our view of God, and pray for the Spirit to do what only He can.

In this message, Eric Gentry explores the deep longing we all have to know what to do—and the fear that we may not be good enough to receive God’s guidance. Drawing from Job’s story and Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1, Eric unpacks why even the righteous suffer and seek wisdom without always hearing a clear answer. But through the Gospel, we are given something Job never had—the Spirit of God, who grants wisdom to those made righteous by Christ. Our hope isn’t in our goodness, but in Jesus’ perfect righteousness given to us by grace. Because of Him, we can ask for wisdom boldly, trust that God hears us, and live lives that please Him.

Guest preacher Josh Jackson walks us through Romans 1:14–17, reminding us that the Gospel is not just good news—it’s the best news. In a world full of brokenness and distraction, the message of Jesus brings hope, transformation, and purpose. Josh challenges us to live unashamed of the Gospel and boldly share its redemptive power with those around us.

In this sermon, Eric Gentry explores the moment Jesus restores Peter with three simple yet piercing questions: Do you love me? After Peter’s dramatic failure, Jesus doesn’t dismiss him—He upgrades him, calling him to feed His sheep and follow Him further. We see how love for Jesus isn’t just an emotion, but the essential qualification for leadership, service, and spiritual growth. Eric walks us through how God uses our lowest points to grow deeper love in us, so that we can truly care for His people. Whether your story includes public failure or steady faithfulness, Jesus is forming you into someone who can feed others. This message challenges each of us to let the Lord search our hearts and grow our love for Him above all else.

Today we get to hear from Guest preacher Carter Kiser.Carter brings a powerful message from 2 Chronicles 20:1-12 titled “On Whom We Can Rely.” When crisis strikes, what do we turn to—and what does that reveal about what we truly believe? Carter walks us through the story of King Jehoshaphat, whose moment of fear became a turning point of faith. Instead of relying on alliances or strength, Jehoshaphat turned to God, naming His faithfulness, power, justice, and willingness to act. This sermon invites us to do the same—naming the character of God in our prayers and remembering that even when we don’t know what to do, we can keep our eyes on the One who does. It’s a timely encouragement to rely not on ourselves, but on the God who has always proven Himself trustworthy.

Want to grow closer to God this year? Check out this message from Eric Gentry on Psalm 139:23–24—one of our 2025 memory verses. It’s all about asking God to search your heart, show you what’s holding you back, and help you follow Him more fully. Eric shares real stories, honest struggles, and why God’s love is big enough to handle it all. It’s a message that might just change how you follow Jesus.

Join Smith Hopkins, lead church planter of Oikos Church—a vibrant, 3-year-old church birthed by Highland—as he shares a compelling vision for reaching and raising the next generation. In this inspiring sermon, Smith reflects on the legacy of faith, the urgency of discipleship, and the bold mission of church planting. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or simply passionate about the future of the church, this message will challenge and encourage you. Listen now and discover how God is moving through Oikos and Highland to impact generations to come!

In this message, Eric unpacks the powerful call in 3rd John to support the mission of Jesus around the world—not out of obligation, but out of love, partnership, and purpose. Drawing from Scripture and real-world stories, he reminds us that while everyone plays a role in sharing the gospel, God still calls and sends a few to the far reaches—and He expects the rest of us to make sure they have what they need. Eric helps us see that providing for missionaries isn’t just generosity—it’s faithfulness to the heart of God. From the hurting in distant nations to the neighbor next door, the need for the gospel is urgent and real. Today’s outreach contribution isn’t about charity—it’s about joining the mission of God with our hearts and our resources. As Eric says, “They’ll give Jesus there—we’ll send the money from here.”

What’s really happening in baptism—and why does it matter? In this powerful message, Eric unpacks the meaning, purpose, and timing of baptism, answering common questions with both humor and biblical depth. Why was Jesus baptized, and why does He command it for His followers? What does it mean to be united with Christ in His death and resurrection through water and Spirit? Eric walks through key scriptures to show how baptism is not a human work but God’s rescue mission—our moment of transformation, forgiveness, and new life. Whether you’re wondering if you’re ready or reflecting on your own baptism, this message offers clarity, encouragement, and hope.

In this sermon, Eric Gentry explores the powerful truth found in Ephesians 2:4–5—“But God…”—two words that change everything. Dead in our sin and unable to save ourselves, we are made alive with Christ, not because of our righteousness, but because of God’s great love and rich mercy. This message unpacks the staggering grace of God—a grace so vast, we need new words to describe it. Whether you feel weighed down by guilt, failure, or simply the weight of life, this sermon will remind you: Grace wins every time.