afterWord with Pastor Kent

How should Christian men and women relate to one another within the church? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow is joined by Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to answer a thoughtful question from a church member regarding the boundaries and biblical nature of friendships between the opposite sex. While modern culture often sexualizes these interactions, the Bible calls believers to treat one another as brothers and sisters with absolute purity.The conversation begins by anchoring the discussion in Scripture, specifically Romans 15:7, which commands us to "welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you". The pastors discuss the tension between maintaining high standards of holiness—avoiding even the appearance of indiscretion—while not becoming cold or distant toward sisters in Christ. They explore the biblical concept of the "holy kiss" as a model for warm, family-like affection that is distinct from the world’s sensuality.This episode also offers practical wisdom for ministry and workplace environments, such as open-door policies and transparent calendars, ensuring that our conduct glorifies God and protects the reputation of the church.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow provides a special mid-sabbatical update, sitting down with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to discuss the progress of his time away. While Kent is currently in a season of rest, he shares how the Lord has been strengthening him through a lack of daily ministry obligations and a focus on "purposeful rest".The conversation explores the biblical rationale for a sabbatical, tracing the concept back to the Sabbath rest established at creation and its application for vocational ministers today. The pastors discuss the unique "spiritual heaviness" of ministry life—where the care for souls often follows a pastor home—and why periodic seasons of withdrawal are necessary for long-term endurance in the local church.Kent also shares his "master planning" for the year ahead, specifically his work with the MacArthur Center for Expository Preaching to lead workshops for the next generation of preachers. This episode serves as a reminder of the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of heart-level refreshment for every believer.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What does it look like to leverage art, stewardship, and technical skill for the sake of the Gospel? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Brent Moutier, NorthCreek’s Director of Operations, to discuss the intersection of campus stewardship and creative outreach. Brent shares his personal testimony, tracing his journey from the film industry in Los Angeles to overseeing the development of NorthCreek’s campus, viewing facilities not as the ministry itself, but as a stewardship that allows ministry to happen without distraction.The conversation then turns to "The Story," NorthCreek’s annual Easter presentation of living art (tableau vivant). Brent takes listeners behind the scenes of this massive production, explaining how hundreds of volunteers—from carpenters to musicians—unite to recreate classic biblical masterpieces. They discuss the theological "why" behind the event: while the art and music are compelling, the primary goal is to provide a clear, biblically accurate presentation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.Kent and Brent also highlight the importance of multi-generational service within the local church and the rigorous process of ensuring the narration remains faithful to Scripture. Whether you are interested in the technical side of ministry or looking for an opportunity to invite unbelievers to hear the truth of salvation, this episode offers an encouraging look at how the body of Christ works together to spotlight the Savior.The Story 2026 runs from March 27–29. For tickets and information, visit https://thestory.art/.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

In this special anniversary episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with a panel of "senior saints"—longtime members who have witnessed God’s work at NorthCreek for decades. Dubbing themselves survivors of the "Stone Age" (a nod to the church's first shepherd, Pastor Mel Stone), these guests share heartwarming and humorous stories of the church's early days, from meeting in a women's club to the construction of the first buildings on the current campus.
The conversation highlights the church's enduring commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of investing in the next generation. The guests reflect on the impact of early youth programs like the "Jet Cadets," the vibrant "Body Life" services of the 1970s, and the hospitality that knit the body together. They also candidly acknowledge that the church has weathered difficult seasons, yet through it all, God has remained faithful to preserve a people for His name.
This episode is more than a history lesson; it is a testimony to the power of the gospel in the local church. As these faithful members recount 70 years of ministry, listeners are encouraged to cherish their own spiritual heritage and look forward with hope to what the Lord will do next.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What does it look like for a local church to remain faithful for seven decades? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow joins Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to reflect on NorthCreek Church’s 70th anniversary. While the campus has transformed from open walnut orchards to a built-out ministry hub, the conversation focuses on the spiritual trajectory of the church—from its planting in the 1950s through seasons of doctrinal stabilization and growth.
The pastors discuss the unique history of the "Stone Age"—the era of the church's first pastor, Mel Stone—and how the church has matured over time. They also engage with a sobering warning from Dave Harvey about the danger of ministry becoming a "monument," emphasizing that a healthy church must always prioritize present faithfulness and future gospel work over resting on a legacy.
Whether you are a longtime member or new to the community, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how God preserves His people. It is a reminder that while buildings change and leaders pass the baton, Christ remains the head of the church, sustaining His work through every generation.

Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"