What does it really mean to be called a Christian?

In this episode of Pulpitless, Pastor Greg explores the names given to followers of Jesus—from “the Way” to “Christian”—and why the name matters less than how we live it out.

Christian tells us whose we are. Christ-follower tells us how we live.

In Acts 18, Sosthenes stands against Paul and ends up publicly beaten. But years later, Paul introduces a Sosthenes as “our brother.”

Could it be the same man?

In this episode of Pulpitless, Pastor Greg explores Sosthenes’ story and what it teaches us about grace, transformation, and being careful about who we write off.

The person you least expect might be the person Jesus is saving.

Why was Acts 1 the last time anyone in Scripture cast lots?

Because in Acts 2, the Holy Spirit came.

Pastor Greg explores how the Spirit, Scripture, prayer, and godly counsel guide Christians today—and why we don't need to wait for a sign from heaven to make a decision.

Seek His guidance. Trust His sovereignty. Keep moving.

In Amos 8:5, God condemns dishonest merchants who used false measurements to cheat others. Their worship looked sincere, but their hearts were focused on profit.

In this episode of Pulpitless, Pastor Greg explores modern forms of dishonesty and reminds us that God sees every scale. Through Christ, we are forgiven and empowered to make crooked things right.

What scale do you need to straighten this week?

Samaria was a mountain fortress. Built on a strategically defensible hill, surrounded by impressive walls, and filled with wealth and luxury, it seemed almost untouchable.

But Amos warned Israel that their stronghold could not save them.

In this deeper dive into Amos 6, Pastor Greg explores the history of Samaria and what happened to this seemingly invincible city roughly thirty to forty years after Amos preached his warning. We’ll look at the three-year Assyrian siege, the archaeological discoveries known as the “Samaria ivories,” and the surprising ways history confirms the world Amos was addressing.

But the real question isn’t simply what happened to Samaria.

What are we trusting today?

Our jobs, finances, health, families, homes, reputations, and plans can all be good gifts from God. But when we begin looking to those things for ultimate security, a blessing can quietly become an idol.

Samaria reminds us that even the strongest earthly fortress eventually falls.

And that leads us to the gospel: there is only one refuge strong enough to bear the full weight of God’s judgment—Jesus Christ.

The mountain couldn’t save Samaria.

Your mountain cannot save you.

But Jesus can.

What if the greatest idols in your life aren't statues—but the things you can't imagine living without?

In this episode of Pulpitless, Pastor Greg takes a deeper look at two obscure names from Amos 5—Sikkuth and Kiyyun—and uncovers a timeless truth about the human heart. Ancient Israel didn't necessarily abandon God; they simply carried other gods alongside Him. Their worship looked right on the outside, but their trust belonged somewhere else.

What are we carrying today?

Whether it's our reputation, career, finances, family, success, appearance, or need for control, anything we rely on for our identity, security, or peace can become an idol. The tragedy is that false gods always demand more while giving less. They promise life but leave us exhausted because we spend our lives carrying them.

The Gospel offers a glorious reversal. Scripture doesn't present a God who needs to be carried—it reveals a God who carries His people. Through Jesus Christ, we are invited to lay down the burdens of self-salvation and rest in the finished work of the One who bears us by His grace.

Join Pastor Greg as he explores one of the most overlooked passages in Amos and asks the question that every believer should consider:

Is what you're carrying actually carrying you?