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From the Pulpit to the Community
- 3 days ago
- 13 min read
The power of a seed
A Message from Matthew 13:1–31
This past Sunday, Pastor delivered a powerful and stirring message from Matthew 13:1–31 that challenged us to move beyond passive faith and step into bold, intentional action for the Kingdom of God.
The message reminded us that if no one is pushing you to grow, it may not be because you lack potential but because either no one fully believes in what God placed inside of you, or you have not yet connected with the right spiritual mentorship to call it out of you. God never designed us to remain stagnant. We are called to grow, stretch, and become more in Christ.
"But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown... The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants..." — Matthew 13:23, 31-32
Ideas Are Cheap, But Action Is Kingdom
One of the strongest reminders from the message was this: ideas alone are not enough. Many people have dreams, visions, and thoughts of greatness but without action, they remain only ideas. Kingdom living requires movement. Faith requires obedience. Your life was designed for impact, but impact only happens when you act on what God has placed in your heart.
The Power Behind the Parable of the Sower
Pastor walked us through the parable of the sower, reminding us that the Word of God is like seed powerful, living, and full of potential. But the condition of the soil determines the fruit.
Some seed falls on hard ground, some among thorns, and some on good soil. The challenge for us is to examine the condition of our hearts. Are we receptive to God’s Word, or are distractions, doubt, and discouragement choking out what God is trying to grow in us?
The seed is always good but the response determines the harvest.
The Word of God Is a Sword
We were also reminded that the Word of God is not passive it is powerful. It is a sword that cuts through lies, deception, and spiritual resistance. The enemy does not create truth; he imitates and distorts it. But God’s Word stands firm and reveals what is real.
Even satan has no original authority he only mimics and attempts to deceive. That is why staying rooted in Scripture is essential for spiritual strength and clarity.
Lean Into Jesus and Live Boldly
Jesus calls us to lean on Him for everything not partially, not occasionally, but fully. When we depend on Him, we gain strength beyond our natural ability. We are called to live boldly in Christ, not shrinking back in fear or doubt.
You were never meant to live a small life. You were created to impact the world around you.
Don’t Despise Small Beginnings
One of the most encouraging reminders from the message was this: do not despise small beginnings. Growth often starts quietly. What looks small today may be the foundation of something great tomorrow. God is not limited by size He is committed to purpose.
You are greater than you think. What God has placed in you is bigger than the seed that started it all.
Final Encouragement
This is a season to rise, to act, and to believe again. If God has planted something in you, trust that He will bring it to completion but you must be willing to move in faith.
You are not just a receiver of the seed you are called to produce fruit.
Step forward. Be bold. Lean on Christ. Go change the world.
Marriage Connect Group: Building Stronger Marriages and Stronger Ministry
At Expanse Bible Church, we believe that strong marriages build strong families and strong families build a strong church. We are excited to announce the launch of our Marriage Connect Group, a gathering designed specifically for marriage ministry leaders and those who have a heart to champion healthy, Christ-centered marriages.
A Place to Grow, Pray, and Connect
The Marriage Connect Group is a safe and intentional space where couples and leaders can come together to:
Pray for one another
Grow in biblical understanding of marriage
Learn practical best practices for ministry
Build relationships that strengthen both personal and ministry life
This group is designed to encourage and refresh those who are actively serving in marriage ministry or desire to do so in the future. The goal is simple: to help leaders pour into others from a place of spiritual fullness and personal encouragement.
Stronger Marriages. Deeper Ministry.
Marriage ministry is not just about helping others—it begins at home. This group is built on the belief that when your own marriage is encouraged, nourished, and strengthened, you are better equipped to serve and support other couples effectively.
As Scripture reminds us, ministry flows best from a full cup.
First Meeting Details
We invite all marriage ministry leaders—and couples are encouraged to attend together.
First Meeting: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10:00–11:00 AM
Recurring Schedule: Every 2nd Saturday of the month
Location: Mighty Fortress Church, 725 Cedarhurst Dr., San Antonio, TX
Who Can Attend?
This group is open to all marriage ministry leaders, and couples are encouraged to attend together as they grow in unity, purpose, and faith
.
Questions?
For more information, contact:
Chad: chad@pastorstrongtx.com
Erica: erica@marriageinitiative.org
Final Thought
Healthy marriages don’t happen by accident they are built with intention, prayer, and community. We are believing that this group will strengthen homes, deepen ministry impact, and help couples grow in Christ-centered love.
“Stronger marriages. Deeper ministry. Greater impact for the Kingdom.”
Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage: Comedy Date Night Event
Marriage is one of God’s greatest gifts—but it also takes intentionality, communication, and a healthy dose of joy. We are excited to announce a special upcoming event designed to strengthen marriages in a refreshing and unforgettable way.
Join us for “Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage!” featuring a night of laughter, encouragement, and practical insights for couples.
An Evening of Fun and Faith
This special marriage event is part of the Love Laugh Pursue initiative by Focus on the Family, created to help couples reconnect, strengthen their bond, and enjoy marriage the way God intended full of joy, laughter, and grace.
Guest speaker Ted Cunningham will bring humor, honesty, and wisdom as he shares practical encouragement for building a stronger marriage. Through laughter and relatable teaching, couples will walk away refreshed and encouraged in their relationship.
Event Details
Date: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Trinity Baptist Church319 E Mulberry Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Speaker: Ted Cunningham
Registration: sammarriage.org/comedy-date-night
Important: You must register to attend
Why You Should Attend
Marriage doesn’t have to feel heavy or complicated all the time. This event is designed to help couples:
Reconnect through shared laughter
Gain practical tools for everyday marriage challenges
Strengthen emotional and spiritual intimacy
Enjoy a refreshing night out together
Be reminded that joy is an important part of a Christ-centered marriage
A Night You Won’t Forget
Whether you’ve been married for one year or fifty, this event offers something valuable for every couple. Laughter has a way of breaking down walls, restoring connection, and opening hearts and that’s exactly what this evening is all about.
We encourage every couple to take time out of their busy schedules and invest in their marriage. A strong marriage doesn’t happen by accident it is built with intention, faith, and moments like these.
Don’t miss this opportunity to laugh, learn, and grow together. Click the button below to register.
Caught Between Two Worlds: My Thoughts on Nabeel Qureshi’s Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus
I am so excited to announce that Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi our Book of the Month!
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will."- Romans 12:2
I started reading it recently, and I am absolutely blown away. I am already almost done with the book, and I can tell you that it is a profound, life-changing read.
The heart of this book is Nabeel’s raw and intense personal struggle. He grew up as a deeply devout Muslim, loving his faith, his family, and his traditions. Now, he finds himself caught right in the middle of a massive internal battle between everything he has ever known and believed in, and the claims of Christianity.
Watching his journey unfold is incredibly gripping. You can feel the weight of his dilemma on every single page. It makes you really think about truth, culture, identity, and what it truly costs a person to question their core foundation. Please get the book and read it don’t miss this opportunity. This book has the potential to change your life. Link below.
Since I am so close to the final chapter, a full review will be coming very soon!
Big Flavor, Bigger Purpose: Join Our BBQ Plate Sale Fundraiser!
Are you ready for some incredible food that serves an even greater purpose?
We are thrilled to announce that Expanse Bible Church is hosting a BBQ Plate Sale Fundraiser! Every single dollar raised goes directly toward our church expansion project and securing a brand-new roof for our building. This is our chance to come together, enjoy an amazing meal, and invest in a stronger future for our community.
What’s on the Menu?
For just $15 per plate, you get a massive, mouth-watering meal loaded with all your favorites:
Juicy Chicken Quarter
Savory Beans & Rice
Creamy Potato Salad
Fresh Slice of Bread
Refreshing Drink
(Coming Soon!)
Our official date is currently TBD, but we wanted to give you a heads-up so you can start working up an appetite! We will announce the exact date and pickup times very soon.
Great Food. Stronger Church. Greater Impact.
Your support means everything to us. By purchasing a plate, you are directly helping us build a strong roof over our sanctuary and expand our physical space so we can reach more people for Christ. Together, we can build a place for our church and a bright future for our entire community.
Stay tuned for the official date announcement—you won't want to miss this!
"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." — 2 Corinthians 9:7
Recharge & Conquer: Step Into the Men’s Retreat
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."- Proverbs 27:17
Every man needs a moment to step away from the daily grind, pull back, and refocus on what matters most.
We are excited to announce the Recharge & Conquer Men’s Retreat hosted by Expanse Bible Church! Taking place from June 19–20 (Friday–Saturday), this is your opportunity to break away from the noise, connect with other men, and strengthen your faith.
What to Expect
This isn't just another event on the calendar. It is a dedicated space for deep connection, growth, and revitalization. Over the course of 2 days and 1 night, you can look forward to:
True Brotherhood: Build strong, lasting relationships with other men in the community.
Real Talk: Engage in honest, impactful conversations about faith, leadership, and life.
Spiritual Renewal: Take the time to recharge your spirit, renew your strength, and reclaim what God has for your life.
Event Details & Cost
Date: June 19–20 (Friday–Saturday)
Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night
Cost: $75 per person
Location: To Be Determined (TBD) — We will share the exact venue very soon!
Reserve Your Spot Today
Spaces are limited, and you will not want to miss this powerful weekend of brotherhood and breakthrough.
Registration Deadline: June 15th
How to Sign Up: Secure your spot today by signing up at the link below.
Invest in your spiritual health and come ready to conquer whatever lies ahead!
Celebrate Dad: Join Us for Father’s Day Breakfast!
"The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him."- Proverbs 20:7
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and it is time to show the incredible men in our lives how much they mean to us!
We are excited to invite you to our Father’s Day Breakfast on Sunday, June 21st. This special morning is dedicated to celebrating the men who love, lead, and lift us up every single day. Whether he is a dad, grandfather, uncle, or mentor, we want to honor his impact on our community.
What to Expect
Come hungry! We are gathering for a beautiful breakfast together to give every father a morning of rest, appreciation, and great fellowship.
Hearty Breakfast Together: Enjoy a delicious morning meal prepared to honor our fathers.
Warm Coffee & Drinks: Start the morning right with fresh drinks and coffee.
Great Fellowship: Connect with other families as we honor the men who guide us.
Event Details & RSVP
Date: Sunday, June 21st
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Expanse Bible Church
RSVP Required: Please sign up by June 17, 2026 so we can ensure we have enough food prepared for everyone!
Let’s make this Father’s Day one to remember by serving the men who always serve us. Bring the whole family and let's celebrate together! Please click the link below to RSVP.
Give Today. Build Tomorrow: Partnering for Our Church Expansion
God is doing something incredible at Expanse Bible Church, and we are inviting you to be a part of it. As our church family grows, our vision expands to reach even more people with His love and the truth of His Word.
We are officially launching a special giving campaign: Donations for Roof Repairs and Church Expansion.
Our heart's desire is simple: More room. More people. More purpose. More of God. Every physical upgrade we make to our building is directly tied to our spiritual mission of changing lives. By investing in our church home today, we are securing a space where future generations can gather, heal, and grow.
The Four Pillars of Our Vision
Your generous donations will directly fund the physical structure and the spiritual output of our ministry:
Roof Repairs: Protecting what God has built by ensuring a safe, secure sanctuary.
Church Expansion: Creating physical space for more lives to be touched and transformed.
Community: Strengthening a place to belong, grow, and serve together as a family.
Kingdom Impact: Empowering our church to reach our city and the world for Christ.
Every Gift Makes an Impact
As Proverbs 16:3 reminds us: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
We are believing God for a safe roof and more room to reach our community. No gift is too small, and every single contribution brings us one step closer to making this vision a reality.
Together, we can do so much more for His Kingdom!
How You Can Give
Join us in building tomorrow by making a donation today. Ways to give below:
Website: ebcfaith.com/give
CashApp: $ebcfaith
Text Give to: 844-344-9912
Thank you for partnering with us in faith, prayer, and generosity!
Loving God, Growing Faith: Welcome to EBC Kids Ministry!
At Expanse Bible Church, we believe that building a strong spiritual foundation starts at a young age, and we are absolutely thrilled to share the incredible heart behind our children's program.
Our vibrant children's ministry is led by our beautiful First Lady, Porshae Griffin, who brings passion, love, and dedication to nurturing the next generation. Under her leadership, EBC Kids Ministry focuses on loving God, growing faith, and changing lives. We are dedicated to creating an environment where your child can discover the joy of knowing Jesus in a way that resonates with their growing hearts.
Fun, Exciting, and Just for Your Child!
We know that kids learn best when they are engaged and having fun. Our ministry is designed specifically for children to experience the Bible through exciting activities, energetic worship, and age-appropriate lessons. As Jesus reminded us:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14
Know More About Christ: We help children dive into the scriptures to learn who Jesus is and how much He loves them.
Raised in the Way of the Lord: We partner with parents to reinforce biblical values, helping you raise your children with a strong spiritual foundation.
A Safe & Joyful Environment: Every child is welcomed with open arms to learn and build friendships centered on faith.
Service Times & Location
Bring your family this Sunday and let your children experience a service tailored just for them!
Service Time: 10:15 AM
Location: Expanse Bible Church, 2730 West Southcross Blvd, San Antonio, Texas 78239
We cannot wait to welcome your little ones this weekend to see firsthand why Jesus is our hero!
Faithful & Flourishing: Church Anniversary
Celebrate the Journey: Church Anniversary
Sunday, September 13, 2026 | 10:15 AM
Location: Expanse Bible Church (2730 W Southcross, San Antonio, Texas 78211)
"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."— Psalms 126:3
Join us for a momentous and powerful celebration as we come together as a family to look back on God's faithfulness and look forward to where He is leading us. Throughout our history, God has guided us, sustained us, and poured out His grace upon our community. This anniversary is an intentional opportunity to pause, reflect, and thank Him for every step of this incredible journey.
We are deeply blessed to walk this path under the spiritual leadership and vision of our Pastor Levy Johnny Griffin and his beautiful wife, First Lady Porshae Griffin. Their dedication, love, and heart for the Kingdom continue to center us, re-sculpt us, and inspire us to grow closer to Jesus every single day.
This is more than just an annual milestone; it’s an opportunity to see God’s truth, favor, and promises through a lens of profound gratitude. We invite you to bring your family, invite a friend, pull up a chair, and prepare for a season of spiritual renewal and deep connection.
A move of God requires the whole body of Christ. Whether you feel called to travel with us on the ground or to stand the watch and support us in prayer from right here in San Antonio, you have a vital role to play in this mission.
EBC Now: Kingdom Updates
Stay connected with everything happening at EBC! Here are our upcoming gatherings, studies, and special events:
Women’s Group Meeting
All women are invited to gather for our Women’s Group Meeting on Sunday, June 14, 2026, following service. Whether you are new or have been with us for years, come connect, be encouraged, and grow in faith and community together.
Women’s Bible Study
Join us on June 27th at 6:00 PM at Minister Nikki’s home for our next Women’s Bible Study. We will share a potluck meal, study Proverbs 3, and continue our discussion of The Hour That Changed the World (Chapter 3). Come ready for fellowship, encouragement, and growth in faith.
Until Next Time...
As we reflect on everything happening at Expanse Bible Church—from growing deeper in God's Word, strengthening marriages and families, investing in the next generation, serving our community, and preparing for future expansion—we are reminded that God is continually at work among us.
Every event, every ministry, every act of generosity, and every life touched is part of a greater story that God is writing through His people.
Whether you're taking your first step of faith or have been walking with Christ for years, there is a place for you here. We encourage you to stay connected, stay engaged, and continue allowing God to cultivate the good seed He has planted within you.
As we move forward together, let us remain committed to loving God, loving people, and making disciples. The best chapters of our story are still ahead, and we believe God has extraordinary things in store for our church family.
Thank you for being part of the Expanse Bible Church family.
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen." — The Epistle to the Ephesians 3:20-21
Stay faithful. Stay encouraged. Stay connected.
Together, we are building stronger families, transforming lives, and advancing God's Kingdom—one person, one family, and one generation at a time.
We can't wait to see you this Sunday at Expanse Bible Church!
Expanse Now
Faith. Family. Community. Purpose.
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