What's Happening: Bible Study, Marriage Seminars, and More
- Jul 3
- 12 min read
Faith That Doesn't Quit: Standing Firm in a Compromising World
One of the greatest dangers facing believers today isn't persecution—it's compromise.
During this week's Houses of Hope Bible study, we were reminded that following Jesus is not about simply starting the race of faith. It's about faithfully finishing it.
Many people begin their walk with Christ full of passion and excitement, but over time distractions, compromise, and the pressures of life begin to pull them away. Jesus never called us to casual Christianity. He called us to be disciples who remain faithful until the end.
We Need One Another
Faith was never meant to be lived alone. Scripture continually reminds us that believers are called to encourage one another, pray for one another, and hold one another accountable. Isolation is one of the enemy's greatest tools, but biblical community is one of God's greatest gifts. When we surround ourselves with other believers, we find strength, encouragement, correction, and support to continue walking faithfully with Christ.
Is God Truly First?
One of the most challenging questions from the study was this:
Is God truly first in your life?
It's easy to say Jesus is our priority, but our daily decisions reveal what we value most.
When we consistently put our own desires before God's commands, we often experience the consequences of those choices. God's instructions aren't meant to restrict us—they're given to protect us and lead us into abundant life.
Choosing God's way always leads to greater peace than choosing our own.
Don't Lower God's Standard
The Bible doesn't change to fit our culture. Our culture may redefine truth, morality, and righteousness, but God's Word remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. Rather than asking how close we can get to sin without falling, believers should ask:
"How can I become more like Jesus?"
God hasn't called us to justify compromise. He's called us to pursue holiness through His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit.
True Repentance Brings Real Change
Repentance is more than saying we're sorry. Biblical repentance means changing our minds so completely that our lives begin to change as well. When Christ transforms our hearts, our actions begin to reflect His character. God never asks us to fight sin alone. Through Jesus Christ, we have the power to overcome what once controlled us.
Keep Running the Race
The Christian life is not a sprint—it's a lifelong journey of faithfulness.There will be challenges. There will be temptations. There will be moments when compromise seems easier than obedience.
But Jesus calls us to remain faithful.
Stay connected to God's Word.
Stay connected to God's people.
Keep your eyes on Christ.
And never settle for simply beginning the race when God has called you to finish it.
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus..." (Romans 8:1)
Let's continue pursuing Christ together—one Bible study, one prayer, and one step of obedience at a time.

Introducing Our New Book of the Month: "The Awe of God" by John Bevere
Are you looking to deepen your walk with God and experience a profound shift in your daily life? We are excited to announce our new Book of the Month: The Awe of God: The Astounding Way a Healthy Fear of God Transforms Your Life by bestselling author John Bevere.
In a world full of distractions, anxieties, and shifting values, this book calls us back to a vital, foundational truth that is often misunderstood in modern culture: the holy fear of the Lord.
What Is the Book About?
In The Awe of God, John Bevere unpacks what it truly means to walk in a healthy fear of God. Far from being a fear that drives us away from Him, a holy awe is actually the key to deep, unfiltered intimacy with our Creator. This book is designed to help you:
Understand the Difference: Learn how a healthy reverence for God differs from being afraid of His judgment.
Uncover Hidden Blessings: Discover the divine wisdom, protection, and deep peace promised to those who walk in awe of Him.
Transform Your Daily Walk: Gain a fresh perspective that will refine your priorities, strengthen your faith, and revolutionize your relationship with God.
How to Read Along with Us
We want to journey through these life-changing truths together as a church family. Here is how you can get involved:
Grab Your Copy: You can purchase your copy right now by clicking the link below, or visit our physical resource desk this weekend.
Read at Your Own Pace: We will be exploring the key concepts throughout the month. Keep an eye out for weekly discussion prompts and highlights!
Let’s step into a deeper level of faith and transformation this month as we rediscover the awe of God together. Click the button below to get yours today.

Sweet Treats, Big Impact: Support Expanse Bible Church’s Summer Sweets Sale!
Summer is here, and we have the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting our church community! Expanse Bible Church is excited to host our Summer Sweets Sale, featuring delicious treats at great prices. Every single purchase goes directly toward supporting our church ministries and their impact.
Check out the incredible menu we have lined up for you below!
On the Menu
Delicious Cake Slices — $4 each
Big Red Cake: A vibrant, classic favorite.
Banana Pudding Cake: A sweet twist on a southern staple.
Lemon Pound Cake: Bright, zesty, and perfectly dense.
Refreshing Summer Cups — $5 each
Tajín Cucumber & Watermelon Cup: Crisp, refreshing, and packed with a zesty kick.
Fruit Cup: A healthy, colorful mix of fresh summer fruits.
Stay Hydrated
Bottle Water: $1 per bottle.
Important Details & Pickup Info
Pickup Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
Pickup Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Expanse Bible Church
Address: 2730 West Southcross Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78239
How to Place Your Order
We make it easy to secure your favorite treats ahead of time. You can choose from two convenient ordering methods:
Order Online: Skip the line and order securely online at ebcfaith.com.
Order with a Sales Member: Connect with any of our church sales members in person to submit your order.
Thank you so much for your continuous support, generosity, and love for our church. God bless you, and we cannot wait to see you at pickup!

More Room, More People, More Purpose: Partner with Expanse Bible Church Today!
God is moving at Expanse Bible Church! As our community continues to grow, we are stepping out in faith to prepare our physical home for everything He has in store. We are officially launching a special giving initiative for Roof Repairs and Church Expansion, and we invite you to partner with us in this exciting new season.
We are believing God for a safe, secure roof and more room to reach more people with His love and the truth of His Word.
The Vision Behind the Project
Every gift given toward this initiative directly funds critical structural needs and strategic growth:
Roof Repairs: Protecting what God has already built by securing and weatherproofing our main sanctuary.
Church Expansion: Creating physical space for more lives to be changed, more families to gather, and more ministries to thrive.
Community Development: Ensuring our building remains a safe, welcoming place to belong, grow, and serve together.
Kingdom Impact: Strengthening our home base so we can continue reaching our city and the world for Christ.
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans."— Proverbs 16:3
How to Give and Partner With Us
Every single gift makes an impact, and no contribution is too small. Together, we can do so much more for His Kingdom! You can submit your expansion donations in two simple ways:
Website: ebcfaith.com/give
CashApp: $ebcfaith
Text Give to: 844-344-9912
Thank you for your continuous generosity, prayers, and partnership as we build for tomorrow.

Special Date-Night Event: "Funny How Marriage Works" Tour
We are thrilled to highlight a spectacular marriage event heading our way! Comedic thought leader Michael Jr. is bringing his hit "Funny How Marriage Works... and Dating, Too" comedy experience to San Antonio, TX on Friday, August 28th at Summit Church.
This isn't just your standard seminar it is a full date-night comedy experience designed to help couples "Strengthen Your Love with Laughter" and move "From Haha to Aha."
When: Friday, August 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM
Where: Summit Church, 2575 Summit Church Rd, San Antonio, TX
Tickets: These events sell out quickly across the country! You can find more details and join the ticket waitlist directly by clicking the button below.
Whether you are happily married, navigating a new relationship, or dating to get married someday, this night will leave you both inspired and laughing out loud!

Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage: "Love Laugh Pursue" Comedy Date Night Coming to San Antonio!
When was the last time you and your spouse shared a deep, belly-aching laugh together? Between the busy routines of work, family, and daily chores, it can be easy to let the fun and romance in your relationship take a back seat.
That is why we are thrilled to invite you to an incredible upcoming local date-night event: "Love Laugh Pursue: Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage!" presented by Focus on the Family.
Featuring renowned author, speaker, and comedian Ted Cunningham, this special evening is specifically designed to help couples break away from the daily grind and inject fresh joy, connection, and laughter back into their marriage.
Event Details
Date: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Trinity Baptist Church
Address: 319 E Mulberry Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Reserve Your Spot
Because this is a city-wide community event, space is limited and registration is required to attend. We highly recommend securing your spots early so you can look forward to a intentional evening of laughter and growth. Click the button below to register today.

One Church. Two Nights. Endless Joy: Join Us for Last Friday Movie Night!
Looking for a fun, relaxed way to spend your summer Friday nights with family and friends? Expanse Bible Church is thrilled to introduce our brand-new event series: Last Friday Movie Night!
We are opening our doors for a joyful celebration of community, fellowship, and cinema. This is a family-friendly, indoor Christian movie night experience, and the best part is it is completely FREE to the community!
When and Where
Dates: Friday, July 31 and Friday, August 28
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Expanse Bible Church
Address: 2730 W Southcross Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78211
Now Showing
We have two powerful, uplifting films lined up for our summer shows:
July 31: Time Changer
August 28: David
What to Expect & Bring
We are keeping things casual, cozy, and comfortable. Since this is an indoor event with a relaxed setup, please take note of a few quick tips:
Cozy Comfort: Bring your favorite pillow and blanket to settle in for the show!
Seating: This is a floor-seating setup, so no chairs are needed.
Free: Complimentary popcorn and drinks will be provided for everyone.
Bring your family, invite your neighbors, and let’s enjoy these summer Fridays together as one church community.

Celebrate the Journey: Expanse Bible Church Anniversary
God has been incredibly faithful to Expanse Bible Church, and it is time to look back with gratitude and forward with anticipation! Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 13, as we come together to Celebrate the Journey at our annual Church Anniversary.
Whether you have been part of our church family since day one or have recently joined us, you have played a vital role in our story.
This landmark celebration is a time to honor everything God has accomplished in and through our community, and to seek His vision for the chapters yet to be written.
Event Information
Date: Sunday, September 13
Time: 10:15 AM
Location: Expanse Bible Church
2730 W Southcross, San Antonio, TX 78211
What to Expect
Our anniversary service will be a special, unified experience filled with powerful worship, a look back at our community’s history, and an encouraging message about where God is leading us next. We want to celebrate the lives transformed, the prayers answered, and the milestones we have reached together under God’s grace.
Share Your Memories and Stories!
Every single member of our congregation has a unique story of how God has worked in their life through our ministry. To help us celebrate, we want to look back at the journey through your eyes.
We are asking everyone to share their favorite moments with us:
📧 Email your testimonies and photos to: smartinez@ebcfaith.com
Please send these in as soon as possible so we can include them in our special anniversary presentations and look back on our shared memories together.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and come ready to celebrate the legacy and future of Expanse Bible Church. We cannot wait to see you there at 10:15 AM as we honor this beautiful journey together! Register today by clicking the button below.

Blessing the Community:
Feeding 100 Families This Thanksgiving
As the autumn season approaches, our hearts naturally turn toward gratitude and reflection on the many blessings God has poured out on our lives. At Expanse Bible Church, we believe that true gratitude isn’t just felt—it’s shared. That is why we are thrilled to announce our annual Thanksgiving outreach initiative: Blessing the Community: 100 Families.
Our mission is clear, focused, and full of love. This year, we are stepping out in faith to provide Thanksgiving turkeys to 100 local families in our community, ensuring they can gather around the table and enjoy a hearty holiday meal with their loved ones. When we serve our city, we are serving as the physical hands and feet of Jesus. Let’s come together to make sure 100 homes in San Antonio experience the tangible warmth and love of God's provision this Thanksgiving!
Event Information
Date: Thursday, November 19
Location: Expanse Bible Church
2730 W Southcross, San Antonio, TX 78211
God’s love is meant to be shared, and there is no better way to show it than by stepping into our neighborhood with open hands. November 19 is going to be a powerful day of ministry on the Southside of San Antonio, and we can’t wait to watch God move as we reach these 100 homes.

Fun, Faith, and Fellowship: Welcome to EBC Kids Ministry!
At Expanse Bible Church, we believe that growing in faith shouldn't just be impactful, it should be the most fun and exciting part of a child's week! Our EBC Kids Ministry is completely dedicated to loving God, growing faith, and changing lives. We provide a safe, high-energy environment designed entirely around helping your child discover the incredible love of Jesus.
Join Us This Sunday!
Service Time: 10:15 AM
Location: Expanse Bible Church
2730 West Southcross Blvd, San Antonio, Texas 78239
Under the dedicated leadership of Lady Porshae Griffin—and currently overseen by Minister Nikki and Minister Sammie Ward—our team is passionate about partnering with parents to build a strong spiritual foundation for the next generation.
Anchored in God's Word
Our mission to guide the young hearts of our church is anchored directly in the truth of Scripture. We stand firmly on Proverbs 22:6:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
We know that the lessons planted in a child's heart today will shape their character, their faith, and their choices for a lifetime.
What We Focus On
Raising children with a kingdom perspective is a journey, and we are here to walk alongside your family. Every Sunday, our ministry focuses on answering two vital questions for parents:
Do you want your child to know more about Christ? We dive deep into the Scriptures using engaging, age-appropriate lessons that bring the Bible to life and show kids that Jesus is their ultimate hero.
Do you want to raise your child in the way of the Lord? We provide practical, faith-filled foundations that reinforce the values you are teaching at home, helping kids live out their faith with confidence.
Our environment is filled with joy, interactive activities, and beautiful reminders that God loves every single child uniquely. We invite you to bring your family out this weekend to experience it firsthand!
EBC Digital Academy
Welcome to EBC Digital Academy! 💻✨
Growth doesn't stop when Sunday ends. Whether you are taking your very first step toward God, building daily faith habits, preparing for baptism, navigating relationship choices, or developing your leadership potential, our online courses are designed to fit your busy life. Explore our self-paced digital tracks below to find practical, research-backed, and scripture-grounded wisdom to help you grow with clarity, conviction, and purpose from the comfort of home. Follow the links to any of our amazing courses, you will not regret It.
Closer to God
A simple, 5-lesson online journey for anyone looking to remove religious pressure and build a genuine relationship with God from scratch.
Faith that Follows: The Foundations of Following Jesus
A welcoming discipleship track designed to help you transition from simply believing in God to actively walking with Jesus in daily obedience.
The Cohabitation Complication
An eye-opening, data-driven look at sociological research and biblical wisdom regarding modern relationships and building a marriage that lasts.
The Blueprint Code
A practical leadership discovery course utilizing the 4D+1™ blueprint to uncover your archetype, manage pressure, and build a 30-day action plan.
Before You Get Baptized
A foundational study clarifying the scriptural meaning, spiritual weight, and life-changing purpose behind one of the most powerful steps a believer can take.
Your Next Steps: Connect, Grow, and Serve
We are standing on the edge of an incredible season at Expanse Bible Church. God is expanding our space, equipping our minds, and strengthening our families. Don’t just watch from the sidelines—get involved today!
Here is your quick checklist to stay connected this month:
Plan Your Fridays: Lock in your calendar for Last Friday Movie Night on July 31st (Time Changer) and August 28th (David). Remember your pillow and blanket!
Read and Learn: Grab your copy of "The Awe of God" using our online book link to read along with our community.
Log In to EBC Digital Academy: Register for any of our new, free online courses including Closer to God, Faith that Follows, The Cohabitation Complication, or The Blueprint Code.
Invest in Your Marriage: Secure your spot online for the city-wide "Love Laugh Pursue" Comedy Date Night on Friday, August 7th over at samarriage.org/comedy-date-night.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Pre-order your treats online at ebcfaith.com or through a sales member for our Summer Sweets Sale pickup on Sunday, August 9th.
Build for the Future: Partner with our building initiative by giving toward Roof Repairs and Church Expansion online or in-person this weekend.
Celebrate & Bring the Family: Join us to honor our Church Anniversary in our main services, and securely check your children into EBC Kids Ministry for an amazing weekend of faith and fun!
See You This Weekend!
No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, there is a place for you here at Expanse Bible Church. Come ready to encounter God, connect with great people, and take your next step.
We can't wait to see you this Sunday at 2730 W Southcross Blvd! God bless you!

_edited.png)



Comments