afterWord with Pastor Kent - NorthCreek Church

Latest Episodes:

The Benefits & Practice of Expository Preaching (Part 2) Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

In this follow-up episode, your host Pastor Kent Dresdow is joined again by Jeremy and Matt to continue their discussion on expository preaching.Building on their previous conversation about the definition and biblical foundation of expository preaching, this episode delves into its practical application and profound benefits for the average churchgoer. The guys address common misunderstandings, clarifying that expository preaching doesn't always mean a strict verse-by-verse approach, but rather letting the structure and flow of the biblical text set the pace—whether it's by scene, pericope, stanza, or argument.Key discussion points and benefits highlighted include:God sets the agenda, not the preacher: Ensuring the sermon's message is derived directly from Scripture.Addressing hard topics: Expository preaching naturally leads to confronting difficult subjects that might otherwise be avoided.Balanced spiritual diet: Over time, listeners receive comprehensive teaching across the breadth of God's Word.Empowering the listener: People learn to understand the context of Scripture and feed on it themselves, becoming less dependent on the preacher.Addressing unfelt needs: The Word speaks to areas of life listeners may not even realize they need to address, often in profoundly surprising ways.The conversation also explores the role of "text-topical" preaching, where specific topics are addressed directly from relevant biblical passages. Finally, the team distinguishes between preaching, teaching, and dialogue, explaining how the principles of exposition extend beyond the Sunday pulpit into smaller group settings and individual discipleship, always with the aim of letting Christ speak through His Word to mature His people.This episode underscores that faithful proclamation of the Word is alive, active, and capable of converting souls and sanctifying saints, moving listeners from merely hearing a man to truly hearing from God.

What is Expository Preaching? (Part 1) Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, your host Pastor Kent is joined by Matt and Jeremy for an in-depth discussion on expository preaching.The conversation begins by defining expository preaching, emphasizing how it ensures the sermon's shape and emphasis are solely derived from the biblical text. They explore the historical and biblical mandate for this approach, drawing from significant passages and examples:2 Timothy 3:16-17 & 4:2: Highlighting Paul's charge to Timothy to "preach the word" and the divine inspiration and profitability of Scripture.1 Timothy 4:13: Underscoring the importance of devoting oneself to the public reading, exhortation, and teaching of the Word.Nehemiah 8: Examining Ezra's public reading and explanation of the Law, demonstrating an Old Testament example of exposition leading to understanding, worship, and obedience.Luke 24:45-47: Discussing how Jesus himself, post-resurrection, opened the minds of his disciples to understand how all the Scriptures speak of him, reinforcing Christ-centered preaching.The discussion also clarifies what expository preaching is not, dispelling misconceptions about verse-by-verse constraints while maintaining a focus on the text's intended meaning. The speakers emphasize that the goal is not merely intellectual understanding but ultimately to lead listeners to worship, obedience, and a deeper grasp of Christ as revealed throughout the entire Bible. The episode concludes by portraying the Sunday service as a "kitchen table" where Christ feeds his people through the faithful proclamation of his Word, strengthening them for the week ahead.This conversation sets the stage for future episodes, particularly focusing on the practical benefits and applications of expository preaching in the life of believers and the church.

Q&A: Relationships, Redemption, and Repentance (Part 2) Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

Questions Addressed in This Episode:

At the GFG, why no dunk tank? Are you a chicken?
Can we bring other staff onto the podcast in the future?
Is it inherently sinful to end a friendship or should there be a sort of default attempt to reconcile and reconnect?
If heaven is perfect and without sin, how could Satan, before creation, have had pride to want to be God and fall away and be thrown out with the other fallen angels of heaven?
Please explain faith and repentance and how they relate to each other.

Episode Summary:

In this Part 2 episode of afterWord, Matt and Jeremy continue their discussion of questions submitted during the Great Family Gathering. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from lighthearted reflections on past church events and future podcast plans to deeper theological and practical matters. You'll hear insights on navigating complex friendships, understanding the biblical account of Satan's fall, and clarifying the essential relationship between faith and repentance in salvation. This episode aims to provide thoughtful, grounded perspectives on questions that matter in both life and ministry.

Q&A: Dad Jokes, Fatherly Wisdom, Bible Translations, Praying for the Lost, and Unbeliever Prayer (Part 1) Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

In this afterWord Q&A episode, Pastors Kent, Matt, and Jeremy respond to five thoughtful questions submitted during NorthCreek’s Great Family Gathering. Their conversation ranges from lighthearted to deeply theological as they address:

1. What are your best dad jokes?

2. What is a moment or conviction from your dad that has stayed with you?

3. Does it matter which Bible translation you use?

4. How should we pray for the unsaved?

5. Does God hear the prayers of the unsaved?With Scripture and pastoral insight, the team reflects on the legacy of faithful fathers, discusses how translation choices shape understanding, and offers a biblical framework for prayer—especially on behalf of those who don’t yet believe.Scriptures referenced include Philippians 2:3–4, John 9:31, Jonah 1, and 1 Kings 21.Speaker: Pastor Kent Dresdow with Pastors Matt and JeremySeries: afterWord PodcastTopic: Fatherhood, Bible Translation, Salvation, Prayer

What Biblical Meditation Looks Like in Real Life Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

In this companion episode to “Why Biblical Meditation Might Be the Discipline You’re Missing,” Pastors Kent, Matt, and Jeremy return to explore how the discipline of meditation becomes a lived reality. Drawing from Job 31, Psalm 139, and Psalm 19, they unpack what it means to dwell on God’s Word in everyday rhythms—through songs, sermons, situations, and personal sin.You’ll hear how biblical meditation moves truth from the page to the heart, shaping affections and guiding the will. Whether it’s in a quiet moment after a sermon, a walk under the stars, or a conviction during daily life, this episode shows how Scripture becomes worship, and reflection becomes transformation.Come be encouraged to deepen your practice—not just to read the Word, but to carry it with you, delight in it, and let it change you from the inside out.

Why Biblical Meditation Might Be the Discipline You’re Missing May 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of afterWord, we continue our conversation on private worship — not just time in the Word, but the often-overlooked discipline of biblical meditation. What does it mean to truly meditate on Scripture? How does it differ from the emptying practices of the world? Why do so many believers rush through the Word without lingering in it?Together, we explore how biblical meditation awakens the affections, anchors us in trials, and fuels meaningful prayer. With reflections on Psalm 1, Psalm 19, Joshua 1, and more, we unpack how meditation isn't passive but active — a way to fill the mind and stir the soul.Whether you’re battling distraction, box-checking habits, or a desireless heart, this episode encourages you to slow down, press in, and be “swallowed up into God.” Join us as we recover this vital grace.

Spirit-Led Devotions & Prayer—How to Feast on Your Daily Bread Amid Distractions May 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent sits down with executive pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to dive into the life-changing discipline of daily devotions. They unpack why carving out regular time in God’s Word isn’t just a good idea, but essential nourishment for your soul—and a key weapon in the ongoing spiritual battle against distraction.Together, they share candid stories of how buzzing smartphones, work pressures, and family responsibilities have derailed their own rhythms—and the practical tweaks that helped them recommit. You’ll learn:When to choose print versus audio ScriptureSimple strategies for staying mentally engaged—even on hectic morningsHabits that turn brief Bible time into lasting spiritual impactPlus, Matt, Jeremy, and Kent swap favorite tools, reading plans, and “light bulb” techniques designed to spark curiosity and fuel deeper meditation. Whether you’re just starting your devotional journey or seeking fresh inspiration, this honest conversation will equip you to overcome common barriers, strengthen your faith, and feast on your “daily bread.”Tune in, be encouraged, and make every moment count with afterWord!

What are the marks of a church? - Part 2 May 16, 2025

Show notes

In this second part of our conversation on the local church, Pastors Kent Dresdow, Jeremy Pray, and Matt Rehrer dive deeper into why the church matters—biblically, theologically, and practically. Picking up where Part 1 left off, they explore imagery from Scripture including the church as the bride, the body, the family, and the temple of the Holy Spirit.You’ll hear reflections on the value God places on the local church, the dangers of going it alone, and how the Spirit works within the gathered body. They also unpack the biblical marks of a true church, the importance of church leadership and accountability, and how consumerism and cultural habits can challenge our view of the church.Whether you're deeply invested in your local church or wrestling with its role in your life, this honest and encouraging conversation is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of afterWord with Pastor Kent, where we explore meaningful conversations about life and ministry.#LocalChurch #HolySpirit #ChurchLeadership #afterWordPodcast #NorthCreekChurch #ninemarks #9marks #podcast

Grace, Grief, and the Intersection of Medicine & Ministry (featuring Matt Rehrer) May 15, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to afterWord, an extended conversation about topics that matter, hosted by Kent Dresdow, senior pastor at NorthCreek Church. In this episode, Kent is joined by Jeremy Pray as they sit down with Matt Rehrer, one of NorthCreek’s executive pastors.

Matt and Jeremy currently share the role of executive pastor, and this episode focuses on Matt’s story. In the next episode, the conversation will turn to Jeremy.

In this episode, we sit down with Matt to hear his powerful story—one marked by early faith, deep sorrow, and profound grace.

Raised in the South and drawn to Christ at a young age, Matt shares how a personal struggle shaped his understanding of the gospel. But it was a life-altering event in his twenties—just after marriage and the start of a demanding professional journey—that tested everything. What followed was unimaginable loss... and unexpected preservation. In the midst of devastation, certain items were untouched—reminders that God was near, even there.

Matt opens up about the quiet strength that sustained him, the words that held him together, and the slow process of healing. He also reflects on the unique overlap between his calling in medicine and his role in ministry—how caring for the body has shaped his approach to caring for the soul.

You’ll also get a glimpse into his work as an author, where he brings biblical wisdom to real-world struggles like grief and sleeplessness.

This is part one of a special two-part conversation designed to help you get to know the executive pastors at NorthCreek Church. It’s a story of loss, healing, and hope—one that reminds us how God meets us in our deepest valleys.

afterWord, Podcast, NorthCreek Church, Kent Dresdow, Jeremy Pray, Matt Rehrer, Executive Pastor, Christianity, Faith, Testimony, Conversion, Baptism, Grief, Suffering, Family Tragedy, Loss, Car Accident, Psalm 73, God's Grace, Ministry, Medicine, Medical Ministry, Doctor, Emergency Room Doctor, Biblical Counseling, Caring for Soul and Body, Christian Writing, Redeeming Memory: How God Transforms Memories from a Heavy Burden to a Blessed Hope (Counsel for the Heart), Sleep, Sleepless, Biblical Worldview, Christian Living, Pastoral Ministry, Wisdom

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

01:04 Matt's Journey to Christ

03:36 Family and Personal Life

04:05 Tragedy and Transformation

14:21 Education and Medical Background

19:19 The Intersection of Medicine and Ministry

28:01 Writing and Future Projects

Why should I care about the local church? - Part 1 May 09, 2025

Show notes

Join host Kent Dresdow and executive pastors Matt and Jeremy on afterWord as they begin a conversation about the profound importance of the local church. Kicking off the discussion, they explore the biblical understanding of the church as ekklesia, the "called-out ones," emphasizing the significance of the gathered assembly of believers.

The pastors address common questions, including a clarification of Matthew 18:20, explaining its context within church discipline rather than as a justification for isolated faith. They also discuss the valuable role of parachurch ministries, distinguishing their supportive function from the central, irreplaceable nature of the local church.

A key focus of the episode is the rich biblical imagery that reveals the value God places on the church. They touch upon the church as the bride of Christ, the body of Christ (highlighting the need for all its diverse members), and the household of God, emphasizing the unique spiritual family bond shared by believers.

This episode serves as the first part of an ongoing exploration into the local church, with further discussion planned for a future episode of afterWord.

Keywords

local church, ecclesiology, church importance, parachurch ministries, body of Christ, bride of Christ, household of God, church community, church membership, church purpose

Chapters

02:56 - Understanding the Local Church06:08 - The Importance of the Local Church09:14 - Parachurch Ministries vs. Local Church12:05 - The Body of Christ and Its Functionality18:03 - The Church as the Bride of Christ20:46 - The Church as the Household of God33:05 - Conclusion and Future Discussions

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