BUILD 2026

This message centers on building God's kingdom through three transformative movements drawn from 1 Peter 2: becoming like Christ, belonging in community, and being sent into the world. The core revelation is that if we focus on building His kingdom, God will build the house. We're reminded that we are 'living stones' being fitted together around Christ, the cornerstone, into a spiritual temple. The imagery is striking—just as a stonemason carefully selects and places each stone, we don't choose where we go; the Builder places us. This challenges our tendency to fit God into our plans rather than surrendering to His design. The call is clear: prioritize being with God over doing for God, because authentic ministry flows from intimacy. Like the redwood trees whose shallow roots interlock underground to support massive heights, we cannot stand alone. We were created for connection, designed by a God who exists in perfect relationship as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In an age of AI companions and digital isolation, the church must become a countercultural community of radical honesty and genuine belonging. The journey begins with continual coming to Christ—not a one-time event but an ongoing process of sanctification where we're conformed to His image and reminded of our true identity as chosen people, royal priests, and God's treasured possession.