DBC Students

In this message, Pastor Brian Smith addresses middle school students about the innate human tendency to hide our struggles, sins, and shame from those who love us. Drawing from the story of his daughter playing hide-and-seek and the biblical account of Adam and Eve in Genesis, he explains that while sin and shame naturally drive us into isolation and "church masks," this darkness only allows our pain to grow. He emphasizes that just as God sought out Adam and Eve in the garden despite their disobedience, He continues to actively pursue every individual today, regardless of their mistakes. Ultimately, Pastor Smith challenges the students to reject a life of hiding and instead choose "life over death" by being honest with their families, leaders, and a God who desires to replace their shame with the grace and forgiveness found in Jesus.

In this first episode of Wordsmith with Brian Smith, I sit down with Allen Jackson, a longtime pastor, professor, friend and someone who has shaped countless preachers over the years. We talk about how he studies Scripture, how he approaches sermon preparation week in and week out, and what he’s learned about preaching through decades of ministry.

In the Wednesday Night Worship with the Students, Brian begins drawing from the wisdom of Solomon in Ecclesiastes and the teachings of Jesus in Matthew, Brian explains that constantly measuring ourselves against others is as futile as "chasing the wind" and serves only to fuel anxiety and fear. He argues that comparison robs us of joy and prevents us from becoming who God created us to be, emphasizing that our value is already secure because we matter to God regardless of how we "stack up" to our peers. To break free from this cycle, Brian provides a three-step practical application: call out the comparison when it rises, cut it out to avoid the path of anxiety, and change your focus toward God’s love and the abundant life Jesus promises.

In a heartfelt message to her middle school students, Annoura shares her personal journey of overcoming the fear of public speaking by drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Esther. Initially ecstatic about the opportunity to help her peers, Annoura admits she nearly quit due to intense anxiety and the pressure to say something meaningful as the deadline approached. She explains how she found courage in Esther, who risked her life to save her people, specifically reflecting on the message that she may have been placed in her current position "for such a time as this." Ultimately, She encourages everyone to embrace their own "big scary things," trusting that God will use their bravery and obedience to impact others even when they feel unqualified or afraid.

For The Collective Night, Jimmy shares his personal journey of faith, reflecting on his struggle with living a "double life" between his church community and his social circles during high school. He highlights his greatest regret: lying to a younger student of a different ethnicity who asked him to a dance because he was more concerned with his reputation among his peers than with being a "light" as a brother in Christ. Using his "life verse," Ephesians 2:10, Jimmy emphasizes that every person is God’s masterpiece and challenges the students to consider whether they are living to please themselves, others, or Jesus. He concludes by urging the group to go "all in" with their faith and to use their influence to value and treasure those around them rather than succumbing to the pressure of social approval.

In week 4 of the "Radical Life" series, Derrick shares a teaching from the book of Mark, focusing on the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 to illustrate the difference between a "faith of convenience" and a "faith of necessity." He describes how Jesus and his disciples were exhausted and seeking rest, yet when faced with a large, hungry crowd, Jesus chose compassion over comfort. Derrick challenges the middle schoolers to stop taking the easy way out or waiting for "convenient" moments to share their faith, noting that miracles happen when we move beyond minimal effort to do what is necessary for others. By highlighting that Jesus gave His entire life rather than the bare minimum, Derrick encourages the students to live a life defined by spiritual necessity, even when it is uncomfortable or exhausting.

Derrick reflects on a powerful weekend, celebrating the spiritual breakthroughs and life-changing moments experienced by the students. He highlights testimonies from individuals like William, who committed his life to Christ, and others who found peace, surrender, and the importance of community at the altar. Derrick passionately challenges the group to maintain their "fire" and passion for God rather than letting the weekend's momentum fade, urging them to continue their culture of inviting others and building a lasting legacy of faith. The session concludes with a call to lead the wider church in worship and a prayer of gratitude for the work God has done in their lives.

In Session 4 of The WKND, Brian bridges the conclusion of The WKND with the ongoing "Life of Peter" sermon series to explore how to build a lasting spiritual legacy. Reflecting on Peter’s journey from a common fisherman to a bold apostle, Brian highlights that while faith often includes moments of failure and denial—much like Peter’s heartbreaking experience in the high priest's courtyard—failure does not disqualify someone from following Jesus. Drawing from Psalm 1, he argues that a legacy isn't built on isolated emotional moments but on the daily "proximity" of surrounding oneself with the right influences and the "practice" of consistent spiritual habits. Brian illustrates this transformation by showing how a once-fearful Peter, after being filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 4, stood fearlessly before the same authorities he once fled, proving that a life rooted in Christ can move beyond temporary experiences into a transformative, lifelong mission.

In Session 3 of The WKND 2026, Derrick challenges students to consider the lasting impact of their lives as they conclude The WKND focused on the theme of "Legacy." He emphasizes that a true legacy is not defined by mere church attendance, but by a life built on the "rock" of Jesus and an active relationship with the Holy Spirit. Using a visual metaphor of milk and chocolate syrup, Derrick illustrates that the Holy Spirit should not just reside beside a believer but must be "activated" within them to transform their character and actions. He invites the students to move beyond temporary emotional highs and embrace their roles as "ambassadors for Christ," calling them to make bold decisions regarding salvation, baptism, or even future ministry. Ultimately, Derrick urges his audience to choose a path of obedience and faith, ensuring that their legacy is one of honoring God and inclusively loving others.

In Session Two of The WKND, Derrick challenges his audience to move beyond a superficial faith and honestly evaluate the foundation of their lives. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus in Luke 6, he contrasts the person who builds their life on the solid rock of obedience and true transformation with the person who builds on sand, seeking only temporary emotional highs or "feel-good moments." Derrick shares a personal story of ignoring his grandfather’s rules and the subsequent "crash" to illustrate that simply hearing God’s word without acting on it leads to spiritual collapse. He emphasizes that a legacy of faith requires the hard work of "digging deep"—sacrificing time, effort, and pride—to ensure one's hope is rooted in the blood of Jesus rather than in human comparison or past mistakes. By inviting the audience to reflect on whether their lives show actual change, Derrick concludes with a call to commitment, urging them to decide if they are standing on a firm foundation or a crumbling one.

In Session One of The WKND 2026, Brian explores the vital importance of remembering God's work in our lives to secure our faith for the future. Drawing on the biblical story from Joshua 4, where the Israelites built a stone memorial after miraculously crossing the Jordan River, Brian emphasizes that "miracles fade if we don’t remember them." He candidly shares his own struggles with forgetfulness to illustrate how easily we can lose sight of our identity and God’s goodness when we fail to intentionally commemorate spiritual milestones. By highlighting the enduring impact of a longtime church member named Miss Kay, Brian demonstrates how individual faithfulness creates a ripple effect—or a legacy—that blesses others across generations and even continents. Ultimately, he invites students to experience the "greatest miracle" of salvation through Jesus Christ and encourages them to build personal "memorials" that turn fleeting emotional moments into a lifelong, transformative legacy of faith.

Student Pastor Brian Smith gives a message to the middle schoolers, using the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son to explore how people respond when they "mess up" their lives. He begins with a personal anecdote about a childhood injury caused by his own unwise choices, noting that his first instinct was to run toward his father for help. Brian contrasts this with the common human tendency to run away from God when experiencing shame or failure. By examining Luke 15, he emphasizes that while God allows individuals the freedom to choose their own paths and face the resulting consequences, He remains a compassionate Father who is constantly watching for their return. Brian concludes by encouraging the students to view God not as a harsh judge, but as a loving parent who "runs" to meet those who return home, urging them to share this message of grace with others who may feel defined by their mistakes.

Pastor Jimmy Carter shares his personal journey from being a local student-athlete to becoming the church's new senior pastor. Reflecting on his roots as a "Dunwoody Wildcat," Carter describes how his identity was once solely tied to football, leading to a period of "lukewarm" faith and personal struggle after a failed college recruitment attempt. He recounts how God unexpectedly opened doors for him to play at the University of Kentucky, where a Fellowship of Christian Athletes Bible study eventually led him to fully commit his life to Christ. Using his experience of punting through a record-breaking 73-0 loss to Florida as a backdrop, he encourages the students to embrace their identity as God’s "workmanship" (Ephesians 2:10), emphasizing that their value is found in Jesus rather than performance and expressing his excitement to invest in the next generation of church leaders.

In this second week of the "Radical Life" series, speaker Derrick Milner explores Mark 2, focusing on the story of the four friends who lowered a paralyzed man through a roof to reach Jesus. Derrick emphasizes that a "radical life" requires bringing our entire "mess" to the Messiah rather than trying to compartmentalize our faith. He highlights that Jesus performed an unexpected miracle by prioritizing the man's eternal spiritual healing (forgiveness of sins) over his physical recovery, demonstrating that God cares more about the state of our hearts than our past circumstances. The message concludes with a challenge to students to be like the four friends: surrounding themselves with a community that pushes them toward Christ and possessing a boldness to do "whatever it takes" to bring others to the Gospel.

Derrick Milner welcomes students back for the new year of 2026 and introduces a new series titled "Radical Life," which will explore the entire Gospel of Mark over several months. Using the first eight verses of Mark 1, Derrick focuses on the "unexpected" nature of John the Baptist—an eccentric figure living in the wilderness who God chose to prepare the way for Jesus. He emphasizes that a radical life of faith requires three things: trusting God’s timing, recognizing that God uses unexpected people (regardless of their past or appearance), and maintaining an unexpected selflessness that points others toward Christ rather than oneself. Derrick challenges the students to evaluate whether their own New Year's resolutions and daily schedules have left God out, urging them to choose selflessness and obedience over their own selfish plans.

Student Pastor Brian Smith recounts the biblical story of Zechariah and Elizabeth from the beginning of Luke's Gospel, setting it against the backdrop of the 400 years of silence following the Old Testament's final prophecy in Malachi. He emphasizes that during this time, God's people likely felt forgotten, a feeling many students can relate to when facing personal struggles or unanswered prayers. The message focuses on the moment the angel Gabriel appears to the elderly priest Zechariah in the temple, announcing that his barren wife, Elizabeth, will bear a son named John (later known as John the Baptist). This birth is revealed to be the fulfillment of the Malachi prophecy—John will be the prophet "like Elijah" who prepares the people for the Lord. Zechariah's doubt, resulting in him being temporarily unable to speak, serves as an example of how people can become so focused on their difficult circumstances (like 400 years of silence or being old) that they forget the power of God's promises. The ultimate takeaway is that God is always faithful and keeps His promises, offering assurance of forgiveness, strength, peace, and eternal life, even when people feel forgotten or have forgotten Him.

🙏 Kate Bacon's TestimonyKate Bacon, who grew up in the church and graduated from Dunwoody High School in 2022, shared her personal testimony about finding her identity in Jesus Christ while navigating the challenges of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Although she understood the gospel from a young age and committed her life to Christ at seven, she admitted that throughout middle and high school, she was driving her own life, only turning to God when things were difficult. Her rigorous experience at West Point—which challenged her with deep-seated fears like a fear of heights and required her to endure intense stress, lack of sleep, and hard leadership decisions—ultimately brought her to her knees, demonstrating that she could do nothing in her own strength. Kate's journey taught her the critical lesson that true identity is found not in worldly accomplishments, performance (grades, sports, etc.), or future plans, but solely as a child of God, and that trusting in His different, yet infinitely better, plan brings profound peace and joy.

Sebbi Harrison, a middle schooler, delivered a speech focusing on 1 Timothy 4:12, which says, "Never let anyone look down on you because you're young, but set an example for them." Drawing from his personal experience of feeling overlooked as the youngest brother and initially small and new to the church, Sebbi emphasized that young people, specifically middle schoolers, can and should make a significant difference, both within the church and in the world. He shared how a simple act of welcome by an older peer, Dillon, helped him feel included, illustrating the power of setting a positive example. Sebbi encouraged his fellow students to be leaders and boldly show their faith everywhere—in school, on sports fields, and in the church—because they are a vital core part of the church, and people are always looking to them for an example, especially those who are new. He concluded by reiterating his belief that through sharing their faith and leadership, young people will continue to do great things.

Avery's Message: Learning How to Be StillAvery's message, "Learning how to be still," encourages middle schoolers to find rest and peace in God despite their overwhelming, busy schedules of school, sports, and other activities. She shares that she herself struggled with being still, which God addressed first with a gentle reminder, then a stop sign, and finally through a fractured arm, forcing her to slow down. Citing scripture like Matthew 11:28 ("Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest") and Psalm 46:10 ("Be still and know that I am God"), Avery explains that God is commanding them to stop rushing and invites them to exchange their heavy burdens of stress and worry for His easy yoke and light burden. Ultimately, she urges them to stop, open the invitation to God's presence, and trade their stress for peace, joy, and rest.

Derrick Milner wraps up "The Grave Robber" series by emphasizing that true faith requires shifting one's focus from personal efforts and religious actions to a genuine, heart-felt relationship with Jesus Christ. He opens by reflecting on powerful worship and announcing the upcoming "collective night," then recounts the series' previous themes: Jesus makes the impossible possible (raising the widow's son) and no one is too far gone (Jairus's daughter). Milner then introduces the final point using the story of Jesus's resurrection from Matthew 27-28, highlighting the stark contrast between the disciples, who were initially hopeless but then worshiped the resurrected Jesus, and the Jewish leaders, who were focused on discrediting the resurrection with a cover-up story. He asserts that many people, like the Jewish leaders who were obsessed with following 630 laws, focus on actions (church attendance, prayer, being a "good person") rather than on a transformed heart, which leads to self-focused faith. Milner concludes that wherever your focus is, your heart will be also; therefore, salvation is not earned by doing enough—it is a gift received by confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in his resurrection, which naturally leads to actions that glorify God.

Week 2 of the "Grave Robber" message series, centers on the theme that "No one is too far gone" and "Jesus makes the impossible possible." Derrick Milner begins by sharing a personal anecdote about reluctantly trying and ultimately enjoying long-distance running, stressing that new or difficult things (like sharing faith) require a "whatever it takes" mindset. The core of the message reviews the biblical account from Mark chapter 5, detailing two miracles performed by Jesus concurrently: first, healing a desperate woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years simply by her touching his robe, and second, raising the twelve-year-old daughter of the synagogue leader, Jairus, from the dead. In both cases—the marginalized, isolated woman and the prominent official’s daughter who was deemed "too far gone" after she died—Jesus demonstrated that both the miraculous is achievable and that no person is beyond His help or salvation, encouraging students to embrace this truth and share the love of Jesus with others, regardless of perceived hopelessness.

In Week 1 of "The Grave Robber" message series, speaker Derrick Milner introduced the theme of Jesus making the impossible possible by focusing on his power to resurrect the dead, a concept that seems unbelievable outside of movies. Milner highlighted that everyone experiences seemingly impossible situations in life, from sports comebacks to difficult family issues, and emphasized that the Bible proves that with God, all things are possible, ultimately pointing to Jesus's own resurrection. Using the story from Luke 7 where Jesus raises a widow's only son from the dead, he demonstrated Jesus's compassion and ability to save not only physical life but also eternity from a truly desperate situation. The central message for the students was to draw closer to Jesus through prayer and a personal relationship, assuring them that the closer they are to him, the more they will witness him step into their own "impossible" struggles, like family problems or isolation, and bring hope and restoration.

In the final part of the series on "fake faith," Brian Smith clarifies that having doubts or struggles does not make one's faith fake. He also warned against "fake friends" who might pull people away from God's plan for their lives. Brian then brought up his son, Jude Smith, to speak. Jude took the stage and began by posing the question, "What is fake faith?" He shared a story about the biblical account of Jesus cursing the fig tree, explaining that the fig tree and the temple were both outwardly impressive but inwardly corrupt, a parallel he drew to fake faith. Jude concluded by asking the audience to consider whether their own faith was real or fake and then prayed for them. Brian returned to praise Jude's talk and reaffirmed the importance of having a genuine, fruitful faith, encouraging students to consider baptism and to take on opportunities to share the Gospel themselves.

In Week 2 of the series, "Fake," Brian Smith discusses the dangers of being "fake," both in one's faith and friendships. He shares a personal story from his youth to illustrate how a desire to fit in made him pretend to be someone he wasn't, and then uses the biblical story of Rehoboam to warn against the dangers of fake friends, who can cause one to "forfeit the future God has for them." He concludes by offering characteristics of both fake and true friends, urging the audience to choose friendships that align with God's will and encourage personal growth.

In Week 1 of "Fake," speaker Brian Smith addresses middle schoolers about the dangers of living inauthentically, particularly concerning their faith. He begins by distinguishing between genuine struggles—like having doubts or facing temptations—and being "fake." He emphasizes that having doubts about God or struggling with sin, as even the Apostle Paul and Jesus's own disciples did, does not mean a person is a fake Christian. Real faith, he says, acknowledges these struggles openly.In contrast, Brian defines "fake faith" as being "double-minded" or "two-faced." He uses an example from the Bible of Jewish exorcists who tried to use Jesus's name to cast out demons without having a genuine relationship with Him. The sermon explains that the demons recognized Jesus and Paul, but not them, leading to their defeat. This story, according to Smith, illustrates the central message: fake faith has no real power or hope. He encourages his listeners to be honest about their doubts and struggles rather than putting on a "church mask," urging them to seek a sincere, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which he says is the only source of true hope and power.

During Week 3 of the series "Stoopid," Derrick Milner discusses wisdom from the book of Proverbs, highlighting that wisdom is understanding and following God's will. He explains that while King Solomon, the author of Proverbs, was the wisest man to ever live, he still made bad decisions when he ignored God. Milner then reviews the previous two weeks of the series, reminding the audience that "dumb friends are dangerous" and can lead to trouble, and that everyone is searching for something, whether it's more of God or material things. He emphasizes that only God can provide true, lasting satisfaction.Milner then shifts to the main topic for the night: dating and relationships. He explains that humans were not designed to be alone and were made for relationships, both in dating and friendships. He shares a personal story about calling his friends during a difficult time, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system. He then warns against "want-based" relationships, which treat people like objects, and encourages the audience to instead focus on finding what they truly need in a partner: character and faith. He concludes by urging the audience to seek advice from people who have succeeded in their relationships, not just their peers, and to find out what they need in all aspects of life by talking to those who have a successful relationship with Jesus.

In Week Two of a series called "Stoopid," speaker Derrick Milner emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from God and making Him the top priority in our lives. He begins by referencing the book of Proverbs, written by the wise King Solomon, which offers practical advice and wisdom. Last week, Milner discussed how "dumb friends are dangerous" and how we can either lead our friends toward better decisions or choose to leave those friendships, as Proverbs 13:20 warns that "a companion of fools suffers harm."Milner then provides examples from Proverbs, cautioning against a "big mouth" that leads to gossip and trouble, as well as laziness, which Proverbs 6:9-11 says leads to poverty. He shares a personal anecdote about struggling to wake up early, acknowledging how easy it is to fall into lazy habits. He stresses that while small actions like sleeping in aren't inherently bad, if they become a daily habit, they can lead to negative consequences. Milner introduces the central theme of his message from Proverbs 11:27: "The one who searches for what is good seeks favor, but if someone looks for trouble, it will come to him." He explains that everyone is searching for something, whether it be a thing, a person, or a place. However, the order of our priorities matters.Milner uses the story of Ananias and his wife from the book of Acts to illustrate this point. The couple, who sold a piece of land, kept a portion of the money for themselves, and lied about it to the apostles, were struck dead by God. Milner explains that it wasn't the act of keeping the money that was the problem, but their lack of trust in God. They prioritized themselves first and God second. Milner concludes by highlighting Matthew 6:33, which says, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you." He challenges the audience to search for God through prayer, studying the Bible, and obedience, such as through baptism and evangelism. He states that if we don't put God first, we might as well be putting him last because nothing else will truly matter.

In Week 1 of the series, "Stoopid," Derrick Milner explains that the purpose of the series is to remind students of the importance of wisdom as they begin the new school year. Milner defines wisdom as understanding God's will and shares a passage from the Book of Proverbs, noting that wisdom is more valuable than any material possession, such as silver or gold. He warns that a lack of wisdom can lead to a cycle of bad decisions that may seem small at first but can have life-altering consequences.Milner emphasizes that a key area for applying wisdom is in choosing friendships. He states that "dumb friends are dangerous" because they can lead people to make poor decisions that result in real harm. To illustrate this point, he shares two personal stories about making poor choices under the influence of friends: one involves a foolish text message that caused emotional distress, and the other describes a painful experience eating a hot habanero pepper in Mexico. He then tells a more somber story about a high school graduate who died after a foolish stunt with his friends, underscoring the severe consequences of unwise choices. Milner concludes by advising students to either lead their friendships toward God-honoring decisions or leave them, as a companion of fools will ultimately suffer harm. He encourages them to choose their friends wisely to avoid a cycle of poor decisions and live a better, happier life.

Student Pastor Brian Smith delivered a crucial message to students about the dangers of temptation as they head back to school, especially after the "warm fuzzies" of camp experiences. He emphasized that real life brings trials and temptations, and while trials are unavoidable, the key is how we respond to temptations. Drawing from the Book of James, specifically James 1:12-15, he explained that while enduring trials is a blessing, succumbing to temptation leads to sin and ultimately, "death" or ruin. He defined temptation as any desire to do something you know is ultimately bad for you, regardless of its perceived size, using personal anecdotes like his struggle with anger to illustrate how even "small" temptations can have significant consequences.Pastor Brian then delved into the enemy's "game plan" for temptation as seen in Matthew chapter 4, where Jesus was tempted in the wilderness. He highlighted three main strategies: satisfying physical needs outside of God's design, feeding one's ego instead of their soul, and allowing anyone or anything other than God to lead you. Jesus's responses, rooted in scripture, provide a blueprint for resistance. Finally, the pastor shifted from resistance to a more effective strategy found in 2 Timothy 2:22: fleeing from youthful temptations. He stressed that the goal isn't to be strong enough to resist, but wise enough to run away from what is harmful and to actively pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. He encouraged students not to face these battles alone but to seek support from friends and leaders, running together towards God and away from temptations that can derail their future.

Derrick Milner's Week 4 message in the "Distracted" series encourages students to gently restore peers who are "messing up." He emphasizes that people often carry unseen burdens leading them to make poor choices, and rather than judging or shaming, followers of Jesus should offer support and understanding. Milner illustrates this point with a personal anecdote about a former student, Tolu, who, despite his leadership potential, was consistently led astray by negative influences. Milner expressed his frustration at the time but highlights Tolu's eventual transformation into a student pastor, showcasing the importance of continued care and guidance.Milner references Galatians 5 and 6, where Paul warns against the "works of the flesh" and instructs believers to restore those who err with a "gentle spirit," while also "carrying one another's burdens." He stresses that true friendship involves not only pointing out flaws but also actively helping and encouraging individuals through their struggles, likening it to Jesus's varied approaches to rebuke. Milner concludes by highlighting that this restorative approach is central to discipleship, urging students to be a light in the world by showing love and support to those around them.

Derrick Milner recapped Guest Speaker Glen Rowden's messages from Summer Camp 2025, which centered around the theme "All In" with faith. The first message, "All Indwell," emphasized that followers of Jesus have everything they need to go "all in" because the Holy Spirit dwells within them. Milner highlighted Luke 9:23, which calls believers to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Jesus, stressing that this is a daily battle against distractions and sin, not just a weekly or occasional commitment. He referenced the "Jesus delivered me from" boards at camp, symbolizing how God, through Christ's sacrifice, pays the price for our sins, enabling us to overcome past mistakes and live "all in."The second night's message built upon this foundation. "All Invest" focused on not only investing in one's own faith but also in the lives of others. Milner underscored that to bring others to Jesus, believers must be willing to go to places they haven't gone themselves, actively engaging in conversations and building relationships. The third night, "All Include,"celebrated the church as a family where everyone belongs. Drawing from Ephesians 1:18, Rowden encouraged campers to hope that Jesus is shaping them to fulfill His purpose, which includes making others feel included and welcomed in the Christian community. Finally, "All Invite" reiterated the Great Commission from Matthew 28:19, urging believers to share their faith and invite others to experience the joy and peace found in Jesus. Milner likened this to having a cure for cancer and the moral obligation to share it, emphasizing that the ultimate goal of camp was not just personal faith growth, but equipping attendees to go out and share that faith with the world.

Derrick Milner reflects on an impactful camp experience and sharing insights from several Students. The camp was a significant event, fostering spiritual growth, with 13 baptisms and five salvations. Milner emphasized the power of worship and community, highlighting how sharing struggles and faith experiences in a supportive environment, like the small groups at camp, can lead to profound personal breakthroughs. He urged attendees to carry the spiritual intensity and openness experienced at camp into their daily lives, asserting that faith is not merely about emotional highs but about continuous, everyday commitment.Milner and other speakers, including Brian, underscored the importance of students setting an example in their faith, not just within the church but in all aspects of their lives. They encouraged students to continue to worship freely, share their faith, and invite others to experience Jesus, preventing the church from becoming a "clique." The shared testimonials from students like Benjamin, Hannah, Noah, David, Josh, Harrison, William, Caroline, and Ethan illustrated diverse personal transformations—from overcoming anxiety and grief to finding deeper connections and understanding their faith. The camp aimed to show that even outside of an isolated camp environment, God can continue to work miracles, and personal faith should be a daily pursuit, not just a one-time event.

In final night of Summer Camp 2025, Glen Rowden's message, "All Invite," emphasizes that Christians are called to be disciples who make disciples.Rowden began by reflecting on the songs of worship, noting that they highlight Jesus as the Lord of heaven and earth, the Savior of the world, and the name above every name. He asserted that this understanding of Jesus's identity should compel believers to live differently and be "all in" with the Gospel. He stressed that our purpose in life comes from Jesus, who has "all authority in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18). Referencing Colossians 1:16-17, he underscored that all things were created through and for Jesus, and that He holds everything together.The core of Rowden's message centered on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), urging the audience to view it not just as a command to "do" something, but as a call to "be" someone. He clarified that "all nations" means every person, regardless of their background or how difficult they may be, is valuable to God and invited into His family.He explained that a disciple is someone who follows and strives to be like their teacher. Therefore, making disciples means inviting others to join you in following Jesus and trying to become like Him. This involves showing them how to follow Jesus through your own life and actions, rather than just telling them information. You cannot invite someone to follow you somewhere you are not going yourself.Rowden then outlined key aspects of what it means to be a disciple:Baptism: He presented baptism not as a means of salvation, but as a public act of obedience and identification with Jesus. It symbolizes the death of the "old self" and the resurrection to "newness of life" in Christ (Romans 6:4). He likened it to a wedding ring, a public symbol of commitment and love, emphasizing that refusing to be baptized when Jesus commanded it would be akin to a spouse refusing to wear a wedding ring. He also noted that taking this initial step of obedience often leads to further obedience in a believer's life.Obedience to Jesus's Commands: Disciples are called to "observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). This means striving to live as Jesus lived, not picking and choosing which commands to follow. This commitment to obedience is a continuous, lifelong process, not just a Sunday activity. Rowden acknowledged that no one is perfect, but when disciples fall short, they should agree with God about their sin, admit their mistakes, and make adjustments to change.Rowden concluded by reiterating that this mission of discipleship is not undertaken alone. Citing Matthew 28:20, "Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age," he reminded them that God's Spirit indwells believers, providing the strength and guidance needed to fulfill this calling. He challenged the audience to consider if they are truly disciples, believing that everyone present at the camp was there for a purpose orchestrated by God. He urged them to take their "next step" in their faith journey, whether that meant trusting Jesus for the first time, getting baptized, or making a significant change in their life to align with God's will.

Derrick Milner, in the final morning session of summer camp, reflected on the week's theme of "all in" faith, emphasizing personal application. He highlighted the campers' engaged worship and their courageous sharing of personal struggles, linking these to Jesus's sacrifice.Milner then introduced communion, a first for this camp, as a crucial act of faith. He explained its symbolism rooted in Jesus's body and blood, citing 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 to underscore believers' commitment to glorifying God as they were "bought at a price.”He posed the question, "Why do we participate in communion?" dismissing superficial reasons and sharing a personal anecdote about his own past misunderstanding of its significance. He grounded the practice in Matthew 26:26-29, describing the Last Supper as Jesus instituted communion as a symbol of his impending sacrifice. Milner also referenced 1 Corinthians 11 to emphasize the importance of self-examination before partaking.Milner outlined three aspects of obedience related to communion:1. Reflect on the SacrificeThis involves remembering Jesus's death for sin, as highlighted in Romans 3:23 and Romans 6:23, and acknowledging that His sacrifice offers eternal life.2. Examine Our HeartsParticipants should consider their intentions for communion and their faith in general, ensuring their actions stem from genuine belief rather than mere participation or guilt. God values the "posture of your heart" over the act itself.3. Show OthersObedience in faith, including communion, can inspire others. Milner quoted Matthew 5:14-16, emphasizing that believers are the "light of the world" and their actions can lead others to God.He concluded by offering three ways to respond: establishing a relationship with Jesus, getting baptized, or participating in communion with a reflective and examined heart. He explained the communion process, where deacons would serve the bread and juice, inviting attendees to consider the profound weight of what they were doing before partaking. The session closed with a prayer for participants to remember the deep meaning of communion and God's love.

Glen Rowden's "All Included" session at Summer Camp 2025 emphasized the communal aspect of Christian faith, drawing heavily from Hebrews 10:23-25.Rowden began by acknowledging that while accepting Jesus Christ is an individual decision, it immediately ushers believers into a collective group—the "sons and daughters of God." This stands in contrast to the prevalent individualistic nature of society, as Christian faith is not self-reliant; believers need both the Holy Spirit and each other to navigate their spiritual journey.Central to Rowden's message was the concept of hope. He posed the question: "What do you hope for?" He cautioned against hoping for temporary, worldly possessions or hoping for nothing at all, comparing the latter to his dog, Dolly, who has no hopes or dreams beyond basic needs. Instead, he urged attendees to hope for the call of Jesus and the "riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints" (Ephesians 1:18), emphasizing God's unfailing love, purpose for each individual, and the promise of eternal life without pain, fear, or tears.Rowden stressed the importance of holding fast to this hope in Jesus "without wavering." He illustrated this with a vivid personal anecdote from his time in the Army, describing how he had to cling desperately to a helicopter strap to avoid falling. He linked this to the spiritual need to have a "death grip" on one's faith. He further explained that wavering from faith makes life harder, not only for the individual but also for those around them, drawing a parallel to soldiers falling behind in a march, forcing others to exert more effort to keep pace. The ultimate reason to hold fast is because "he who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23).The speaker then shifted to the necessity of mutual encouragement and accountability among believers. Referencing 1 Peter 5:8, he warned that "your adversary, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking to devour." Satan, he explained, doesn't announce his presence but subtly seeks to isolate and attack individuals with spiritual "blind spots." Therefore, believers need each other to "stir up one another to love and good works" and to provide accountability, not in a judgmental way, but with love, prayer, and scripture, for the purpose of building each other up.Rowden directly addressed the common sentiment, "I don't need the church to be a follower of Jesus," calling it both wrong and selfish. He asserted that Hebrews 10:25, "not neglecting to meet together as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another," explicitly commands believers to gather. He argued that attending church isn't solely for individual benefit but also to encourage and support other believers. He concluded by emphasizing that these crucial relationships require commitment and investment to foster trust and mutual protection against spiritual dangers.Rowden ended by encouraging the attendees to be a group of people who cling to their faith, don't waver, and actively lift one another up, recognizing the increasing difficulties of following Jesus in the last days.

In the morning 2 Session, Derrick Milner focused on the importance of prayer and surrendering everything to God for a deeper relationship with Jesus.He began by emphasizing that true worship involves giving everything over to God, even if it means "looking foolish." He connected this to the idea of going "all in" with one's faith, which requires a personal relationship with Jesus. He encouraged anyone who felt the need to surrender their life to Jesus or be baptized to speak with a leader.Milner then posed the question: "What is something that you need to be delivered from? What's something that you need to give over to God?" He explained that prayer is essential for this, serving as our primary way of communicating with God, just as reading Scripture is God's way of communicating with us.He referenced the story of Gideon in Judges Chapter 6. The Israelites had turned away from God and suffered under the Midianites for seven years. They were broken, hopeless, and starving. God sent a prophet to remind them of His deliverance from Egypt and His commands, which they had disobeyed. God then chose Gideon, a seemingly weak and insignificant man, to deliver Israel. Gideon initially doubted and tested God, but ultimately, he surrendered his plan to follow God's plan.Milner drew parallels between Gideon's struggle and our own, highlighting that it's often difficult to give everything over to God, especially when things are uncomfortable or we face struggles like:Compulsive lyingAddictionsGossipAnger issuesAnxietyDepressionHe reminded the audience that God can use anyone, even those who feel they've "messed up," just as He used Gideon. The core message was to identify what holds us back from a deep relationship with Jesus and to be willing to confess these struggles to God.The session concluded with a powerful call to action based on Psalm 34:17-18, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears and delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is near the brokenhearted, and he saves those crushed in spirit." Participants were invited to engage in a symbolic act of surrender:Pray privately, asking God to deliver them from their struggles.Write their specific struggles or sins on a board labeled "Jesus delivered me from..."Paint over what they wrote with red paint, symbolizing the blood of Jesus, who "bought us with a price" and delivered us from our struggles, as referenced in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.Milner emphasized that this act requires boldness and that while our lives won't be perfect, we can have peace, joy, and hope through Jesus' sacrifice. He also encouraged students to pray for each other, recognizing that growth in faith is a personal and communal journey.

In Night 2 of Summer Camp 2025, titled "All Invest," Glen Rowden, focuses on the concept of being an example to others, drawing heavily from biblical teachings.Rowden begins by highlighting the core theme of investing in others by being a positive example. He references 1 Timothy 4:12: "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." He explains that this verse is from a letter written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young leader of the church in Ephesus who faced many challenges. Paul's instruction to Timothy, and by extension to the audience, is to invest in the people around them and to be an example.Rowden illustrates this point with a personal anecdote about his young son, Evan, who unconsciously imitated his father mowing the lawn. This story emphasizes that people are always watching, even when we don't realize it. He stresses that everyone, regardless of age or perceived influence, is an example to someone else—whether it's peers, family, or neighbors. The crucial question isn't if you are an example, but "what kind of example are you?" Especially for those who claim to follow Jesus, they are an example of what that means to others, and for some, they may be the only example of Jesus they encounter.To understand what kind of example to be, Rowden turns to Philippians 2:5-11, which describes Jesus' humility and sacrifice.Relationship with Jesus is Essential: Rowden emphasizes that one cannot truly be the example needed without a relationship with Jesus. He quotes Philippians 2:5, "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus." Our ability to live out this example comes from being "in Christ Jesus," not from our own power or efforts, as we are all sinners (Isaiah 53:6). He highlights that Jesus paid the price for our sins, demonstrating God's immense love (Romans 5:8, Ephesians 2:8-9). This means we live by faith in what Jesus did, not in our own ability to do good (Galatians 2:20).Willingness to Let Go of Entitlement: Jesus, though equal with God, "did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself" (Philippians 2:6-7). Rowden interprets this as Jesus being willing to let go of what he was entitled to for our benefit. He challenges the audience to stop focusing on what they think they deserve, as ultimately, without Jesus, humanity deserves eternal separation from God. He states, "Jesus' example is this: I deserve, but instead I give, I serve, and I sacrifice."Importance of Daily, Little Moments: Rowden asserts that Jesus' example wasn't just about significant moments but also about the "daily moments and decisions that may seem insignificant" (Philippians 2:7). Jesus, the Creator, daily lived a servant's life, submitting to his Father's will despite mistreatment. Rowden urges listeners to consider that people are watching their everyday actions and reactions, not just the big decisions. He stresses that "your speech, your conduct, your love, your faith in your purity and daily life matters."Handling Failure as an Example: Rowden acknowledges that no one is perfect and mistakes will be made. However, he sees these moments as opportunities to be an example. Quoting 1 John 1:8-9, he encourages confession of sins, highlighting that God is faithful to forgive. He shares an anecdote about giving his hoodie to his cold son at a Good Friday service, despite initially being frustrated, as a personal example of sacrificing for someone undeserving, mirroring Jesus' sacrifice. He concludes that how we handle failure is part of the example we set.Rowden's central message is a call to be "all in" with Jesus, not holding anything back, and to reflect His example of humility, service, and sacrifice in all aspects of life, both big and small, for the benefit of others.

In morning 1 of summer camp session, Derrick Milner, centered on the theme of "All In" with Worship, drawing parallels between the Israelites' wavering faith and the challenges modern youth face in fully committing to God.Key Takeaways:The Importance of Worship: The speaker emphasized that true worship goes beyond singing songs or outward expressions; it's about trusting God completely, even when it means "looking foolish" to others.The Story of Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18): The message heavily featured the story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal. The speaker highlighted how God dramatically responded to Elijah's faith, consuming the water-drenched sacrifice with fire, demonstrating His power and authenticity.Trusting God in Impossible Situations: The act of pouring water on the wood before the fire challenge was used to illustrate Elijah's immense trust in God to do the impossible. This served as a metaphor for believers to trust God even in their darkest and seemingly hopeless circumstances.Biblical Examples of "Looking Foolish": The speaker provided several examples from the Bible where individuals "looked foolish" by obeying God, but ultimately experienced marvelous outcomes:Noah building an ark when it had never rained.Moses parting the Red Sea.The Israelites marching around Jericho without weapons.David fighting Goliath with a sling and a stone.Mary conceiving Jesus as a virgin.Peter walking on water.Jesus on the cross.Call to Action: Campers were encouraged to engage in worship in a way that is authentic and personal to them, regardless of what others might think. The speaker urged them to surrender their doubts and problems to God, believing that He can work miracles in their lives.The session concluded with a prayer, reinforcing the message of unwavering faith and trust in God's power.

In the opening of the Night One Session of Summer Camp 2025, speaker Glen Rowden introduced himself, sharing that he's from Sarasota, Florida, but lived in Georgia longer, where he knew Brian and officiated Derek's wedding. He then introduced his family, including his new daughter-in-law who recently married his middle son, his 16-year-old twin sons, and his oldest son who is in the Air Force. Rowden also shared his passion for fishing in Florida.Transitioning to the camp's theme, "All In," Rowden explained that being "all in" for Jesus means full commitment, not just a partial dip. He referenced Luke 9:23-24, where Jesus calls everyone to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow him, emphasizing that this "all in" commitment is for every follower, not just "super Christians" or pastors.Rowden then used Matthew 13:44, the parable of the treasure hidden in a field, to illustrate that the "kingdom of heaven"—a relationship with God—is so valuable it's worth giving up everything for. He quoted missionary Jim Elliott, "He is no fool who gives up what he can't keep, to gain what cannot be taken away," to underscore the eternal value of following Jesus compared to temporary earthly possessions.Acknowledging that being "all in" can feel challenging, Rowden introduced the night's key word: "indwell." He explained that God knows we can't be "all in" on our own, and that when we believe in Jesus, we are no longer alone. He cited Ephesians 1:13, stating that believers are "sealed with the promised Holy Spirit," meaning every follower of Jesus has everything they need to be "all in."To illustrate the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, Rowden compared the disciples' behavior before and after receiving the Holy Spirit. He recounted instances where the disciples showed fear and doubt while Jesus was physically with them, such as fleeing when Jesus was arrested (Matthew 26:55-56) and some doubting even after His resurrection (Matthew 28:16-17).However, after Jesus ascended and the Holy Spirit came (Acts 1:8, Acts 2), the disciples were transformed. Rowden highlighted Peter's boldness, contrasting his earlier denial of Jesus with his confident proclamation of the Gospel to the very leaders who had Jesus killed (Acts 3-4). He noted that Peter and John, filled with the Holy Spirit, rejoiced in suffering for Jesus' name and continued preaching despite being beaten and jailed (Acts 5:41-42). Rowden emphasized that believers today have the same Holy Spirit as the apostles, empowering them to live "all in."Finally, Rowden addressed how to access this indwelling Holy Spirit. He referred to Galatians 5:16, 25, which instructs believers to "walk in the Spirit" and "keep in step with the Spirit." He explained that the Holy Spirit acts as a guide, leading us into all truth (John 16:13), particularly through God's Word, the Bible (Isaiah 40:8). He concluded by encouraging attendees to seek truth in the Bible, acknowledge the Holy Spirit's presence, and pray for His guidance, reminding them not to "quench the Spirit" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19).

In week 3 of the series titled “Distracted,” Derrick Milner, explores the various ways believers can lose focus on their spiritual lives, particularly during the summer. Milner emphasizes that while summer offers freedom from school and obligations, it also presents many spiritual distractions.Derrick references previous sermons in the series. He recalls Jonathan’s discussion on the Gospel, highlighting that a "counterfeit gospel leads to a counterfeit life." This counterfeit life involves simply going through the motions of faith—attending church and reading the Bible—without genuine consumption of one's life. He also mentions Zach's message on adoption, stressing that Jesus died to make "orphans, sons and daughters" by bringing them into God's family. Milner notes that adoption into God’s family is permanent, offering a place at home regardless of struggles or sins.The core of Derrick's message centers on the concept of "true freedom" and the battle between being led by the Spirit versus driven by the flesh. While believers have the freedom to choose whether or not to follow God, true freedom comes from a genuine relationship with Jesus.Derrick warns that this freedom can be abused. Citing Galatians 5:13, he reminds the audience that freedom should not be used as "an opportunity for the flesh," but rather as a means to "serve one another through love." Milner explains that abusing freedom can lead to spiritual captivity and distract believers from God's path.Derrick emphasizes that the Christian life is not always perfect but a continuous battle between spiritual guidance and worldly desires. To maintain a strong relationship with God, believers must actively pursue Him. Milner concludes by highlighting the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23)—as the outcomes of living by the Spirit rather than the flesh.Derrick encourages the audience to examine their hearts and pray for God to reveal how they are being led, particularly as they prepare for a church camp experience focused on pursuing a deeper relationship with God away from worldly distractions.

Student Night of Worship and Prayer was designed to ignite faith and passion in students before an upcoming camp, emphasizing that spiritual growth doesn't need to wait. The evening focused on preparing hearts to encounter God through singing, communal prayer, and seeking God's presence. The speakers highlighted the power of prayer, especially when done collectively, stressing that it's a potent weapon against life's struggles and spiritual battles. They encouraged students to take the moment seriously, regardless of whether they were new to the experience or not, promising that drawing near to God would result in God drawing near to them.Throughout the night, there were several worship songs and prayer moments led by different individuals. A key theme was intercessory prayer, particularly for the new students attending the camp who might not yet have a relationship with Jesus. The message conveyed was that through salvation, believers are made righteous, making their prayers powerful and effective. Students were encouraged to form small groups to pray for these individuals, trusting that God's will to "seek and save that which is lost" would be realized at the camp. The event aimed to build anticipation and a spiritual foundation for the camp, with the hope that the revival experienced that night would continue and lead to life-changing encounters with God.

In a recap of 2025 Student mission trips, Derrick Milner highlighted two impactful experiences: a middle school trip to Venice, Florida, and two high school trips to Guatemala.Derrick described the two-and-a-half-week mission to Venice, Florida, where middle schoolers put on a Vacation Bible School (VBS) for a Hungarian church. He admitted to initial anxiety due to uncertainty about attendance, with only one child, Josh, showing up on the first day. However, this allowed the students to deeply minister to him, exemplifying the "power of one" that had been discussed prior to the trip. The following days saw increased attendance, with five children, primarily middle and high schoolers, attending. This unexpected demographic allowed the students to minister to peers their own age, fostering deep relationships, even leading to one scholarship recipient attending camp. Students shared their takeaways, with Kaden emphasizing God's constant presence, Summer noting God's ability to move even with small numbers, Lily finding peace in the message "God is in control, not you," Caitlin recognizing the power of testimonies, and Anna highlighting the ability to change lives regardless of attendance.Derrick then discussed the two high school trips to Guatemala, praising them as his favorite mission experiences. Working with the "Revive" organization and its founder, Omar, the teams focused on providing sustainability, clean water, and food to impoverished communities. Students conducted home visits, offering water filters and sharing their faith. Milner was particularly moved by the hospitality of the Guatemalan people, who, despite having little, generously offered food and drinks.A significant achievement of the trip was building farm boxes, chicken coops, and mushroom huts which, for one family, provided enough resources to sustain them for 15 years, allowing them to grow their own food and sell the surplus. Students like Josh shared how the trip was "mindset changing," seeing people’s happiness despite their circumstances. Matt realized if they could do so much in an "extreme situation" like Guatemala, they could do more in their daily lives. Abby expressed gratitude for what they have and the value of connecting with the local community, while Noah learned about the ups and downs of God's work, but also about God's constant presence.Derrick emphasized that these mission trips are not just about serving in distant lands, but about shifting perspective and recognizing the same responsibility to serve at home. He shared an impactful anecdote about students distributing leftover food to those in need in Guatemala, underscoring that acts of service and sharing the gospel should not be confined to mission trips. He challenged the audience to be as passionate about sharing their faith with friends and family in Dunwoody as they are with strangers abroad, stressing that there are over 6,000 middle and high school students in their city who need to hear the message of Jesus. He concluded by encouraging everyone to live out their faith more passionately and to continue the conversations about the mission trips, inviting those interested to speak with the students who participated.

In his sermon, Intern Zach Milner discusses the concept of unshakable faith, drawing parallels between the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and contemporary society. He begins by recounting how King Nebuchadnezzar commanded everyone to bow down to a golden idol, with the penalty of being thrown into a blazing furnace for disobedience. While thousands conformed, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego famously refused to worship the idol, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to God.Milner emphasizes that modern society often presents similar pressures to conform to worldly standards that may contradict one's faith. He urges listeners to stand firm in their convictions during trials and temptations, recognizing these as opportunities for God to reveal and strengthen their faith. The speaker highlights Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's resolute declaration that their God could deliver them, but even if He didn't, they would still not serve false gods. This illustrates that true faith is not dependent on a desired outcome, but on an unyielding relationship with God. Milner concludes by noting that such unwavering faith not only builds personal character but also serves as a powerful testament to others, ultimately pointing them towards God.

In Week 2 of "Distracted", Intern Zach Milner emphasizes the critical difference between a "counterfeit gospel" and the true gospel, which offers an abundant life through Jesus Christ. He explains that while many people try to earn God's love and salvation through good deeds or religious practices, this leads to an empty, counterfeit life. This mirrors the early church in Galatia, who, despite initially understanding the true gospel, began to drift back into trying to earn God's favor through adherence to the law. Milner highlights that Jesus' sacrifice was not merely to make "bad people good," but to transform "dead people alive" by adopting them as sons and daughters, granting them a secure and unearned relationship with God.Zach stresses that this adoption is final and unchangeable, meaning believers are no longer slaves to sin, guilt, or insecurity. Instead, they are heirs to God's promises, loved unconditionally regardless of their imperfections. He challenges listeners to examine if they are living like "spiritual orphans" trying to earn what has already been freely given, urging them to embrace the freedom and joy that comes from understanding their true identity as beloved children of God. The ultimate message is to receive God's grace and love rather than striving for it, leading to a life of relationship and intimacy with the Father.

In week one of the sermon series, "Distracted," Creative and Communications Director, Jonathan Talbert, emphasizes how easily we can get sidetracked from our primary goal as Christians: to glorify God and bring others to His kingdom. He explains that distractions, whether from phones, school, friends, video games, or even our own minds, lead to "destructive mistakes." Drawing a parallel to sports, he highlights how missing small steps can prevent a team from reaching its championship goal. Talbert quotes the saying, "The devil doesn't need to destroy you if he can distract you," suggesting that even a slight deviation from our path can lead us astray.Jonathan outlines three ways we become distracted: having a discombobulated belief, meaning our beliefs are confused or wavering; a deviated base, where we compromise our fundamental Christian teachings; and forgetting our distinct belonging as followers of Christ. He stresses that God will never distract or confuse us, only direct us. Referencing the parable of the wise and foolish builders, he illustrates the importance of building our faith on a firm foundation (the "rock") rather than shifting sands. Finally, he encourages listeners to be "focused followers" who seek "authentic abundance" in Christ, much like a baby zebra imprints on its mother's distinct smell, pattern, and sound to avoid getting lost in the herd. He urges regular quiet time to discern God's voice amidst life's distractions.

The second week of a series called "Breakout," which focuses on dealing with stress. He explains that this is a recurring series because stress is a constant in everyone's daily lives.Milner emphasizes that everyone experiences stress, from small irritations to major life challenges. He reminds the audience of the previous week's lesson: to cast our cares on God because He cares for us. While giving our worries to God doesn't eliminate problems, it means God will see us through them. He challenges the audience to truly believe they can take every stressful situation to Jesus, no matter how insignificant it seems. Milner then explores various sources of stress, including peer expectations, parental pressures, the weight of leadership, and the desire to perform well in school, sports, or even church. He admits that even he, as a speaker, experiences stress, particularly with upcoming mission trips and camps, stressing that attending church doesn't magically solve all problems or make one perfect. He also touches on the stress of comparison and the importance of striving to be who God designed us to be, rather than trying to imitate others.Milner introduces the concept of stress leading to fear, drawing from Proverbs 29:25, which states, "The fear of man will prove to be a snare." He explains that fear, if allowed to control our lives, can trap us, much like a mousetrap ensnares a mouse. He uses a physical demonstration with mousetraps to illustrate this point, emphasizing that fear is a dangerous tool used by Satan to keep us from God's plan and to make us feel unworthy or stuck in cycles of sin. He cites Psalm 107, verses 10-13, to show that even when people are in dire situations due to rebellion against God, crying out to Him leads to salvation from distress and broken chains. This leads to his core message: to overcome stress, we must trade our stress for God's strength by giving Him everything and truly trusting Him.To further illustrate his point, Milner conducts an exercise where he is blindfolded and guided through a maze of mousetraps by his intern, Zach. This demonstrates the necessity of trusting God even when we can't see the way forward. He likens the temptations and distractions in life to the audience's shouts, trying to get him to step on a mousetrap, and stresses the importance of tuning out the noise and listening to God's voice. Milner concludes by urging the audience to not take moments of worship for granted and to make a decision to truly know God now. He explains that salvation comes from confessing with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believing in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. He stresses that this relationship with God is the source of strength to overcome stress and fear, encouraging anyone who feels ready to make that commitment to speak with him or another leader. He ends with a prayer, asking God to help those feeling stuck to give everything over to Him and to live a life devoted to Him.

Summer and StressDerrick Milner welcomes everyone to their summer gathering, which will continue until August 6th, and introduces a new two-week series called "Breakout." He explains that the summer schedule is hectic with multiple mission trips planned, including one for middle schoolers, one for high schoolers, and another high school trip to Guatemala. Due to these commitments, and the absence of another leader named Brian, Derrick will also be away for two and a half weeks. He mentions that during this time, there will be nights of worship and prayer, and Zach will have the opportunity to preach.Derrick emphasizes that summer, while a break from school, can be a time of increased stress due to the absence of the primary priority (schoolwork) and the need to fill that void. He shares his personal experience with the stress of summer, citing the demands of planning for camp, which takes six to eight months, and a recent car accident where a driver sideswiped him and then fled the scene. This incident, combined with the already demanding summer schedule, highlighted the various sources of stress in life, whether big or small, stemming from expectations, performance, the need to always be busy, or concern over others' opinions.Dealing with StressDerrick states that the series will focus on how to manage stress. He notes that some people conceal their stress until they explode, an unhealthy coping mechanism he has personally experienced. He then turns to the Bible, highlighting that it's filled with imperfect but real people, like the disciples, who dealt with stress. He uses the story from John chapter 18, where Jesus is betrayed by Judas, as an example of a highly stressful situation. In this narrative, Peter, acting out of stress, cuts off the ear of the high priest's slave. Derrick likens Peter's impulsive action to how people sometimes react under stress, saying hurtful things they don't mean.Derrick explains that Jesus knew all the "storms" that were coming, including Peter's impulsive act, and that he knows the storms in our lives too. He encourages listeners to "quit stressing about the storms and start preparing for when the storms actually come." He uses the analogy of hurricane season in Florida, where those who prepare fare better than those who only stress. Drawing from 1 Peter chapter 5, verses 6-8, Derrick advises casting all anxieties on God because He cares for us. He stresses that giving our burdens to God is not just a religious formality but a path to a better life, even though challenges will still arise. He concludes by encouraging listeners to give all their worries and anxieties to God, emphasizing that a genuine relationship with Jesus is the starting point for truly dealing with stress and living a fulfilling life. He invites anyone struggling or feeling distant from God to seek prayer or guidance from him or other leaders.

Derrick Milner encourages the Students to fully engage in worship, setting aside distractions to focus on Jesus. He emphasizes that salvation belongs to God alone and highlights God's love and provision, urging everyone to truly believe in God's ability to provide, regardless of past mistakes. Milner then leads the group in prayer, first for personal forgiveness and drawing closer to God, and then for the city of Dunwoody, specifically for the over 6,000 middle and high school students to hear the gospel. He also prays for revival and unity within their student ministry, expressing a desire for genuine faith and a willingness to share it. Finally, Milner leads prayers for specific individuals, including Brian as he goes on sabbatical and Liam, who is moving to Chile for the summer, asking for spiritual growth, safety, and continued connection within their church family, before concluding with more worship.

In Week 3 of, "We Are The Church," Student Pastor Brian Smith challenges the middle schoolers to shift their understanding of faith from performance-based to pursuit-based. He begins by acknowledging an unexpected change in his sermon schedule, leading him to deliver a message he considers "desperately important" for students to grasp. He highlights that many common ideas about being a Christian are inaccurate and can hinder a true experience of faith. As a real-life example, he shares the heartbreaking story of a high school student whose parents forbade her from attending church after she accepted Jesus, due to their preconceived, negative notions about Christians and churches.Brian argues that almost everything in life, from school grades and sports to medical professions, is performance-based, and this emphasis on performance often brings immense pressure, turning enjoyable activities into burdensome chores. He warns that this performance-based mindset can "seep into our faith," leading individuals to believe that God's blessing is conditional upon their good behavior and adherence to rules. He describes this as a "performance-based faith" where "if I do good, then God will bless me," and conversely, if one falters, God withdraws His love. Such a faith, he explains, transforms spiritual practices like church attendance, worship, and Bible reading into tedious obligations, ultimately causing faith to "wither," "grow shallow," and even "die."Drawing from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians,Brian illustrates how Paul, once a fervent persecutor of Christians and a master of performance-based righteousness (being blameless under the law, a Pharisee, and meticulously following all commandments), ultimately deemed all his past achievements as "loss because of Christ." Paul discovered that knowing Jesus and having a personal relationship with Him far "surpasses the value of anything else that performance-based faith could bring." Smith emphasizes that with Jesus, faith is not about achieving perfection or following a rigid checklist, but about the continuous "pursuit" of Him. He urges the middle schoolers to actively pursue Jesus by reading their Bibles not out of obligation, but out of a desperate desire to know Him, and to bring their doubts and fears to Him in prayer.Finally, Brian offers practical advice for pursuing Jesus, highlighting two key points: first, that God is actively pursuing humanity, demonstrating His desire for a relationship before any human effort is made; and second, the crucial role of community. Just as marathon runners need supporters scattered along the race to encourage them when they hit "the wall," believers need each other to "push us forward, to give us the courage to keep going" when faith grows weary. He concludes by expressing his hope that when he returns from his five-week absence, the students' faith will be deeper and stronger, not from better performance, but from a heartfelt pursuit of the King of Kings, recognizing that this pursuit is "more valuable than anything you could possibly experience."

In week 2 of their series, "We Are the Church," Student Pastor Brian Smith focuses on the book of Philippians. He briefly recapped the previous week's message, emphasizing that they were created as citizens of heaven, entitled to its benefits now, and called to join its mission of bringing others to know God.Pastor Brian then explained that the idea of "church" often defaults to a building, but the true church is the people, the body of Jesus working together. He stressed that the student ministry was their church just as much as anyone else's and urged them to see it that way. He then delved into Philippians 2:1-2, where Paul encourages the church with the concepts of encouragement in Christ, consolation of love, fellowship with the Spirit, affection, and mercy, all leading to complete joy through unity in thought, love, spirit, and purpose. He defined encouragement as giving courage, love as providing comfort, belonging, and belief, and fellowship with the Spirit as accessing God's power within them.Moving into Philippians 2:3-4, Pastor Brian presented the challenge: to do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others more important than themselves, looking out for their interests. He defined "selfish ambition" as something that creates "split parties" or cliques within the church, which can be destructive. He contrasted this with true humility, which isn't thinking less of oneself but thinking of oneself less, focusing on others. To cultivate this humility, he reiterated the need for encouragement, love, and the power of the Holy Spirit within the church body.Pastor Brian then illustrated true humility by referencing a worship song quoted in Philippians 2:5-11, highlighting Jesus' example. Despite his divine nature, Jesus humbled himself by taking the form of a servant, becoming obedient to death on a cross, demonstrating ultimate selflessness. He challenged the middle schoolers to embrace this attitude to build a thriving ministry. He concluded by emphasizing that real joy is tied to real humility, drawing from Paul's example of finding joy even in the face of death because of his commitment to serving God and others. He prayed that the students would experience a deep and real faith characterized by humility and joy, fueled by encouragement, love, and the power of the Holy Spirit.