A Closer Look

This episode of A Closer Look explores Acts and the church’s “Go Class,” focusing on obeying Christ by sharing the gospel. The pastors highlight how everyday believers lead others to Jesus, the importance of clear testimony, and the connection between obedience and evangelism. They also discuss Acts 1, the selection of Matthias, and how Pentecost shaped the church’s mission, emphasizing trust in God’s leading and the call for every believer to go and witness.

In this episode, Pastors Jason, David, and Paul continue the conversation through Acts, reflecting on God’s sovereignty, the mission of the church, and what it means to live as faithful witnesses where God has placed us. They discuss the kingdom of God reaching all nations, the call for every believer to share the gospel, and the importance of praying for and engaging the lost with both boldness and compassion.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason and Dave talk through the opening of Acts and why taking time to prepare matters before moving forward. They emphasize that Acts shows the ongoing work of Jesus through the Holy Spirit and is best understood in its historical setting. They also highlight Luke as more than a recorder, but a faithful gospel worker alongside Paul with a deep understanding of the gospel message.

This episode of A Closer Look reflects on the conclusion of the church’s journey through the Gospel of Luke, highlighting key takeaways from preaching through the entire book in context. Pastor David and Jason focus on the call for believers to be God’s “plan A” in sharing the gospel, the church’s role in equipping people for that mission, and the reality that most people are more open to spiritual conversations than expected. The episode closes by introducing an upcoming “Go Class” and previewing Acts as the continuation of Jesus’ work through His people.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David unpack a message on 1 John, exploring how believers can have real assurance of salvation. They walk through three “vital signs” of genuine faith—right belief about Jesus, a growing pattern of obedience, and a sincere love for others—while addressing the difference between doubt and unbelief. With practical insight and honest conversation, this episode encourages listeners to examine their faith with confidence, grounded not in feelings, but in truth.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason and Dave reflect on the road to Emmaus passage and the importance of asking better questions in our relationships, communication, and spiritual growth. They explore how Jesus used questions to reveal the hearts of His followers, why we often see what we want instead of what’s true, and how humility plays a key role in understanding others and Scripture. The conversation also dives into preaching—whether sermons should have one main point or multiple takeaways—and how to faithfully interpret the Bible without missing its connection to Christ. Along the way, they offer practical insight for everyday life and preview what’s ahead as the church prepares to wrap up the Gospel of Luke.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason and Dave reflect on Easter weekend at Valley Center Community Church. They revisit a unique Good Friday service focused on the words of Jesus from the cross and a Resurrection Sunday centered on His victory over death. The conversation highlights why it matters that Jesus truly died, how the resurrection confirms who He claimed to be, and what that means for believers today. They also share practical insights from a full weekend of worship and look ahead to an upcoming series on heaven, hell, and the life to come.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki reflect on the sermon surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion in the Gospel of Luke, unpacking powerful themes of forgiveness, innocence, and the promise of God’s presence. They explore the story of the criminal on the cross, the significance of the torn temple curtain, and what it truly means for sinners to be welcomed back into relationship with God. As Easter approaches, the conversation highlights both the weight of Christ’s suffering and the hope found in what His death accomplished, inviting listeners to respond with humility, gratitude, and worship.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith and David Wojnicki go deeper into Luke 23, reflecting on the sobering reality of Jesus’ journey to the cross and the significance of His suffering. They discuss why slowing down to examine the details of the crucifixion matters, how Jesus’ words reveal both warning and compassion, and what His prayer of forgiveness truly means. As the conversation builds toward the final moments before the resurrection, listeners are invited to wrestle with the weight of the cross in order to better understand the magnitude of grace and the hope that Easter brings.

In this episode, the team dives deeper into Sunday’s message on “Consider the Lilies” and God’s solution to worry. They explore the difference between healthy concern and sinful anxiety, how fear reveals our desire for control, and what it means to trust God’s sovereignty in real-life struggles. Through personal stories and biblical insight, they offer practical ways to “talk back” to anxious thoughts and reorient our hearts toward God’s kingdom.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason and David reflect on Luke 22—Jesus’ betrayal, Peter’s denial, and the suffering surrounding His arrest and trial. They discuss the powerful image of the rooster’s crow as a reminder of both failure and forgiveness, and challenge the common idea that the crowds suddenly turned on Jesus. With a closer look at the timeline, they show how much of Jesus’ trial happened in darkness—before most people even knew what was happening.

In this episode of Closer Look from Valley Center Community Church, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki discuss Luke 22, focusing on Jesus praying in the garden, prayer as a weapon against temptation, and how to cultivate a disciplined prayer life. They also explore Jesus' emotional anguish, the tension of his dual nature, and how obedience to the Father overcomes feeling-driven actions. The conversation closes with a reminder that remembering our brokenness makes worship sweeter and points us toward the cross Christ willingly bore for our sin.

This week on A Closer Look, we welcome David Baker—newly installed elder and now part of the pastoral staff at VCCC. Dave shares his story (corporate finance to ministry), his heart for serving the church, and what he hopes people will remember most. Then we dig into Sunday’s sermon follow-up: How do we actually fight temptation daily? Is the Lord’s Prayer meant to be repeated word-for-word—or is it a template Jesus gave us? We also talk about why reading the Bible doesn’t always “feel” easy, and practical ways to remember truth when suffering hits.

On A Closer Look, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki unpack the disciples’ dispute over “who is the greatest” in Luke 22. They discuss how self-exaltation shows up in everyday life, what it means to serve without needing recognition, and how God graciously rewards the good works He empowers in His people. Plus, a preview of part two: Peter’s coming denial and the hope of restoring grace.

Jason and David unpack Sunday’s sermon on the Passover: the meaning of unleavened bread, why Jesus chose bread for communion, and how the Lord’s Supper points forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb. The episode also includes a personal moment of vulnerability—sharing a family diagnosis and the relief found in corporate prayer and faithful worship—followed by a look ahead to Jesus’ final hours, Judas and Peter, and the road to the cross.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David talk through Luke 21 and the destruction of the temple—why it was both judgment for rejecting Christ and mercy to end the sacrificial system and point clearly to Jesus. They discuss how God dismantles idols, how to identify what you’re really trusting for security, and warning signs that you’re being consumed by the world (including spiritual lethargy and resistance to loving correction). David also explains why he avoided taking a hard stance on end-times timelines from the pulpit: the text is clear that Jesus will return, Christians will suffer, and our hope is not escape but Christ’s presence and the coming redemption of all things.

In this episode, Pastors Jason and David talk through Jesus’ words in Luke 21 and why they matter for the church today. The conversation focuses on how to read passages about judgment, suffering, and the future without speculation or fear. Along the way, they reflect on how Jesus calls His people to trust, endurance, and faithfulness as history unfolds.

In the first episode of 2026, Jason Smith sits down with Pastor David to reflect on Sunday’s sermon from Psalm 1—a timely “reset” after the holidays and a season of sickness. David explains why Psalm 1 presents two ways to live: to live and thrive or to wither and die, a theme that runs throughout the whole Bible. They walk through key takeaways from the message: the blessed life begins with being known by God (belonging to Him by grace), and it includes a serious, active fight against sin—what David calls a posture of “zero tolerance,” not perfectionism, but purposeful guardrails and accountability. The conversation also clarifies Psalm 23’s phrase “I shall not want”—not a promise of health-and-wealth ease, but confidence that the Shepherd provides what we need to endure every season, even valleys and enemies, all the way to glory. Finally, they emphasize the necessity of being satisfied in and engaged with God’s Word—delighting in it, meditating on it, and applying it personally (no shortcuts). The episode closes with a preview of Sunday’s return to Luke, including a “lower-shelf” approach to Luke 21 so the congregation hears Jesus’ clear, comforting point rather than getting lost in end-times speculation.

Pastor David Wojnicki returns from sabbatical and joins Jason Smith for a conversation around his Advent message in the “Why Jesus Came” series: Jesus came to reveal the truth (John 18). They unpack what Jesus means by “My kingdom is not of this world,” why Christ’s kingship is not geopolitical yet rules over all, and how Jesus wisely engages Pilate’s limited categories. The episode closes with practical ways to live with Jesus as King—repenting of false kings, aligning our calendars and resources toward Christ, and recognizing anxiety, anger, bitterness, and dissatisfaction as warning signs that something other than Jesus is ruling our hearts.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith is joined by elder and Pastor of Congregational Care, John Walters, to reflect on Sunday’s Advent sermon in the series Why Jesus Came. John shares his journey into ministry, his heart for pastoral care, and the central theme of his message: Jesus came to deliver us from darkness. Together, they explore what it means to see the light, believe in the light, and walk in the light—and how these truths shape the daily life of the believer. The conversation addresses common struggles Christians face, including suffering, chronic illness, discouragement, and seasons of darkness, while offering biblical encouragement and hope rooted in Christ. This episode also highlights the richness of the Gospel of John, the unity of Scripture, and the beauty of Christ as the fulfillment of God’s redemptive story.

In this Advent kickoff episode, Jason Smith sits down with John Wojnicki to unpack the first message in our series, Why Jesus Came. John preached on Christ’s purpose “to do the Father’s will,” leading to a rich discussion about obedience, adoption, and what it means to live faithfully between Jesus’ first and second comings. Together they explore how obedience shapes our joy, why God’s commands bring freedom rather than restriction, and how trusting the Father produces a “no problem” heart. They also reflect on family worship, suffering, hope, and a few fun Thanksgiving favorites.

In this third week of our In Christ series, Pastor Paul and Pastor Jason talk through what it really means to be holy in Christ. They unpack sanctification, our “set-apart” identity, and how we grow in holiness even though we’re already fully united to Christ. They also clarify a key statement from Sunday’s sermon about bringing Jesus “into our sin,” explore biblical discipline as an expression of God’s love, and discuss why love—not guilt or fear—is the deepest motivation for obedience.

In this episode, Pastors Jason Smith and Paul Behneman dive deeper into what it truly means to be new in Christ. Building on Paul’s sermon from Romans 6:1–4, they discuss the believer’s identity as a saint rather than a sinner, the daily struggle against sin, and how God’s Word renews our minds. From confronting imposter syndrome to understanding sanctification and holiness, this conversation reminds us that through Christ, we are no longer defined by our sin but by our Savior.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason Smith sits down with Pastor Paul Behneman to reflect on Paul’s message from Ephesians 1:3–14, “Blessed in Christ.” Together they discuss what it means to be “in Christ”—that what is true of Christ is true of believers spiritually—and how that reality changes how we live each day. Paul shares about God’s sovereignty in the midst of fear, how our failures can’t derail His purposes, and why knowing our identity in Christ brings freedom and assurance. They also talk about how worship and preaching often align under God’s providence and preview next week’s sermon, “New in Christ,” from 2 Corinthians 5:17.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason Smith and Pastor Paul Behnamen reflect on Jason’s recent series through Luke 20 and how God has worked through both the text and Jason’s ongoing physical suffering. They discuss what it means to be “worthy” of the resurrection, the danger of seeking man’s approval, and how even good desires can distract from our ultimate treasure—Christ Himself. The conversation ends with encouragement to pursue faith in community and share the beauty of God’s Word with others.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith and Paul Behnamen discuss Luke 20:9–26 — exploring what it means to build your life on Jesus as the cornerstone, how to worship God daily beyond Sunday mornings, and how believers can faithfully engage the world while reflecting God’s image. They also talk candidly about motives, relationships, and living for God’s kingdom instead of our own.

Pastors Jason Smith and Paul Behneman explore Luke 20:1-8, examining Jesus' response to questions about authority, the role of John the Baptist, and what it means to live under Christ's authority. They discuss freedom in Christ versus self-centered living, practical ways to share the gospel, and how to prioritize loving God above all relationships in daily life.

Pastor Jason sits down with Pastor David to reflect on baptisms, sabbatical rest, and the sermon from Luke 19:28–48. Together they discuss the triumphal entry, the disciples’ growing recognition of Jesus as King, and what it truly means to receive Christ as the King we need—not the one we might imagine. Pastor David also shares about his upcoming sabbatical, the grace of rest in ministry, and the heart of Jesus for the lost.

Pastors Jason and David unpack Luke 19:11–27—how Jesus resets messianic expectations, what faithful “business” looks like, how to think about heavenly rewards, and how his promised return shapes our hope today. Plus: a quick word on why church membership matters.

In this episode, we take a closer look at Luke 19:1–10 and Zacchaeus’s encounter with Jesus. Pastor David unpacks why Zacchaeus’s restitution is fruit of salvation—not a way to earn it—showing how grace, not law, truly changes people from the inside out. We also clarify two common questions from the text: what “small in stature” likely means (both literally and socially) and how to read Zacchaeus’s “if I have defrauded” statement. Along the way, we briefly explain when and why our church addresses major cultural moments during worship, and we offer pastoral help on the difference between temptation and sin and the wise place of boundaries in the Christian life.

This week on A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David reflect on Luke 18 and the healing of the blind man. They discuss how the gospel writers emphasize different details without contradiction, why the blind man’s cry of “Son of David” is so significant, and how physical healing points to the greater spiritual healing Jesus brings. The conversation also looks at the blind man’s response of worship, connects it to other transformed lives like Zacchaeus, and challenges us to ask: Am I living for myself, or has grace truly changed me?

In this episode of the Valley Center Community Church podcast, Jason Smith and Pastor David reflect on the Fall Kickoff Sunday under the tent—a time of worship, fellowship, and celebration of God’s faithfulness. They discuss why the church pauses to “celebrate what God has done,” how numbers reflect lives transformed by grace, and the biblical mission of being witnesses—both in word and in life. The conversation also explores the hope of Christ’s return, the call to reach the nations, and the encouragement that every believer, young or old, has a God-given purpose as His ambassador.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason and Pastor David reflect on Luke 18:18–30 and the story of the rich ruler. They unpack the meaning of eternal zoe—true life as God intended—and contrast the “ladder” of religion with the gift of the cross of Christ. Along the way, they share personal reflections from Sunday’s worship, highlight how grace shapes our parenting and relationships, and point to the freedom that comes from trusting in Christ’s finished work. The conversation also looks ahead to VCCC’s upcoming Fall Kickoff and what it means for us as a church family.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David dive into Luke 18:15–17, where parents bring even infants to Jesus. They explore the cultural view of children in Jesus’ day versus the biblical truth that every child is a blessing, created for God’s glory. Together, they discuss what it means for parents to prepare their children not just for careers or success, but to become disciples of Jesus Christ. They highlight the danger of child-centered parenting that fosters self-focus, and instead emphasize practical discipleship in the home—modeling worship, prayer, Bible study, and gospel-shaped priorities. The conversation also unpacks what Jesus meant by “childlike faith,” showing that entrance into God’s kingdom requires dependence and humility, not innocence or effort.

This week on A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David explore Luke 17:20–37 and Jesus’ teaching on the coming of the kingdom of God. What kind of kingdom were the people expecting — and what kind of kingdom did Jesus actually bring? They also discuss the meaning of being "taken" in this passage, whether it's a reference to the rapture, and what Scripture really teaches about that final day. It's a conversation filled with context, clarity, and hope — pointing us to the return of Christ and our call to live with faithful expectation.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David dive into Luke 17:11–19 and the story of the ten lepers. Why does Luke emphasize Jesus' journey to Jerusalem? What distinguishes the one healed leper who returns from the nine who don’t? And does Jesus’ statement, “Your faith has made you well,” mean physical healing always comes through faith? Join us as we explore the themes of common grace, true worship, gratitude, and the difference between experiencing God’s blessings and truly belonging to Christ. Plus, a preview of next week's passage on the coming of the kingdom.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason and David explore Luke 17 and tackle a challenging question: Are Christians called to forgive even when someone hasn’t repented? Drawing from Scripture and real-life examples, they discuss the difference between transactional and attitudinal forgiveness, the heart posture Christ calls us to, and how to walk in grace while pursuing truth and justice.

In this special episode of A Closer Look, Jason and Pastor David step away from the usual sermon deep-dive to reflect on two important topics. First, what’s it like for a pastor to sit under the preaching of others—and how can leaders and church members alike prepare their hearts to receive God's Word each Sunday? Then, in light of recent global tensions, they explore the church's response to the Israel–Iran conflict. With clarity and humility, Pastor David outlines key theological perspectives—including covenant vs. dispensational views—and reminds us of the gospel’s call to seek Christ above all national allegiances.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason Smith sits down with Pastor Paul Behneman to unpack the sermon from Luke 16 on justification. Together, they explore what it really means to be justified before God, how self-justification shows up in our daily lives, and why true justification must be found in Christ alone. They also dive into how the law, once a burden, becomes a delight for the believer—and what role it still plays today. Whether you're a longtime believer or new to the faith, this episode offers gospel-rich clarity and encouragement to rest in your identity in Christ.

In this episode of A Closer Look Podcast, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki dive into Luke 16 and explore one of Jesus’ more confusing parables—the dishonest manager. They unpack the meaning of “shrewdness” and explain why Jesus commends it, even in a flawed character. The heart of the conversation focuses on how disciples of Jesus are called to use their money—not for selfish gain, but for eternal purposes. You'll hear practical insights on budgeting, stewarding resources, and discipling your children through financial transparency. Whether you're living with little or much, this episode challenges every believer to consider who—or what—is truly their master.

Join hosts Jason Smith and David Wojnicki in this insightful episode of "A Closer Look," where they dive into Sunday's teachings from the Gospel of Luke. They address common misconceptions about the famous Prodigal Son parable, exploring the true meaning of 'prodigal' and its characters. With anecdotes like the transformation of the word 'Nimrod,' they highlight the evolution of language and its impact on biblical interpretation. This discussion also sets the stage for upcoming sermons and offers a deeper understanding of repentance, redemption, and reconciliation through the lens of Jesus' teachings.

In this episode of A Closer Look Podcast, hosted by Valley Center Community Church, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki dive deep into the teachings of Jesus recorded in Luke chapters 14 and 15. Discussing the true cost of discipleship, Jason and David explore how Jesus challenges His followers to prioritize their relationship with Him above all others, stressing that being mesmerized by miracles is not enough. They unpack the concepts of discipleship and salvation, contrasting them with the notion of 'easy believism.' Moving on to the parables of the lost coin, lost sheep, and the story of the two sons, they highlight God's profound desire to save the lost, illustrated through Jesus' interactions with sinners and tax collectors. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the serious commitment required to truly follow Jesus and be part of His kingdom.

Join Pastors Jason and David in another episode of A Closer Look Podcast, where they dissect the latest sermon, focusing on Luke chapter 14. This conversation dives into the characteristics that define the people of God's kingdom: compassion, humility, and grace.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors David and Jason reflect on the recent sermon from Luke 13, exploring the exclusivity of Christianity and its profound global influence. They discuss Jesus' teachings on the kingdom of God, the narrow path to salvation, and the remarkable impact of Christian principles throughout history.

In this episode of A Closer Look Podcast, Pastors David Wojnicki and Jason Smith dive into Luke 13:10–17, where Jesus heals a woman with a disabling spirit on the Sabbath. They discuss the significance of Jesus teaching in the synagogue, the cultural status of women in first-century Judaism, and what it means that this woman is called a “daughter of Abraham.” They also explore the difference between spiritual oppression and possession, how Jesus’ miracles always point to the glory of God, and why the rejoicing crowd doesn’t necessarily indicate saving faith. The conversation ends with a powerful reminder: we are set free not for ourselves, but to live for God’s glory.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastors Jason Smith and David Wojnicki discuss Luke 13:1–9, where Jesus addresses tragedy, suffering, and the urgent call to repentance. They reflect on how ancient and modern cultures view suffering, why good happens to sinners, and how Christians should respond to those who are hurting. Along the way, they explore the heart of daily repentance for believers and encourage listeners to deepen their walk with Christ.

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith and David Wojnicki unpack the deeper meaning of Easter—not as a one-time event, but as the ongoing celebration of Christ’s victory over sin and death. They explore why humanity needs rescue, how the resurrection confirms our freedom in Christ, and why every Sunday is Resurrection Sunday. 

In this episode of A Closer Look Podcast, hosts Jason Smith and David Wojnicki explore Christ’s second coming through the lens of Luke’s Gospel. They connect Palm Sunday to His return, emphasizing the urgency of spiritual readiness and the reality of judgment. Through parables and Jesus’ teachings on possessions, worry, and accountability, they highlight the coming separation between believers and non-believers. The episode wraps with reflections on Easter and Good Friday, urging listeners to examine their faith and live in light of Christ’s promised return.

Pastor David and Pastor Paul witnessed the powerful ministry of Ukrainian churches serving refugees. Amid hardship, they share encouraging stories of deepening faith and express gratitude for the prayers and support from their church family. The conversation then moves to Luke 12 and the challenge of overcoming worry. Pastor David explains how anxiety can become a form of misplaced trust when it dominates our thoughts—and how believers are called to renew their minds with truth and trust in God's faithful provision. They urge listeners to adopt an eternal perspective, focus on spiritual priorities, and replace worry with faith rooted in Christ’s care—both in this life and the life to come.

Pastors Jason and David share how, through the sovereign hand of God, the Scopych family moved from pastoring in Ukraine to planting Ukrainian churches in Germany. They also dive into deep theological discussions on the unpardonable sin, the reality of hell, and how Scripture shapes our understanding. Plus, get a preview of upcoming sermons in the Gospel of Luke, exploring what it means to follow Jesus, prioritize possessions, and trust in God’s provision.