Posted on July 31st, 2025

There’s something powerful about gathering on the water—anchored in community, surrounded by God’s creation, and open to the voice of the Spirit. This past weekend at the Peanut Island Sandbar North, as boats gently rocked and the salty breeze carried the sound of worship, Terry brought a message that spoke deeply to both seasoned believers and curious seekers alike.

Terry may not hold a formal title, but his message was anchored in Scripture and rich with truth. Here’s a summary of what he shared with all of us who gathered on the flotilla, with the ministry pontoon church at the center of it all:

1. Transferred from Darkness to Light

Terry opened by reminding us of a stunning spiritual truth: the moment someone hears and believes the Gospel of Jesus Christ, something immediate and supernatural takes place. According to Colossians 1:13, God "has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son."

This isn’t about earning a place in God’s family—it’s about receiving it by faith. One moment we are drifting in spiritual darkness; the next, we are brought into the light of God’s Kingdom. It’s a change in identity, a shift in allegiance, and a rescue mission that only Jesus can carry out.

2. Come Out and Be Set Apart

But belief is just the beginning. Terry encouraged us to see that Jesus doesn’t only invite us to believe—He calls us to follow. The Christian life is a journey, and it starts with a call to come out from the crowd, to live differently, to be set apart.

Quoting 2 Corinthians 6:17—"Come out from among them and be separate... touch no unclean thing..."—Terry reminded us that baptism marks this turning point. It's a declaration of our new life in Christ, symbolized in the waters that surround our boats. We are baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—not as a religious ritual, but as a spiritual rebirth and a public “yes” to following Jesus.

3. Sanctified in Truth, Refined by Fire

As the sun sparkled off the waves, Terry painted a vivid picture of the Christian life—not just as smooth sailing, but as a journey through refining waters. There is real joy in following Jesus—freedom, peace, purpose—but there is also the refining fire that sanctifies us.

Jesus prayed in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” That’s the anchor we need when life gets rough. God’s Word not only shows us the way—it transforms us. And while the process of sanctification may challenge us, it’s also the path to true life.

Terry emphasized that Jesus must have first place in our lives. It’s not about checking religious boxes or playing it safe—it’s about total commitment. And while that may sound radical, it’s actually the best, most fulfilling way to live. On land or sea, nothing compares to the joy of being fully devoted to Christ.

Come Aboard the Journey

Whether you're a lifelong believer, a new Christian, or someone just starting to ask questions about faith, the journey begins the same way: by hearing and believing the Gospel. And from there, Jesus invites us to follow Him—into deeper waters, into a sanctified life, and into a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

Join us each weekend out on the water as we seek God together, anchored in His Word and filled with the hope only He can give.