Pastor Ralph Douglas West - The Divine Donkey | Numbers 2:21-39

Scripture

• Numbers 2:21–39

About this sermon

Pastor Ralph Douglas West - The Divine Donkey | Numbers 2:21-39 In The Divine Donkey, Pastor Ralph Douglas West reminds us that God's voice often emerges from the most unexpected sources. The story of Balaam and his donkey highlights the power and mystery of divine communication — even through a creature as overlooked and humble as a donkey. While Balaam, a prophet-for-hire, becomes blinded by greed and pride, it's the donkey who sees the angel of the Lord and responds in reverence. Pastor West unpacks how this biblical moment reveals a sobering truth: often, those who claim to know God best miss His movement, while those on the margins — or even animals — recognize His presence. The sermon challenges listeners to be attentive, humble, and responsive to God's voice, even when it comes from places they least expect. Whether through a donkey, a stranger, or life’s divine interruptions, God will always find a way to speak. The question is: are you listening? Dr. Ralph Douglas West serves as founder and senior pastor of The Church Without Walls (Brookhollow Baptist Church, Houston, Texas). He first preached as a sixteen year old in his native Houston. The church began with 32 members and now embraces 24,000+ families meeting in three locations and conducting six services each Sunday. Dr. West is affectionately known as PAS. Dr. West completed degrees at Bishop College, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Beeson Divinity School, where he received the Doctor of Ministry Degree. He serves as Adjunct Professor of Preaching at the George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University. He has an abiding commitment to the church and the academy, relating with equal ease to both venues and using his influence to mentor ministers in both locations. He speaks perennially at colleges, universities and seminaries across America as well as at Regent’s Park College, Oxford University. Dr. West’s preaching style includes careful explanation of Scripture combined with his signature ability to tell detailed, credible and indelible stories from contemporary life that enrich the sermon and relates to the congregation. He also makes penetrating and specific application of the text to his people. He does all of this while maintaining the vibrant preaching tradition of church and culture in an atmosphere of celebration.

Topics

• Leadership