In this message titled Cooks vs. Cons: The Ingredients of a Loving Church, Ray Nelson uses the stories of Saul, Samuel, and David to contrast what it means to truly walk with God. Saul represented the “con” – chosen, positioned, and anointed, yet unwilling to fully follow the Lord. David represented the “cook” – someone who faithfully stewarded what was entrusted to him, obeyed God, and allowed character to develop before influence. Ray challenged us to be a church full of “cooks,” people who actually prepare, serve, and love with integrity, rather than appearing spiritual without true obedience. This message reminded us that God does not just look at outward gifting, but at the heart and ingredients that make us a loving church.