In his December 10, 2023 sermon titled "Born to Face the Right Way," Pastor Smith illuminates the essence of loving one's neighbor, drawing inspiration from the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. He underscores the importance of emulating Jesus' sacrificial love and the significance of facing life's challenges with compassion, as illustrated in the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Lost. Through these stories, he vividly portrays Jesus' commitment to turning people towards God's love and the path of repentance. Emphasizing the urgency of following Jesus, Pastor Smith explores his journey to Jerusalem and the profound lessons in the often-neglected middle chapters of Luke's Gospel. The sermon culminates in a powerful message about the need to choose peace and presence in Jesus' teachings over the busyness of life, urging the congregation to embody the right direction in faith and action, as symbolized by the sermon's title.
Jesus Describes Judgment Day | 1 Corinthians 15:20-28, Matthew 25:31-46
In his November 26, 2023 sermon, Pastor Buegler focused on Judgment Day, emphasizing the need for righteous living and forgiveness. He explored the significance of sacrifice in faith, particularly Jesus' sacrifice, and the vital relationship between love and faith, advocating for faith expressed through loving actions. This sermon offers deep insights into preparing spiritually for Judgment Day, underscoring love's foundational role in faith. Click here to explore Pastor Buegler's enlightening perspectives on these essential themes.
An Expected Surprise | 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
In Pastor Smith's sermon on November 19, 2023, he delved into the concept of 'expected surprises,' focusing on spiritual readiness for Jesus' return. He emphasized the joy and hope in Christ's return, urging believers to live as children of light, prepared and faithful. Drawing from the parable of the talents, he highlighted the importance of using our gifts in anticipation of Jesus' coming. The sermon serves as a reminder to embrace our identity in Christ and live in readiness for the ultimate 'expected surprise.' Click here to listen to this insightful sermon.
You’re Using the Word “Hope” Wrong! | 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
In Pastor Smith's sermon on November 12, 2023, he explored the concept of biblical hope, differentiating it from mere optimism or a gamble. He emphasized that true hope is rooted in the person of Jesus Christ, who fulfills God's promises, and not in fluctuating circumstances. Reflecting on the letter to the Thessalonians, Pastor Smith highlighted its focus on the hope stemming from Jesus' resurrection. He discussed the common misuse of the word 'hope' in everyday language, contrasting it with its deeper biblical meaning. Key quotes from the sermon included, "Biblical hope is built on a person," and "He is our hope. He will surely do it." Pastor Smith's message encouraged looking back at God's faithfulness as a foundation for a certain and assured hope for the future. Click here to read more about this enlightening sermon.
Do What Makes You Holy | 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
In the sermon delivered by Pastor Josh on November 5, 2023, the focus was on the critical issue of discussing sexuality within the church. He stressed that avoiding these discussions could lead people to seek answers outside the church, potentially leading them away from God's teachings on sanctity and holiness. Pastor Josh emphasized that God's commandments, particularly regarding sexuality, are not restrictions but protective measures, designed for our well-being and to distinguish believers from non-believers. He highlighted God's design for sexuality, intended to be experienced between a married man and woman. Notable quotes from his sermon include, "God's laws are not meant to restrict us. They're meant to protect us," and "Following Jesus means transforming the sinful parts of our lives to align with His will." Pastor Josh's sermon serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's will in all aspects of life, including sexuality. Click here to read more about this insightful sermon.
What Are You Looking For in a Fortress? | Psalm 46
In Pastor Smith's sermon on October 29, 2023, he explored the themes of the river of life and the New Jerusalem, emphasizing peace amidst chaos. He reflected on the river as a life-giving, peaceful contrast to chaotic waters and the New Jerusalem as a symbol of God's presence and nourishment. Stressing the eventual triumph of peace over war, he assured that God is in control and will bring ultimate peace. Pastor Smith underscored forgiveness and peace found in Jesus, our refuge and strength in times of trouble, drawing from Psalm 46. Key quotes included, "Jesus did not get scared off by the trouble and storms of this world," and "Be still and know that I am God." The sermon was a poignant reminder to find solace in Jesus amidst life's turmoil. Click here to read more about this uplifting message.
Joining Jesus: What Did You Discover? | Matthew 4:19
In a compelling sermon on October 22, 2023, Guest Speaker Rev. Greg Finke emphasized the importance of recognizing and acting on opportunities to love and serve others. He highlighted the biblical call to love our neighbors, stressing the need for action and hospitality. The sermon underscored the role of community in encouraging love and good deeds and the simplicity of imitating Jesus' lifestyle. Rev. Greg noted, "When you were baptized, Christ Jesus got into you. That means you're literally the body of Christ." He urged listeners to live alertly, seeking the Kingdom and joining Jesus in His mission. Click here to read more about this inspiring message.
Formed In My Mother’s Womb | Psalm 139:13
In a thought-provoking sermon on October 15, 2023, Pastor Buegler tackled the moral and spiritual dimensions of abortion and the sanctity of human life. He emphasized the biblical view that human life begins at conception, reflecting God's image. Highlighting the Church's role, he stated, "The Church of Jesus Christ cannot be apathetic or indifferent and should be the voice of the unborn." The sermon explored the development of life in the womb, underscoring the miracle of creation and the Church's responsibility to uphold the sanctity of life. Pastor Buegler's message was a powerful call for recognizing and protecting life at all stages. Click here to read more about this impactful sermon.
Mirror, Mirror | Isaiah 5:1-7; Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46
In Pastor Josh's insightful sermon from October 8, 2023, he delves into the profound symbolism of mirrors as a representation of God's law. Just as a mirror unapologetically reflects our physical imperfections, God's law reveals our spiritual shortcomings. Pastor Josh draws lessons from biblical narratives, such as Pharaoh's hardened heart and David's repentance, to emphasize the importance of responding humbly to God's conviction through His law. He highlights that embracing God's discipline ultimately leads to forgiveness and a renewed relationship with Him. Click here to read more on this thought-provoking sermon.
Which Way to the Way of Righteousness | Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; Philippians 2:1-4, 14-18; Matthew 21:23-32
Life is a journey filled with crossroads where we face the age-old temptations that led Adam and Eve to the original sin. The desire for personal authority often lures us, making us believe we know better than God. Stubbornness can blind us to clear signs, keeping us on the wrong path despite witnessing transformations in others' lives through God's message. Yet, the Father's love and forgiveness are ever-present, ready to guide us onto the way of righteousness. Jesus is our ultimate example of righteousness, offering salvation to those who trust in Him. As you navigate life's twists and turns, consider this: the direction you choose matters, and your trust matters even more. Join us as we learn more about “Which Way to the Way of Righteousness”.
What’s the Good Word | Isaiah 55:6-9; Matthew 20:1-16
Pastor’s sermon suggests 3 “good words” the Lord might speak to us at the beginning of every day: COME, LOVE and JESUS. There are many more. Add to the discussion some other “good words” the Lord might greet us with when we ask; “Lord, what’s the good word?” Can you think of a time when you were really thirsty? And then just relive the joy of that first cold gulp of a refreshing drink. Isaiah was speaking to a dehydrated people about seeking a free life-giving drink to give them hope. Now, consider the parched condition of our sin-filled lives. And the Lord offers us LIVING WATER. Discuss your response. The prophet speaks of God’s compassion and the miracle of his abundant pardon. Discuss those two words: COMPASSION and PARDON. Yes, God’s ways are higher than our ways. Isn’t it great that we have a God......and that His plan of salvation for us.....is beyond our understanding? And yet how does He convince us that Jesus, our Savior is NOT too good to be true? How can we be sure of this “good word”? Listen as we study Isaiah 55:6-9 and Matthew 20:1-16.
God Cares About the Greatest People…and So Should You! | Matthew 18:1-20
Stuck Like Glue | Jeremiah 15:15-21; Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:21-28
In Romans 12, Paul gives Christians a tough task: to not return evil for evil, but to cling to/hold fast to/GLUE to what is good. In this sermon we dig deeper at why it is that we’re called to live this way, while seeing how there’s good news in there for us as well. Pastor Josh Gremminger preaches on clinging to what is good based on Jeremiah 15:15-21; Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:21-28.
You Gotta Know So You Can Throw at the Foe | Matthew 16:13-20
Faith in the Face of Adversity | Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32; Matthew 15:21-28.
In this sermon on faith and adversity, Pastor Josh takes us through Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32; and Matthew 15:21-28. An unlikely woman comes and makes a request of Jesus in Matthew 15. There is no reason for her to expect Jesus to grant her request, but her faith persists even when it seems unlikely he will. We discuss the tension of having faith that believes God CAN (grant our request), but that still trusts in God even if he doesn’t.
If You’re Going To Walk On Water…You Have To Get Out Of The Boat! | Romans 10:5-17 and Matthew 14:22-33
A Little Goes A Long Way | Isaiah 55:1-5; Romans 9:1-5 (6-13); Matthew 14:13-21
When Jesus fed the 5,000, he did it with 2 fish, and 5 loaves of bread. God made a little bit go a long way. In fact, he has done that many times throughout the pages of scripture, and even does that still today in our lives. He even makes what we give for his sake, even if it’s just a little, go a lot farther than we could have imagined.