Sermons

Acts 3:1-10 zooms in on the first miracle Luke records in post-Pentecost Jerusalem: Peter and John command a man, lame from birth, to walk “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.”

Good Friday’s hillside gave us one of Scripture’s starkest portraits of grace. Two criminals hung on either side of Jesus.  At first both hurled insults, but as the hours crawled by something miraculous happened in one man’s heart.  While his partner kept sneering, this bandit suddenly rebuked the blasphemy, admitted his own guilt – “we are getting what our deeds deserve” – and begged, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus’ first words after the nails were driven home were not a cry of pain or a plea for vengeance. Instead the dying Son prayed: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Israel had barely caught its breath after God's dramatic provision of water from the rock when a new crisis erupted in the wilderness. The nomadic Amalekites swept out of the desert bent on wiping the fledgling nation from the map. What followed – a gritty mêlée in the valley below Rephidim and a prayer-soaked vigil on the hill above – is much more than an obscure military episode. God commanded Moses to “write this for a memorial” because it sketches, in miniature, how every generation of believers must wage spiritual war.

Every Sunday is Resurrection Day, yet even familiar truths grow dull if we stop dwelling on them. Paul’s little reminder to Timothy—“Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead”—is the tonic our forgetful hearts still need. 1 Corinthians 15 helps us refresh that memory and trace some mighty implications.

Life in the wilderness can feel hopelessly dry—just ask the Israelites in Exodus 17. They’ve been following God’s command, only to arrive at a desert campsite with no water. Thirst escalates to anger, and soon they’re ready to stone Moses. Their demand, “Is the Lord among us or not?” rings with unsettling arrogance, given everything God has already done: plagues in Egypt, crossing the Red Sea, daily manna from heaven. Yet they dare to question God’s goodness and presence.

Life in the wilderness for ancient Israel was never meant to be a casual stroll toward the Promised Land. In Exodus 17:1–7, the people find themselves camped at Rephidim, a place with no water—despite the fact that they are following God’s explicit commands and visible guidance. This puzzling moment highlights a vital lesson: obedience to the Lord does not guarantee a trial-free life.

In 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, the Apostle Paul shares a deeply personal account of his spiritual experiences and his ongoing struggle with a "thorn in the flesh." While the exact nature of this affliction remains a mystery—subject to centuries of scholarly debate—the focus of the passage is not on pinpointing its cause, but on understanding the profound truth contained in verse 9: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." This article explores the key themes of Paul's message, the source and sufficiency of divine grace, and how this truth applies to our own lives.

As we approach the end of one year and the beginning of another, it's natural to reflect on our past and contemplate the future. Amidst the excitement and anxiety that a new year brings, the Bible offers profound comfort and assurance through its timeless truths. Today, we turn our attention to the Old Testament, specifically to the book of Jeremiah, chapter 29, verses 1 to 14, with a special focus on verse 11.

As we approach the joyous celebration of Christmas, it is fitting to revisit the narrative of the Magi in Matthew Chapter 2. This passage, found on page 966 in the Church Bible, offers profound insights into the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan, and the unwavering faith of those who seek the Messiah. By examining verses 1 to 12, we can uncover the deeper meanings behind this well-known story and apply its lessons to our lives today.

In the evening reflection on Mark Chapter 14, verses 37 to 42, the focus shifts from Jesus to His disciples during the poignant moment in the Garden of Gethsemane. This passage highlights the disciples' shortcomings and offers valuable lessons for believers today.

Today, we examine a poignant moment from the Gospel of Mark, specifically chapter 14, verses 27 to 42. This passage captures Jesus' profound sorrow in the Garden of Gethsemane, offering us deep insights into His humanity, the weight of sin, and the boundless love of God.