Sermons and teachings from Rev. Mark Reynolds, a Pastor in the United Methodist Church (Florida Conference). These transformative messages will speak directly into your life!
Conflict is inevitable — but division doesn't have to be.In this timely and practical message from the Friend-ology series, Pastor Mark Reynolds explores how we can face disagreements with courage, grace, and Christlike love. Whether the conflict is political, personal, or just plain awkward, this sermon will help you discover how to stay connected even when you don't see eye to eye.Rooted in Colossians 3, this message offers biblical wisdom, honest reflection, and practical tools for navigating relationships with compassion, humility, patience, and forgiveness. You'll learn:Why avoiding conflict actually weakens your relationshipsHow curiosity and caution help us love betterWhen to seek reconciliation — and when to create healthy boundariesWhy unity is essential to our Christian witness in a divided worldIf you've ever struggled with difficult people, broken friendships, or painful divisions — this message is for you. Discover a gospel-centered way to engage in conflict that heals instead of harms.Watch now and take the next step toward healthier, deeper, more Christlike relationships.
Loneliness is dangerous. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared that isolation poses risks as serious as smoking or obesity. But long before the studies and statistics, the Bible told us the same thing: “It is not good for humans to be alone” (Genesis 2:18).In this powerful sermon, Pastor Mark continues our Friend-ology series with a deeper look at how radical independence and unchecked isolation can open the door to personal and moral collapse. Through the story of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11), we see the real cost of going it alone—and the redemptive power of truth spoken in love.
What do you do when life falls apart? When grief, sin, fear, and death seem to have the final word?In this unforgettable Easter message, Pastor Mark Reynolds explores the powerful hope of the resurrection and what it means for real people facing real pain.From the brokenness of Good Friday to the victory of Easter morning, this sermon proclaims the core truth of Christian faith: the worst thing is never the last thing. Through vivid storytelling, powerful biblical teaching, and the image of Kintsugi—the Japanese art of mending broken pottery with gold—this message will help you see how God can take your deepest wounds and transform them into a new kind of beauty.✝️ In this message, you'll discover: • How love triumphs over hate• How joy overcomes grief• How forgiveness defeats sin• How life prevails over death• How resurrection isn't just a past event—but your present calling and future hopeIf you've ever felt broken, ashamed, or without hope—this message is for you.
As we enter Holy Week, we're reminded of the profound lessons Jesus imparted in His final days. The central themes of love, forgiveness, and justice intertwine, forming the core of our Christian faith. Pastor Beth Burton reminds us that we're called to love deeply, forgive generously, and seek justice relentlessly - not as mere actions, but as a way of life. These principles, embodied by Christ on the cross, challenge us to examine our own lives. How can we love like Jesus, crossing boundaries and risking rejection? In what ways can we offer forgiveness as radical as Christ's 'Father, forgive them'? Where is God calling us to confront injustice in our world? As we reflect on these questions, we're invited to see ourselves through Christ's eyes, ransomed from fear and hatred, and given back to God.
In this week's message, we explore how Jesus used parables—simple, surprising, and often unsettling stories—to open our eyes to a radically different way of living under God's reign by focusing on The Prodigal Son and The Good Samaritan. These timeless stories reveal the extravagant mercy of God—and challenge us to extend that same mercy to others, even those we might find difficult to love.
Ever wondered how the teachings of Jesus could radically transform your life? Join us for an engaging exploration of one of Jesus' most famous messages—the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). This powerful sermon challenges conventional views on happiness, success, relationships, and authentic faith.In this message, you'll discover:Why Jesus calls those who are humble, merciful, and peacemakers truly blessed.How to treat others with genuine compassion, kindness, and grace.The meaning of authentic spirituality beyond empty rituals.How forgiveness, generosity, and trusting God can liberate you from anxiety and stress.Jesus' call to choose the narrow path—a life filled with real joy, peace, and purpose.Whether you're new to faith or looking to deepen your relationship with God, this message offers practical insights to inspire your spiritual journey.Watch now, be inspired, and share this life-changing message with your friends!
Around 2.4 billion people today call themselves followers of Jesus, yet many barely know what he actually taught. Too often, we reduce Christianity to simply believing in Jesus' death and resurrection to secure our place in heaven. But Jesus' teachings offer much more—a revolutionary vision of life meant to transform us here and now.In this message we focus on Jesus' teaching on the Kingdom of God. What does it truly mean to live under the reign of God? How does understanding the Kingdom reshape the way we love, forgive, and pursue justice in our daily lives?Join us as we unpack the transformative teachings of Jesus and learn how embodying Kingdom values can profoundly impact our relationships, communities, and world. If you're ready for a faith that's alive, authentic, and deeply connected to the heart of God, this message is for you!
Temptation is a battle we all face. Have you ever found yourself making the same mistake over and over, despite your best efforts? Do you struggle with guilt and shame after falling short? You're not alone. Even Jesus was tempted, yet He showed us the path to victory.In this powerful message, we dive into Luke 4:1-13 to uncover practical and spiritual tools for overcoming temptation. Through faith, wisdom, and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can break free from destructive cycles and embrace the abundant life God has for us.
How can Christians be a force for love, unity, and peace in a polarized world? In this powerful message, we explore the wisdom of Ephesians 4 and uncover how God calls us to move beyond division and embody justice, mercy, and humility in our daily lives.Drawing from history, scripture, and real-life experiences, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to reflect on how we treat those we disagree with and how we can foster true unity in the body of Christ.
What if true strength wasn't about winning, proving yourself, or always being right? In this powerful message, Pastor Mark explores how true power is found in humility.In This Sermon, You'll Discover:• How humility frees us from the exhausting pressure to compete, be right, or outdo others.• Practical reflection questions to assess our own struggles with pride—do we offer unsolicited advice, shift focus onto ourselves, or feel the need to dominate conversations?• The role of worship as an act of humility that realigns our hearts with God's authority and reminds us that we are all equally dependent on His grace.• How embracing humility can transform our relationships in church and beyond—turning enemies into friends and fostering a genuine spirit of reconciliation.• A timely call to practice humility even in our political lives, challenging us to reflect Christ's love and justice regardless of our differences.Join us as we learn to “walk humbly” with God—putting into practice God's requirement to do justice, love kindness, and live humbly.
In this powerful message, we dive into Micah 6:8, where God lays out clear expectations for His people:✅ Do justice – Treat all people with fairness and dignity.✅ Love mercy – Show compassion and practice kindness.✅ Walk humbly with God – Live a life of obedience and faith.Through biblical wisdom and real-life stories, we'll discover how kindness has the power to transform hearts, mend divisions, and bring true peace—even when we disagree. From our personal relationships to our politics, choosing kindness can break the cycle of hostility and open the door to meaningful conversations and lasting change.
Be Just. Be Kind. Be Humble. In a world that often feels divided, we invite you to engage in a new sermon series centered on Micah 6:8, which reveals what God requires of us and how we can actively serve His kingdom of love and justice here on earth. This series will challenge you to discover our common ground as Christians, to extend love to all, and to engage with those who see the world differently. Together, we will explore how to live out our faith in ways that bring healing, unity, and hope.In this first message, "God's Day In Court," the Rev. Dr. Oliver Wells helps us to see the importance of biblical justice, saying, "It is not an elective, it's a requirement!" In fact, God's command to do justice in Micah 6:8 is the precondition of the other two commands, to be merciful and humble. Check out this message to learn more about justice and how God intends it to shape every aspect o four life.
Life is full of suffering—sometimes in ways that shake us to our core. When we witness the horrors of war, senseless violence, devastating natural disasters, or personal tragedies, we can't help but ask: Where is God in all of this? Why does an all-loving, all-powerful God allow innocent people—including children—to endure such unimaginable pain?In this message, we confront one of the hardest questions of faith: Why do the innocent suffer? Together, we'll explore common but misguided explanations for suffering and discover what Scripture and Christian tradition teach us about pain, justice, and God's presence in our lives.Don't miss this powerful and thought-provoking message. Bring your doubts, your struggles, and your questions—and move toward renewed faith, hope, and love. Share this message to bless others.
Have you ever wrestled with the heartache of unanswered prayers? In this message, we dive deep into the difficult realities of prayer, doubt, and faith, exploring what it means to trust God when the answers we long for don't come.Through personal stories, Scripture, and reflection, we'll examine:-Why some prayers seem to go unanswered.-Misunderstandings about the nature of prayer and God's will.-How God works through prayer—not as a "cosmic genie," but as a force for transformation in our lives and the world.Discover how prayer shapes our hearts, aligns us with God's will, and strengthens us to face life's challenges. This message also encourages us to embrace action as part of our prayers, reminding us that God often works through us to bring comfort and change to others.
Have you ever wondered about the fate of those who don't profess faith in Jesus? Can a loving and merciful God condemn billions of people to eternal torment? How do we reconcile these questions with the heart of the gospel?In this message, we dive into one of the most challenging questions for Christians in our ongoing series, "Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith." Together, we explore the different perspectives Christians have taken over the centuries—Christian Exclusivism, Universalism, and Inclusivism—while reflecting on what scripture, tradition, reason, and experience can teach us about the nature of God's love, mercy, and justice.This message isn't about pushing a single viewpoint; it's about equipping you to reflect deeply, wrestle honestly with doubts, and grow in your understanding of faith. Come with your questions, your curiosity, and an open heart as we engage in meaningful dialogue about salvation, God's character, and the call to share our faith.Speaker: Pastor Mark ReynoldsVenue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL)Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update.
Have you ever come across a passage in the Bible that made you stop and think, “Wait, did God really say that?”
Do you struggle with doubt? You're not alone. In our new series, "Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith," Pastor Mark dives deep into the natural human experience of doubt and its role in strengthening our faith journey.In this first message, Pastor Mark talks about his own doubts as he leads an exploration of questions about God's existence. From the beauty of creation to the transformative power of faith, this sermon encourages us to see doubt not as an enemy but as a bridge to deeper understanding.Discover how:Doubt can strengthen rather than weaken faith.Science and faith are not at odds but complementary.Heroes of the Bible, like Thomas and David, found God amidst their doubts.Personal experiences and the beauty of creation testify to the presence of a loving Creator.If you've ever wrestled with doubt, this message offers hope, wisdom, and encouragement.
Through the lens of Charles Wesley's beloved hymn Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, we journey through scripture, history, and the transformative power of God's love. Discover the deeper meaning of the angelic announcement in Luke 2:10-11, the contrast between earthly kings and the true King, and the cosmic significance of Christ's arrival as heaven and earth are reconciled.Whether you're singing along with the hymns or reflecting on the shepherds' response to the good news, this message invites you to embrace the joy of the gospel, live under the reign of God's peace, and share the hope of salvation with others.
Discover the Hidden Joy Beyond Life's Sorrows.Life often overwhelms us with challenges, leaving us struggling to see the joy that might be just around the corner. In this third message of The Joy of Christmas series, we explore the story of Joseph and the first Christmas through the lens of faith, resilience, and hope.Through the ancient tradition of “The Seven Sorrows and Joys of St. Joseph,” we uncover how Joseph's journey—marked by heartbreak, poverty, fear, and starting over—mirrors the struggles we all face. Yet, at every turn, God brings joy out of sorrow, hope out of despair, and light into the darkest moments of life. Join us as we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and discover how faith and hope can lead us through life's challenges into joy and redemption.
Discover the surprising message of hope and joy found in the Christmas story—a message that uplifts the humble and challenges the powerful. In this sermon, we explore the contrast between King Herod's prideful reign and Mary's humble surrender to God's call. Learn how God consistently chooses the lowly to fulfill His purposes, and how true joy comes from humility, justice, and aligning our lives with God's will.Through Mary's story, we uncover the deeper meaning of being "blessed," a promise of God's presence and peace in all circumstances. Her song, the Magnificat, reminds us of divine justice: lifting the humble and holding the mighty accountable.If you're searching for joy this Christmas, this message will inspire you to live humbly, love generously, and serve faithfully. Watch now and rediscover the joy of Christmas!
Are you searching for deeper joy and true contentment in your life? In this message, we explore how to transform fleeting happiness into lasting joy by focusing on three key elements: enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning. Through relatable stories, biblical wisdom, and the science of happiness, you'll learn how to cultivate joy in your daily life—even when challenges arise.
What does true joy and contentment look like in a culture obsessed with more? From DJ Khaled's massive sneaker collection to high-profile pastors wearing luxury shoes, it's easy to point fingers. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself: How many possessions, experiences, or achievements do I need before I feel satisfied? We all fall into the trap of thinking "just a little more" will bring lasting happiness. Spoiler alert: It doesn't.In this message sermon, we dive into the biblical and practical truths about gratitude and contentment. Drawing insights from the book of Ecclesiastes and studies in psychology, we explore why chasing fleeting pleasures leaves us empty and how practicing gratitude can fill us with genuine joy.Discover why the Bible repeatedly calls us to give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) and how embracing a lifestyle of gratitude not only elevates our happiness but transforms our relationships, strengthens our resilience, and brings us closer to God's purpose for our lives. Learn how weekly worship plays a crucial role in forming this habit and why your presence matters as we create a collective offering of thanksgiving.As Thanksgiving approaches, this message challenges us to shift our focus from what we lack to what we already have, recognizing that every good gift comes from God. Are you ready to start a journey of daily gratitude and find the lasting contentment your heart longs for?✨ Key Points:• Why pleasure alone can't bring happiness• The surprising benefits of gratitude backed by science• How worship transforms gratitude into a way of life• Practical steps to build a habit of thankfulness every day
Are you searching for a deeper sense of contentment? Tune in for the start of our new series, "Contentment," as we explore the surprising truth behind lasting happiness. This week's message, "It's Better to Give Than Receive," will challenge the common idea that “more” leads to joy and instead reveal the rich rewards of a generous spirt. Join us as we dive into timeless wisdom and modern insights showing that generosity has the power to shape our lives and bring peace, joy, and satisfaction that no material possession can.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
Tune in to this inspiring message on what it truly means to be partners in God's mission of love! As Wesleyan Christians, we are called not just to believe, but to act—to live out our faith by making a difference in the world. In this sermon, we'll dive deep into how to recognize God's presence in our everyday lives and discover the powerful ways we can join Him in the work He's already doing around us. Whether you're seeking purpose, guidance, or a renewed spirit of service, this message will encourage you to be both a hearer and doer of God's Word. Let's come together with open hearts and hands ready to serve a world longing for His peace and love.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
This week's message, "Embrace Widely," is all about God's radical, welcoming love—a love that reaches across every boundary, embraces the broken, and sees each of us as worthy of love and respect. Tune in to learn what it means to truly embrace widely and live out a love that transforms our hostility into hospitality. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
We often hear the words "I love you," but without action, they feel empty, and relationships suffer. The Bible teaches that love is more than a feeling—it's something we do. In the Wesleyan tradition, Christians are called to live out their faith through loving action, making love the foundation of a dynamic, growing relationship with God and others. In this message, we dive into what it means to love actively and how it leads to true holiness in heart and life.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message, we look at how United Methodists understand the inspiration of scripture. As Wesleyan Christians, we are rooted in the Bible. It is both the source of our faith and the measure of our spiritual authenticity. However, instead of insisting on a strict literal reading, we teach a dynamic and contextual way of interpreting scripture. When we read prayerfully and carefully with other Christians, the Bible becomes the living word of God in the power of the Holy Spirit, and we are transformed into the image of Christ.Of all the beliefs that set us apart from many other denominations, this one may be the most significant. So, check out this message and learn how God works through scripture to transform us in love!Sources: Adam Hamilton, "Making Sense of the Bible" (2016) and "Half Truths" (2016); Randy Maddox, "Responsible Grace" (1994)If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
We are excited to begin a new message series, "Wesleyan Rooted." Over the next five weeks, we will explore what it means to follow Jesus in the United Methodist tradition. This series invites us to reflect on our unique spiritual heritage and embrace the core principles of our faith.In this message, we dive into the theme, "Grow Deeply" and see how being rooted in God's love allows us to follow Jesus daily and become a new creation. Rather than focus on church membership or getting saved in a moment of decision, we focus on the love of God that invites us to a lifelong journey of transformation. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message, we explore how life's circumstances and current events can reveal God's will. When we stay close to Jesus, the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to spiritual truth and leads us beyond the rush of clock time into kairos—a deeper sense of time that is pregnant with possibilities. Learn how to read the world around you, discern where God is already at work, and discover how you can partner with God in life-changing moments.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
Who are the people that have helped you get where you are today? People who gave you wise advice or helped you see things in a different light? Looking back we often realize that God was speaking through these people to guide our steps.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
When was the last time you read a good book? Are there any books that have changed your life? In this message, we continue the series, “Discernment," looking at how God speaks not only through the Bible but also spiritual writings. Pastor Mark shares some of the books that shaped his faith and changed his life. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this second message from the "Discernment" series, we explore the challenge of distinguishing truth from falsehood in a world filled with conflicting voices, both externally and within ourselves. Using 1 John 4:1 and Galatians 5:13-25, the sermon emphasizes the importance of testing the spirits, discerning between good and evil, and recognizing how the Holy Spirit guides us toward love, peace, and unity. As we learn to identify the impulses of the flesh that lead to division and self-deception, we are reminded of our need for spiritual community, humility, and daily alignment with God's will.
Do you sometimes struggle to make hard decisions? In this message, we explore the process of discerning God's will in our lives. Grounded in scriptures from Colossians 1:9-11 and Hebrews 11:1, the sermon emphasizes the importance of both solitude and community in hearing God's voice. By practicing spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation on scripture, and engaging in authentic relationships with fellow believers, we can cultivate the spiritual senses needed to discern God's guidance, even in the midst of uncertainty and risk.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
When mean people hurt us, our natural impulse is to get even. But reacting in anger perpetuates conflict, increases the control that mean people hold over you, compels you to violate your values, and remakes you in the image of your enemies. Thankfully there's another way, a way that honors God, builds our identity in Christ, and diminishes the power that mean people hold over us. Jesus modeled this third way in the New Testament, and Paul talked about it too, but it is also taught in the Old Testament by a woman named Abigail. Check out this message to see how best to deal with the mean people in your life. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds Resource: Andy Stanley, "Mean People... and What To Do About Them."
This message is the first in a new two-week series, "What to Do About Mean People." We focus on how our impulse to get even perpetuates conflict and multiples our problems. If we can resist this impulse long enough to ask ourselves a few questions, we can respond (instead of react) in a way that honors God and diminishes the power that mean people try to hold over us.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
This message concludes our series on spirituality and the 12 Steps by looking at the promise of ongoing recovery--a spiritual awakening. Pastor Mark explains Step 12 and then ties all the steps together, showing how they build on each other in a journey of intensification toward freedom, peace, and love.
In this message, guest speaker, Dr. Tony Ferretti, talks about steps 10-11, which focus on spiritual and emotional selfcare. Speaking our of his experience as a licensed psychologist, he stresses the importance of developing healthy habits that last a lifetime in recovery.
In this message, we look at the toxicity of shame and the healing power of confession, repentance, and making amends, the spiritual practices that undergird Steps 4-9 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Whether you wrestle with addiction or some kind of unwanted behavior this message in the series, "Breathing Under Water," will help!Source: Richard Rohr, "Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps" (Franciscan Media 2011).If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message, we continue our new series on Spirituality and the 12 Steps by focusing on a God that has the power to save and the importance of surrender. Whether you wrestle with addiction or some kind of self-destructive pattern, this message will help!Source: Richard Rohr, "Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps" (Franciscan Media 2011).If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
"Breathing Under Water" is a new series (based on a book by Richard Rohr) that explores Christian spirituality and the 12-Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. In this first message, we explore the link between addiction and sin, revealing how these dynamics often trap individuals in self-destructive cycles. Paradoxically, it's by acknowledging our powerlessness that we find the strength to seek solutions beyond ourselves. Whether you or a loved one grapple with addiction or some kind of unwanted behavior, join us on this transformative journey toward healing and recovery.Video, "Nuggets" : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUngLgGRJpo. Book: Richard Rohr, "Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps" (Franciscan Media 2011).Ego in Contemplative Christianity: In the Christian contemplative tradition, the term ego describes a way of thinking and being in the world that is driven by a compulsion to control. It is a false self that sees everything through the lens of its own personal hurts, needs, and memories, making it self-centered, defensive, judgmental, and easily wounded. When ego is in charge, we take things personally, and when offended we feel driven to retaliate tit-for-tat. It construes life as a zero-sum game in which there are winners and losers, then strives for superiority, obsessing over achievement and public perception. Ego is dualistic, painting the world in black and white extremes. As such, it is arrogant, riddled with illusions, and blinded to deep truth. Ego causes us to constantly compare ourselves with others, is neurotically self-reliant, and must always be in control. I must control my thinking and feeling, as well as my actions, my image, and how other people see me. I must also control the thoughts, feelings, and actions of others. I must control my environment to feel safe. I must control every aspect of life to meet my own needs, fix my own problems, and secure my own future. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
We all experience heartbreak and know the importance of grieving personal losses. But what happens when bad things happen to an entire community or country? What does communal and national grief look like? David sets a good example in his lament over King Saul and Johnathan in 2 Samuel 1. Check out this message to help you grieve personal and collection loss.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
What happens when giants come your way? When you experience scary challenges that feel overwhelming? In this message we continue the series, "God at Work," by reflecting on the story of David and Goliath and how God fights through us when we focus on faithfulness. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
Have you ever felt judged, misunderstood, and written off? When you meet new people, do you fear they are evaluating you with a mental checklist, focusing on outward appearance and stereotypical labels? Has someone questioned your character just because you disagree with them? This happens to all of us, and it hurts. But the good news is that God sees us in a different way, and God calls us to do the same for others. Check out this message to see how. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message, we continue the series, "God at Work," by looking at how God responds when we turn away from him or reject His wisdom. Instead of forcing His will on us, sometimes God accomplishes His purposes by giving us what we want and allowing us to experience the natural consequences. Technical Difficulty: We lost audio for 36 seconds, but Pastor Mark re-recorded and spliced it in. You will notice a change in sound for a brief period, but the original audio resumes shortly thereafter.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message, we start a new series, "God at Work," that focuses on God's grace at work in incredible ways in the books of 1 and 2 Samuel. This lead-off sermon helps us to see how God calls all of us in important ways if we have eyes to see and ears to hear. But we need to put aside preconceived ideas of the who, how, and what of God's calling.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
In this message we reflect on the connection between living well and dying well and look at four biblical principles that help us do both. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
Depression and suicide. These are heavy topics, and historically the church has not always been helpful. Most mainline Protestant denominations have changed their position on these issues in conversation with modern medicine to provide compassionate and holistic support. In this message, we explore how these changes offer hope to people who suffer with depression or who have lost loved ones to suicide.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
While we mostly pray to our Heavenly Father, maternal metaphors for God are not uncommon in the Bible. One striking example is Isaiah 66:13: "As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem." In this message we look at how God comforts us with the love of a mother.If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
What happens when we die? In this message, Pastor Mark explains that the Bible does offer a simple answer to this question but several different images that open space for us wrestle with difficult questions. After acknowledging that people have different interpretations of the Bible regarding the afterlife, he reminds us of two things that all Christians believe that provide comfort, hope, and assurance in the face of death. If this message is a blessing, you can support our ministries by donating at www.fumccb.com. Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL) Connect with Pastor Mark:www.revmarkreynolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorMarkReynolds
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