Sermons – St John United Methodist Church, Prospect, KY

The central message here is clear: Stay focused on God's vision for your life by refusing to let distractions pull you away from your purpose. Just as Nehemiah faced critical moments when the walls were nearly complete, we too face our greatest opposition when we're closest to breakthrough.

Nehemiah 4-5 recounts the challenges and opposition faced during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, highlighting the resolve of God's people in the face of external threats and internal discouragement. This chapter showcases the power of prayer, leadership, and unity in accomplishing God's purposes.

What does Rucking and Nehemiah have in common? Listen as Steven Lundy explains how a hard journey could often be exactly what God knows is what you need and is calling you to do.

God often moves His people from seasons of comfort into seasons of calling. Just as Nehemiah served in the prestigious position of cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, many of us have found ourselves in comfortable places. Yet God's kingdom work frequently requires us to step beyond our comfort zones into spaces where our hearts break for His purposes.

Have you ever wondered if you've gone too far? Is there a limit to God's grace? Can someone commit a sin so terrible that it cannot be forgiven? These are weighty questions that strike at the heart of our faith. Today, we will explore these questions, seeking clarity and understanding from God's Word. We will look at what the Bible says about the unforgivable sin and consider what it means to live a life transformed by God's grace.

The second half of Romans 12 moves from internal transformation to external expression, showing how transformed hearts manifest in practical relationships, even with enemies. These verses provide a radical ethic of Christian love in action.

Paul's masterful transition from doctrine to practice in Romans 12 presents a comprehensive vision of Christian living. Beginning with personal transformation and extending to community life, these verses outline the radical nature of gospel-shaped existence.

Easter Sunday is the cornerstone of our faith—the day that changed everything. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it is the foundation of our hope. Death was not the end. The grave could not hold Him. And because of this, we, too, can have eternal life. Today, we will reflect on the first witnesses of the empty tomb, the undeniable victory of Christ over death, and what it means for us to live in resurrection power.

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a time of celebration, anticipation, and deep reflection. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, the crowd cheers, waving palm branches, expecting a triumphant political leader. Yet, Jesus arrives humbly on a donkey, fulfilling prophecy and signaling a different kind of victory. Today, we will walk through this moment in history, seeing how it points to the greater purpose of Christ's journey to the cross.

Steven Lundy continues our Easter sermon series "Journey to Glory". He'll focus on Jesus' ministry as described in Luke 9:23-27.

Steven Lundy starts off our new Easter sermon series "Journey to Glory". He'll focus on Jesus' mission described in John1:1-18.

Have you ever lost something precious? Perhaps it was a sentimental keepsake, a forgotten item, or even your way back home at some point in life. The search for what is lost can be desperate, emotional, and urgent. But the moment of recovering what was lost? That brings indescribable joy.

Have you ever been invited to a celebration, one so joyous and special that you couldn't wait to attend? You were eagerly prepared, knowing that the host's invitation came from the heart and that the event would be unforgettable. In today's parable, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a great banquet—a feast offered freely and generously to all. Yet, what makes this story so compelling and challenging is how people respond to the invitation. Some dismiss it with excuses, believing they have better things to do. Others, unexpected and unlikely guests, end up filling the banquet hall.

What are some of the gifts God has entrusted to you? Perhaps it's a specific skill, an opportunity, a resource, or even the ability to influence and encourage others. Have you ever wondered why you've been given these gifts and how God expects you to use them? Today's parable, the *Parable of the Talents*, answers that question clearly and powerfully. Jesus teaches us that everything we have is ultimately entrusted to us by God, and we are called to use those gifts for His glory, His purposes, and the advancement of His Kingdom.

The parable of the Ten Virgins, or bridesmaids, is a call to being vigilant and being spiritually prepared. Jesus tells a story of bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom to arrive, yet only half of the bridesmaids are truly ready when the moment comes. This parable reminds us that the return of Christ will come unexpectedly as well, and we must live each day with our hearts prepared and our lamps shining brightly.

Have you ever been wronged by someone and found it difficult to forgive? Perhaps you've experienced the pain of betrayal, hurtful words, or broken trust, and it feels impossible to let go of the offense. Forgiveness can be one of the most challenging things God asks of us. In today's parable, Jesus teaches us about the incredible magnitude of God's forgiveness and the expectation that, as His forgiven children, we must also forgive others. The parable of the Unforgiving Servant confronts us with an urgent and life-changing truth: we cannot truly accept God's forgiveness if we withhold it from others.

Have you ever experienced a moment where you thought, “That's not fair!” Maybe you've worked harder than others but didn't feel adequately recognized or rewarded. Or perhaps you've observed someone else receive something you felt unworthy of. These frustrations reflect our human tendency to measure fairness by world standards. In today's parable, Jesus challenges our perspective by revealing the radical nature of God's grace. The parable of the Workers in the Vineyard reminds us that God's Kingdom doesn't operate on human notions of fairness. Instead, it's built on His boundless generosity and grace.

This passage is a call to live with an eternal perspective, to evaluate where we stand with the Lord, and to pursue righteousness in the present age. It's both a warning and an invitation. For those who are in Christ, it is a promise of eternal hope. For those who are far from Him, it's a call to repentance.

If someone came to you today and offered you the most valuable treasure in the world, something of eternal worth, capable of bringing boundless joy, security, and meaning—what would you be willing to give up for it? Would you be ready to sell everything you have just to obtain it? In today's passage, Jesus uses two parables to illustrate the surpassing worth of the Kingdom of God. He compares it to hidden treasure and a priceless pearl, revealing that the Kingdom is worth every sacrifice we could ever make.

As human beings, we often measure success by what is large, impressive, or noticeable. But throughout Scripture, God shows us that He delights in working through small beginnings to accomplish extraordinary things. That is the surprising and beautiful truth of the Kingdom of God—it doesn't begin with fanfare or grandeur but rather with a tiny mustard seed or an almost invisible bit of leaven. In today's text, Jesus compares God's Kingdom to these small and seemingly insignificant things. These parables remind us that God's transformative power doesn't depend on size or strength—it depends on His divine plan. The Kingdom may start small, but it grows expansively. Its influence may be subtle at first, but it has a profound impact on everything it touches. Today, let us reflect on the unstoppable growth of God's Kingdom and how these truths should inspire our faith in Christ's transformative work in our world and in our individual lives.

In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus addresses these questions through the parable of the wheat and the tares. He teaches us that good and evil will continue to coexist, but there will be a day of judgment when He, the Righteous Judge, will separate the wheat from the weeds. This parable reassures us of God's sovereign plan, His perfect timing, and His promise of ultimate justice. Today, let us explore what this parable reveals about patience, trust in God's justice, and living faithfully in a challenging world.

In today's text, Jesus uses a simple agricultural story to reveal deep spiritual truths about the Kingdom of God. Have you ever wondered why your spiritual life feels fruitful at times and dry at others? Have you noticed how two people can sit under the same sermon or read the same passage, and one is transformed while the other remains unchanged? Jesus teaches us that the condition of our hearts determines how we receive God's Word and its effectiveness in our daily lives.

Beloved friends and family in Christ, as we gather here in this sacred space, let us reflect on the miracle we celebrate Christ's birth. The angel's announcement marks a crescendo in our waiting, a profound moment when the long-awaited Messiah entered our world. This was not just an event in history but the fulfillment of God's promise, a divine invitation to joy, hope, and redemption.

As we conclude our Advent series, we reflect on the visit of the Magi, a powerful reminder of the world's response to the arrival of the Messiah. Their journey from the East signifies an important revelation not only of who Christ is but also sets the stage for our own acknowledgment of His kingship. This message is rooted in deep Biblical history, connecting Old Testament prophecies to the fulfillment we witness at Christ's birth.

Beloved friends and family in Christ, as we gather here in this sacred space, let us reflect on the miracle we celebrate Christ's birth. The angel's announcement marks a crescendo in our waiting, a profound moment when the long-awaited Messiah entered our world. This was not just an event in history but the fulfillment of God's promise, a divine invitation to joy, hope, and redemption.

As we gather on this Advent Sunday, we stand at the threshold of a profound celebration—the coming of our King, Jesus Christ. We find ourselves in a season of anticipation, mirroring the longing of Israel for the Messiah, a hope that resonates through the ages. In Isaiah 9:6-7, we encounter a majestic prophecy that speaks of a child born to us, a son given to us, encapsulating the essence of hope and divine authority. As we embark on this spiritual journey together, let us take a moment to explore the significance of this prophecy and its fulfillment in the miraculous birth of Jesus, as revealed in Matthew 1:20-23.

Good morning, church family! As we come together today, I want us to reflect on an intriguing detail from Jesus' ministry: the presence of a money bag and Judas Iscariot as its keeper. This element invites us to explore important themes of wealth, stewardship, and integrity, especially as we consider our own giving to the church.

Today, we turn our attention to a significant topic in the life of faith: greed. In Luke 12:13-15, Jesus warns us against all kinds of greed, emphasizing the importance of understanding our relationship with wealth and material possessions. Let's delve into the key principles related to greed, reflecting on how we can live lives that honor God and prioritize what truly matters.

As we begin our sermon series, we gather today to explore a significant aspect of our Christian Walk: God's Plan for Our Giving. As we delve into His Word, we'll discover that God's approach to our financial stewardship is motivated by love, designed for our blessing, and grounded in His promises. Let's explore this excellent plan in six main points.

As we conclude our sermon series, we turn our attention to a significant passage in John 2:23-25. In this moment, many were drawn to Jesus, captivated by the miraculous signs He performed during the Passover in Jerusalem. However, amidst their excitement and belief, Jesus discerned the true nature of their hearts. This teaches us vital lessons about the importance of authentic connections within our community of believers. Today, we will explore how Jesus structured His relationships and consider how we can cultivate deeper connections within our own lives.

Vulnerability can be daunting, yet it is essential for true connection and community. In 2 Samuel 12, we find David facing his sin and confronting the consequences of his choices. Today, we explore how acknowledging our faults and vulnerability opens the door to God's grace.

In a world that often encourages us to appear strong and flawless, Jesus offers an entirely different perspective. He invites those who feel marginalized, sinful, and deeply flawed to come to Him. The gospel of Mark captures a powerful instance of this invitation in Mark 2:13-17, when Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. This act speaks volumes about Jesus' mission and demonstrates that embracing our brokenness is vital for transformation and creating a genuine community within the body of Christ. As we delve into this topic, let's consider what it means to embrace the blueprint for a genuine gospel community—one where every heart feels welcomed, valued, and connected. Let's not settle for the facade of community but strive for an authentic experience together. Join me as we uncover the essential elements of being part of a vibrant, effective church community that serves the weary and fulfills our deepest longings for companionship and love. This morning we'll delve into Levi's story while drawing from the Scriptures to enrich our understanding and reflect on our own journeys.

Main Points Jesus and (God) the Father are One. The topics Jesus taught on most are The overall message of Jesus is

Main Points The Imminent Return of Christ - Explanation of how Jesus will come back for His church unexpectedly - Emphasis on the need to live each day in readiness for His return The Transformation of Believers - Discussion on how believers will be transformed into glorified bodies at the Rapture - Encouragement to live holy and sanctified lives in anticipation of this change The Reunion with Christ - Description of the joy and reunion believers will experience when meeting Jesus in the air - Assurance of being forever with the Lord in eternity

Main Points The Imminent Return of Christ - Explanation of how Jesus will come back for His church unexpectedly - Emphasis on the need to live each day in readiness for His return The Transformation of Believers - Discussion on how believers will be transformed into glorified bodies at the Rapture - Encouragement to live holy and sanctified lives in anticipation of this change The Reunion with Christ - Description of the joy and reunion believers will experience when meeting Jesus in the air - Assurance of being forever with the Lord in eternity

We can find comfort and assurance in knowing that Jesus Christ's return will be clear and unmistakable. This encourages us to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that Christ's return is a definite future event. Believers should find hope and motivation in the promise that they will be gathered by Jesus' angels. This gathering signifies eternal reunion and fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Be prepared, for the return of Christ will be sudden and evident. Live life in anticipation of meeting Him face to face.

Believers are called to endure faithfully through difficult times, understanding that such tribulations are part of the end-time prophecy. This endurance is an act of faith and trust in God's sovereign plan, even amid suffering. Jesus provided these signs as guidelines to prepare us spiritually. Let's stay vigilant, grounded in His word, and committed to spreading the gospel.

Join us for our 45th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration this year. We'll have one extended service from 9:30 -11:30 a.m. with guest speakers James Atherton and Will Partin. We will also have special music from the Asbury Worship Collective. Be ready to take a walk down memory lane as we remember Saint John through the years.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series, “Evangelism”. Today, we are called to reflect on what it means to live out the Gospel. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:16 that we should let our light shine before others. Just as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, our lives, illuminated by God's love, should stand as beacons in the darkness.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, “Evangelism”. Our testimonies hold significant influence and can powerfully impact those around us. In Revelation 12:11, the "word of their testimony" signifies the strength derived from individuals sharing their personal experiences with faith in Christ. These testimonies are a vital means of evangelism, allowing others to see the Gospel's transformative power in our lives.

Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez starts our new sermon series, “Evangelism”. Beloved, today we gather to on one of the most profound commands given to us by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." This is not merely a directive; it is the Great Commission, a call to action that reverberates through the ages, urging every believer to embrace the role of evangelism.

Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. Today, as we gather in the presence of our loving and merciful God, we turn our hearts and minds to a powerful passage from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans: Romans 12:1-2. These verses provide a profound insight into what it means to live a life of true sacrificial worship.

Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. In John 4:23-24, Jesus provides a profound teaching on the nature of true worship: "But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people, the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." This passage defines the essence of worship, highlighting the necessity of worshiping God not just through external rituals but with our whole being, aligning with His Spirit and His truth.

Guest Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. As we actively seek, embrace, and allow God to restore His presence in our lives through repentance, obedience, and gratitude, we will experience transformation, joy, and victory in Him.

Pastor Steven Lundy continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. He explores the consequences of losing sight of God's presence in our lives and the importance of seeking and preserving His presence.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, and in this sermon, we delve into a captivating passage from 2 Samuel 6:11-12. It highlights the profound impact of hosting the presence of God. Our theme is "The Blessings of Hosting God's Presence," and our focus will be on understanding how Divine Favor, Spiritual Enrichment, and Personal Renewal manifest when we host God's presence in our lives.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez calls to set aside dedicated time for personal worship and prayer in the presence of God. To engage in corporate worship with reverence, joy, and humility. And lastly, use music, art, or other creative expressions to worship God in spirit and truth.

Is the bible credible, Is the bible reliable, and is the bible relevant? These are questions that have been asked throughout history but are being asked by more people today, especially by Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. We as Christ followers should be able to answer this question because, even though there is evidence that there is a God all around us, the claim of Christ as Messiah comes directly from the recorded scriptures of the bible.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez ends our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues” Today. I come before you with a heavy heart to address the sensitive and controversial topic of abortion. As followers of Christ, we are called to uphold life's sanctity and protect the most vulnerable in society. However, I understand that this issue is complex and polarizing, and I ask for your patience and understanding as we delve into the theological implications of abortion.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues” Today. Continuing with Fearfully and Wonderfully made, he delves deeper into the beauty and complexity of the human body. He'll be focusing more on what the New Testament has to say.