St. John's United Methodist Church - Edwardsville, IL

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, June 27, 2021 Matthew 9:27-30 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. We may not hear the important question if we're not following. II. Faith is ready when the opportunity comes. III. Jesus' question gave them a chance for joy. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Name something you almost always over-prepare for, and describe why. Name something you almost always under-prepare for, and why. - Describe some obstacles the blind men might have faced in following Jesus? - What sorts of responses do people offer when Jesus asks if they believe He can heal or save them? - What are you doing to build your faith so that it's ready for the opportunity Jesus may present to you? - What does the church need to do to build faith to be ready for the opportunity Jesus presents to us? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, June 20, 2021 Matthew 8:23-27 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Jesus cares deeply. He's just not stressed about it. II. Let Christ's peace be more contagious than our anxiety. III. Perfect love casts out all fear.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Tell about a time when you got caught in a bad storm. What were you thinking? What were you feeling? - Look at the scripture that follows this passage in Matthew 8. Why was Jesus crossing the lake? - Imagine if the disciples would have allowed Jesus to sleep instead of waking Him in their fear. What are some possible outcomes to that story? - What are the storms that people face with fear today? Where can Jesus introduce calm into those situations? - Why are you afraid? How can the peace of Jesus counter that fear? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, June 13, 2021 Matthew 6:24-27 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. We're trapped when we make anything other than God our master. II. Walking in trust undoes our worries. Dwelling in our worries multiplies them. III. Worry is a thief and a murderer. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is your favorite place to get ice cream or custard, and what do you order? - What are the ways people would have had money as their master in Jesus' day? What are ways people have money as their master today? - How does God's kindness towards other creatures help you trust in God's kindness and provision for you? - Where have you witnessed worry take away from life? - What is the major source of worry for you? How would God have you walk in trust? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, June 6, 2021 Matthew 21:28-32 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Jesus will answer your question with a question. II. Obedience is not just knowing, but doing right things. III. It's more about being on the right path than having a perfect pedigree.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Have you made a public profession of faith (like becoming a church member)? Tell about that experience. - What are the benefits of challenging people's thinking with questions instead of answers? What are the drawbacks? - Jesus used this parable to challenge people who were outwardly religious. Who would be challenged by His story of obedience today? - What of your life looks like the “right path” of faithfulness right now? What of your life might need some course correction? - What will you do this week to live more fully into a commitment you've made to God? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, May 30, 2021 2 Kings 2:5-15 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. The friendships we forge in the faith become an enduring part of our legacy. II. Witnessing true godliness causes us to hunger for a deeper faith in our own lives. III. It's up to us to take up the cloak. It's up to God to provide the power. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Has the "Memorial" part of Memorial Day worked into your plans for this long weekend? If so, how? - Read 1 Kings 19:19-21 to learn about how Elisha was called to be a prophet. How is that similar to our calling to follow Jesus? - Who has inspired you to pursue a deeper faith? How might your life be inspiring others towards a deeper faith? - What is a calling God has invited you to pick-up? Do you have worries about taking on that responsibility? - What is one way you can make certain the torch of faith is passed on through your life this week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, May 23, 2021 1 Timothy 4:7-16 St. John's Worship Website Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. To pass on hope, we can't major in the minors. II. Young disciples are called to exemplary love, faith, and purity. III. Youthful boldness is a great tool when guided by the Holy Spirit. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you were invited to give a commencement speech, what would be the title? - Paul talks about the risk of "wasting time" when it comes to training for godliness. What is at stake when churches bicker over non-essentials?  - Where do you witness exemplary love, faith, and purity at work in disciples who are maybe a generation or two younger than you are? - How does the church nurture some of the risk-taking and questioning nature of youth? How does the church stifle that? - Name a young person you know who you lean on to help mentor you into the future? How has that relationship blessed your life? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, May 16, 2021 Psalm 78:1-8 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. To be a part of the relay, we have to put ourselves into the race. II. We'll be held responsible for hiding Jesus from future generations. III. God's salvation stories are filled with warnings and wonders. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's a song you learned to help teach you something (besides the alphabet)? Do you still know the tune? - What does "apply the instructions of scripture to my life" mean to you? - What are some ways we hide Jesus from future generations, whether intentionally or unintentionally? - Why do you suppose it's important that the stories of scripture contain both wonders and warnings? - What specific thing can you do this week to take your place in the generational relay? What would keep you from doing that?   - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, May 9, 2021 Exodus 2:1-10 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Not everything is working in favor of the nurturing community. II. Nurturing community requires a great deal of trust in God. III. Personal compassion can have an impact well beyond helping an individual.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you had a comfort item (like a blanket or stuffed animal) as a child, what was it? Do you know what became of it? - Where do you see examples of the mighty Pharaoh being made to look like a fool in these stories? Why would the Hebrew people find those stories funny? - When is showing trust to others a way to show trust in God? Can you share an example of that kind of trust in your life? - The ways that the women helped each other in today's stories involved risk for them. What did they risk in their show of courage? - What is a nurturing community that you're a part of? How do you benefit? How do you contribute? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, May 2, 2021 Genesis 1:26-32 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Please feel free to use these notes for personal devotion and reflection, as well as spiritual conversation with your small group and family.   SERMON NOTES I. We've been given the image of our Creator. II. We've been given responsibility and authority. III. We've been handed goodness that Jesus restores and we pass on.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's your favorite family heirloom, or what do you think will be something you'd like to pass on to a future generation? - In a passage that's filled with words that bring honor to humanity, which verse or section in today's scripture helps you feel most beloved? Why? - Do you see your relationship with the rest of creation like a "reign?" What kind of responsibility would come with that sort of reign? - This is the first instance in this telling of creation where God observed the work of the day and declared it "very good." Why do you suppose that is? - Where do you see the restorative work of Jesus at work in creation? - Is God nudging you to more fully acknowledge that you are created in the divine image, or that someone else in your life is created in the divine image? Which is harder for you? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, April 25, 2021 Galatians 5:13-26 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Our freedom in Christ leads us to serve and not destroy one another. II. The Spirit sets us free from legalism, and free from the sin that separates us from God. III. In all circumstances, the faith of disciples can be exhibited through the fruits of the Spirit.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Are you a garage sale fanatic? Why or why not? - Paul saw the Galatian church being undermined by internal strife and division. What do you think he meant when he cautioned against "biting and devouring one another?" - How does the Spirit set us free from sin, and not just punishment? - The church of Paul's time was persecuted, so he listed characteristics of faithful living that couldn't be outlawed. How can that be important to us today? - Where would you put yourself on the quadrants of "Affirming Traditional" or "Activist Nice-maker?" Where do you think God would have you be? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, April 18, 2021 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. If we let it, our identity in Christ has the power to break down any barriers that would separate us as believers. II. The question for Christians isn't “Are we connected?,” but “How are we connected?” III. The body of Christ shares in suffering and honor, and we grieve our division.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you could visit any one city in the world (safely, of course), where would you go and why? - What do people in Corinth seem to be divided about in 1 Corinthians 12? Is that something that you believe divides the church today? - How have you seen Jesus act independently in scripture? How have you seen Jesus act interdependently? - Why do think some believers seem to enjoy when other Christians fall or suffer? What does Jesus offer us to help us overcome that temptation? - Where do you land on the axis of "Connectional" vs. "Autonomous?" What about on the axis of "Local" vs. "Global?" - Where do you believe God would have you be on today's quadrants? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, April 11, 2021 John 3:1-20 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. The kingdom of God doesn't advance unless people experience new birth through Jesus Christ. II. Religion and reconciliation are not synonymous. III. To endure, the church has to live in and reflect the light of Christ.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Besides Jesus, if you could go visit with someone some evening just to ask some burning questions, who would you go to? Why? - What do you think of when you hear the term "born again?" How does Jesus use the term in today's passage? - Is it possible for people to practice religion without having faith? Is it possible to have faith without practicing religion? Describe examples of each. - Why are churches focused on things other than discipleship likely to expire? - On your own chart, where would you place yourself in the quadrants of "cultural club" vs. "Christian discipleship" and "Invitation" vs. "Wishin' and Hopin'?" Why? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, April 4, 2021 Luke 24:1-12 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. We still have a hard time believing that death lost. II. Believing this unbelievably Good News robs death of its power. III. God has grace for the wonderers who wandered.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Besides Jesus' tomb, name something else you're excited to see empty. - Why do you think Jesus' friends had such a hard time believing His promise to rise from the grave? - Why was it so important for Peter to run to the tomb? - Jesus restored Peter by giving him a responsibility in and to the kingdom of God. How does God do that when He redeems our lives? - When did you know that trusting in Jesus would save you from death? If you don't yet trust Jesus' power to give eternal life, what's holding you back? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Thursday, April 1, 2021 1 John 3:11-24 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, March 28, 2021 Luke 23:32:46 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Anger is the clearest pathway to death. II. Wrath spills venom on everything. III. Anger refuses to see its own need for grace. IV. Forgiveness is the death of wrath.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is something you do that someone has described as “annoying?” (nail biting, tooth grinding, etc.) - Where do you see anger lining Jesus' path to the cross? - When do you experience anger spilling over and poisoning your life? - What is your practice for reminding yourself of your own need for grace and forgiveness? - Name one specific way that you will overcome wrath through forgiveness this week. - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, March 21, 2021 Luke 22:54-65 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Pride wants to stay in control of the situation. II. Pride clings to its own life, and loses it in the process. III. Jesus sees right through us. IV. Humility is the death of pride.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Tell about a time when your pride got puffed up, and then deflated. - What do you think was the biggest problem with Simon Peter's hypocrisy between what he said he'd do, and what he actually did? - Where does our culture teach us to cling to our own lives instead of living fully for Jesus Christ? Why is it effective? - If Jesus were looking into your eyes right now, what's the thing He sees that makes you break into tears? - Where does God want you to think of yourself less? How will you live into that this coming week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, March 14, 2021 Luke 22:39-46 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Prayer does not equip us for greater works— prayer is the greater work. II. Surrender to God doesn't mean giving up. It means giving all. III. When Jesus says it's time to wake up, it's time to wake up. IV. Readiness is the death of sloth.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Describe a time when you were just too tired to do anything. - Jesus told the disciples in the garden to pray that they will not give in to temptation. What temptations may overtake them in that time? - What challenges does the prayer, “I want Your will to be done, not mine” present for people who pray that sincerely? - What do you think Jesus would be addressing if He were to approach you with the words, “Why are you sleeping?” What comes to mind? - Which of the following does God want you to focus on this week? Readiness in answering for your hope? Readiness in preaching God's word? Or readiness for Christ's return? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, March 7, 2021 Luke 22:21-27 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. A failure to self-manage will often spill over. II. Gluttony is concerned with its own cravings, and little else. III. Intentional living is the death of gluttony.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What food is most tempting to you when it comes to overindulgence? - Have you experienced some discipline "creep" over the course of sheltering? Where do you see that happening? - In what ways does our culture celebrate gluttony? Why do you think we find some indulgences more agreeable than others? - Intentional living involves living with a mission. If you were to write a one sentence mission statement for your life, what would it be? - What is one thing you can do this week to make certain that God's abundant blessing doesn't stop with you, but becomes a blessing to others, as well? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, February 28, 2021 Luke 19:45-48 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Greed cheapens what's most precious to God. II. Envy wants what it doesn't have, and nobody else can have it. III. Gratitude and contentedness are the death of greed and envy.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Describe a time when you really wanted what someone else had. - In Luke's version, Jesus responds to the people selling sacrifices by quoting scripture. In other Gospels, He's flipping tables and driving them out with a whip. How is it helpful for Jesus to show anger in this situation? How is it unhelpful? - Jesus often quoted part of a scripture, and those who knew the rest would catch on to what He was saying. How has your knowledge of scripture helped you better understand Jesus? - The religious elite were jealous that Jesus was stealing their thunder. How do we experience that kind of envy today? - In conversation with someone else, spend some time listing your reasons to be grateful to God. Start with basics like life, breath, clothing and shelter, then get more specific. - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, February 21, 2021 Luke 19:28-40 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Vanity won't let you take the risk. II. Vanity wants the accolade and attention. III. Vanity is concerned about how this makes us look. IV. Modesty is the death of vanity. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Are you giving up or taking on anything for Lent? What is it? - What are risks Christians seem reluctant to take because of how we might be perceived? - Do you think Jesus wanted the parade? Why or why not? - Jesus said, "If my followers are quiet, the stones would shout praise!" How would that shame the Pharisees? What does that mean to you today? - Where do you need to let vanity die and modesty grow in your life? How will you guard yourself against being overly concerned about appearances? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Wednesday, February 17, 2021 John 10:1-10 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, February 14, 2021 Ruth 2:1-12 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Love acts as a care network for people in times of need. II. We honor God's love story through respect and responsibility. III. Our loving actions can have an impact beyond what we can imagine.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Do you prefer your box of Valentine's chocolates a) clearly labeled, b) an adventure of surprises or c) stay at the store? - Ruth's mother-in-law Naomi gave her every chance to return to her own people. Why do you suppose Ruth chose to remain with Naomi, instead? - How did Boaz use the power of his position to show Ruth respect? Is there a cultural equivalent to that kind of gesture today? What might it be? - How do you think Ruth and Naomi would have responded if someone told them that God was incorporating them into His plan of salvation? How do you react when you hear God wants to incorporate you into that plan? - What simple act of love will you perform this week that might have a chance to impact eternity? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, February 7, 2021 Genesis 24:50-67 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. God will align circumstances to advance His love story. II. God's love story is generous with blessing. III. God's love wraps our stories into His big story.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is the best way for your Valentine to let you know you're loved? A card with a personal note, an act of service, candy & a gift, snuggle time, or a deep conversation? - Is it reasonable to ask God to line up so many specifics like Laban did? Why or why not? - In what ways do we pronounce God's blessing on those we love? Are there specific events or rites of passage where we intentionally pour out prayers of blessing? - What difference does it make to know that you're a part of the love story God is telling to the world? What changes if we acknowledge that God is the main character of our story? - Who needs to receive the benefit of your prayers for blessing this week? Is anything keeping you from praying with that person? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, January 31, 2021 Philippians 2:12-18 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Our willing obedience becomes proof of the goodness of God. II. Our willful rebellion is a testimony against the light of God. III. When under the microscope, Christians should reflect the light. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you could ask God to give you one sign proving that He's real, what would you ask for and why? - On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being very important and 1 being unimportant, where does "the behavior of Christians" rank when it comes to forming people's opinions about faith? Why? - Can we rebel against God without knowing it? How would that be possible? - What are the "microscopes" that people of faith are under today? How can Christ followers reflect the light of Jesus in those situations? - What is one way you can point to God instead of yourself over the course of this coming week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, January 24, 2021 John 20:30-31; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. The Bible can be abused, but that doesn't make it abusive. II. The primary purpose of the word of God is to point us to the Son of God. III. Inspiration means that God inspires the readers as much as God inspired the writers.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is your favorite book and why? If your answer is the Bible, what is your second favorite book? - If the Bible can have such a history of misuse or abusive interpretation, why do people of faith continue to consider it so valuable? - Methodist founder John Wesley stated, “If there be one falsehood in that book, it did not come from the God of truth,” but focused a lot more of his ministry on the Bible's usefulness. Does that distinction between inerrancy and usefulness matter? Why? - Christ followers believe that the same Holy Spirit that inspired people to write passages of scripture also inspires the people who read those same scriptures. How does that encounter with God impact the ways we might read the Bible? - Where is God nudging you to live into a promise of the Bible to show that it's reliable? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, January 17, 2021 Colossians 1:15-22 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. God wants to be seen in both creation and Christ. II. One calling of the church is to make God visible. III. When broken lives are restored, God is visible. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you could be invisible for one hour, what kind thing would you do for someone else without being seen? - Name some aspects of creation that might point to an intelligence or order at work. - What is the value of God becoming known through the life of Jesus? What parts of God's character may become more visible through Jesus? - Where can we celebrate the global church making the love of God apparent in the world? Where should we grieve how the church has not effectively shared God's love? - Have you ever met someone whose life has been radically changed by a relationship with Jesus? What change did you see? - Where might someone see that the transformational love of Jesus is at work in your life because you've been changed by God? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, January 10, 2021 John 9:1-11 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Evil is risk built into a creation with the freedom to make choices. II. Pain is real. Love is still more powerful. III. God's answer to pain and wrong is compassion. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's the toughest question you've been asked in an interview? - How would you define good? What is the foundation for that definition? - Describe a situation where you know the right thing to do, but you're tempted to do something else. - How did the life of Jesus acknowledge the reality of human suffering? Why is that important? - How is God's call to compassion a better option than God simply preventing all evil? How can that be disappointing? - What act of compassion is the Holy Spirit inviting you to engage this week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, January 3, 2021 Exodus 40 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Remembering God's faithfulness bolsters our faith. II. God may introduce some things to our lives for a season and reason. III. We remember for the purpose of living into a faithful future. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you could somehow go back in time and relive a single hour of your life, which hour would you choose and why? - God used the start of a new year to introduce a new experience of God's presence to His people. Name some times or situations when we might be uniquely open to new experiences of God's presence in our lives. - What are some temporary things that we hold on to like they're God, instead of clinging to the eternal God? - How does God equip us to step faithfully into an unknown future? What are some gifts God has given disciples and the church to face the future courageously? - Name an example of God's faithfulness in your past that encourages you to face an unknown future with hope. How does that compel you to act today? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Bishop Frank Beard Sunday, December 27, 2020 John 14:15-17 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What do you think will be your favorite Christmas memory from this year? - Why do you believe Jesus instructed his disciples to be prepared for the arrival of the Holy Spirit? - Why do you believe a specific directional ministry plan was provided in Acts 1:8? - How is the "Fruit of the Spirit" evidence of a “spirit-filled” life? How is that list incomplete? - Where does your life have need for some Holy Spirit renewal today? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Thursday, December 24, 2020 Luke 2:21-35 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, December 20, 2020 Luke 4:14-24 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. From the time He was born, oppressors have felt threatened by Jesus. II. If it's not Good News for the oppressed, it's not the Good News of Jesus. III. Christ's followers join with Jesus in breaking the chains of injustice. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you had to pick one favorite lyric of a Christmas song, what would it be? - If the birth of the Messiah was part of a prophecy, why do you think Herod believed he could stop it? - How is this congregation embodying the Good News of justice for the oppressed? - How has Christ made you aware of your active or complicit participation with injustice? How is the Holy Spirit equipping you to be transformed? - Name one way you can help "break a chain" of injustice for someone as part of your Christmas? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, December 13, 2020 Luke 1:46-55 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. The humble do not escape God's notice. II. What pride corrupts, Jesus corrects. III. How we respond to this stable-born Savior helps diagnose the pride in our lives. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is your level of excitement for Christmas this year on a scale of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas to Buddy the Elf? Why? - Mary offers her first words of praise simply because she was seen by God. Why does that matter? - Mary's song later makes the humbling work of God seem rather forceful at times. Why do you suppose that's the case?  - What sort of pride in our lives would want to reject or deny the story of the virgin birth of an infant God? How does faith require some humility? - Where do you need to invite Jesus to set you free from hurtful pride? What step will you take to receive Christ's humility? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, December 6, 2020 Matthew 11:27-29 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. The birth of Jesus brought an invitation of peace to the weary. II. When we know Jesus is in control, He can counter our weary worries. III. Christ sets us free from the frustrations of “just try harder.” FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Have you ever worked a late-night job? What was it? - What difference does it make that angels proclaimed the message of peace to night-shift workers? Who else would have been as weary? - In His call for people to find rest, Jesus emphasizes that all things are in His hands. How are those things related? - In the balance between "try harder" and "trust more," where do you typically lean?  - Where are you having a difficult time finding Christ's peace today? What does it look like to share that burden with Jesus? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, November 29, 2020 Luke 1:67-79 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. God can be trusted to keep His promises. II. God's mercy keeps us from being buried in our mistakes. III. Christ was born to free us from sin and death. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - When do you usually decorate for Christmas? Did that change this year for any reason? - In Luke 1:5-23, 57-66, we read about the events that lead up to Zechariah's song of praise. What is the significance of God's message to Zechariah after the Hebrew people experienced such a long time of silence? - How does sin entrap people? According to Romans 6:23, what is the outcome of sin? - Tell about a time when guilt was eating away at you. How was that guilt relieved? - What is the importance of Jesus coming in a mortal human body as part of breaking the chains of sin? - Where in your life do you need to experience Christ's liberty from the weight of sin? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, November 22, 2020 Hebrews 10:19-25 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Christ has created a path to reconciling with God and one another. II. Our relationships as disciples will be different because of our spiritual bond and shared purpose. III. Friends in faith yearn to know, “How is it with your soul?” FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What are you giving thanks for this week? - How does a clean conscience impact your relationship with other people? - Vulnerable conversations among believers have to be built on mutual trust. What is a barrier to mutual trust in the church? - How do you think Jesus would want relationships between believers to be different than relationships between non-believers? - Who regularly checks in on the well-being of your soul? Whose spiritual health and maturity are you called to check on? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, November 15, 2020 James 1:19-25 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. We are tempted to become defensive when scripture holds its magnifying mirror up to our lives. II. Your relationship with yourself changes through worship. III. Worship lifts up the image of Christ and equips us to grow into that image. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - How often do you look in a mirror over the course of a day? - Why is our natural response to correction often denial or defensiveness? What is at work inside us when that happens? - What aspects of worship help us to better see ourselves as God sees us? - Where are you most resistant to God "meddling" in your life? What's at stake there? - How is the process of being formed into the image of Christ more like surrender than willpower?  - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, November 8, 2020 1 John 1:1-4 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. The relational nature of God is impossible to explain, but possible to experience. II. We are created and invited as an extension of God's communal nature. III. We reflect the Trinity when we invite others into God's love.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If someone were to say you "overflow" with something, what would it be? Why? - It's been said that God doesn't need a relationship with humanity, but instead wants a relationship with us. How does that distinction make a difference? - What comparisons have you heard to describe God as Three-in-One? How are these comparisons helpful? How are they unhelpful? - Where do you see Christ's followers best reflecting God's heart for growing the loving community? - Where do you struggle with inviting people into the experience of God's loving community? How is God helping you overcome that struggle? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, November 1, 2020 Hebrews 12:1-4 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Through worship, we are connected with believers throughout time. II. The cloud ultimately connects us to Jesus and His sacrifice. III. These witnesses inspire us to persevere in love and holiness.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Who do you think of when you think of a saint? Why does that person come to mind? - How is it comforting to know we're surrounded by believers throughout time? How is that unsettling? - Who has helped you understand the power of Jesus' life and sacrifice? How did they do that? - Why are we sometimes tempted to believe living our faith today is tougher than it was "back then?" How do the stories Christians who have gone before us challenge that understanding? - Who would you like to inspire with your life of faith? What can you do right now to help make that impact? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, October 25, 2020 John 3:23-30 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Even if you're in a desert, God can make sure there's plenty of water. II. Comparison is a thief of joy. III. Joy is not the same as success and fame.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Who cheers the loudest for your successes? How does that make you feel? - This scripture is set where there might be insufficient water, insufficient disciples, and insufficient satisfaction. Why do you suppose none of that seems to trouble John? - John's friends were so worried about competition. How is their anxiety unhelpful? What's the antidote to their fretting? - How do you respond when your spotlight seems to be shifting to someone else? Is it possible to find joy in that? - What is one way you can celebrate a friend's success this week? How will you share your joy with your friend? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, October 18, 2020 Job 2:11-13 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Friends remind us that we are not alone. II. God's kind of friendship journeys with others through joy and pain. III. When we short-circuit compassion, we compound the hurt.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Tell about a time when a friend showed up just when you needed. How did that make you feel? - How does our culture connect with the practice of sitting with those who grieve? How is our culture disconnected from that time of comforting presence with those who mourn? - Emotional vulnerability is a key component to compassion. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being very reserved and 10 being an open book, where would you place yourself? - Why do you think Job's friends moved into "justify and blame" mode? What tempts us to do the same in the face of sorrow and tragedy? - What hurt in your life would benefit from having someone sit with you to offer nonjudgmental comfort? What keeps you from seeking that? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, October 11, 2020 1 Samuel 20:28-42 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Friendship may mean putting God's plans over selfish ambition. II. Protecting our friends means we may face attacks intended for them. III. If we vow to resist evil, injustice and oppression, our actions must reflect that. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Describe a time when someone stood up for you. How did that make you feel? - Four chapters earlier, God chose David to be the successor to Saul's throne instead of someone from Saul's bloodline. By the time we reach this morning's story, what is Saul feeling and thinking at this point of his reign? - Jonathan could have betrayed his friend and ascended to be king. What are some reasons why Jonathan protected David, instead? - Where do you see instances where the people protecting others face harsh treatment intended for someone else? Why do protectors endure that? - What is an evil, injustice, or oppression that God has put on your heart to resist? What is one concrete step you can take to be a protector this week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, October 4, 2020 John 15:9-17 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Abiding in Jesus' love is the source of the love and joy we share. II. God's kind of friendship is shown through self-giving love. III. Living for Christ is a sacrifice, but one willingly offered in love. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's the kindest thing you've ever experienced from a stranger? - Since they weren't anticipating Jesus' arrest and execution, what may have been going through the disciples' minds when Jesus was telling them about this kind of friendship? - What does it mean to abide in Jesus? Short of becoming a monk, how do we live that out today? - In what ways has our community shown a spirit of sacrifice through COVID-19 so far? In what ways have we resisted a call to self-giving? - Think of an area in your life where God may be nudging you to sacrifice something as an act of love. Why is it hard? Why may it be worth it? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, September 27, 2020 Luke 15:11-32 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. This is a story about the Father. II. Our worship life reveals our role in the Homecoming story. III. We align with God's story when we share the Father's joy. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - If you could be a background character or extra in any TV show, what would it be, and why? - Why is it helpful to remember that we're not the main character in God's story? - What about our life in Christian community can magnify our shortcomings? How can that become a beneficial experience? - Are you more inclined towards the cultural pull of extravagant living or the cultural pull of burying in busyness? What can you do to fight that pull? - What is one thing you can do to connect with God's heart this week to share in the Lord's joy?  - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, September 20, 2020 Luke 15:11-32 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. It's the distance of the heart, not just the body, that makes someone lost. II. Older brothers keep away from the celebration and pretend they're being excluded. III. Jesus makes it clear that the Father's love is not earned, but given freely.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Where are you in your family's birth order: oldest, middle, youngest or only child? - What would make someone want to stay busy in service instead of joining the celebrations? How can those be used as excuses? - Describe a time when you felt hurt when someone received a kindness you felt you deserved. Was your hurt justified? - Both brothers wanted their father's gifts and favor, but neglected the relationship. How can the church behave like the older brother? - Where do you need to accept and celebrate God's generosity for others today? What's holding you back? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, September 13, 2020 Luke 15:11-32 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Jesus is committed to finding what's been lost. II. Some become lost by desiring gifts without the Giver. III. It's the welcome more than the walk that restores what was lost.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's the last thing you looked everywhere to find? - In Luke 15, Jesus tells stories of lost items of increasingly greater value. Does the order matter for the listener? Why? - In what ways might we desire the gifts of God without a connection to the Giver? - The younger son's restoration moved forward with his decision that he was worth more than what he had become. Why is that such an important step? - The robe and accessories were marks of being a part of a family. Do we have anything that marks us as part of a family today? Explain. - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Bultemeier Sunday, September 6, 2020 Romans 7:15-25 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. Death always follows close behind sin. II. It's not our DO, it's our WHO. III. We have a new self. Not just trying harder, but to live out what is already true of you.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - In your life right now, do you identify more with a caterpillar, chrysalis, or butterfly? Why? - Romans 5:18-19 describes how the sin of one man infected us all. What does it describe as God's solution? - How does the life of Jesus disprove the notion that if we just do good things, then good things will happen to us? - Why is "Who will rescue me?" a good question to ask when we're struggling? - Where are you most tempted to believe the lie that God wants you to perform for Him? - What is one aspect in your life where Jesus is putting an arm around you and saying, "Let's work on that together?" - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, August 30, 2020 Luke 11:37-44 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Jesus will break human traditions for the sake of the lesson. II. Just because we look polished doesn't mean we're clean. III. Obedience is complete when it's also in our hearts. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Are you a paper plate, everyday dish, or fine china sort of person? Describe why. - What was the importance of the tradition Jesus broke? What was the importance of breaking it? - In Matthew 23:27, Jesus also refers to the religious hypocrites as “whitewashed tombs.” Where do you see  Jesus still directing the church away from a focus on outward appearances? - Jesus spoke about the sorrows that await the Pharisees. Why were the professionally religious and religious hypocrites facing sorrow? - If Jesus were describing your “cup and dish,” how might He describe it? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, August 23, 2020 Luke 9:10-17 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. Hungry and hurt people will find where folks get fed and healed. II. Following Jesus means He'll put more than food on your plate. III. Jesus is in the business of multiplication. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What's the biggest crowd you've been a part of? What was the event / occasion? - In several of the Gospels, we learn Jesus' friend and cousin John was executed right before this event. What do you think Jesus was feeling when He didn't get the quiet time away? How might that be a part of His response to His disciples? - Could Jesus have simply created enough food out of nothing? What was the significance of first finding out what food was available?  - Jesus placed people in groups larger than their families, but small enough to form communities. Where else do you get to experience that kind of expanding connection around a table? - Where do you see God trusting you with more responsibility right now? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, August 16, 2020 Luke 14:15-24 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES I. The invitation is about God's generosity, not our deserving. II. Our excuses don't excuse as well as we hope they do. III. We get to choose our part in this banquet parable. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Complete this sentence: At an all you-can-eat buffet, you'll find me rushing for the: 1) entrees, 2) salad bar, 3) desserts, 4) exit. - This parable is Jesus' effort to correct some bad behavior He's witnessing at a dinner part where He is an honored guest. What types of unhelpful posturing can you identify in Luke 14:1-14? - The master in this parable gives no specific occasion for the feast he's hosting. Would it matter to the guests if it were for a specific reason? Should it matter? - What are some ways we try to excuse ourselves from accepting the Lord's invitation today? Are these acceptable excuses? - What's one way you can be more like the servant of the parable this week? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, August 9, 2020 Genesis 18:1-15 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC SERMON NOTES  I. You never know when God is going to stop by (but God may just stop by) II. Which comes first: The presence of God, or the willingness to show radical hospitality? III. Blessing God can open new doors for God to bless our lives. FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Tell about a time when you've been surprised by a guest or guests and you've had to scramble up some hospitality. - Abraham gave greater hospitality than what he described to his guests. Why would he overdeliver on his offer? - How do you think Abraham knew that the visiting strangers were his Lord? - Do you believe it is always easy to recognize when the stranger among us is God paying us a visit? How can you tell? - Where are you likely to encounter Christ in the face of a stranger or guest this week? How can you show remarkable hospitality? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?

by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, August 2, 2020 Luke 22:7-27 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - What is the best service you've ever received at a restaurant? The worst? - In this event, Jesus reinterprets the sacred Jewish tradition of Passover. Is reinterpretation of traditions something Jesus did, or something Jesus still does? - There are several references to Jesus breaking bread and sharing it in scripture. Why do you think He identified with that act? - Describe a time when you found it difficult to serve someone else (and you don't have to name names). - What will you do this week to honor someone through a Christ-like service? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?