Restoration - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we delve into the profound concept of restoration through the lens of Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones. This striking biblical imagery from Ezekiel 37:1-14 serves as a potent metaphor for God's ability to breathe new life into seemingly hopeless situations. We're reminded that no matter how 'dry' or dire our circumstances may appear, God has the power to restore and revive. The message challenges us to consider: what areas of our lives do we view as beyond hope? Where have we given up? Just as God commanded Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, we're urged to take action in our own lives, to participate in our own restoration. This sermon beautifully intertwines personal anecdotes about restoration with the biblical narrative, making the ancient text come alive for our modern context. It's a call to faith, hope, and active participation in God's restorative work in our lives and communities.

Look Busy - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to examine the authenticity of our worship and faith. The prophet Isaiah's words to ancient Israel resonate deeply with us today, reminding us that God desires more than just ritualistic observance. We're called to stop merely 'looking busy' in our faith and start truly living it out. The key scripture, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, paints a vivid picture of God's dissatisfaction with empty rituals and His longing for genuine righteousness. This passage invites us to reflect on our own spiritual practices: Are we simply going through the motions, or are we truly seeking to align our hearts with God's will? The message emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through action – by stopping evil, learning to do good, seeking justice, and defending the oppressed. It's a powerful reminder that our faith should transform not just our Sunday mornings, but every aspect of our lives.

Alive in Christ - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful exploration of Colossians 3:1-11, we're reminded of what it truly means to be alive in Christ. The passage challenges us to set our hearts and minds on things above, not on earthly matters. This isn't just about positive thinking; it's about a fundamental shift in our spiritual focus. We're called to 'put to death' our earthly nature and instead clothe ourselves with a new self that reflects Christ's image. This transformation isn't just personal—it breaks down the barriers that divide us, whether cultural, social, or religious. As believers, we're invited to see beyond these worldly distinctions and recognize that 'Christ is all, and is in all.' This message speaks directly to our daily struggles and reminds us that our deepest longings can only truly be satisfied in Christ. It's a call to examine where we place our affections and to courageously shed the old self in favor of a life hidden with Christ in God.

The Happiest Place on Earth - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful exploration of prayer, we delve into Luke 11:1-13, where Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. The message reveals that the happiest place on earth isn't a physical location, but rather in constant communication with God. We learn that religious and spiritual activities bring the most joy and meaning to people's lives. The Lord's Prayer is presented not just as a recitation, but as a model for how we should approach God. It encompasses intimate praise, aligning with God's will, making requests, seeking forgiveness, and asking for protection. We're encouraged to pray boldly, with 'shameless audacity,' trusting in God's promises. This message challenges us to deepen our prayer life, reminding us that we have a Father in heaven who loves us and is eager to give good gifts to His children.

Jesus and Galactus - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're invited to explore the cosmic significance of Christ as revealed in Colossians 1:15-28. The scripture paints a breathtaking picture of Jesus as the 'image of the invisible God' and the 'firstborn over all creation.' This isn't just abstract theology, it's a profound truth that can anchor us when our world feels like it's falling apart. Just as the Colossian church faced persecution and uncertainty, we too encounter moments when everything we thought was stable suddenly vanishes. But the message reminds us that Christ, who was there at the beginning of creation, holds all things together. He's not just willing to help us in our struggles, but supremely qualified to do so. This cosmic Christ is also intimately concerned with our daily lives, offering reconciliation and hope. As we face our own 'Galactus' moments, those overwhelming forces that threaten to devour our world, we're encouraged to turn to the One who has ultimate power over all creation.

Take Me to the River - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful exploration of 2 Kings 5:1-14, we delve into the story of Naaman's healing from leprosy. This narrative teaches us that help can come from unexpected places, reminding us to remain open to God's guidance through unlikely sources. We're challenged to consider how often we might overlook divine assistance simply because it doesn't fit our preconceptions. The sermon emphasizes that God doesn't abandon us in times of tragedy, offering hope and comfort to those facing difficult circumstances. Perhaps most strikingly, we're encouraged to embrace simple, consistent actions in our faith journey. Just as Naaman was instructed to wash in the Jordan seven times, we too might find transformation through seemingly mundane acts of obedience and faith. This message invites us to reflect on where we might be overlooking God's simple solutions in our own lives, urging us to trust in His methods, even when they seem too ordinary to be effective.

Should I Stay or Should I Go? - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In our reflection on 1 Kings 19, we delve into the story of Elijah and Elisha, exploring the profound spiritual lessons that resonate with our faith journey today. This passage, rich in commissioning, correction, and selection, invites us to consider the voice of God in our own lives. Elijah, feeling isolated and overwhelmed, learns he is not alone—a reminder that God has insightful plans and support for us, often unseen. Through Elijah's commissioning to anoint new leaders and a successor, we recognize God's call for renewal and the significance of mentorship and leadership succession. Elisha's selection and decision to follow Elijah after receiving his cloak symbolize total commitment to God's calling, urging us to ask ourselves, ‘Should I stay or should I go?’ It's a decision requiring discernment and faith, prompting us to evaluate our willingness to embrace God's unpredictably leading paths. Like Elisha, we may find ourselves leaving comfort zones or sacrificing for a higher calling, trusting that God equips us for these journeys.