Uncommon Favor - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Have you ever felt a surge of success that seemed to come from nowhere? This episode explores the phenomenon of 'uncommon favor', a blend of skill, opportunity, and perhaps a touch of the divine, that elevates our achievements beyond our understanding. We open with an inspiring look at Psalm 4, drawing parallels between the peace King David finds in God's care and the modern-day victories that leave us in awe. Through the lens of faith, we discuss how preparation meets providence, and how ecclesiastical wisdom guides us to recognize and appreciate the blessings that weave through our lives.

The story of Coach Staley and her University of South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team is nothing short of miraculous. Achieving a perfect season and a national championship, Staley's humility shines through as she credits 'uncommon favor' for her triumphs, a sentiment that harkens back to the humility of biblical figures like King David. As we celebrate her accomplishments, we delve into the essence of grace, perseverance, and the undeniable role of faith in overcoming life's hurdles. It's a heartening reminder that even in the fiercely competitive world of sports, acknowledging a higher power is both grounding and empowering.

Wrapping up, we turn inward to the sanctuary of solitude and the joy that a deep-seated faith can bring. When the world seems to turn against us, the tranquility that faith offers is a balm for the soul, much like David found contentment in his trust in God. Our discussion invites you to join in this spiritual journey, finding your own peace amidst chaos and connecting with a community that shares your quest for serenity. Tune in and let the conversation inspire you to find your own uncommon favor and the tranquility that comes with it.

Model Children of God - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Listen in as we explore the inspiring account of the early Christian community in Acts 4:32-35, discussing how their example of unity and sharing parallels with the modern-day church's response to societal upheavals, such as the aftermath of George Floyd's death and the COVID-19 pandemic. I reflect on how churches across denominations, including the United Methodist Church, are navigating the new reality and re-engaging their congregations. We also delve into the practicalities and spiritual responsibilities of the church, examining how the foundational principles of the early church can inform our identity and practices today.

Join me as we ponder the critical role of sharing God's grace and love within our communities. Drawing on the contrast between the bustling life of the Houston metropolitan area and church attendance, we discuss the importance of outreach and creating authentic fellowship. The episode highlights the early apostles' boldness in faith and challenges the church to make a meaningful impact. I extend an invitation to know Christ and experience the transformative power of His forgiveness, wrapping up with a prayerful blessing and a call to engage with the conversation across social media platforms.

The Skiplagging Savior - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Listen in as we explore the profound moments of the resurrection narrative through the eyes of Mary Magdalene, whose encounter with the risen Christ remains a cornerstone of faith and an example of divine revelation. I'll share insights from John 20:1-18, contemplating the transformation that occurs when Mary recognizes Jesus and the weight of her mission to spread the news of His return. The discussion then shifts to the practicalities of life's journey, where I recount personal travel experiences and introduce the concept of skip-lagging—a savvy approach to flying that can save you a penny, drawing parallels to the indirect yet intentional paths we take in our spiritual lives.

Venture with us through a candid conversation about the misunderstood figure of Mary Magdalene, dispelling long-held myths and reaffirming her true role as a faithful disciple. I'll also humorously note the subtleties in John's Gospel and the strictures of Roman law that underscore the gravity of the resurrection event. The narrative continues as we consider the contrasting responses of Peter and John to the empty tomb, which opens a wider reflection on acceptance and diversity within the spiritual community. Wrapping up, we examine the psychological arguments surrounding the disciples' encounters with Jesus post-resurrection and the profound message of reconciliation that emerges from the story, emphasizing the enduring power of forgiveness and the embrace of grace.

A King's Entrance - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Sermon Summary:

The sermon opens with a reading from the Gospel of John, chapter 12, verses 12-16, which describes Jesus' entry into Jerusalem amid palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna." The preacher shares personal reflections on the cultural significance of parades, despite a personal disinterest in attending them, and connects this to the historical and biblical significance of Jesus' procession as recognized across all four Gospels.

The sermon then transitions to discuss the understanding of prophecy in the Bible, focusing on how the disciples' understanding of Jesus' words and actions, such as his prediction of the temple's destruction, only fully dawned on them after his resurrection. This leads to an exploration of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the life of Jesus and an invitation for listeners to reflect on the transformative power of Jesus' life and resurrection.

Key Points and Stories:

- Jesus' entry into Jerusalem is celebrated with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," a moment of triumph echoed in the parades of modern celebrations.

- The sermon recounts personal experiences with parades linked to fraternal and political involvement and compares this to Jesus' triumphant entry.

- The historical context of parades is examined, including their presence in biblical times and the Roman tradition of celebratory processions for victorious battles.

- The concept of a "king's entrance" is discussed, with Jesus' entry seen as a humble yet kingly procession fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9-10.

- Prophecy in the Bible is analyzed, with a focus on the disciples' progressive realization of Jesus' teachings and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies.

Scripture Reference:

- Gospel of John, chapter 12, verses 12-16, is read to set the stage for the sermon.

- Prophecies from Zechariah 9:9-10 and Psalm 118 are discussed in relation to Jesus' entry and the people's response of "Hosanna."

- The preacher emphasizes the Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

In conclusion, the sermon offers a prayer for salvation and encourages listeners to embrace faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the journey of faith as a transformative and accessible path.

Coming Out Clean - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Sermon Summary:

The sermon delves into the themes of sin, repentance, and the quest for spiritual cleanliness as presented in Psalm 51. The message discusses the narrative of King David, his moral failings with Bathsheba, and the subsequent consequences of his actions. It highlights David's profound recognition of his wrongdoings and his earnest plea for God's forgiveness and mercy. Through the use of personal anecdotes and biblical insights, the sermon invites listeners to reflect on their own journey from guilt to grace and the importance of genuine confession and transformation in one's spiritual life.

Key Points:

1. King David's plea in Psalm 51 serves as a timeless example of seeking divine mercy and striving for spiritual purity.

2. Personal experiences and upbringing shape our understanding of cleanliness, both physically and spiritually.

3. David's acknowledgment of his sins against God illustrates the necessity of owning one's mistakes as a pathway to redemption.

4. The use of hyssop in purification rituals symbolizes the contemporary pursuit of spiritual renewal.

5. The sermon extends an invitation to embrace discipleship and the profound changes it can bring, encouraging listeners to find faith and community.

6. A closing prayer expresses hope for the message to guide and support those on their spiritual journey.

Scripture Reference:

The sermon centers around Psalm 51, where David seeks God's mercy and cleansing from his iniquity. Verses 1 through 12 of Psalm 51 are emphasized, detailing David's request for a clean heart and a steadfast spirit, and his commitment to turning away from sin.

Stories:

1. The story of King David, Bathsheba, and Uriah, highlighting David's transgressions and his path to redemption.

2. Personal reflections on the importance of cleanliness and the triggers that remind us of our upbringing and the need for purity in our lives.

3. An account of how David's lineage, despite his failings, leads to the birth of Jesus, demonstrating the redemptive power of God's grace.

The sermon is a call to consider the profound impact of embracing spiritual renewal and the grace offered by God to all who seek forgiveness and transformation.

God's Guiding System - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Sermon Summary:

The sermon invites listeners to explore the Gospel of John as a compass for God's profound love and the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Drawing parallels between historical navigation and spiritual journey, the sermon connects the speaker's personal experience post-Hurricane Ike with the guidance offered by the scriptures. It emphasizes the sanctuary found in Jesus during trials, the quietude of prayer, and the rejection of prejudice through faith. The sermon concludes with a call to join the church community, celebrating the open doors of the church for two millennia.

Key Points:

- The Gospel of John serves as a spiritual guiding system, paralleled with historical navigation techniques like cornrows and portolan charts.

- God's love is highlighted through John 3:16, offering eternal life through belief in Jesus Christ.

- The importance of trusting Jesus with personal struggles is emphasized, valuing confidentiality over the exposure of social media or gossip.

- The sermon confronts the misuse of faith to justify prejudice, advocating for the inclusive love of God.

- A call to embrace faith and connect with the church community is extended, underscoring the church's enduring welcome.

Stories:

- My experience as a disaster housing inspector after Hurricane Ike, learning to navigate with a key map, drawing an analogy to finding spiritual direction.

- The use of cornrows as maps during slavery and portolan charts by Mediterranean sailors illustrates the necessity of reliable guidance through life's challenges.

- The conversation with Nicodemus in John 3 is referenced, where Nicodemus seeks Jesus at night, seeking clarity and understanding.

Scripture References:

- John 3:14-21, which speaks of God's love for the world and the salvation offered through Jesus.

- John 3:16 specifically is underscored as a central verse, encapsulating the promise of God's universal love and salvation.

The Problem of Ups & Downs - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In the sermon titled I delve into the complexities of Christian discipleship, emphasizing the gritty reality of following Christ. Drawing from the Gospel of Mark, chapter 8, verses 27-38, the sermon explores Jesus' conversation with His disciples, focusing on Peter's recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and Jesus' teachings on the necessity of self-denial and bearing one's cross.

I share personal anecdotes to illustrate the theme of life's unpredictable ups and downs, advocating for maintaining a steady faith through all situations. The message encourages finding contentment and trusting in God's plan, regardless of the circumstances.

Furthermore, the sermon contrasts the theology of glory, which aligns with human desires for an easy and victorious life, with the theology of the cross, which presents a challenging reality that includes self-denial and sacrifice. It invites listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths of discipleship and to embrace trials as part of their spiritual growth.

Key points include the necessity of self-denial, the importance of carrying one's cross, and the understanding that faith can endure life's stormiest seas. The sermon calls for courageous trust in God's grand design and offers a reflective prayer for those navigating the rugged road of faith.

Scripture plays a central role in the sermon from the New International Version of the Bible and interprets Jesus' dialogue with His disciples. The focus is on Jesus' foretelling of His suffering and resurrection, Peter's rebuke, and Jesus' call for His followers to deny themselves and take up their cross.

The sermon concludes with an invitation to discipleship and a call to action for listeners to find a church home and to know Christ Jesus in the pardoning of their sins. The preacher emphasizes that this decision is the most lasting and important one can make, inviting listeners to embrace the journey of faith with Jesus as their guide.

Why We Sing Sad Songs - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Key Points and Scripture Reference:

- The sermon discusses the comforting power of Psalm 25, highlighting its themes of trust in God, guidance, and forgiveness.

- Personal anecdotes to demonstrate how individual backgrounds shape our expressions of faith and our responses to life's sorrows.

- The consoling nature of melancholic music is explored, with examples like the Swanee Quintet's "Ain't it Sweet?" and Jay-Z's "Song Cry" showing how sad songs can offer companionship and catharsis.

- Joshua Knob's insights on experimental philosophy and psychology are discussed, explaining why sad music can have a positive impact on our emotions.

- The sermon draws parallels between the acrostic prayer of Psalm 25 and the emotional release provided by sad songs, both offering a space for comfort in times of distress.

- The importance of seeking forgiveness and renewal in God is underscored through the biblical story of David and his complex character, emphasizing God's steadfast love and mercy.

- The sermon concludes with an invitation to connect with the church community online and an affirmation of the unity found in shared stories of faith and hope.

Stories:

- Midwest roots and the rich diversity of experiences that contribute to one's faith journey.

- The significance of sad songs in times of grief, particularly within Pastor Simpson's family during funerals.

- A personal anecdote about seeking the right information from the right person at the right time, illustrated by a story of waiting in line for ice cream at a convention.

- The biblical story of David, reflecting on his need for God's guidance, protection, and forgiveness, and the personal application of seeking God's pardon.

Sermon Summary:

In this sermon, I delve into the spiritual solace found in both Scripture and sad songs, weaving together the tapestry of trust in God with the comfort found in expressing sorrow through music. I invite us to explore the emotional release and hope offered by these two mediums, encouraging us to embrace faith and forgiveness as we navigate life's challenges. Through personal stories and scriptural insights, I extend an open-hearted invitation to join a church family and discover the unity and strength that come from shared experiences of faith and hope.

Visible Mending - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Title: Visible Mending 

Sermon Summary:

The sermon explores the concept of visible mending as a metaphor for life's trials and our journey of faith. It draws a parallel between the ancient narrative of Elijah's ascension and Elisha inheriting his prophetic spirit to our personal experiences of growth and expression. The act of visible mending, once a source of shame, has transformed into an act of creativity and expression, paralleling how we can view our own life's repairs as celebrations of healing. The sermon emphasizes the importance of succession, mentorship, and personal growth, especially in the context of faith communities.

Key Points:

1. Visible mending as a metaphor for life's healing and the celebration of our growth.

2. The biblical story of Elijah's ascension and the passing of his mantle to Elisha, signifying succession and the weight of legacy.

3. The cultural shift from shame to pride in visible repairs, both in fashion and in personal scars.

4. The importance of embracing individuality when stepping into roles of leadership or succession.

5. Encouragement to engage in action and faith as a means to experience transformation and witness miracles.

Stories:

- The personal anecdote of learning to sew and mend, which connects to the cultural shift in attitudes toward mending.

- The inspiring story of a Canadian fiber artist who practices visible mending as a way to honor her journey and reject the shame once associated with repaired clothing.

Scripture Reference:

The sermon references 2 Kings chapter two, verses one through twelve, which recounts the moment when Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind and Elisha inherits a double portion of his spirit. This scripture passage provides a foundation for the sermon's message about legacy, succession, and the strength drawn from faith in the face of loss.

God-Smacked - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In the sermon "God Smacked" we delve into the emotional and spiritual struggles that come with life's darkest moments, offering insights from Isaiah 40 to guide listeners towards finding hope and strength.

Key Points of the Sermon:

1. The human experience of suffering and questioning God's role during hardships is a central theme.

2. Drawing from the Israelites' exile, the sermon explores the historical context of despair and God's message of comfort and support.

3. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of waiting on God's grace and the renewal it brings to those who have faith.

4. It encourages listeners to find solace in the transient nature of life's storms and the eternal promise of God's word.

5. The speaker invites the audience to connect with the church and Christ, emphasizing the church's open doors and the importance of community in challenging times.

Stories and Anecdotes:

- Personal experiences of loss and frustration, connecting with the audience on a deeper emotional level.

- There is a poignant story of a 38-year-old woman who passed away, leaving behind her children, including a 14-year-old who had to take on adult responsibilities.

Scripture Reference:

The scripture passage from Isaiah 40:21-31 (New King James Version) is central to the sermon, providing the foundation for the message of hope and divine support.

Summary of the Sermon's Message:

The sermon encourages listeners to find hope and strength through faith during life's most challenging times. It highlights the importance of remembering God's eternal word and waiting on His grace, while also fostering a sense of community and support within the church. Through the wisdom of Isaiah 40, the sermon offers a pathway to overcoming despair and rediscovering hope amidst personal and global crises.

A Divine Recipe - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Navigating Diet and Devotion through 1 Corinthians 8

Sermon Summary:

The sermon delves into the spiritual and ethical considerations surrounding dietary choices as reflected in 1 Corinthians 8. It explores the tension between personal freedoms and the impact of those choices on the faith of others within the Christian community. The preacher shares personal anecdotes about his own food preferences, including his aversion to guacamole and mango, and family stories that illustrate the theme of being mindful of others' sensitivities.

Key Points:

- The importance of love over knowledge when it comes to Christian liberty and the conscience of weaker brethren is emphasized, with a reminder that our actions can affect the spiritual well-being of others.

- Historical context is provided regarding the practice of eating meat offered to idols in ancient temples, highlighting the economic and religious complexities faced by early Christians.

- Modern-day parallels are drawn to show how contemporary church communities still grapple with similar issues of faith versus food and cultural diversity.

- The sermon concludes with a prayer for guidance and understanding, encouraging the congregation to engage in further dialogue about these teachings through social media.

Scripture Reference:

1 Corinthians 8 is the central biblical text, examining the dilemma faced by early Christians regarding the consumption of food sacrificed to idols and the apostle Paul's guidance on exercising freedom with consideration for the faith of others.

Stories Shared:

- My personal food choices and his family's humorous food-related habits, such as his mother's daily watermelon consumption.

- A disagreement in a home economics class over the proper amount of sugar in Kool-Aid.

- Debates within the church community about various practices and observances, underscoring the enduring nature of such discussions.

In conclusion, the sermon invites listeners to reflect on their dietary decisions and other actions in the context of their faith and community, encouraging them to practice love and consideration for the benefit of all.

Hooked on a Word - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Answering the Call: Discipleship and Evangelism in the Gospel of Mark

Sermon Summary:

This sermon dives into the transformative moment when Jesus calls his first disciples by the Sea of Galilee as narrated in the Gospel of Mark. It underscores the urgency and the total commitment required in responding to Jesus's summons. Drawing parallels with personal fishing stories, the sermon encourages listeners to examine their spiritual readiness to follow Jesus. It delves into the clear, immediate narrative style of Mark's Gospel and the shift from the negative Old Testament connotations of fishing to the New Testament's portrayal of fishing for people as an act of love and spreading the Gospel. The concept of the kingdom of God being at hand is discussed, emphasizing the present and future aspects of God's kingdom and the significance of repentance in the Christian faith, particularly within the United Methodist Church. The sermon also examines the radical life change of the disciples as they leave their nets for the Gospel, challenging listeners to embrace active evangelism and to foster a welcoming environment for new congregants. It concludes with a call to deeper commitment to the church community and to the eternal impact of such a decision.

Key Points:

- The importance of immediate response to Jesus's call to discipleship is emphasized, with personal readiness and commitment as central themes.

- The Gospel of Mark is recognized for its direct and succinct storytelling, contrasting it with the other Gospels and highlighting its unique perspective.

- The sermon explores the symbolism of 'fishing for people' and the positive New Testament transformation of this metaphor to represent loving outreach.

- The theology surrounding the kingdom of God is unraveled, touching on its immediacy and future fulfillment, and the connection between repentance and forgiveness.

- The life-changing decision of the disciples to leave their livelihoods for Jesus is highlighted as an example for personal evangelism and church hospitality today.

- The sermon encourages a commitment to the church family and the significance of joining a community of believers.

Scripture Reference:

The sermon centers around the passage in the Gospel of Mark, chapter 1, verses 14 through 20, where Jesus calls Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew to become "fishers of men," and their immediate decision to follow Him, leaving behind their nets and their old lives.