Once, but Now - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we explore the transformative journey from 'once' to 'now' in our spiritual lives. The passage from Ephesians 2:11-22 reminds us that we were once far from God, but through Christ's sacrifice, we've been brought near. This shift from alienation to inclusion is not just personal, but communal. We're called to remember our own 'once' state to cultivate empathy and unity, especially towards those we might consider 'strangers' or 'foreigners'. The message challenges us to examine how we treat immigrants, the marginalized, and those different from us, reminding us that we are all products of God's grace. It's a call to break down barriers, just as Christ broke the wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles, and to recognize our shared identity as God's people.

Curating Christianity - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this profound exploration of Ephesians 1:3-14, we're invited to reflect on the concept of 'curating Christianity.' Just as a museum curator carefully preserves and presents valuable artifacts, we're called to nurture and share our faith. The passage reminds us that we are chosen by God, adopted as His children, and redeemed through Christ's sacrifice. This powerful message challenges us to deepen our understanding of our faith, so we can effectively educate others about Jesus. We're encouraged to preserve the essence of Christianity by actively maintaining our spiritual 'buildings' - our hearts and communities. By interpreting our faith for others in today's increasingly secular world, we play a crucial role in spreading God's love and grace.

Unforced Errors- Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we explore Psalm 130 and the concept of 'unforced errors' in our spiritual lives. Just as athletes make mistakes that aren't caused by their opponents, we too stumble in our faith journey. The psalmist's cry 'out of the depths' resonates with our own moments of despair and failure. We're reminded that in our darkest hours, when we feel we've made irreparable mistakes, we can still cry out to God. His forgiveness is assured, not because we deserve it, but because of His unfailing love. This psalm teaches us to wait on the Lord with hope, understanding that His timing isn't always ours, but His redemption is certain. It's a beautiful reminder that no matter how deep our pit, God's love and forgiveness reach deeper still.

It Isn't What It Is - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're reminded that life's challenges are not simply 'what they are.' Drawing from 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, we learn that as followers of Christ, we're called to endure hardships with grace and purpose. The Apostle Paul's experiences teach us that even in the face of beatings, imprisonment, and constant adversity, we can find strength and joy in our faith. We're encouraged to see beyond our immediate circumstances, recognizing that our struggles can be transformative. The key takeaway is that we shouldn't resign ourselves to difficult situations, but instead view them as opportunities for growth and service to God. This perspective shift from 'it is what it is' to 'it isn't what it is' empowers us to face life's trials with hope and determination.