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.