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.

Planting Seeds for Growth - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we explore the parable of the sower from Mark 4:26-34, focusing on the theme of 'planting seeds for growth.' Just as a farmer scatters seeds without fully understanding how they grow, we're called to faithfully plant spiritual seeds in our lives and the lives of others. The kingdom of God is compared to this process, emphasizing that growth often happens in ways we can't see or control. We're reminded that our role is to plant and nurture, while trusting God with the results. This parable encourages us to persevere in our faith and service, even when we don't immediately see the fruits of our labor. It's a call to patience, hope, and trust in God's timing and power to bring about growth and transformation in unexpected ways.

Inside Out Jesus - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

This powerful message challenges us to embrace an 'inside out' faith that turns the world's values upside down. Just as Jesus defied social norms and expectations, we are called to live counter-culturally - loving our enemies, storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, and finding true family among fellow disciples. The story of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and facing accusations of being possessed by demons illustrates how walking in God's will often provokes resistance from those invested in the status quo. Yet Jesus responds with wisdom and authority, inviting us to a radical new understanding of God's Kingdom that cannot be divided or defeated. As we align our lives with Christ and his upside-down Kingdom, we experience transformation from the inside out.

Loving the New Normal - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

The key message is that our true worth comes from what's inside us - the grace of God - not external things like credentials, abilities or status. Just as clay jars held valuable contents despite plain exteriors, we have spiritual treasures within our earthly bodies. The apostle Paul faced criticism and hardships, but relied on God's power, not his own, to persevere. Troubles and afflictions in this life are temporary; by holding fast to our eternal hope in Christ, we can endure and move forward in faith. This inspiring message reminds us to focus on the eternal over the temporary, and find our identity in God's love for us.

Avoiding a False Front - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

This powerful message explores the struggle between living according to the flesh versus living by the Spirit. We are reminded that while the flesh is concerned with worldly success and keeping up appearances, this ultimately leads to burnout, anxiety and spiritual emptiness. The key is developing intimacy with God the Father and being led by the Holy Spirit. By investing time in our relationship with God and allowing Him to fill us, we gain access to an eternal inheritance as God's children. The passage from Romans 8 emphasizes that we are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ when we are adopted into God's family. This gives us confidence and comfort, knowing we belong and have a close relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Ultimately, living by the Spirit frees us from putting on a false front, allowing us to experience real, fulfilling relationships with God and others in the family of faith.

How to Spell Church - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

This powerful message explores the birth of the church at Pentecost, reminding us that the essence of the church is not a building, but a community of believers called to love God and neighbor. Through the acronym C.H.U.R.C.H., we are encouraged to embody grace (charis), hope, health, unity, radical love, compassion, and hospitality. The sermon emphasizes that despite our differences and imperfections, we are united by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to overcome challenges, heal relationships, and extend God's love to all. As we reflect on the transformative power of the Spirit in the life of Peter and the early disciples, we are inspired to allow the Spirit to work in and through us, enabling us to love, serve, and witness in ways we never thought possible.

A Mother's Orders - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

The wedding at Cana, as described in John 2:1-11, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of obedience and faith in our spiritual journey. Just as Mary instructed the servants to follow Jesus' orders, we too must heed His guidance in our lives. The transformation of water into wine symbolizes the miraculous power of God to bring about change and renewal, even in the most unexpected circumstances. This story encourages us to trust in God's plan and timing, knowing that He can take our humble offerings and transform them into something extraordinary. As we walk in obedience and faith, we open ourselves up to experiencing the glory of God in new and profound ways.