In this powerful message, we delve into Ephesians 4:25-5:2, exploring how we can live as true followers of Christ. The central theme revolves around 'No Room for the Enemy,' emphasizing the importance of not giving Satan a foothold in our lives. We're challenged to change our minds, our mouths, and our moves. By renewing our thoughts, speaking truth and encouragement, and imitating God's actions, we can resist temptation and grow in our faith. The message reminds us that our journey in Christ is ongoing, likening sanctifying grace to doing laundry - a continuous process of growth and renewal. We're encouraged to forgive others as Christ forgave us, and to make sacrifices in love, just as Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us.
Christ follower, Husband, Father, Ordained Elder in the Texas Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Monday, August 19, 2024
Monday, August 12, 2024
Jesus' Miracle Diet - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.
In this powerful message, we're invited to explore the profound concept of Jesus as the 'Bread of Life'. The scripture from John 6:24-35 recounts Jesus' interaction with the crowd after the miraculous feeding of the 5,000. We're challenged to examine our motives in seeking Jesus - are we following Him for material gain or for spiritual nourishment? The sermon beautifully contrasts physical hunger with spiritual hunger, reminding us that while earthly food perishes, Jesus offers eternal sustenance for our souls. We're encouraged to believe in Him not just for what He can do for us, but for who He is. This message calls us to look beyond our immediate needs and trust in God's provision, both physical and spiritual, just as He provided manna for the Israelites in the wilderness.
Monday, August 5, 2024
Thalassophobia - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.
In this powerful message, we explore the concept of thalassophobia - the fear of water - and how it relates to our spiritual journey. The story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and walking on water from John 6:1-21 serves as a profound illustration of God's provision and power over our deepest fears. We're reminded that just as Jesus took a little boy's lunch and multiplied it to feed thousands, He can take our small offerings and turn them into something extraordinary. This encourages us to trust God with what little we have, allowing Him to work miracles in our lives.
Monday, July 29, 2024
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.
Monday, July 22, 2024
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.
Monday, July 8, 2024
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.
Monday, July 1, 2024
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.
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