Trinity Sunday - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

Today, we delve into the profound mystery of the Trinity, exploring John 16:12-15. This passage illuminates the intricate relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, offering us a glimpse into the divine nature of God. As we grapple with this complex concept, we're reminded that the Holy Spirit serves as our guide, leading us into all truth. This spiritual guide doesn't speak on its own but conveys the words of the Father and Son, highlighting the unity within the Trinity. We're challenged to listen for the Spirit's guidance in our daily lives, discerning when to speak, when to remain silent, and how to navigate life's journey. This message encourages us to trust in the Spirit's leading, knowing that it connects us directly to the wisdom and love of God. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we can be more attuned to the Spirit's guidance in our own lives, allowing it to shape our actions and decisions.

The Answer to Doom and Gloom - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In Romans 8:14-17, we discover a powerful antidote to the doom and gloom that often plagues our lives. This passage reminds us of our divine adoption, emphasizing that we are children of God and heirs to His kingdom. As we face life's challenges, from personal struggles to global crises, we're encouraged to remember our true identity in Christ. Instead of succumbing to destructive coping mechanisms like 'doom scrolling' or stress spending, we're called to lean into our relationship with our Heavenly Father. This intimate connection provides us with comfort, confidence, and the assurance that our present sufferings will give way to future glory. By embracing our status as God's children, we gain a new perspective on life's hardships and find the strength to persevere through faith.

The Reward for Waiting - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the challenge and reward of waiting on the Lord. Drawing from Revelation 22, we explore the promise of Christ's return and how we should prepare ourselves. The key spiritual lessons revolve around three actions: watch, wash, and worship. We're encouraged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, not on our immediate circumstances. This watchfulness helps us maintain perspective and reduces stress. The imagery of washing our robes in the blood of the Lamb emphasizes the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice, freeing us from sin's penalty and power. Lastly, we're called to worship, recognizing Jesus as the Alpha and Omega, worthy of our praise even in difficult times. This message speaks directly to our impatience and struggles, offering hope and practical steps to strengthen our faith as we await our ultimate reward in Christ.

Beyond the Stained Glass - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to look 'Beyond the Stained Glass' and reconsider our approach to faith and community. The story of Paul's journey to Macedonia in Acts 16:9-15 serves as a springboard for examining how we welcome outsiders into our spiritual circles. We're reminded that the early church grew not through adherence to tradition, but through openness to divine guidance and willingness to embrace unlikely converts. The account of Lydia, a successful businesswoman and 'worshiper of God,' illustrates how the Holy Spirit can work through unexpected individuals to build vibrant faith communities. This narrative encourages us to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the image of God in every person we encounter. As we reflect on our own faith journeys, we're called to consider: Who are the 'Lydias' in our lives? How can we extend genuine hospitality and create spaces where all feel welcome to explore their spirituality?

New City Planning - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful exploration of Revelation 21:1-6, we're invited to contemplate the profound concept of a 'new city' - both in our earthly lives and in God's eternal plan. The scripture paints a vivid picture of a new heaven and earth, where God dwells among His people, wiping away every tear and ending all suffering. This vision isn't just about the future; it's a call for us to be 'new city planners' in our present lives. Just as we struggle with the complexities of urban development, balancing desires for amenities against the realities of cost and change, we're challenged to build our spiritual lives with similar thoughtfulness. The message reminds us that everything good often lies on the other side of difficulty, urging us to persevere in our faith journey. It's a poignant reminder that while we may face trials now, God promises a future where all things are made new, and His presence is fully realized among us.

A Mother's Comfort - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of God's comforting presence, even in our darkest moments. Drawing from Isaiah 66:12-13, we explore the beautiful imagery of God as a mother comforting her child. This unexpected portrayal challenges our traditional views and expands our understanding of God's nurturing nature. The sermon emphasizes three key aspects of divine comfort: peace in the midst of chaos, personal solace, and communal support. Just as a mother's assurance brings instant relief, God's promise of peace can transform our perspective, even when our circumstances haven't changed. We're encouraged to seek God's comfort not just in good times, but especially when facing ruins in our lives, trusting that He is our provider, healer, and source of peace.

Empty Net Syndrome - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.

In this powerful exploration of John 21:1-19, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and perseverance. The story of Jesus' appearance by the Sea of Tiberias teaches us about dealing with 'empty net syndrome' - those times when our efforts seem fruitless. Just as the disciples fished all night without success, we too face moments of apparent failure. However, the message encourages us to embrace the 'nevertheless' mindset, to keep trying even when things seem hopeless. Jesus' instruction to cast the net on the right side of the boat symbolizes the importance of being open to new approaches in our spiritual lives. This narrative beautifully illustrates how Christ meets us in our everyday struggles, offering guidance and abundance when we least expect it. The story culminates in a poignant moment of restoration between Jesus and Peter, reminding us that no matter our past mistakes, God offers us opportunities for reconciliation and renewed purpose. This message challenges us to reflect on where we might need to cast our nets differently in our own lives, and to trust in God's ability to provide abundance even in the face of apparent scarcity.