Monday, September 30, 2024

Just Use Wisdom - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're called to explore the profound difference between being smart and being wise. Drawing from James 3:13-4:8, we're reminded that true wisdom comes from above and is reflected in our actions, not just our knowledge. The scripture challenges us to examine our lives: Are we gentle, humble, and peace-loving? Do our deeds match our professed wisdom? This isn't about working for salvation but allowing our faith to bear fruit in our daily interactions. The message beautifully connects to Jesus' teaching of being 'wise as serpents and innocent as doves,' emphasizing that godly wisdom is discerning and pure. As we navigate life's challenges, we're encouraged to seek this heavenly wisdom, which can transform our relationships and inner battles. Let's reflect on how we can cultivate this wisdom in our lives, drawing nearer to God, who always draws near to us.

Monday, September 23, 2024

Just Watch Your Mouth - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we delve into the profound wisdom of James 3:1-12, exploring the immense power of our words. The central theme revolves around 'watching our mouth' - a simple yet transformative concept that can reshape our relationships and our very lives. We're reminded that our tongue, though small, can ignite great fires of both destruction and inspiration. As believers, we're called to recognize the dual nature of our speech: its capacity to praise God and its potential to harm others. This message challenges us to align our words with our faith, urging us to be mindful of the impact our speech has on others and ourselves. It's a call to maturity in our faith journey, emphasizing that true spiritual growth is reflected in how we communicate. As we reflect on this teaching, we're encouraged to use our words to build up, inspire, and spread love, mirroring the grace we've received from God.

Monday, September 16, 2024

Just Don't Play Favorites - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're challenged to confront our biases and examine how we treat others based on their perceived wealth or status. The book of James, particularly chapter 2, serves as our guide, reminding us that showing favoritism is incompatible with true faith. We're called to reflect on the danger of judging others by their appearance or possessions, recognizing that rich and poor are relative terms. The sermon encourages us to treat everyone as a child of God, made in His image, regardless of their economic standing. This message is deeply relevant in our modern world, where we often unconsciously prioritize the wealthy and influential. It pushes us to consider: Are we truly loving our neighbors as ourselves, or are we guilty of the very discrimination James warns against? Let's take this opportunity to examine our hearts and actions, striving to embody the 'royal law' of love in all our interactions.

Monday, September 9, 2024

Just YouTube It - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we dive deep into the book of James, exploring what it truly means to live as a Christian in today's world. The central theme revolves around being 'doers of the word, not hearers only.' We're challenged to reflect on how our faith translates into action, particularly in how we treat others and care for the vulnerable. The scripture emphasizes that true religion isn't just about attending church or saying the right words, but about actively living out our faith through deeds of love and compassion. Just as an 8-year-old boy learned to drive perfectly by watching a tutorial and then putting it into practice, we're called to take the instructions given in God's word and apply them to our lives with equal dedication. This message reminds us that our faith should be visible in our actions, our speech, and our treatment of others, especially those who cannot care for themselves.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Just Read It - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're reminded of the importance of truly engaging with God's Word. The central theme revolves around John 6:56-69, where Jesus teaches about abiding in Him and partaking of the bread of life. We're challenged to move beyond surface-level faith and truly 'read' the scriptures, not just rely on secondhand knowledge or traditions. The speaker emphasizes that while the instructions to abide in Christ are simple, they aren't always easy. This calls us to prioritize our relationship with God, even when it means stepping out of our comfort zones. We're encouraged to start small in our Bible reading habits and grow consistently, recognizing that spiritual growth is a journey, not an instant transformation.

Monday, August 26, 2024

Thanks For Everything - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're reminded of the transformative power of gratitude. The central theme revolves around Ephesians 5:20, urging us to give thanks to God for everything. We're challenged to be thankful not just in good times, but in all circumstances. The speaker draws parallels between the early Christian church in Ephesus and our modern context, emphasizing that gratitude is crucial even when facing adversity. We're encouraged to be wise in our interactions, both within the church and with outsiders, and to worship in community. The analogy of thoroughbreds versus donkeys beautifully illustrates the importance of unity in facing challenges. This message invites us to reflect on our own attitudes and to cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving, recognizing that gratitude opens doors for further blessings.

Monday, August 19, 2024

No Room For The Enemy - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


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.