Sermons
In today’s sermon, Pastor Rhodes tackles the 2nd of 5 essential practices of a Christian: Serving.
- “What are the things I need to do to get in better spiritual shape for my walk with Jesus?”
- “The word “serve” appears over 1000 times in the Bible. What does it mean to serve the Lord?”
- As individual Christians, if we are to be the body of Christ in this world, what do we need to do every day of our lives? Pastor Rhodes tells us:
a.) “If Jesus stopped to help when he was interrupted, then we need to set aside time for interruptions.”
b.)“If Jesus fed the multitudes, then we need to be about feeding the hungry in our community.”
c.)“if Jesus ate with outsiders, then we need to make sure our ministry includes people from every walk of life.” - “What one act of kindness is God inviting you into today?”
For a deeper dive, check out this video project from a non-profit out of Charlotte: https://vimeo.com/496989844
Pastor Laura explores Matthew 4:1-11 and what the temptation of Jesus has to tell us about our life of worship.
- Why was Jesus led into the desert?
- What is the difference between a test and a temptation? Who tests and who tempts? What is the end goal of a test compared to a temptation?
- What do you think might be a reason for Jesus going on a 40 day fast?
- Why did Satan suggest that if Jesus truly were God’s Son, that God would not allow Him to be hungry?
From Pastor Laura’s sermon:
“Did you notice the pattern? The devil tries to pull Jesus into the “If... then” language. If you are the Son of God, then...” This temptation is still alive and well.
If you are a good person, then…
If you love your children, then…
If you are loved by your parent, then…
If you have had a decent education, then…
If you have faith, then…
If you are loved by God, then…
Two words that take us from a place of security into a place of uncertainty and doubt. And from doubt into temptation.
The devil even adds on Scripture in the second temptation to make his point stronger. “
Pastor Laura takes a look at Jesus’ transfiguration and what it means for us today.
1.) Why does Jesus take only Peter, James, and John with Him up on the high mountain?
2.) What does “transfigured” mean, and how does our context help you answer this question?
3.) What is the significance of Jesus’ clothes being “intensely white?”
4.) Pastor Laura asks us: “Do you have something that you wish you could change about yourself but don’t feel you can? God is giving you space to change and be transformed. To pull back the curtain and find who you truly are as a child of God.”
Resources: Watch the following TedTalk from Shane Manier, an artist in residence for the Center for Faith and the Arts.