Peculiar People

The Bible says followers of Jesus are supposed to be a “peculiar people.” In other words, we are called to live in a counter-cultural way.

But what does that mean? Some Christian have taken it to mean they ought to cut themselves off from society and adopt old fashioned norms. Is that really what God meant? In what ways are Jesus’ followers supposed to be counter-cultural?

In this sermon we hear from special guest Rev. Keith Phillips, who has just completed the process to transfer his ordination credentials to the Metropolitan Community Churches.

Today’s scripture: I Peter 2:9-12

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What’s Wrong With Christianity?

  • If Jesus were to visit a cross-section of American churches today, do you think he’d be pleased?
  • If not, what would he seek to change?
  • Is it possible God might want to use our congregation to help create that change?

These are some of the daring questions this sermon explores.

Today’s scripture: I John 2:3-6, 18, 21-25

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Throw-Away Culture

We live in a consumer culture, using things so long as they are useful to us, then tossing them aside. We tend to do the same with friends, family, spouses, and even church.

But is that consistent with Jesus’ command to “love one another as I have loved you?” This sermon explores what it means to view life through a deeper, more sacred lens, shifting from consumption to commitment.

Today’s scripture: John 15:9-17

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I Hear Voices

In this sermon, six special guests from places like Nebraska, Oregon, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and Barbados will each share something critical we need to hear. You will be deeply moved!

Today’s scripture: Acts 16:6-12

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Little Ol’ Me

We often get stuck in small thinking. We have little and expect little. Little power, little resources, little dreams. After all, what can I do? The challenges are so big. I’m up against the “system” and the “way things are.”

This Sunday we’ll be challenged to embrace a decidedly different way of looking at the world.

Today’s scripture: Genesis 12:1-9

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Ears Wide Shut

In our relationship with God, we tend to do a lot of talking. In hurried prayers, we tell God what we want, then race off before God has a chance to get a word in edgewise. Then we wonder why life seems so frustrating.

Maybe we’re swimming against the tide. This sermon will explore how to learn to listen to God.

Today’s scripture: Micah 3:4-7, 9-12

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Night Vision

2,500 years ago, an obscure prophet named Zechariah experienced an esoteric vision. He was whisked into Heaven and witnessed a dramatic confrontation filled with odd dialogue and mysterious references.

Powerful lessons are hidden in his vision — lessons that are just as liberating and lifegiving today as 2500 years ago. Listen as we solve the mystery together.

Today’s scripture: Zechariah 3:1-10

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Not My Problem

Our plates are full; we’ve got enough to deal with. Sometimes it can be such a relief to say, “That’s not my problem.”

Then along comes the Bible telling us that we are “our brothers keeper.” How are we supposed to help others when we can’t even get ahead of our own problems?

This sermon talks about that – how to be genuinely open to the plight of others without drowning ourselves.

Today’s scripture: Obadiah 1:8-15

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Clues for the Second Coming

So, when Jesus returns, how will it all go down? A lot of people have strong opinions and elaborate theories.

But this week we’ll try something different. We’ll look for clues about the Second Coming in prophecies about Jesus’ First Coming.

You might be surprised what we learn — and the practical spiritual lessons that result.

Today’s scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7

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My Authentic Self

Who are you? What are you supposed to be? Why did God put you here? Do you dare to be your authentic  self — or are you living to meet someone else’s expectations. What would happen if you just let yourself be you?

These are some of the questions this sermon ponders, through the lens of the extraordinary life experience of the prophet Jeremiah.

Today’s scripture: Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10

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Rules, Rules, Rules!

Were you raised in a spiritual environment where God seemed to be all about rules? “Do this. Don’t do that!”

If so, it’s tempting to go to the opposite extreme, becoming almost phobic about rules. “Nobody’s gonna tell me what to do; anything goes!”

What role should — and shouldn’t — rules play in the life of a healthy spiritual person?

Today’s scripture: Matthew 17:24-27

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Thou Shalt Not!

Preachers love to preach about sin, but seldom get down to the real questions, like: “What is sin, and why should I care?”

Watch this sermon if you’re tired of all the superficial “stupid-talk” about sin, and would welcome a thoughtful, helpful exploration of the subject.

Today’s scripture: Amos 5:6-12, 14-15

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Profiles In Courage

This Sunday we welcomed Indiana Black Pride and Rev. Dr. William Knight!

Rev. Knight is the pastor of Water of Life MCC in Tucson, Arizona.

Today’s scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6-8

Due to technical difficulties, you will see, but not hear the first 30 seconds of today’s web cast during which Pastor Jeff introduces our special guest speaker. Below is the text of Jeff’s introduction.

Our special guest speaker today is Rev. Dr. William Knight. Dr. Knight currently serves as Interim Pastor at Water of Life MCC in Tucson, Arizona. This is his first assignment in MCC. Prior to that, for 23 years Dr. Knight was a leader in the UP Church, Los Angeles, California, founded by legendary singer/actress Della Reese. Dr. Knight first felt called to ministry 23 years ago at a class held at the home of Ms. Reese. Before that he worked as an actor, singer, producer, and director. Please give a warm welcome to Rev. Dr. William Knight.

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