Sermon Series – Page 2 – Asbury United Methodist Church

“Closing the Spiritual Gap” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons January 26, 2022

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When Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of God, he was speaking of the world as it should be. Included in his teachings are his expectations for us as his followers. In this series we will look at how to close the gap between where we are spiritually and where Jesus has called us to be. Each week we will look at specific practices that will provide a roadmap to deepen the spiritual vitality of all Asbury members so we are more fully engaged and flourishing in the Christian life.

February 6, 2022 // Praise the Lord // Psalm 100

Since the beginning of time, humans have offered their crops, their animals, even their children as sacrifices to God. Until…Two thousand years ago—in a shocking reversal—God offered a sacrifice to us. Understanding the magnitude of what God did for us through the death and resurrection of Jesus should elicit a response. But what should that response be and what does it mean for our spiritual growth?

February 13, 2022 // Circle Up // Hebrews 10:19-25

We all believe exercise is good for us, but we don’t always head to the gym or go on a run. But to get in shape we have to exercise. We have to get off the couch and do it. And, isn’t it easier when we have someone to keep us accountable? The same is true of our faith; we can only get so far on our own.

February 20, 2022 // How Can I Help? // Mark 10:32-38, 41-45

Nothing causes us to depend on God more than pushing through our inadequacies to help other people. When we serve in a ministry we take personally, we experience God’s power and faithfulness.

February 27, 2022 // Come and See // John 4:21-30

When Jesus’ earliest followers invited people to come and see him, they weren’t trying to explain something. They were inviting others to experience someone. A living example is better than a lengthy explanation. If people don’t like what they see in us, they won’t come and see with us. But how do we know who, when, and why to offer an invitation?

“The Bible Tells Me So” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons December 26, 2021

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The Bible contains some of the loftiest and most beautiful verses in literature. Millions look to it for inspiration and guidance. At the same time, some parts are confusing and others are deeply disturbing. If you’ve ever had questions about the Bible, we’d like to invite you to join us for a series of honest and frank messages entitled “The Bible Tells Me So.”

January 9, 2022 // Making Sense of the Bible // Matthew 4:1-4

In week 1 we’ll talk about what the Bible is, how it came to be, a common doctrine among evangelicals called “inerrancy,” and we’ll consider what it means to have a “high view of scripture.” In the process of talking about these things we’ll answer the question, “Is the Bible ever wrong?”

January 16, 2022 // Violence and God in the Bible // Exodus 32:27-28, Joshua 10:40

In week 2 we will look at one of the most frequently asked questions concerning the Bible: How do we make sense of the violence found in the Old Testament, particularly the times where God commands the killing of entire cities? These stand in stark contrast to Jesus’ teaching that we are to love our enemies.

January 23, 2022 // The Bible and Science // Genesis 1:1-8

Many people perceive a tension between science and faith, particularly as we consider the origins of the cosmos, the earth, and humans. Some insist science must conform to the Bible, or insist the Bible must fit with their scientific understanding. Others believe science and faith cannot be reconciled and this leads some to believe they must walk away from science, and some decide they must walk away from faith. To understand science and faith are not enemies, we need to explore our core assumptions about the Bible, what it is, what it is for, and how it communicates, which can deepen our appreciation of both approaches to our understanding of the world.

January 30, 2022 // The Bible and Sexuality // Exodus 20:20-21; Genesis 1:27;
Leviticus 18:22, 20:13; Romans 1:26-27

The issue of whether the United Methodist Church should marry and ordain Gay and Lesbian individuals has been extremely divisive for decades. Unfortunately, it looks like the church is headed for a split which will result in two separate denominations. Why is this happening? The issue is not one of scriptural authority as some would say, the issue is over scriptural interpretation.

“Almost Christmas” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons November 17, 2021

In 1741, John Wesley preached his famous sermon titled “The Almost Christian” in which he encouraged people to follow Christ wholeheartedly. We should not be satisfied with being almost Christian but rather strive towards being altogether a Christian. In Almost Christmas: A Wesleyan Advent Experience, we will explore how we can make the same commitment to Christ during Advent, connecting our Wesleyan heritage with the traditional Advent themes of Love, Hope, Joy, and Peace.

November 28, 2021 // Altogether Peace // Isaiah 11:1-4, 6; James 4:8; Colossians 3:13; Mark 8:35; Matthew 7:13-14; Ephesians 4:25-26, 28-29; 31-32

During this time of year, we sing about ‘peace on earth goodwill toward men.’ But the reality is that it seems like we don’t have peace on earth. There are conflicts around the globe, there are broken relationships in our lives, and there is a lack of peace in our hearts. Our ‘almost’ peace seems far away from an ‘altogether’ peace. So how can we close the gap?

December 5, 2021 // Altogether Hope // Luke 1:26-38; Hebrews 16:16-19

An “almost hope” reminds us that there are brighter days ahead, but we still have to go through the darkness. Like Mary, many of us find ourselves dealing with unplanned events that can turn our lives upside down. So where do we find hope in the midst of a stormy season of life?

December 12, 2021 // Altogether Love // I John 4:7-12; Philippians 2:5-8; Luke 1:39-42, 46-55

An ‘almost love’ is a love that welcomes only the parts of people desirable, or palatable, or easy to handle. We settle for an ‘almost love’ instead of ‘altogether love’ because we don’t allow our full selves to be shown. We do this because we fear that if someone really knew us, we would not be lovable. So how can we move from an ‘almost love’ to an ‘altogether love’?

December 19, 2021 // Altogether Joy // Nehemiah 8:10-12, Luke 2:10, John 15:10-11, Philippians 1:4-5

At Christmas, we instinctively know the difference between an “almost joy” and an “altogether joy.” An “almost joy” is the happiness we find in decorations, sharing cookies, and unwrapping presents we were longing for. But we all know that true joy is something that can blossom alongside frivolity and happiness, or it can flourish alongside sadness and even deep sorrow. Joy is what came at Christmas—the steadfast assurance that God is with us.

“Defending the Faith” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons November 2, 2021

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Are you ever afraid someone will ask you why you believe what you believe? Do you fear someone might question what you believe? Responding to people’s questions and challenges can get complicated. But what if you were confident you had the answer to the most important question about your faith?

November 14, 2021 // Prepared // I Peter 3:15-16

One of the most frustrating things about being a Christian is the questions people ask about what you believe. If you had fifteen minutes, you could answer. But what are you supposed to say in just a few seconds? How do you defend your faith without losing your mind?

November 21, 2021 // Reliable Witnesses // Luke 1:1-4

If you’re a Christian, be prepared to defend your decision to follow Christ. Be prepared to defend your hope or confidence in Christ. You believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose from the grave. That’s amazing! But you don’t have to believe it because the Bible says so. It’s better than that.

“FIRST” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons October 13, 2021

What we put first in our life matters. If we’ll choose to put God FIRST, in our living and giving, we can touch more lives, connect greater numbers of folks to Christ, and help the Kingdom of God expand. As a church we’ve experienced God do more things through us this past year than we could have ever imagined during a global pandemic, and we think we are just seeing the beginning of what God is going to do as we allow Him to use us! Let’s keep God FIRST, and see what God can do!

October 24, 2021 // The Competition // Matthew 6:33

Jesus makes it clear that we need to put God first in all aspects of our lives. But one of the hardest areas to make that happen is with our finances. Although we don’t worship idols like some cultures in Biblical times, we have our own idols that compete with our attention for God. So how can we truly overcome the competition for our hearts?

October 31, 2021 // The Challenge // 2 Corinthians 9:6-12

Earn money. Check. Save money. Check. Give money. Wait, what? Founder of Methodism, John Wesley, outlined three principles for how we prioritize our money. This call of God on our lives urges us toward healthy practices that extend our life-influence beyond what we ever thought possible.

November 7, 2021 // The Commitment // 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Mark 12:41-44

The Apostle Paul tells us that God loves a cheerful giver. In other words, not only should we give to the work of God, but we should not do it reluctantly or out of obligation. Giving is a matter of the heart.

“Creed” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons August 11, 2021

In the world of the early Christian Church, access to written materials was scarce. It was largely oral tradition that carried story and belief from generation to generation. The Church fathers realized this and formulated a succinct statement for all Jesus followers to memorize and articulate as their affirmation of belief: “I believe in God the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only son, our Lord…” It still stands as, perhaps, the most clear and concise statement of what it means to be a Christian. In “Creed,” we’ll dive into each part of this statement – The Apostles’ Creed – and learn the power that a centuries-old profession of faith still holds for our lives today.

September 12, 2021 // God

The Apostle’s Creed was developed in the 5th century to teach people the basics of the faith. As you look at the Apostle’s Creed it starts with a fundamental affirmation that we are people who believe in God. So maybe you think that to believe in God requires a giant leap of faith. And maybe you think that essentially, there’s zero evidence for God’s existence apart from the Bible. Is that true? Is there any evidence for God outside of scripture or blind belief? What does that mean for us?

September 19, 2021 // Jesus // Philippians 2:5-11

At the heart of the Apostle’s Creed are professions about Jesus. While many would agree that Jesus was “a great moral teacher” or even a prophet and religious reformer, Christian faith attests to these claims and more. He is the “only Son,” “the Christ,” and “Lord.” What do Christians believe about Jesus? Why do they believe it? And why does it matter?

September 26, 2021 // The Holy Spirit // Acts 2:1-4

The voices that influence and shape us affect the courses of our lives. Jesus promises that each of us will be given an advocate, a helper, who will be that divine voice of encouragement and strength. Today, we call that voice, the Holy Spirit.

October 3, 2021 // The Church and the Communion of Saints // Matthew 16:13-20

The Apostle’s Creed tells us to believe in the holy catholic church, but what does that mean? What exactly is the church and the communion of Saints? In this message we will take a look at what Jesus intended the church to be and what that means for us.

October 10, 2021 // Forgiveness of Sins // Matthew 18:15-22

Jesus did not mince words when it came to forgiveness. How often are you to forgive? As often as it takes.

October 17, 2021 // The Resurrection of the Body // John 20:1-9

The resurrection of Jesus has been understood as the consummating act that reconciled the world to God and gave us all a glimpse of the future.

“Don’t Worry, Be Happy” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons August 11, 2021

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Worry… it’s universal. It’s as much a part of life as breathing. Yet Jesus said: “Don’t. Don’t worry!” Easier said than done… In this 3-part series, we will explore all that Jesus had to say about worry. You’ll discover where worry comes from, why it’s so difficult to overcome, and what you can do to conquer it. In this series we will take a look at an Old Testament story about a man who was challenged with a single question—a question that brought a new perspective to his worries. That question may be the key to overcoming worry in your life as well.

August 22 // Devotion and Emotion // Matthew 6:24-27

Most of us are worried about something. And many of us are more worried now than we’ve ever been. But worry has been around as long as there have been people. Two thousand years ago, there was so much worry that Jesus addressed it, and He gave us the definitive solution.

August 29 // Switching Sides // Matthew 6:27-34

Most of us are worried about something. And many of us are more worried now than we’ve ever been. So how do we deal with it? There are numerous books and articles out there to help us manage our stress. And that may help. But 2,000 years ago, Jesus actually said there is a way to conquer our worry.

September 5 // Now and Then // 1 Kings 19:1-18

We rarely worry about the present. What we really worry about is what may or may not happen in the future. And we usually forget what has happened in the past. We forget about how our worries didn’t alleviate our fears. In this week’s message, we’ll learn about a person who forgot about God’s past faithfulness. His worries drove him to a place emotionally, spiritually, physically, and relationally he should never have gone. And in response, God asked him a very important question that continues to speak to us today.

“Life Lessons from the Olympics” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series, Sermons July 19, 2021

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This summer, the attention of the entire world turns to Tokyo as our greatest athletes gather to compete in the 2021 Olympic Games. For these athletes, journeys filled with years of dedication, training and perseverance bring them to the glory of Olympic competition.

The scriptures are filled with Olympic terms and metaphors urging us to use the commitment of an athlete to be what God would have us to be. Join us at Asbury this summer for a fun sermon series offering coaching and lessons from ancient and modern Olympic athletes for our journeys of faith.

August 1, 2021 // Training for the Games // 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Going to the Olympics requires intense training and focus. As followers of Christ we are called to work hard on our spiritual growth. Prayer, worship, fasting, small groups, spiritual conversations, reading and discussing books on the spiritual life strengthen us and help us to see the ideal we strive towards. The ordinances or spiritual disciplines are to us spiritually what exercise is to us physically. Pursuing them requires time and energy, but just as you begin to feel stronger and better when you exercise, you find your soul lifted up, your spiritual strength increasing, as you practice these things.

August 8, 2021 // The Thrill of Victory, The Agony of Defeat // Hebrews 12:1-2

Most of the media attention during the Olympics focuses on the greatest athletes who are winning medals. But there are many more athletes who do not win medals. What happens when those athlete’s dreams don’t come true? What lessons can we learn from them when our dreams don’t come true?

August 15, 2021 // The Power of the Team // Hebrews 10:24-25

Various Olympic competitions are team sports. As Christians we are called to be part of a team. To be a Christian is to be connected with others, to be in relationship. Jesus did not simply call us to love God, but also to love our neighbor. He started a church to be a place where believers would encourage one another, “provoke” and challenge one another to good deeds, and bear one another’s burdens. That’s what it means to be a part of a team.

“At the Movies” (2021) Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series June 16, 2021

At The Movies is a fun summer series where we show movie clips from popular current films of this past year along with a message that connects the popular movies with scripture. You probably don’t usually look to movies for life lessons, but take our word for it—sit back, relax, and hear a different perspective on how popular films can point us toward the gospel.

July 4, 2021 // Harriet // Luke 10:25-28

‘Harriet’ is a 2019 biographical movie about the life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman. The movie depicts Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes, whose courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history. And her story points us to the gospel in so many ways.

July 11, 2021 // Frozen II // Deuteronomy 31:6; John 16:13; I Corinthians 12:11; Matthew 5:23-24, Matthew 6:26-27, 33-34; II Corinthians 5:17-18

Frozen II, the sequel to Disney’s massive 2013 hit Frozen, sees sisters Queen Elsa and Princess Anna continue to grapple with Elsa’s growing magical powers. Set in the fictional mid-19th century Norwegian kingdom of Arendelle, the animated film solves the mystery of the source of Elsa’s powers and uncovers other family secrets as the sisters, Kristoff, his reindeer Sven, and the magic snowman Olaf venture into the enchanted forest of Northuldra deep in the north. So, what does this movie have to do with the Gospel?

July 18, 2021 // Wonder Woman 1984 // John 8:32, 14:1, 14:6, 15:12-14; Luke 12:15; Exodus 20:3

Wonder Woman 1984 takes Diana Prince, also known as Wonder Woman, from World War I to 1984. In 1984, a power-obsessed con man gets his hands on a magical artifact from Ancient Rome that makes a person’s biggest wish come true. The wishes always come with a price, however. The con man’s use of this magical power threatens to destroy the world. Wonder Woman must find a way to stop him. However, she accidentally used the artifact to bring back her one true love. As a result, Wonder Woman’s super powers are getting weaker and weaker. So, Wonder Woman must choose between Steve and saving the world.

July 25, 2021 // A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood // Matthew 5:43-48, Luke 10:25-37

When Lloyd Vogel, an investigative journalist, receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers), Vogel is skeptical. He finds it impossible to believe anyone could have such a good nature. But Rogers’ empathy, kindness and decency, guided by his understanding of Christian faith, chips away at Vogel. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is an inspiring story of redemption, and a reminder for all of us how being a true “neighbor” can make all the difference.

“The Judges” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series May 27, 2021

The book of Judges covers a period of hundreds of years that ultimately ends with everyone in Israel doing what is right in their own eyes. Israel chose to only partially obey God, which led to a repeated cycle of sin, oppression, crying out to God for help, God’s deliverance of His people through a Judge, short-term peace, complacency, and sin yet again. Over and over this cycle occurred in the land.
Yet throughout this chaotic time period, God raised up the unlikely Judges – the broken, the injured, old, young, men and women – to ultimately rescue His people. Even in darkness, He worked through them to accomplish His will, and continues to use the unlikely today.

June 6, 2021 // Introduction: The Endless Cycle // Judges 1:27, 29-33, 2:1-3, 6-10

God spent forty years preparing the Israelites to go into the Promised Land. The problem for God was not getting the people out of Egypt, it was getting Egypt out of the people. When the time was right, God commanded his people to drive out the inhabitants in the land. Unfortunately, they did not obey this command and it eventually led to idolatry. Also, after the first generation of Israelites in the promised land died, the people became spiritually complacent. The disobedience and spiritual complacency led to an endless cycle of problems. Today we see the same cycle in our lives, churches and nation. So, what can we do to avoid this cycle.

June 13, 2021 // Judge Deborah // Judges 4 & 5

Because they didn’t fully trust God and so didn’t fully obey God, Israel was living in the land God had promised, but alongside people who practiced despicable acts in their worship of false gods. When the people of Israel begin to experience distress because of their disobedience, they cry out to God, and God once again raises up a heroic spiritual leader. Deborah, a judge, prophet and leader, delivers Israel from the grip of King Jabin, with the help of the military leader, Barak, and a clever woman, Jael. Vocal and wise leaders can help turn us back to God, if we are willing to listen.

June 20, 2021 // Samson // Judges 13:1-5, 14:1-6, 14; 15:1-3; 16:20-21, 28-30

The book of Hebrews tells us that Samson was a hero of the faith. His story has been taught for years in Sunday School. But the book of Judges shows him as a man driven by his sexual appetite, his vindictiveness and temper. Though exposed to the things of God, Samson’s life is defined by poor decisions, rash judgments and carnal desires. Yet through all of the compromise and moral failure God used him in a powerful way.

June 27, 2021 // Gideon // Judges 6:4-6, 11-18; 7:2, 13, 18; 8:22-24, 27; Hebrews 1:1-2; 1 Corinthians 12-13

Gideon was terrified by his circumstances and doubted God’s ability to deliver. Test after test ensued as Gideon tried to ensure that God was with him. Even in faithless duty God used Gideon and delivered the people of God from their oppression. However, at the pinnacle of his influence, Gideon finds himself initiating an egregious act of idolatry that becomes a snare to those he had so reluctantly delivered. So what can we learn from the story of Gideon for our own spiritual journeys?

“The Holy Spirit” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series May 2, 2021

The Holy Spirit is God’s indwelling presence in our lives. If you ever feel weak, weary or powerless, you need the Holy Spirit. If you ever feel anxious, afraid or alone, you need the Holy Spirit. If you hope to grow deeper in your faith, to see your life transformed into the person God created you to be, you need the Holy Spirit. And if you hope to experience more of God’s presence and power in your life, you need the Holy Spirit.

May 16, 2021 // The Holy Spirit in Scripture // John 14:15-17

As Christians we believe in one God comprised of three persons – The Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The trinity is a mystery that is really hard to explain. For many of us, we understand God the Father is the creator of all things. We understand the Son (Jesus) is God in human flesh who came to die for our sins and redeem us. But many followers of Christ do not really understand the third person of the trinity – The Holy Spirit. So, why is it important for us to understand the Holy Spirit?

May 23, 2021 // Fruit of the Spirit // Galatians 5:16, 22-23a

To grow in our spiritual life, the scriptures call us to “walk in the Spirit” or live by the rhythm of the Holy Spirit. Paul says the evidence of walking in the Spirit is the “fruit” characterized by “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23.) Our lives will witness to Christ, not so much through our words, but through our fruit, born through the Spirit’s inner transformation.

May 30, 2021 // Spiritual Gifts // Romans 12:6-8

Before Jesus ascends back to heaven, he tells his followers that they must be “His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.” In other words, they need to be his witnesses everywhere they go. These instructions are meant for every generation of Jesus followers ever since. But we can’t possibly be His witnesses by our own strength. Well, Jesus had a solution to that.

“The Faith We Sing” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series April 3, 2021

In “The Faith We Sing” series, we’ll explore some of the familiar songs that are treasured parts of our corporate worship gatherings.

April 11, 2021 // Amazing Grace // Ephesians 2:8-9

If you are in Christ, you are no longer what you once were. Join us in week 1 of our sermon series “The Faith We Sing” as we examine the lyrics and meaning behind the hymn Amazing Grace.

April 18, 2021 // It is Well With My Soul // Psalm 22

In the middle of your pain, God is still present. A tragedy prompted Horatio Spafford to pen the words to the hymn “It Is Well With My Soul.” All of us know that wonderful hymn, but is it really possible to be well in your soul in the midst of tragedy?

April 25, 2021 // O Love That Will Not Let Me Go // Romans 8:28-39

There are many precious promises in the scripture, but perhaps the greatest of all is that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord. Learn how the author penned these richly beautiful words to reflect this truth as he clung to the promise of God’s love through dark days.

May 2, 2021 // I’ll Fly Away // John 14:1-3

In Week 4 of “The Faith We Sing”, we will look at the importance of hope for eternity and urgency for today through the hymn I’ll Fly Away.

“The Walk: Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series February 4, 2021

What does it mean to be deeply committed Christians, growing in faith every day? How do we become fully engaged and flourishing in the Christian life? In this series, we explore a model for Christian discipleship built around five essential practices that we engage in both collectively and individually in order to more fully follow Jesus.
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February 21, 2021 // Worship and Prayer – A Living Hallelujah // Psalm 100

Many of us attend worship services in-person or online, but how would you define worship? Why is it so important to worship for Jesus followers?

February 28, 2021 // Study – A Living Word // Psalm 119:103-105

During Lent, we are focusing on the five essential practices of the Christian life highlighted in Adam Hamilton’s book, The Walk: worship, study, serve, give and share. This week, we explored “study,” learning and growing from the way God is revealed in nature, art, and life, as well as in the Scripture. This is a practice of training ourselves to listen for God’s voice so we can better follow our Good Shepherd.

March 7, 2021 // Serve – Here I Am, Lord, Send Me // Matthew 14:13-32

If you have ever volunteered to do something for which you felt totally unqualified, then you already know what an experience like that can do for your faith. One of the primary ways God grows our faith is through serving others.

March 14, 2021 // Give – Where Your Treasure Is // Matthew 6:21, Luke 6:38

Are you mastering your money or being mastered by it? Maybe it’s time to adjust your approach. Instead of striving to have enough money to satisfy a me-first appetite, Jesus encouraged his listeners to have an others-first approach.

March 21, 2021 // Share – Going Fishing // Matthew 4:18-20

From the earliest days of the church until today, people become followers of Jesus in the exact same way: through an invitation. But many people today are uncomfortable sharing their faith for various reasons and they believe that their faith is private. So why does a fully devoted follower of Jesus need to share their faith?

March 28, 2021 // The Five Practices from the Cross // Luke 23:44-46

Over the last five weeks, we have studied five essential practices of the Christian life – worship, study, serving, giving, and sharing. And the goal of this series has been to close the gap between the Christians we are and the Christians God wants us to become by focusing on these spiritual practices. That all sounds good, but why are these practices so significant? Are they necessary?

“Asking for a Friend” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series January 15, 2021

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Maybe you grew up in a church where it was frowned upon to ask questions? You were basically told what to believe. And like many Christians, maybe you still have some questions that you are just afraid to ask. In this series, we will explore some questions that Christians just don’t feel comfortable asking. Maybe you are just asking for a friend.

January 24, 2021 // Do My Prayers Really Matter? // Matthew 21:21-22, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

For various reasons, people sometimes ask or think the question “Why should I pray?” God already knows what I need, I can’t change God’s mind, and God didn’t answer my prayers in time of crisis, so what’s the point. But what if there is something we don’t understand about the purpose of prayer?

January 31, 2021 // Why Does God Allow Evil if He is Really in Control? // Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 55:22, Romans 8:18

Many people are not followers of Christ because of the problem of suffering, the problem of evil and how you reconcile that with the scriptures that proclaim a God of love and mercy. I think we all wrestle with this question from time to time; even if you are a person of faith. So how do we reconcile an all-powerful God with the existence of evil and suffering. Is it even possible?

February 7, 2021 // Is Jesus the Only Way? // John 14:5-6

Is there more than one way to get to heaven? If we say “Jesus is the only way,” isn’t it going to sound very narrow minded, snobbish and exclusive. In a world filled with contradicting ideas, there can only be one truth. What’s the difference between Jesus being the “best” way, and him being the only way?

“Better Than Ever” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series December 23, 2020

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As we begin a new year, there is hope that the COVID-19 vaccine will lead us to a brighter 2021. If we’re wise, we’ll reflect on what we’ve learned from this experience and what we want to carry forward. After all, pain without any gain is a shame. Join us as we look at how our COVID-19 experience can make us ‘Better than Ever.’

January 3, 2021 // Becoming Better Through Crisis // Proverbs 25:28

For many of us, there’s something we wish we’d been doing all along to prepare for what is happening now. Whatever lessons we’re learning, now is the time to start putting them into practice. What lessons relationally, financially and personally have you learned that can make you better than ever.

January 10, 2021 // Responding to a Crisis // Genesis 37:26–27, 39:1–9

While we don’t always choose our circumstances, we do have the ability to choose our responses. But the response that has the potential to reverse the natural course of things isn’t natural at all. Never underestimate the power of a measured response. We have no idea what hangs in the balance of our decision to respond rather than react to events we did not choose. Our responses can make us better than ever.

January 17, 2021 // Moving Forward // Genesis 50:18–20

There is more to your circumstances than meets the eye. Your current circumstances are a chapter. They are not the full story. You have the power to respond rather than react. Use it. You will be better than ever and the people around you will be, too.

“Sent: Delivering the Gift of Hope at Christmas” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Advent/Christmas, Christmas Eve, Sermon Series November 18, 2020

“As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them . . .”—John 17:18

God sent Christ into the world as our Savior. That’s what Christmas is all about. In turn, Christ sends us into the world. But do we really understand how, where, and why we are sent? This five-week, churchwide Advent study challenges us through story, art, and Bible study to discover what it means to be Christ’s hands, feet, head, and heart.

November 28, 2020 // Jesus Reconciles // Luke 2:8-10

One of the unique things Christians believe is that God became one of us. And every December we celebrate this event. For thirty years he lived undercover as a carpenter, surfaced as a miracle worker and rabbi for three years, and allowed himself to die in the most degrading way imaginable. He came as one of us but was treated as less than one of us. So the question we have to ask is “why in the world would God do that?”

December 6, 2020 // Jesus Sets Us Free // Luke 4:16-19

Every December, we sing the song “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus,” which reminds us that ‘he came to set his people free.’ And maybe you have sung that song for decades but you never stopped to ask the question “What does he set us free from?” So, what does he set us free from?

December 14, 2020 // Jesus is God with Us // Matthew 1:20-23, Hebrews 1:1-3

One of the unique things Christians believe is that God became one of us. And every December we celebrate this event. But what are the implications for us that God became one of us?

December 20, 2020 // Jesus Brings New Life // Ezekiel 37:1-3; Luke 2:8-20

Through the lens of the prophecy of Ezekiel, we know that no circumstance is so dry, so despairing and so hopeless, that God cannot bring new life. As Christians, we live in the reality of Jesus’s resurrection from the dead and his promise of new life, and Christmas provides an opportunity for us to reflect on how that promise first came to us in the form of a tiny baby.

December 24, 2020 (Christmas Eve) // Everything Changed // Galatians 4:4

To understand Christmas, you have to understand waiting. And as we all know, waiting is not easy and it comes with strong expectations. We have so much hope and so much desire for what we want Christmas to be and then sometimes Christmas doesn’t live up to our expectations and we experience disappointment. And disappointment is a common emotion that we share with the people who were waiting with hope and anticipation at that first Christmas. On that first Christmas, no one was expecting a baby in a manger. That was not on their Christmas list. But one of the powerful lessons from the Christmas story is that sometimes what we want is not always what we need. Join us Christmas Eve to explore why the baby in the manger is just what we need.

“The Caring Congregation” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series October 21, 2020

The Caring Congregation - asburylv NEW page header

The Apostle Paul calls Christians to care for one another. But sometimes we are not sure how to care for one another. Sometimes we are not even sure what to say when someone is going through a difficult season. In this series, we will examine some difficult subjects (death, suicide, addiction) from a Christian perspective, and learn how we can care for someone going through some dark times.

November 1, 2020 // Comforting Those Who Mourn

When someone dies, the journey of mourning ahead can be a difficult one. When you have experienced the death of a friend or loved one, who and what comforted you at that time? Together, we can learn and grow to be a community of people who are truly helpful to those who are hurting, by responding with God’s presence and compassion.

November 8, 2020 // Christianity and Suicide // Psalm 31:9-16

Suicide is a major public health concern. Suicide is among the leading causes of death in the United States and based on recent nationwide surveys, suicide in some populations is on the rise. Suicide affects many families in our nation today. Join us this week as we look at a Spiritual Perspective on suicide and how to minister to families affected by this tragedy.

November 15, 2020 // Dealing with Addiction // Romans 7:15-19

Many people in our nation today struggle with various addictions – drugs, alcohol, pornography, gambling etc. These addictions rob us of the life God intended and they hurt our relationships with God and others. So how can Jesus followers respond? Today we will talk with licensed professional counselor Gregory A. Krausz, MA, CACD, LPC regarding a Christian perspective on addiction.

“The Intersection of Religion and Politics” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series October 9, 2020

The Intersection of Religion and Politics - asburylv NEW page header

There are few things as divisive as politics. But the question for Jesus followers is this: Are you willing to evaluate your politics through the filter of faith rather than create a version of faith that supports your politics? Jesus didn’t call everyone to agree on everything, but he did command his followers to be united by unconditional love.

October 18, 2020 // United We Stand // John 17:20-23

Your favorite candidate will win or lose based on how our country votes this November. However, the church will win or lose based on our behavior between now and then.. While we will not agree on every political talking point, we must not let politics divide us.

October 25, 2020 // Listen and Learn // 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Our political views are shaped by a number of variables: our backgrounds, education, and personal experiences to name a few. It’s easy to feel like our view is the right one, but the person beside you is more precious to God than your political view.

“Entrusted” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series September 21, 2020

When it comes to money it seems like we never have enough and it leads to stress, anxiety and frustration. But, maybe the problem is not how we handle our money, maybe the problem is how we view our money. Many of us hold onto a world view of wealth that leads to discontentment, misplaced hope, and misplaced faith. But God never intended us to put our faith and hope in money. In fact, it’s not even ours. In this series, we will look at how to avoid the pitfalls of wealth based upon biblical truths.

September 27, 2020 // A Lifestyle of Generosity // Psalm 24:1; Genesis 1:28, Genesis 28:20-22; Leviticus 25:23; I Timothy 6:17-18; Luke 6:38; Malachi 3:10

Rich people live in denial. They won’t admit they’re rich. No matter how much you have, there’s always someone who has more. Many people in our nation are considered rich by the world’s standards. And one of the dangers of being rich is discontentment. The more you have, the more you want. How do we avoid the pitfalls of wealth?

October 4, 2020 // All In // Mark 12:38-44

When all is said and done, the questions God will ask us about our giving will have little to do with dollars and cents, but, ‘Where were your priorities?’ ‘What did you think about the most?’ ‘Did you value the work of my kingdom first and foremost?’ and ‘Was your heart in your giving at all?’ The account of the “Widow’s Mite” teaches us what it means to be “all in” for the kingdom of God.

October 11, 2020 // Misplaced Faith // Luke 12:15-21

We’re all tempted to place our faith in money. We’re tempted to believe that if we make enough, we’ll be able to control our circumstances and create a better life for ourselves. The problem with that view is that the more we place our faith in money, the more it controls us. Scripture challenges us to look at our money differently because our lives are better when we place our trust in the One who richly provides. Viewing wealth through the lens of eternity loosens our grip on it and its grip on us.

“Settling In” Sermon Series

Asbury Communications Sermon Series September 4, 2020

COVID-19 has turned our world upside down and has left us with a new normal. At some point, the world will have an answer for this pandemic and things will improve. But how do we deal with this new normal? What do you do when it seems like there is no way forward and no way out?

September 13, 2020 // The Problem of Suffering? // Hebrews 4:14-16

Some people may say “Why would God allow the coronavirus to happen if he is a good and loving God.” That question is understandable during times like this, unfortunately there is not easy answer. The situation in our world may cause some people to lose faith, but what we need to understand is that Christians have never believed in a God who doesn’t allow bad things to happen to good people. Christians believe the worst possible thing happened to the best possible person. Join us in week one of the series as we look at why to remain faithful and what we can expect from God during a season like this.

September 20, 2020 // How to Persevere in Tough Times // James 1:1-5, 12

We avoid things we don’t like. But sometimes things come our way that we can’t avoid, like a global pandemic. When our circumstances deteriorate, what do we do when there’s nothing we can do?

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