Bethesda Christian Church Sermon of the Week

In this Memorial Day message, we reflect on how scents can stir powerful memories—and how the Bible uses aroma as a spiritual metaphor. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 2, we learn that Christ leads believers in a triumphal procession, like a Roman victory parade, where we are the "pleasing aroma" of Christ to the world. As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in joyful surrender, spreading the fragrance of His love, mercy, and truth wherever we go.

We make daily decisions to invest in our health, careers, and finances—but what about our souls? Scripture reminds us that while physical training has value, godliness is essential for both this life and the life to come. Jesus offers us salvation by grace through faith, and calls us to grow in Him, reflect His character, and impact the world. Invest in the future you that lasts forever.

Mother’s Day is a time of joy for many, but it can be painful for those facing loss or unfulfilled hopes. The message, based on 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, encourages us to support one another, live in peace, and be patient with everyone. We are called to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances—this is God’s will for us in Christ. Though difficult, especially during hardships, a grateful heart is a sign of spiritual maturity and trust in God's plan. Living this way requires the help of the Holy Spirit and reflects our identity as Christ-followers.

Just like learning the ABC's is foundational to reading, so God's Word is foundational to living with purpose, direction, and hope. Always be a student and have that desire to learn more about Jesus.

Jesus reveals Himself to us through scripture. Faith comes by opening your heart and hearing the Word of God. Our confusion, our pain, our doubts - they find clarity when filtered through the lens of God's truth. Faith is not the absence of doubt. It's responding to doubt with an open heart, to take in the truth and believe.

Jesus is risen. The tomb is empty and the curse lifted. The crown of thorns is no longer on his head. Jesus wore the crown of thorns so you could have eternal life. He invites you to believe and receive eternal life. Do you believe?

Jesus didn't come to fulfill our worldly expectations. He came to fulfill God's eternal plan. The people wanted Jesus for all the wrong reasons. He didn't come to build our kingdom. He came to bring His. Why do you want Jesus?

A Story of Sin, Struggle, and Grace.

The curse of thorns is a tangible reminder and an illustration of sin's consequences in our lives. God does not leave us in the thorns, but rather He desires our lives to bear good fruit that demonstrates our faith. Jesus willingly took on the crown of thorns, so that we could bear fruit. The thorns we struggle with are not burdens to bear but reminders of Christ's love.

As we wrap our series on the Fruit of the Spirit, we close with self-control. Self-control is not self-effort. Self-control is self-submission to the Holy Spirit. Submitting to the Spirit brings peace, hope and victory. That is how we bear the Fruit of the Spirit.