First United Methodist Church of Kearney Sermons

Join in on a stirring journey as we unravel the complex web of traits and teachings handed down through generations, captured in the John Mayer song "In the Blood." We'll share a heartfelt tribute to Sandra, whose legacy of servant leadership and compassion continues to inspire long after her mentorship ended. This conversation is a Biblical examination of inheritance, how it shapes us and the choice we have to either embrace or redefine the narratives we've been born into. It is also an ode to the women who've poured their strength, love, and wisdom into our lives—whether they share our bloodline or simply our journey. Tune in as we celebrate the multifaceted nature of inheritance and the profound gratitude we owe to those who have shaped us, on Mother's Day and beyond.

This week we tackle the dynamic and sometimes contentious early days of the Christian church, focusing on the landmark debate of Acts 15, where early leaders grappled with whether Gentile converts should adhere to Jewish laws. Discover how Peter and James championed grace over legalistic tradition, paving the way for a faith that knows no borders.

We'll celebrate the spirit of generosity exemplified by the United Methodist Church's global initiatives and local kindness. Hear the heartwarming story of Velda, a librarian whose simple, yet profound act of kindness, facilitated by our church's support, underscored the essence of community. The mission of the early church is the same as ours today: to extend its reach from small towns to the ends of the earth.

Have you ever chased the highest rewards with the least amount of work? On Sunday we look at the difference between a self-centered approach to a God-centered life; guided not by fear of punishment or desire for reward, but by the aspiration to live in obedience and holiness through the empowerment of God's grace. We'll look at John Wesley's vivid house analogy of grace, we navigate from the welcoming front porch of prevenient grace, step through the transformative doorway of justifying grace, and venture into the heart of sanctifying grace. It's here we truly start to live in harmony with God's purpose, guided by a desire for holiness and obedience. Join in to learn more about "The Method and the Madness."

On Sunday we explore the concept of grace measured against the way of the world. We're taught to measure worth by condition and performance, but today we're flipping the script. It's a universal message of reassurance for anyone feeling the pressure to meet the world's exacting standards. No matter the scars we carry or the knocks we've taken, we are cherished and fully embraced by God, through Christ. 

Have you ever felt that little surge of pride when you're waved through a VIP line, or when your loyalty card bumps you to the front of the queue? That's the allure of exclusivity talking – a feeling many of us know all too well. On Sunday we'll peel back the layers of this societal concept to reveal a starkly different spiritual truth: God's grace doesn't play by these rules. In contrast this with our world, we'll look at God's inclusive grace, a gift that's not earned but freely given. As The United Methodist Church has a general conference later in April We start a new series "The Method and the Madness" about how the theology of John Wesley still makes a difference in the 21st century.

As we welcome nine new students to our congregation on this Confirmation Sunday, we explore the church as a home.  This conversation is not just about a location on a map; it's about where we find our hearts anchored—a sense of belonging forged on faith and fellowship, strengthening ties that transcend ancestry. This goes beyond our own blood, and we are unified by Christ’s.  From the biblical lands promised to Abraham to the modern sanctuary of the church, we ponder the spiritual and emotional dimensions that shape our sense of belonging and community.

What do you do when things don't turn out the way you thought they would? We probably have had this happen for better and for worse. On Easter we'll see how God overturns our expectations, between the astonishment of the disciples at the empty tomb and the grace that flows into our own lives. The resurrection is the ultimate good news, inviting us to embrace the possibility of revitalization in areas of life that may seem lifeless. Join in celebrating Jesus' victory over the grave!

On Palm Sunday we tackle the enigmatic identity of Jesus Christ during the solemnity of Holy Week. Jesus was much more than an exemplary figure, he was the Messiah. When he enters the the capital city there is no turning back. We're confronted with a decision that's as momentous now as it was two millennia ago—was Jesus a lunatic, a liar, or the Lord He claimed to be? We'll delve into the heart of Christian belief and what it means to stand in the shadow of the cross on Good Friday. Join the conversation that isn't just about history—it's about the here and now, and how you respond to one of the most profound questions ever asked.

In this week's message, we uncover the rich parallels between such cherished memories and the disciplines of our faith. We examine how, much like the ease of making fruit dip contrasted with the efforts of creating a homemade feast, spiritual practices—especially those within a community—require dedication but yield profound rewards. Join in for an engaging conversation that reaffirms the idea: to live out our faith, we must do so together.

This Sunday we'll explore how doing less and creating space for God in our lives is a powerful spiritual discipline, allowing us to decrease so that He may increase. Becoming more like Jesus isn't about a flawless victory, but a process teeming with setbacks and grace and growth. We'll unpack a passage from Mark 2, discussing Jesus' actions on the Sabbath and how this illustrates the importance of embracing the spirit of God's laws rather than being ensnared by the letter. Join in for a refreshing perspective that reassures us that spiritual growth is about availability to God's transformative work, not our own pursuit of perfection.