Hyde Park United Methodist

Journey into the drama of Holy Week through "Sarah's Story," a dramatic re-imagining of the last days of Jesus' life through the eyes of Sarah, a first-century woman who was close to the events of Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Justin LaRosa and Mat Hotho explore the Christus Victor atonement theory and its powerful message of liberation from sin, systems of evil, and spiritual forces. They discuss how this view of the cross offers a broader understanding of salvation and what it means to live out the hope of resurrection in everyday life. Join us as we unpack this compelling perspective and consider its impact on how we see Jesus' victory today.

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The cross and resurrection give us victory over sin, evil, and oppression. This includes the suffering associated with addictions and other harmful hangups and behaviors. The Christus Victor atonement theory can help those on a recovery journey discover new power in Christ to overcome their hardships. 

Reflection Questions:
1. Where do you feel powerless right now?
2. Which of the ‘false palms’—things we trust in besides Christ—do you find yourself tempted to wave?
3. How has community helped you experience freedom in Christ—or how do you hope it could?

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho dive into the ransom theory of atonement, a dramatic and often misunderstood view of Jesus’ death. They explore how it takes evil seriously—both as a cosmic force and a daily reality. The conversation also looks at Jesus’ ministry in Luke 4 and how his message disrupts comfort and expands the circle of inclusion. Join us for a meaningful and eye-opening discussion about justice, grace, and what it really means to follow Jesus.

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The ransom atonement theory is built on the notion that we are being held captive by forces that are beyond our control, and in the cross, God has released us from being held hostage. We are therefore called and empowered to be agents of liberation against the injustices people face in our society and in the world.

Reflection Questions:
1. In what ways has Jesus set you free from personal sins?
2. How does the two-fold understanding of biblical justice change your view of justice?
3. How is God calling you to be a part of setting people free from social injustice?

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The moral example atonement theory points to the entirety of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection as the source of our salvation. In his teachings and example, we receive the model for how to love God and each other. We are therefore called and equipped to be agents of love that will overcome hatred and revenge, thereby fully revealing God’s intended image within each of us.  

Reflection Questions:
1. What difference does it make for you in understanding the cross not just as a way to heaven, but as a way of experiencing eternal life on earth?
2. Whom do you have trouble loving?
3. How will you take steps this week to love the people who are hard to love?

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho discuss race, identity, and the personal work of anti-racism, exploring how the cross calls us to empathy, curiosity, and humility. Magrey shares reflections on his own experiences, the impact of current events, and lessons learned from his daughters. Join the conversation and discover how this journey is both deeply personal and universally important.

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this powerful episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho explore the deeply personal nature of faith, race, and reconciliation. Magrey reflects on his recent sermon, one of his most personal to date, sharing his own experiences with race and identity. They discuss how the cross calls us to both personal and collective transformation and how issues of race and justice are not just intellectual conversations but deeply human experiences.

From the significance of imago Dei in diversity, equity, and inclusion to the role of empathy in a divided world, this conversation challenges us to reflect on the racism within our own hearts and take steps toward genuine anti-racism. Magrey also shares how his daughters have reshaped his understanding of identity and inclusion, reminding us that the work of justice is deeply personal, generational, and ongoing.

If you’re wondering how to take meaningful action, this episode encourages conversation, personal reflection, and a commitment to learning in community. Watch now and join us on this journey of faith, justice, and transformation.



Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In Christ, we have been reconciled with God. We are therefore called and equipped to be agents of reconciliation among groups who have been divided by discrimination and prejudice.

Reflection Questions:
1. When have you experienced significant struggle in matters of your own personhood and identity?
2. How have you harbored racism in your own heart?
3. How do you intend to be more anti-racist in your life, your relationships, and your actions in the world?

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Pastor Sally Campbell-Evans and Rev. Bernie Lieving dive into the heart of forgiveness. Whether it's forgiving others, receiving grace, or learning to forgive ourselves, they explore why letting go can be so difficult—and so freeing. Join the conversation as they unpack powerful stories, scripture, and real-life experiences that reveal the transformative power of forgiveness.

Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps