Pastor Brian's sermon explores the story of the magi in Matthew 2:1-12, highlighting how God draws seekers to Himself through His prevenient grace. We explore the costly nature of the magi's worship, represented by their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, which symbolize Jesus' kingship, divinity, and humanity. This story challenges us to reflect on what following Jesus truly costs, encouraging us to consider sacrifices in our own lives as we pursue a deeper relationship with Him.

In this episode, we take a look at the teachings of Jesus from Matthew 7:24-27, exploring the parable of the wise and foolish builders. We discuss the critical distinction between merely hearing Jesus' words and actively putting them into practice. Join us as we unpack the call to be both hearers and doers, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through action, and discover how building our lives on the solid foundation of Christ can withstand life's storms.

In this episode, we dive deep into Jesus’ teaching on "The Narrow Gate" from Matthew 7:12-23. We’ll explore the meaning of the narrow path, how bearing fruit is a response to salvation, and the importance of doing the Father’s will by being conformed to the image of Christ. Join us as we unpack how the Holy Spirit works in us to produce good fruit and reflect Christ in our daily lives. This episode challenges us to walk the difficult but rewarding road of discipleship, grounded in love and obedience to God.

In today's episode we continue our study on Jesus' transformative teaching from the Sermon on the Mount, specifically Matthew 7:7-11. Discover how the simple yet profound invitation to ask, seek, and knock can reshape your understanding of prayer and deepen your relationship with God. We explore misconceptions about prayer, the nature of God as our loving Father, and how to overcome doubts and challenges in our prayer lives. Join us as we unpack practical applications to help you cultivate a vibrant prayer life, trusting in the goodness of a God who delights in giving good gifts to His children. Whether you're feeling lost in your spiritual journey or seeking answers to life's pressing questions, this episode offers encouragement and insight to guide you closer to God's heart.

In this episode, we dive deep into Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount: “Do not judge, so that you may not be judged” (Matthew 7:1-5). We explore the difference between discernment and condemnation, and how self-examination, humility, and grace can transform our relationships. Join us as we reflect on practical ways to avoid the trap of judgment, build a community of reconciliation, and walk in Christlike mercy.

In this episode, we dive deep into Jesus’ teachings from Matthew 6:25-34, where He invites us to release our anxieties and trust in God’s provision. We explore how to let go of our need for control and move toward a deeper trust in God's presence and care. Through reflective questions and practical life applications, we’ll challenge our common responses to worry, learn how to seek God's kingdom first, and embrace spiritual practices like the Means of Grace to cultivate a life of faith. Whether you're facing uncertainty or just seeking to trust God more fully, this episode will help you take the next step in your faith journey.

In this episode of the Idalou Methodist Church podcast, we explore the profound teaching of Jesus from Matthew 6:19-24, where He calls us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. As part of His Sermon on the Mount, this passage challenges us to reflect on our relationship with wealth, possessions, and the focus of our hearts. We’ll discuss how to live out the principles of the kingdom—simplicity, generosity, and devotion to God—through practical life applications and thought-provoking reflection questions. Join us as we dive deeper into what it means to serve God, not wealth, and how we can align our lives with the eternal treasures Jesus calls us to pursue.

In this episode of the Idalou Methodist Church podcast, we explore Matthew 6:1-18, focusing on Jesus' profound teachings about practicing piety. Join us as we unpack the importance of our motives in acts of righteousness, prayer, and fasting.

In this episode of the Idalou Methodist Church podcast, we explore the profound teachings of Jesus from Matthew 5:38-48, where He challenges us to embody a radical ethic of love that transcends our natural instincts. We delve into the meaning behind turning the other cheek, loving our enemies, and the call to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect. Join us as we unpack these transformative principles and discuss how they can reshape our relationships and communities, encouraging us to live out the values of God's kingdom in our daily lives.

In this episode of the Parsonage Podcast, Pastor Brian recaps the first half of the Sermon on the Mount -  exploring how Jesus defines Kingdom Living.