Navigating Faith in a Politically Charged World
Romans 13:1-14
Paul reminds us: “Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. But he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave and by becoming like human beings. When he found himself in the form of a human, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:6–8) 
Jesus did not seek out the power of God or the political power of Israel, although He was from the Davidic line and had a rightful place to take the crown. He did not use that throne or the throne of God to impose His political will. He did it by impacting the people and fulfilling the role of the suffering servant.
I don’t plan on running for city council, senator, governor, or president, but I am called to speak about the political issues of today. But we need to know the heart of Jesus to provide a view from Jesus. There is no one answer to how we engage in today’s political landscape. In our two-party system in the United States, we will find ourselves aligned one way, and on other topics, we will be aligned another. There will be no perfect answer for how our congregants should vote this fall. Alleviating poverty and releasing prisoners don’t just happen on a Tuesday in November. We have a persistent call to prophetic action from the Suffering Servant, and those who follow and try to live like the Servant. 
I look forward to seeing you at Misty Creek this Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Correction Not Judgement: When Lawlessness Abounds 
1 Timothy 2:1-8, Matthew 24:9-14, & Hebrews 12:25-29
The sermon this Sunday revolves around three life lessons. The first lesson highlights the significance of humility, and the concept of admitting "I could be wrong", which encourages an open-minded perspective. The second is the notion of having unpublished thoughts, emphasizing that it is okay to harbour thoughts that are not fully formed or expressed yet. The third lesson stresses the importance of not taking oneself too seriously, pointing out that it could potentially diminish the joy in undertaking tasks. In the sermon I will convey how society has become increasingly self-centered, straying from the teachings of Micah 6:8, which instructs us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. These are the actions that God's demands of us, and I believe that our country is currently experiencing a period of divine correction, rather than judgement.
It is during this time that we should acknowledge the patience of God. In referencing recent national events such as the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, I will underscore the importance of prayer and intercession. I will remind the congregation of our foremost identity as Christians - before any political affiliation comes into picture - and stress that our actions should mirror Christ's teachings. Even as the political climate intensifies, I urge listeners to display love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control, and to strive to become a source of light during this antagonistic period.
I will stress the importance of exercising wisdom and discernment amidst the current state of divisiveness marked by the burgeoning of conspiracy theories. The sermon echoes Matthew's words of being "wise as serpents and harmless as doves." The sermon concludes with reverberating the need to stand firmly in trust and faith given the current climate of lawlessness and hatred. I will console the congregation with the words of Hebrews, reminding us of an unshakeable kingdom under God's control. The sermon ends by encouraging the congregation to fervently pray for protection over politicians, law enforcement, and country at large, while reminding ourselves of the peace that Jesus bestows upon us, as per John 14:27 - a peace that the world cannot provide, thereby urging us to not be troubled or afraid.                             
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Great Expectations 
(7/14 Baptism Sunday at Misty Creek)
Luke 3:15-22
The sermon this week will focus on Jesus's baptism, described as a spectacle of divine revelation. As Jesus prays in the water, the Holy Spirit descends as a dove, marking the beginning of a new era. This event takes the spectators by surprise, leaving them in awe and with renewed hopes for a Messiah. The event highlights the transformative power of baptism, not just for Jesus but for anyone undergoing the ritual. Baptism doesn't just miraculously confer the status of God's beloved child, rather, it acknowledges their pre-existing divine identity. This sacred ritual integrates individuals into the Christian story, altering their identity fundamentally.
Baptism implies not only grace but imposes a responsibility of manifesting heaven on earth. It makes the believer part of Christ's body, pushing them to prioritize their Christian identity, characterized as God's beloved. Baptism doesn't promise a life devoid of struggles. Instead, it provides a renewed perspective and commitment to cherish Jesus's teachings in the face of challenges. Baptism further challenges oppressive powers and prods believers to infuse the world with love, justice, and forgiveness.  
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Careful, Cautious, Compassionate Part 4: 
The Forgiveness of God – Matthew 18:21-22 & Romans 12:17-21
In this week’s sermon "The Forgiveness of God" I will delve into forgiveness and the radical love we are called to embrace, emphasizing releasing others to God. I will discuss the importance of confronting abuse, breaking down tribal barriers, and loving even those who oppose us. I will urge the congregation to exhibit love that transcends mere tolerance, embodying the grace and compassion exemplified by Jesus. Ultimately, my sermon this Sunday stresses the significance of repentance, forgiveness, and embracing transformative love in our relationships and interactions. I look forward to seeing you in person or online.
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Careful, Cautious, Compassionate Part 3: 
"Love Your Enemies"

Matthew 5:43-48
This Sunday we will tackle Jesus’ command to "Love Your Enemies." This message challenges believers to embrace Jesus' command to love even those who oppose us. Through exploring the Greek concept of "agape" love, I will emphasize that loving our enemies requires sacrificial goodwill and active love towards all. The sermon ends with a call to repentance and a reminder of the transformative power of love in our lives and in the world. I hope to see you in person or online watching!!
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Misty Creek Community Church

6/23/24 Sermon:

"The Heart of God"

Song of Solomon 2:8-13

In this week’s sermon titled "The Heart of God," I am going to dive deep into the book of Song of Solomon, specifically focusing on Song of Solomon 2:8-13. This sermon portrays the love relationship between God and His believers mirrored in The Song of Solomon. I will emphasize the vibrancy, joy, and delight of God by illustrating God's creation process. By highlighting the element of divine joy in creation, this sermon encourages Misty Creek to see God's love and interest in every individual. I will underline the consequences of Adam and Eve's sin, that tainted the goodness of creation. I relate this notion to the divine inquiry, "Where are you?" in the aftermath of their sin, declaring it as a call to experience God's mercy.
My sermon parallels this with Psalm 139.  I will emphasize that God relentlessly pursues His believers with His goodness. Despite the times when believers might feel lost or overwhelmed, the sermon encourages envisioning Christ energetically leaping over obstacles to be with them. In referring to the Song of Solomon, the sermon presents it as a representation of the immediate reality of God's kingdom. With reference to the kingdom of God and Heaven as interchangeable concepts in the Bible, I will imply that the kingdom arrived with Jesus' presence on earth. In despite of the evident "not yet" aspects of the kingdom in the world today, the sermon focuses on their belief in the ongoing outpouring of God's Spirit.
I will encourage the congregation to envision Jesus in their midst during worship and invite Him to speak through them. The sermon frequently underlines the invitation from Jesus towards his congregation at Misty Creek to join Him. I will conclude the sermon by drawing attention to Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus extends an invitation to the weary to find rest in Him. In summary, this sermon, points out the vast love, pursuit and invitation from God for His believers, using the Song of Solomon and Matthew 11 as illustrations. I will urge the congregation to perceive God afresh, as a dynamic, joyful entity. 
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Misty Creek Community Church

6/16/24 Sermon:

"The Majesty of God"
Father’s Day Weekend
This week’s sermon "The Majesty of God" is a thoughtful exploration of the divine greatness of God. The essence of the sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and becoming absorbed in God's majesty, which I will support with insightful biblical examples. The sermon begins with a thought-provoking question, "What is the one thing we really believe God wants us to do?" My answer frames the crux of the message, namely that God wants us to comprehend His majesty. I support this concept with an example from 2 Peter 1:16, where Peter, having personally witnessed the divine, conveys the glory of Jesus Christ's coming stories as truth.
Drawing on the devotion of King David to God, the sermon highlights a key biblical figure who acknowledged and celebrated God's majesty relentlessly. King David gathered leaders, priests, and commanders for service to God, thereby honoring the God of Israel. I tie this illustration back to David's praise of God's limitless greatness and majesty in 1 Chronicles 29:10-13. The sermon also refers to Psalm 68:34-35 to impress upon the congregation God's all-encompassing power and majesty. This serves as an exhortation for all to proclaim and recognize God’s incomparable power.
I concluded this sermon by challenging the congregation's fathers and spiritual fathers. Using the story of Desmond T. Doss, the unarmed WWII medic who rescued 75 men, as an example of fulfilling God's calling. This powerful tale of duty and bravery underscores my request for men in the congregation to invest spiritually in others and to spread God’s majesty and love. In sum, this week’s sermon "The Majesty of God" illuminates the critical value of acknowledging and being drawn in by God's magnificence. The account offers biblical accounts and real-world examples to encourage the congregation to accept God’s omnipotence, and to challenge all of us to share God's majesty and word with others. I will drive home the necessity of spiritual discipleship in spreading the love and word of God. I hope to see you this Sunday!
 
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Careful, Cautious, Compassionate Part 2 
"Unconditional Love and Uncompromising Truth"
In this week’s sermon, "Unconditional Love and Uncompromising Truth", I will discuss the intricate subjects of sexuality, gender, and their purpose under God's design. These constructs originate from God, emphasizing the roles of men and women as complementary beings. I will explain that gender serves numerous purposes, including signifying roles and responsibilities within the family and depicting our relationship with God. This sermon also highlights the sacredness of sex and intimacy as fundamental elements of God's plan for marriage. Despite conversations regarding these aspects potentially stirring discomfort, acknowledging these truths is crucial since these attributes were ordained by God for His glory and our pleasure.
I will use examples from the Song of Solomon to stress the importance of maintaining intimacy within marriage. I will then address the existing crisis surrounding sexuality and gender that emerges when God's design is doubted or questioned. I will refer to the story of Adam and Eve to demonstrate how Satan has always targeted these constructs, leading to shame and the concealment of bodies. The sermon delineates sexual brokenness as multifaceted and contrary to God's plan, offering Scriptural support from 1 Corinthians 6:9 and a comprehensive list of sexual sins mentioned in the Bible. The sermon concludes with underscoring the importance of adhering to God's design. I will reassure those who have deviated that restoration is possible and cautions against the illusion that fulfillment can be found outside God's plan. I will also shed light on how deviations from this plan contribute to the disintegration of the family structure. Through this sermon, I will underline the need for open discussions about these topics in the church and encourages adherence to God's plan. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
 
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

Careful, Cautious, Compassionate Part 1 
The Time Has Come
2 Timothy 4:1–5
In this week’s sermon titled "Careful, Cautious, Compassionate," I will address the recent decisions by a mainline denominations conference to shift from traditional biblical tenets. The changes include recognizing LGBTQ+ lifestyles and permitting clergy to officiate LGBTQ+ weddings. I will articulate my concern that these decisions, motivated by love and unity, contravene biblical principles. Drawing from Matthew 7:21, the Gospel writer insinuates that entry into Heaven doesn't depend on professing faith, but on adhering to the word of God. The sermon goes on to suggest that the congregation should anticipate criticism and discrimination for their dedication to scripture and refusal to dilute it in the name of love.
Let me warn you of the potential damage caused by the new stand, with the increasing number of disconcerted former church members and a growing, confused, and polarized society. Despite these challenges, I want to urge the Misty Creek congregation to remain steadfast in their faith, echo the biblical truth, and remain unyielding in both truth and love. I will conclude the sermon by reminding believers of the spiritual battle before them, urging them to navigate it with unflinching faith, boldness, humility, love, and passion for the glory of God. Even though the coming days might be difficult, these are times for believers to shine the light of faith amidst darkness. Misty Creek is urged to remain committed to their faith, deepen their prayer lives, adhere to the biblical truth, and be ready to defend their faith with gentleness and grace.
 
Grace and Peace,
Stephen

5/26/24 Misty Creek Community Church Sermon:

"Worth Waiting For"

(Returning to Discipleship, Pt.8)

A Meaningful Memorial Day Service

One of the great joys of being a "preacher" is that, when writing a sermon," I am aware of my freedom to express my faith in the way I understand that God is leading me. In many places in this world and in many other times, that is or was not true.   Those in power can control the voice of the church to suit their desires. Furthermore, I realize that this freedom I have is not to be taken for granted. It is a costly gift that has been preserved at the cost of many willing to sacrifice that it might be. Some have given to the point of sacrificing their lives in the defense of freedom. As a nation, we will pause this Monday to honor those who have made the supreme sacrifice for this nation's freedom as we observe Memorial Day. 
 
It was fitting that last weekend I preached about Jesus breathing the Holy Spirit on the Disciples. For, truly it is God's Spirit at work in the world that gives birth to freedom and empowers those who would preserve and defend it. The challenge is for those of us who have received these two precious gifts, the power of the Holy Spirit and the freedom to be led by that spirit, is to be faithful in how we live out our faith and our freedom to do so.
Last Sunday we welcomed the arrival of the Holy Spirit to empower us to do the will of God. Now it is time for us to go do His will—to make disciples, to preach the Kingdom of God and do acts of mercy and justice and healing that show the world the love of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. How can you do this most effectively? By allowing me to introduce you to our greatest advocate. The Holy Spirit.
1 John 14:16-18 “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. 1 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
 
Grace and Peace,
Stephen