Sermons from Christ the King, Poway

www.ctksd.org

Romans 13:8-14

In this engaging and practical sermon, Fr. Matt Shepard uses the nostalgia of old TV public service announcements to introduce “Stir Up Sunday,” the Anglican Church’s own annual spiritual PSA. As the liturgical year comes to a close and Advent approaches, Christians are called to reset, refocus, and stir up their devotion to God.

Drawing from the prophet Malachi, Fr. Matt explains how ancient Israel, disillusioned and disappointed after returning from exile, had drifted into empty, performative religion. Their frustration mirrors our own temptations to blame God, culture, or circumstances rather than examining our own hearts. Through Malachi, God calls His people back—back to reverence, repentance, and relationship.

Fr. Matt outlines three ways Scripture stirs us up:

Fear the Lord — cultivating reverence, humility, confession, and a posture that says, “I’m the problem, Lord—restore me.”

Esteem His Name — remembering the power and character of Jesus, whose name carries authority, mercy, and victory.

Speak with One Another — returning to community, where we encourage one another and grow together in Christ.

God responds to faithful hearts with deep assurance: He sees us, hears us, values us, remembers us, and calls us His own. As we enter Advent, Fr. Matt urges us to rekindle devotion, renew our covenant to Christ, and re-engage fully with the community of faith.

Stir up your heart. Reset your focus. Step into the new liturgical year in rhythm with the Holy Spirit.

In this sermon, guest preacher Kevin Stepp invites us to look “behind the curtain” — to see that God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.

➡️ Discover how to see the unseen, live in resurrection hope, and stand firm in the promise that our Redeemer lives.

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What is heaven really like? Beyond the clouds and harps of popular imagination, Scripture gives us a breathtaking glimpse of a heavenly reality where Jesus Himself protects, provides for, and shepherds His saints.

In this All Saints Sunday message from Revelation 7:9-17, Fr. Eric reminds us that the saints in glory are not a special few, but all who have been washed clean by the blood of the Lamb. Even now, we can experience glimpses of heaven whenever we live out Christ’s love on earth — offering protection, provision, and care for others in His name.

Key Points:

Heaven Revealed: John’s vision shows a great multitude from every nation worshipping before God’s throne.

Jesus Protects His Saints: God “spreads His tent” over His people, covering them with His presence.

Jesus Provides for His Saints: In heaven, there is no hunger, thirst, or suffering — only perfect satisfaction in God’s care.

Jesus Shepherds His Saints: The Lamb becomes the Shepherd, guiding His people to springs of living water and wiping away every tear.

Heaven on Earth: When we serve others — through ministries like the San Diego Rescue Mission — we mirror the realities of heaven here and now.

The Call to Sainthood: Sainthood isn’t earned but received through Christ’s sacrifice. Live as saints today by serving and loving others.

Takeaway:

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