Sermons from St. John the Divine

What is one of the greatest challenges facing the Church? Unity. In this sermon from Romans 11, we explore Paul’s vision of Jews and Gentiles brought together as one people through Jesus Christ. Despite our differences, God calls us to look beyond division, extend mercy rather than judgment, and find our unity in Christ through the Holy Spirit.

What does God’s mercy look like when it crosses the boundaries we create? Through Jesus’ encounter with the Canaanite woman, this sermon explores humility, faith, and the abundant mercy of God. As we recognize our own need for grace, we discover that no one is beyond God’s love—and we are called to extend that same mercy to others.

What does it mean for Jesus to be the treasure of our souls? In this sermon from Romans 10, we hear the promise that everyone who trusts in Christ will not be put to shame. Jesus meets us as we are, restores what shame has taken from us, and reminds us of our dignity and worth in God’s eyes. And when we receive this treasure, we’re invited not to keep it to ourselves, but to share the good news of Christ with others.

What happens when fear takes over and we realize we can’t do life alone? In this sermon on Jesus walking on water, we see a God who doesn’t remain distant but comes directly to His people in the midst of the storm. Like Peter and the disciples, we need Christ—and we need one another. When Jesus meets us in our weakness, our response is to trust Him, worship Him, and remember that God has come to be with us.

Can our religious traditions ever distract us from Christ Himself? In this sermon from Romans 9, we reflect on Paul's deep sorrow for Israel and the danger of valuing spiritual heritage without a living relationship with Jesus. Our traditions, worship, and faith practices are gifts meant to lead us to Christ—not replace Him. May we be rich in both our heritage and in the transforming presence of our Savior.

The kingdom of God is closer than we often realize. In this sermon from Matthew 13, we explore Jesus' parables of the mustard seed, the yeast, the hidden treasure, the pearl of great price, and the fishing net—not as puzzles to solve, but as invitations to encounter Christ. As we walk through these stories, we discover the transforming grace of the Savior who is making all things new and calling every person into the abundant life of His kingdom.

How do we trust God when life is difficult and our prayers seem inadequate? In this sermon from Romans 8, we discover the comforting promise that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness, God is at work even in our trials, and nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. As we grow in assurance, we are invited into a deeper longing for God and a greater confidence in His faithful love.

What does it mean to live between Christ's resurrection and His return? In this sermon from Romans 8, we explore the Christian life as the "already but not yet"—adopted into God's family, sharing in Christ's sufferings, and living with a hope that transforms us even as we wait. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, God is bringing new life to birth in us and in all creation.

What is the gospel, really? In this sermon from Romans 8, we discover that the heart of the Christian faith is not merely forgiveness, but adoption into the family of God. Through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, we are no longer slaves to fear but beloved sons and daughters of the Father. This assurance of God's love transforms our identity, our hope, and the way we live each day.