Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Faith in Action examines the critical relationship between belief and behavior in the Christian life. Too often, believers divide into camps that emphasize either doctrinal purity or social activism, but Scripture presents these as two inseparable halves of the same gospel. James, known historically as 'James the Just,' directly challenges the notion that faith can exist without corresponding action, declaring such faith 'dead and useless.' His teaching aligns perfectly with Jesus' own ministry, which seamlessly integrated proclamation with compassionate service.The message illustrates this principle through a sobering example of Christian bookstore owners who displayed all the external signs of faith while neglecting children in desperate need right in their neighborhood. This disconnect between professed belief and practical compassion represents exactly what James warns against. Throughout Scripture, from Micah's Old Testament call to 'do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God' to Jesus' own definition of his ministry as bringing good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed, we see that authentic faith naturally produces good works. Like the two blades of scissors working together, both faith and works are essential components of holiness. The ultimate challenge for believers is to follow Jesus' greatest commandments: to love God with everything we have and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

What defines Christians in today's world? Too often, we're known more for opposition than support. This message explores how Jesus intended His followers to be recognized by their love, not their arguments or political positions. Drawing from John 13:35, we examine Jesus's clear instruction that love should be the defining characteristic of His disciples.We delve into James's powerful teaching that faith without action is dead, challenging us to consider whether our beliefs translate into how we treat others. The historical example of John Wesley provides a compelling model of faith in action—preaching to the marginalized, establishing health clinics, building schools in slums, reforming prisons, and living generously.This message offers practical ways to be FOR our communities through service, care, and unconditional love. Rather than completing occasional service projects, we're called to adopt a lifestyle of compassion that reflects Christ's heart. Discover how shifting from what we're against to what we're FOR can transform both our witness and our communities.Keywords: Christian love, faith in action, community service, John Wesley, James faith works, church reputation, Christian witness, loving your neighbor, practical Christianity, being FOR not against, Christian compassion, Jesus disciples, church community impact, Christian living, faith expression, loving others, Christian service, church outreach, Christian identity, following Jesus example, Christian community engagement, practical faith, Christian testimony, church mission, Christian values, loving like Jesus.

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places | Matthew 25 Bible StudyDiscover the profound truth from Matthew 25:31-46 that when we serve those society marginalizes, we encounter Jesus himself. This powerful message explores how serving the hungry, thirsty, foreign, naked, sick, and imprisoned connects us directly with Christ.Learn why this passage isn't about works-based salvation but rather how grace empowers us to serve others. Explore who 'the least of these' are in today's world—from those experiencing food insecurity to refugees, the homeless, those without healthcare, and people in the justice system.Hear a moving story about a young man who chose to throw a birthday party for homeless people instead of paying his tuition, and how God provided in unexpected ways. This testimony shows how serving others not only impacts those we help but transforms us and those around us.Get practical steps for serving 'the least of these' in your community:- Opening your eyes to needs around you- Starting with small acts of kindness- Using your unique gifts and talents- Joining with others in service- Serving from a place of humilityReflect on challenging questions about where you might be overlooking 'the least of these' in your daily life, what barriers keep you from serving, and how your understanding of Jesus might change if you truly believed you were encountering Him in those you serve.Keywords: Matthew 25, least of these, serving others, Christian service, helping the poor, faith in action, Jesus in disguise, Christian charity, biblical justice, sheep and goats, kingdom of God, Christian discipleship, loving your neighbor, Christian community service, biblical hospitality, Christian compassion, faith and works, Christian outreach, social justice, Christian ministry

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

The Humble Path: Following Jesus' Example of Selfless Service explores how biblical humility transforms our lives in a self-centered world. Discover what true humility really means—not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. Learn from Jesus' radical example of humility, from washing disciples' feet to sacrificing His life for others. This message unpacks why humility is so challenging in our culture that constantly tells us to put ourselves first, and reveals how this self-focus actually leads to unhappiness rather than fulfillment. Find practical ways to practice humility in everyday situations: letting others go first, responding graciously to offense, speaking encouragement, keeping promises, prioritizing family, and giving generously. Understand the powerful truth that God doesn't just command humility—He works within us to give both the desire and ability to live this way. Experience the freedom that comes when your happiness no longer depends on how others treat you, but on how you treat them. This teaching addresses common questions about humility: Can we really change our self-centered nature? What does humility look like in practice? Why should we choose this difficult path? Discover how small acts of selflessness reflect Christ's heart and transform both us and those around us. Perfect for anyone struggling with relationships, seeking greater joy, or wanting to live more like Jesus. Whether you're new to faith or a long-time believer, this message offers biblical wisdom for following the humble path that leads to true fulfillment. Learn how emptying ourselves as Jesus did brings not only personal joy but also glory to God and hope to a world in need of good news.

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Created for Community: Understanding God's Design for Human Connection explores the biblical foundation for human relationships. From Genesis where God declares 'it is not good for man to be alone' to Jesus gathering disciples for ministry, scripture consistently affirms our need for connection. This message examines how we're made in the image of a communal God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - explaining our innate longing for relationship. Learn about Eden's perfect community before sin fractured our connections, and discover how the Holy Spirit empowers us to build genuine relationships today. The message provides practical guidance for overcoming isolation, practicing deep listening, extending grace, and creating both formal and organic community. Whether you're struggling with loneliness, wanting to deepen existing relationships, or seeking to help others connect, this teaching offers biblical wisdom for experiencing the community God designed us for. Discover how our love for Jesus is demonstrated through caring for others, and how together we can find wholeness and bring glory to God. Keywords: community, relationships, connection, loneliness, isolation, church community, Christian fellowship, Holy Spirit, healing relationships, biblical community, God's design, human connection, Genesis, Eden, discipleship, listening skills, compassion, forgiveness, restoration, small groups.

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Created for Community: Understanding God's Design for Human Connection explores the biblical foundation for human relationships. This teaching examines Genesis to reveal how God intentionally designed humans for connection - with Him, with each other, and with all creation. Discover why God declared isolation 'not good' even in paradise and how the creation of woman demonstrates our inherent need for belonging. Learn what true Christian community looks like through the example of the early church in Acts 4, where believers were 'one in heart and mind' and shared everything they had. This message contrasts inclusive, grace-based community with exclusionary groups that contradict the gospel message. Find practical guidance on building authentic community by examining where you might be isolating yourself, how you can create inclusive spaces, what divisive attitudes need confronting, and how to better care for creation. Perfect for anyone feeling isolated, struggling with relationships, interested in biblical community, or wanting to understand God's original design for humanity. Keywords: Christian community, biblical relationships, Genesis creation story, human connection, isolation, belonging, early church, Acts 4, inclusive community, communion, divine partnership, Christian unity, God's design, relationship with God, creation care, human purpose.

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Running the Race with Integrity: Lessons from Eric LiddellDiscover how Olympic champion Eric Liddell's extraordinary faith journey can transform your Christian walk today. Born to missionaries in China, Liddell became a champion runner in Scotland before facing his greatest test of faith at the 1924 Paris Olympics. When his strongest events were scheduled for Sunday, Liddell refused to compete despite immense pressure, honoring his conviction that Sunday belonged to God alone.This powerful message explores how Liddell's unwavering integrity led him to win gold in an unfamiliar event before returning to China as a missionary, where he ultimately gave his life in a Japanese concentration camp during World War II. His famous words—'God made me fast, and when I run, I feel His pleasure'—reveal his understanding that all gifts come from God and should glorify Him.Learn four biblical principles for developing uncompromising Christian integrity in today's morally confused world:1. Ask God to test your heart like a spiritual EKG2. Study Scripture diligently to understand God's unchanging standards3. Apply biblical knowledge to everyday decisions4. Remain faithful regardless of circumstancesPerfect for Christians struggling with moral decisions, those feeling pressure to compromise their values, believers wanting to strengthen their faith, and anyone interested in living with greater purpose and conviction. This message provides practical steps for examining your heart, deepening your knowledge of Scripture, putting faith into action, and standing firm under pressure.Keywords: Christian integrity, Eric Liddell, faith and sports, biblical values, moral conviction, spiritual growth, Christian living, uncompromising faith, Olympic champion, missionary story, Christian biography, standing firm in faith, biblical principles, Christian character, spiritual discipline, moral clarity, Christian ethics, faith under pressure, Christian testimony, spiritual transformation

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Finding Faith in the Fire: Powerful Lessons from Daniel 3

Discover how to maintain unwavering faith during life's most challenging moments through the inspiring story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. This powerful biblical account reveals what happens when faith meets fire—literally!

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon constructed a massive golden statue and commanded everyone to worship it or face death in a fiery furnace. Three young Hebrew exiles—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—refused to compromise their faith despite the deadly consequences. Their remarkable declaration that they would trust God whether He rescued them or not demonstrates faith that isn't dependent on outcomes.

When thrown into the furnace, heated seven times hotter than normal, something miraculous happened. Not only did they survive, but a fourth figure appeared with them in the flames. They emerged completely unharmed, without even the smell of smoke on their clothes, causing the pagan king to praise their God.

This message explores:

• The historical context of Daniel 3 and who these three men really were
• What true faith looks like when facing impossible situations
• How God shows up in the midst of our suffering, not just in deliverance from it
• Practical ways to trust God during your personal 'fiery furnaces'
• Finding courage to stand firm when everyone else is compromising

Whether you're currently walking through difficult circumstances or preparing for future challenges, this message offers biblical wisdom for maintaining faith when life heats up. Learn how to say 'In God we trust' not just when things are going well, but especially when facing your greatest trials.

Keywords: faith in trials, Daniel 3, fiery furnace, Shadrach Meshach Abednego, biblical courage, standing firm, trusting God in hardship, spiritual resilience, faith over fear, God's presence in suffering, biblical faith, spiritual growth, overcoming adversity, Christian perseverance, faith under pressure

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)

Understanding Biblical Faith: Trusting God to Be God

Discover what true biblical faith really means beyond popular misconceptions. Many believe faith means being absolutely confident in specific outcomes—that strong enough belief guarantees results. But is this biblical?

Explore the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who, when facing death in a fiery furnace, demonstrated authentic faith by declaring God could save them, but even if He didn't, they would remain faithful.

Learn why biblical faith is not:

• Faith in our ability to have faith
• Trust in what we think should happen

Instead, discover that biblical faith means letting God be God—trusting His wisdom even when outcomes differ from our desires. The greatest test comes when prayers aren't answered as hoped, revealing whether our faith is truly in God or merely in getting what we want.

This message examines faith during difficult circumstances, using powerful biblical examples and contemporary stories like Pastor Jim Conway's journey when his daughter faced cancer. Learn practical ways to surrender control and develop genuine trust in God's character regardless of outcomes.

Keywords: biblical faith, trusting God, unanswered prayer, Shadrach Meshach Abednego, spiritual growth, Christian living, faith challenges, God's sovereignty, spiritual surrender, faith versus control, Christian discipleship, spiritual maturity, faith in difficult times, Bible teaching, Christian sermon, spiritual wisdom, God's will, Christian faith, spiritual trust, faith journey

Wesley United Methodist Church - Springfield, MO

www.wesleymethodist.com

(CCLI streaming license 2009194)