McKendree UMC (Lawrenceville, GA)

When Jesus asked his disciples that question, many compared him to prophets from the past. But Peter saw something more: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In this sermon from Matthew 16, we explore what Peter recognized—and how Jesus continues to challenge our expectations about power, mercy, and the way God works in the world. This week’s breath prayers.

Rescue Me from Danger (Matthew 14:22–33) Will Jesus keep us safe? In a world that feels unstable — financially, politically, personally — it’s a question many of us carry. In this message, we turn to Peter and the story of walking on water to explore what “safety” really means. Peter steps out of the boat not because the storm has stopped, but because Jesus is there. When he begins to sink, his si...

On Ash Wednesday, we begin Lent by asking a simple but searching question: Am I in tune with the pitch? Drawing from Psalm 51, this sermon explores how drift happens gradually—through small compromises, unchecked desire, and silence where truth should speak. When David is confronted by Nathan, he finally hears how far off he has become and prays, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” Like musicians...

(Acts 2:42–47; 2 Corinthians 3:17–18) We live in a time when everyone is certain. But certainty is not the same as discernment. In this final sermon of the series on hearing God’s call, we explore Paul’s words about the veil that can cloud our vision—and the promise that whenever we turn to the Lord, the veil is lifted. Discernment isn’t about being right. It is about being transformed into Christ...

Pastor Paula Dallas explores the call of God through the story of Saul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–15). Saul believed he was serving God, yet his life was redirected when Christ met him and revealed a new purpose. His transformation shows that God can use every part of a person’s story—strengths, failures, and experiences—for the sake of the gospel. Drawing connections...

On Pentecost, not everyone stood up like Peter—but everyone was speaking. In this sermon, we explore what it means to be uniquely gifted in a community where the Spirit is poured out on all people. Drawing on Acts 2, 1 Peter 4, and insights from Trevor Hudson, we reflect on spiritual gifts as part of discernment: not tools for status, but ways love becomes real. The question is not Do I have a gif...

Discerning God’s will isn’t about certainty. It’s about relationship. Drawing on 1 John 4, this sermon explores how discernment grows over time and how love for people, not fear, is the guide that helps us recognize God’s voice. A sermon handout is available on the show page.

What we believe about God shapes everything—how we listen, how we love, and whether others can hear good news through us. In this sermon on Acts 2:4–13, we explore how Pentecost is less about extraordinary gifts and more about transformed hearts. When God’s love becomes relationship rather than idea, it becomes audible to the world. See the Episode website for the handouts.

This sermon explores Jesus’ baptism and the gift of the Holy Spirit as signs of God’s deep desire to be with us. Pastor Cyndi reflects on baptism as God’s declaration of love—not something we earn—and on prayer as a turning toward God in trust. As part of a series on discerning God’s call, the message invites listeners to return to the water, remember who they are, and listen for God’s presence. M...

Too often people wonder whether God has a unique and personal call for them. And if so, how do we discern God’s call? Over the coming weeks, we will use Scripture and Trevor Hudson’s book, In Search of God’s Will , to listen for God’s call—together, prayerfully, and with active participation. We begin with what scripture says (and doesn't say) about whether each person has a unique call. See the E...

Study Notes for September 15, 2024 Video of U2 Beautiful Day In this episode of Living in God's Story, we explore Genesis 15, delving into God's profound promise to Abram through the imagery of stars and smoke. Highlights: Perspective Shift: How Abram's view of the stars challenges us to see beyond our limitations and recognize the constant signs of God’s commitment in our lives. Divine Commitment...

Study Notes and Reflection Questions . Video referenced in the sermon of Charles and Marcus describing two years of friendship and growth.

In Acts 4:31, the apostles' prayer for boldness led to a moment that shook their very foundation—literally and spiritually. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, transformed into fearless witnesses. What if that kind of divine shaking happened to you? Pastor Cyndi explores both Biblical and recent examples of people embrace this kind of transformative faith and are reshaped by the Holy Spirit.