Sermons at Smoky Row Brethren Church

Lessons to remember on hope and humility from Israel's dark days of bondage in Egypt.

As we begin an extended reflection in the book of Exodus, join us for a group reflection on chapter 1 - a new king in Egypt and bad news for the Israelites.

Christians root our hope in the reality that Jesus is Lord of all, no matter who occupies any of our seats of government in society. How does that affirmation shape our posture and response to the political issues of our day?

As the world becomes more polarized, the message that God has reconciled the world to himself through Jesus gives Christians the unique hope that relationships can be restored.

God is revealed throughout scripture as a rescuer and provider. How does that shape our political priorities as citizens of the kingdom of God?

The early Christians couldn’t vote and had almost no political power in Rome, and yet their presence completely transformed the empire. What can we learn from their example about how to make a tangible difference in our world today?

God has given guidance to his people throughout history in several different cultural and political contexts. What can we learn about what God expects of those who govern others?

Jesus finds himself surrounded by a hostile crowd led by a friend who has betrayed his trust. While his disciples jump to arms, Jesus has other thoughts. What happens next gives us insights for how Christians ought to respond to opposition in a politically polarized world.

How do we discern what to believe and how to respond when there are multiple voices vying for our allegiance? Opposing parties form an unlikely alliance to try and trip up Jesus with a question about taxes. Jesus’ response teaches us lessons about discernment in a polarized political world.

How do we respond to those we thought identified with us and yet turn on us in critique? Jesus visits his hometown with an inspiring message of God’s hope and favor at hand...but the mood quickly shifts when he draws a comparison the congregation isn’t happy to hear.

The apostle Paul tells us to “rejoice always,” knowing that we will experience many circumstances that seldom feel happy. What does it mean for us to find and choose joy in the midst of trials?

Jesus tells us not to worry or fear several times throughout his ministry, yet it remains a difficult experience to shake. How can we find freedom from worry and fear in a life with Jesus?

Jesus’ last words from the cross in light of the empty tomb.

Jesus utters his last words and relinquishes his breath in death.

Having received a drink of sour wine, Jesus says, "It is finished.

Jesus senses that all has now been accomplished, and so he simply lets it be known that he is thirsty. Yet even in this, we are told that Jesus is fulfilling scripture.

Hanging upon the cross, Jesus catches sight of his mother and a beloved disciple. In the midst of his suffering, he takes a moment to entrust them to each other’s care in his absence.

Jesus is crucified alongside two criminals. One joins the crowds in mocking, but the other affirms Jesus’ innocence and asks Jesus to remember him. Jesus responds with mercy and assurance.

As Jesus is crucified, he prays for his enemies.

In his last moments of anguish on the cross, Jesus cries words of lament from Psalm 22.

During the last week of Jesus’ ministry, sometime after His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Jesus begins to run afoul of the leadership in the Temple. Now, as they walk by the Temple, the disciples notice how impressive it is…but Jesus tells them it is going to be destroyed. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”

As Jesus’ miracles get more impressive, religious leaders just get more stubborn and hardhearted. Jesus begins speaking plainly to his disciples about the suffering to come, but they seem only concerned about their own status. They ask Jesus who will be the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus answers them, but not in a way any of them expect.

Crowds continue to grow around Jesus, but not all are convinced by his message. As questions swirl about his identity and miraculous works, Jesus begins teaching in parables.

As the crowds continue to flock to Jesus for healing, restoration, and teaching, Jesus equips 12 disciples to multiply his work throughout the region. These are the instructions he gives them as he sends them on their way.

One day early in Jesus’ ministry, we’re told that he looked out and saw the crowds. So he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said something like this...