SJLC Sermons

In this episode the Pastor Dan reads Matthew 11 and reflects on Jesus’ invitation to “take my yoke,” explaining how a well‑fitting yoke is gentle, tailor‑made, and shared. He shows how Christ’s humility and the cross transform symbols of subjugation into signs of rest, companionship, and salvation. The sermon then connects that message to American history—Yorktown, the Declaration of Independence,...

Pastor James Demmel unpacks Jeremiah 28, recounting the dramatic clash between Jeremiah and Hananiah and the danger of prophets who promise easy peace. He contrasts false consolation with the truth of the cross, showing how God’s will often comes through suffering and patient trust. The sermon emphasizes discernment in hearing Scripture, the call to submit to God’s timing, and the hope found in Go...

This episode reflects on Matthew 10, where Jesus warns that following him may bring division, denial, and even death, while calling disciples to courageous faith and sacrifice. Amid the hard truths, the sermon highlights repeated reassurances—"do not be afraid," the sparrows and counted hairs—affirming God’s care and the hope that makes the cost of discipleship worth it.

This episode reflects on Matthew 9 where Jesus heals, shows compassion for the crowds, and sends out the twelve disciples with a mission to proclaim the kingdom and heal the sick. We connect the Gospel call to Vacation Bible School, describing VBS as a moment when the church equips and sends out "unfinished" disciples into an imperfect world, trusting the Spirit and the gifts of love, joy, peace,...

In Mercy Makes Room, we explore how Jesus consistently chose mercy over exclusion and relationship over judgment. From sharing a table with Matthew and other outcasts, to restoring a forgotten woman and raising a little girl to life, Jesus reveals the heart of God—a mercy that welcomes, heals, and makes room for everyone. This message challenges us to see people as Jesus sees them, to move beyond...

On Holy Trinity Sunday the sermon explores the mystery of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, drawing on Matthew 28 and Hebrews to show how the triune nature of God models perfect community and love. It emphasizes that Christian discipleship, sanctification, and communal life flow from this triune pattern — calling believers to faith, hope, and love and urging them not to neglect meeting together...

This episode reflects on John 20 and Acts 2, contrasting the quiet, tender resurrection appearance with the explosive, world-changing events of Pentecost. A pastor’s personal anecdote about a baby named Peter frames a deeper look at Apostle Peter’s dramatic transformation from an ordinary fisherman into a bold preacher filled with the Holy Spirit. Through the story of Pentecost, the message highli...

This episode covers a Graduation Sunday service at St. John’s featuring the Gospel reading from John 17 and a closing reflection on Acts about spreading the gospel. The pastor encourages the congregation to be authentic and pass faith to the next generation. Three graduating seniors then deliver brief sermons: Connor reflects on choices, success, and finding God’s calling; Meredith shares about tr...