St. Paul's United Methodist Church

In this story in 1 Kings 12:1-17, we see that leading by might and strength as the world defines it can lead to great harm. True strength is found in the ability to work with others through compromise and compassion, as Jesus did.

In this sermon, we look at how the world defines greatness vs. what the Bible defines as greatness. 1 Kings 3:4-15; 10:23-25.

In this story, we look at the disfunctional family dynamics that led to a coup from one of David's own sons. 2 Sanuel 15:1-14.

David's story is one of many high and low points. Was he a man after God's Own Heart? 2 Samuel 7:8-16; 11:1-5.

In this sermon, we look at the reign of Israel's first king. What is a kingdom to do when their leader becomes ineffective and mentally unstable? We will also look at some very difficult, violent passages of scripture and discuss a better way of reading them. 1 Samuel 10:17-24; 15:10-11.

We begin our summer sermon series on the kings of Israel and Judah with a look at the transition from Samuel as a leader to their desire for a king to lead them. We explore why Samuel thought this was a bad idea - mainly because unchecked power corrupts. 1 Samuel 8:1-22.

In this message for graduation Sunday, we look at the importance of looking back with gratitude, looking forward with hope, and becoming more like Christ. Philippians 3:10-16.

We wrap up our sermon series with good news. Romans 8:28-39.

Why is it so hard to know God's will for us if it is so important? Is God's will a detailed plan for our lives or more of an outline that we get to fill in in collaboration with God? Romans 12:1-2; Colossians 1:9-10.

In this sermon, we will look at the problem of unanswered prayers, we will see how God does and doesn't answer prayer, we will see two examples of unanswered prayer in scripture, and we will look at the purpose of prayer.

Why is life so unfair? Why do the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer? How can an all powerful, all loving God have a world with so much suffering? We begin this sermon series with some deep questions that are worth exploring. Ecclesiastes 1:2; 7:15 and John 16:33.

In this Easter sermon, we look at the significance of the fact that God thought the women were the most suited to hear of the resurrection first. Matthew 26:17-29

In this sermon, we remember why the last supper was so sacred. We look at the connections to the Passover meal and remember that Christ is present with us when we receive communion. Matthew 26:17-29.

For Palm/Passion Sunday, we look at the lives of those transformed by Jesus in the last moments of his life. This is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, the grace and love of Jesus can shine through. Luke 23:26-43.

John 3:1-21

In this sermon, we look at an encounter at a well that leads to a Samaritan woman evangelizing her whole town. John 4:1-26.

Jesus ate a meal with Matthew and his friends. What happened at that meal that changed Matthew's life? Matthew 9:9-13.

In this sermon, we see the grave importance of caring for the least of these. Jesus takes how we treat the vulnerable personally. Scriptures include Matthew 7:21-27 and 25:31-46.

In Luke 18:9-14, we have the story of the prayers of the Pharisee and the tax collector. We look at the danger of thinking too highly of ourselves and looking with disdain at others who are on different paths.

In the parable of the bridesmaids, as told in Matthew 25:1-13, we learn about what it means to be ready for the return of Christ.

In this story, as told in Luke 18:1-8, we learn the value of caring for the vulnerable and idea that God does not forget us.

In this sermon, we look at how religious people have used religion to justify violence, harm, and oppression towards others. There is a better way. Matthew 21:33-46.

luke 14:15-24

In this sermon, we look at the value and cost of following Jesus. Matthew 13:44-46

For this Christmas Eve message, we focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Luke 2:1-20