Johnston Chapel UMC Sermons and More

JCUMC Live Nativity Narration

This is the narriation for those driving through the live navitity at Johnston Chapel UMC.

October 5, 2025 | Hard Truths, Deeper Grace: "Love Your Enemies"

Welcome to the sermon podcast of Johnston Chapel United Methodist Church in Summit, Mississippi! We're glad you're joining us digitally for worship. Learn more about JCUMC here. [https://johnstonchapelumc.org.] This week, we begin a new series called "Hard Truths, Deeper Grace: Following Jesus Even When it's Hard." In the first sermon on Jesus' teaching to love our enemies, we explore one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus. Bro. Jonathan discusses the transformation required to follow the call for Christians to stand out through acts of love rather than hatred or division. With references to a popular nineties movie, the culture of modern-day animosity, and the biblical context of these teachings (and even a quote from a 90s rapper), this sermon encourages personal reflection and active steps towards embodying the grace and love of Christ in everyday life.

August 24, 2025 | "Bent No More"

Welcome to this week's sermon from Johnston Chapel United. Methodist Church in Summit, Mississippi! In this sermon, we explore Luke 13:10 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGdySVOpEU4&t=790s]-17, where Jesus heals a woman crippled for 18 years by an evil spirit despite objections from a synagogue leader fixated on Sabbath rules. Through this story and the transformation of John Newton, author of 'Amazing Grace,' we learn that God's grace transcends legalism and human-imposed barriers. This powerful message reminds us that true freedom in Christ isn't earned by rule-keeping but given by God's unfathomable mercy. Don't let self-condemnation or religious rituals keep you from experiencing and sharing God's liberating grace. Find this week's readings and more here [http://bible.com/events/49482437]

August 17, 2025 | "We Are Never Alone"

Are we truly alone in our faith journey? This powerful message reminds us that we're surrounded by a 'great cloud of witnesses' - those who have gone before us in faith. Drawing from Hebrews 11:29-12:2, we're encouraged to see how biblical heroes like Moses, Joshua, and Rahab took incredible risks for God. Their stories aren't just ancient history; they're testaments to God's faithfulness and our potential when we step out in faith. This isn't about reckless action, but about spirit-led risks that push us beyond our comfort zones. Just as Jesus endured the cross for us, we're called to face our fears and uncertainties, trusting that God is with us. It's a stirring call to examine our lives: What weights are holding us back? Where is God nudging us to take a risk? By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can run our race with endurance, knowing we're never truly alone. Find this week's readings and more on the YouVersion Bible app. [http://bible.com/events/49479118]

August 10, 2025 | "Better Than This World"

Today, we're diving into the powerful story of Abraham and exploring what true faith looks like. Hebrews 11 paints a vivid picture of Abraham's journey, reminding us that faith often calls us to step out of our comfort zones and into the unknown. Abraham left behind everything familiar, trusting God's promise of something greater. This challenges us to examine our own lives - are we holding onto temporary comforts, or are we willing to follow God's call, even when the destination isn't clear? The message encourages us to see faith not as blind obedience, but as trust in God's eternal promises. It prompts us to consider: what 'lesser things' might we need to let go of to fully embrace God's greater plan for our lives? Find scripture readings and more here on the YouVersion Bible app. [http://bible.com/events/49475658]