Pastor Connie Stinson - "IFF Only"

Pastor George Howle - "God, Family, and Nation"

The sermon explores the themes of faith, family, and nation-building through the biblical story of Abraham and his descendants. It emphasizes the importance of God as the creator, the role of family, and the significance of struggling with God's voice. The journey of Jacob and the nation of Israel is highlighted as a key element in becoming a great nation through God's people. Takeaways * The significance of God as the creator * The impact of family dynamics on nation-building Chapters * 00:00 Abraham's Servant and Isaac's Wife * 35:29 The Creation of Family * 41:01 Believing in the Impossible with God * 47:10 Becoming a Great Nation through God's People

Rev. Dr. Sandra Stevens Poirel - "The Magnitude of God's Mercy"

The sermon focuses on the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 11, verses 25-30, and explores the theme of Jesus' invitation to come to him and find rest. It emphasizes the inclusivity of the invitation and the shared yoke that Jesus offers to ease burdens. Takeaways * Inclusivity of Jesus' invitation * Shared yoke to ease burdens Chapters * 00:00 The Gospel Reading * 34:20 The Widness of God's Mercy * 41:46 The Shared Yoke

Rev. Dr. Sandra Stevens Poirel - "TWO - WAY WELCOME"

The scripture lesson from Matthew chapter 10 focuses on the theme of welcome, hospitality, and kindness. It emphasizes the significance of small acts of love and compassion, highlighting the mutual exchange of giving and receiving. Takeaways * Small acts of kindness matter * Mutual offerings of welcome and care are noticed and received by Jesus Chapters * 00:00 The Little Commission and Jesus' Encouragement * 47:28 The Importance of Offering a Cup of Cool Water * 54:19 The Gravity of Jesus' Message and Two-Way Welcome

Rev. Will Malambri - "We Mutually Pledge"

The sermon emphasizes the themes of democracy, patriotism, and mutual care, drawing from historical and biblical references to highlight the importance of unity, kindness, and service to others. It also reflects on the ideals of the nation and the responsibility of citizens to help the country progress towards its aspirations. Takeaways * Unity and mutual care are essential for the progress and prosperity of a nation. * Faithful patriotism involves honoring the nation's high aspirations and being helpfully ambitious about its future. Chapters * 00:00 Unity and Faithful Patriotism

Rev. Dr. Sandra Stevens Poirel - "Somebody Knows How to Turn the Lights On"

The sermon explores the themes of discipleship, faith, and trust in God's care, drawing from the scripture lesson in the Gospel of Matthew. It emphasizes the cost of discipleship, the mission discourse, the priority of faith, the cost of faithfulness, the encouragement to not be afraid, and the assurance of God's care. Takeaways * The cost of discipleship is emphasized, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices involved in following Jesus. * The message of not being afraid and trusting in God's care is reiterated, providing comfort and encouragement to the listeners. Chapters * 00:00 The Cost of Discipleship * 39:35 The Mission Discourse * 47:22 The Cost of Faithfulness * 53:55 Trusting in God's Care