Sermons by Bob Rhodes

Out of Their Abundance

Today, we dive into Jesus’ surprising praise for a poor widow who, despite her poverty, gave “all she had to live on.” In a world that often values outward appearances and assumes that “more” is always “better,” Jesus’ affirmation of the widow’s gift invites us to reconsider what it means to give. This story challenges our understanding of abundance and invites us to consider how we, too, might give in ways that embody our trust in God. Scripture: Mark 12:38-44…

The Home of God

This week, we gather for All Saints Sunday, a time to remember those who have entered life eternal over the past year and reflect on God’s promise of resurrection. Our scripture readings today remind us that God is not distant but makes a home with us. Scripture: John 11:32-44; Revelation 21:1-6a (NRSVUE)

Let me See

As we conclude our Walking with Jesus series, we explore the story of blind Bartimaeus. This final encounter of the series invites us to see clearly—ourselves, others, and the path ahead. Scripture: Mark 10:46-52 (CEB)

Not to be Served

As we continue our “Walking with Jesus” series, we arrive at a memorable moment in Mark where James and John seek positions of honor. Jesus redirects their ambition toward service, challenging us to rethink leadership. Scripture: Mark 10:35-45 (CEB)

Needles & Camels

Continuing our Walking with Jesus series, we turn to Mark 10:17-31, where Jesus challenges a rich man to release his wealth and follow him. This difficult passage calls us to examine our own relationship with material things. Scripture: Mark 10:17-31 (CEB)

For Such a Time as This

As we conclude our Uncommon Wisdom series, we reflect on Esther’s brave decision to speak out for her people, even at the risk of her own life. Her story invites us to consider the moments when we are called to act with courage and conviction, trusting that God has placed us exactly where we need to be “for such a time as this.” Scripture: Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 (NRSVue)

In Praise of Women who Lead

This week we turn to a passage that often gets a lot of attention, especially around Mother’s Day—Proverbs 31. But this Sunday, we’re looking at it through a different lens. Proverbs 31 isn’t just a checklist for the perfect wife; it’s a celebration of strength, wisdom, and leadership, particularly from women. Scripture: Proverbs 31:10-31 (NRSVue)

Holding Onto Wisdom

This week we turn our attention to Proverbs 1, where Wisdom is personified as a woman crying out in the streets. She offers a bold, no-nonsense call to those who are lost, urging them to listen and follow her guidance. Scripture: Proverbs 1:20-33 (NRSVue)

Choosing How We Should Live

This week, we’re exploring the wisdom of Proverbs, specifically looking at how these ancient sayings guide us in making choices. Proverbs offers practical wisdom for everyday living, reminding us that our decisions reflect our values and shape our lives. Scripture: Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 (CEB)

The Time for Singing has Come

Welcome to the first Sunday of September, where we begin a new series on Uncommon Wisdom. This week, we dive into the poetic beauty of the Song of Solomon. This week’s text invites us into a celebration of love and the joy of God’s creation. Scripture: 1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 (NRSVue)

Sent Out

The purpose of worship is not merely to bask in the presence of God but to be transformed by it—to be sent out into the world, equipped and inspired to make a difference. Worship that doesn’t lead to action is incomplete. As we conclude this worship series, we explore how worship calls us to respond by actively participating in God’s mission in the world. Scripture: 1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 (NRSVue)

Benediction

We are nearing the conclusion of our Worship with Rejoicing series. As we come to the end of a worship service, we often hear the words of benediction—a sending forth, a blessing. But what does it mean to be blessed as we go back into the world? Scripture: 2 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 (NRSVue)