Sermons by Bob Rhodes (Page 5)

Embracing Theological Diversity

The United Methodist Church spans the globe and there is rich theological diversity. Even in this diversity, we agree on a few key elements. This is not new to the church today! Paul wrote about this in his letter to the Romans, John Wesley preached a sermon on it, and as we read Wesley’s sermons we see that he–and we–can evolve theologically. Scripture: Romans 14:1-12 (CEB)

One Body, Many Parts

Whether you are new to this congregation or have been a part since the beginning, you know that we are diverse in our history, our background, our education and socio-economic status, our theology, our age, and so much more! Enriched by this diversity, we are a church family who cares for and prays for one another, a church family who lifts one another up, a church family who nurtures and loves. We do not do these things because we are…

Trusting the Unknown

This Second Sunday after Pentecost includes texts that remind us that God’s presence and call can rarely be described as expected or ordinary. Abram isn’t young when God calls him to leave everything he knows. Matthew isn’t the kind of person anyone would expect the Messiah to call and equip for ministry. Both of these Biblical figures respond to their respective calls even facing significant unknowns. In spite of these realities, both respond faithfully. Scripture: Genesis 12:1-9;  Matthew 9:9-13 (CEB)

Breathing Fire

As we prepare for this Sunday, we look forward to the celebration of Pentecost! This week’s message will explore two New Testament texts. Through the imagery of fire and the act of breathing, we will consider the theme of inspiration and empowerment, stirring our hearts to make a positive impact on our communities and the world around us. Scripture: Acts 2:1-8, 11b-20; John 20:19-23 (CEB)

Love the Sinner, Hate the Sin?

Like many of the other phrases we’ve explored, this one seems great on its surface. Of course we should love those who sin! Indeed, Paul reminds us that we all fall short of the glory of God. Loving the sinner is something we understand and that is clearly the way that Christ engaged in his ministry. But the second part of the phrase starts with hate, and I question the idea that love and hate can co-exist. Scripture: Matther 7:1-5…

God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle?

This week we explore a phrase that seems so comforting at first! When we are at the depths of misery and pain, this might suggest that there are limits and that God is present to keep us from being overcome. Unfortunately, the underlying message here is at odds with my understanding of the God who is (as written by Anselm of Canterbury) supreme goodness itself. It doesn’t make sense that it is God who places obstacles before us—even in moderation—if…

God Helps Those Who Help Themselves?

This week we move on to the phrase “God Helps Those Who Help Themselves.” On one hand, this makes sense. No one would pray for a new job without also updating their resume and applying for work. On the other hand, this kind of mentality can be used as an excuse to avoid helping those in need. Is that the purpose? Scripture: Psalm 10:14,17-18; Psalm 18:6,16; Psalm 121:1-2 (CEB)

Everything Happens for a Reason?

This week we will begin a series called “1/2 Truths.” Every week we will explore and analyze a common Christian phrase. We’ll ask ourselves what we really mean when we repeat these phrases, and why they are both comforting and uncomfortable. Most of our common phrases are only half true. Together we will pray, learn, and examine our hearts in order to find the whole truth through God’s love and grace. Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (CEB)

The Final Week

While Palm Sunday is still a week away, this Sunday we focus on Jesus’ final week and final teachings. At the conclusion of this week’s text, Jesus tells Zacchaeus in Jericho that his focus is “to seek and save the lost.” Then he leaves Jericho and enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey. He teaches during the week, continuing to lift up the lowly. We are nearing the pinnacle of his ministry, and these teachings are essential. Scripture: Luke 19:1-10 (CEB)

On the Journey to Jerusalem

This week’s text shows Jesus interacting with a particular marginalized community. Skin diseases like the one described in the text had special rules in the Jewish community, and in general were thought to be highly communicable. Jesus shows a refusal to give in to the fear inherent in these rules and culture, and instead lifts up these persons who have been pushed to the margins. Scripture: Luke 17:11-19 (CEB)

Simon, Do You See this Woman?

The season of Lent is essential in Christian tradition, and is made up of the forty days (not including Sundays) that lead up to Easter Sunday. This Sunday, we continue our series in consideration of the treatment of women. One of the questions Jesus asks the pharisee is: “Do you see this woman?” We all want to be seen and valued, no matter who we are. Scripture: Luke 7:36-50 (CEB)