“What’s It Like?”

Rev. Kevin Murphy

Preparation Scripture: Psalm 128 & Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-53

This sermon explores our perception of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus spoke of this in parables, perhaps because specific descriptions are too limiting. The Kingdom of Heaven is like a Mustard Seed; small but invasive while bringing comfort to all. The Kingdom of Heaven is like Yeast; mixing with our world to make it better. 

These parables imply the Kingdom of Heaven to be a state of being, a presence of a condition, an acceptance of rules for human interaction potentially practiced by each and all of us. The more we understand the meaning of parables taught by Jesus the closer we come to the Kingdom of Heaven. The potentials of this Heavenly state are around and within us at all times.

Our reward for believing in Jesus and living a Christian life is an everlasting place in his Heavenly Kingdom. As Christians, we can expand this Kingdom, here on earth, by practicing and revealing these truths in our daily lives.

To listen to this sermon

a cassette is available in the Church Library

“Truth Would Have You Know”

Rev. Howard Smith

Howard returns as a guest  to celebrate both his success as our Interim Minister and of the successful joining of White Oak Presbyterian with Salem Presbyterian to form the new Northwest Community Church. He was also here in celebration of a long career as a minister for several grateful congregations, along with many of his friends who were present today for this special occasion.

Howard’s theme focused on the most important purpose for any Sermon that he ever delivered. Truth would have you know (1) We are loved by God. (2) We can be at Peace with God. (3) We are here to serve the Risen Christ. 

You will be privileged to hear Howard in his own words by checking out the cassette:

To listen to this sermon

a cassette is available in the Church Library

“Mother Always Loved You Best”

Rev. Cinda Gorman

JULY 10, 2011

In this sermon from Genesis, Cinda tells the story of Esau, the skillful hunter, and his brother Jacob, a peaceful man. Their father Isaac loved Esau, but their mother Rebekah loved Jacob best. We learn from this story that Esau gave up his birthright for the immediate enjoyment of a simple bowl of stew.

Although we no doubt think of this as unfortunate and rather stupid of Esau, we discover that such short sighted serving of our desires is expressed in many different ways throughout history even to this day. When we give priority to our appetites for making money, and enjoying material and sensual pleasures, we often neglect our families and in a broader sense give up our birthright to the Spiritual Blessings of our Heavenly father. Over and over again we find ourselves accepting temporary pleasures in exchange for eternal rewards.

Listen as Cinda so articulately explains the paradox that life in the flesh is a life of bondage, while life in the spirit is a life of freedom to willingly serve God. 

To listen to this sermon

a cassette is available in the Church Library

Name that Tune

Rev. Kevin Murphy

JULY 3, 2011

For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and “sinners.”’ But wisdom is proved right by her actions.”

Matthew 11: 18

In this sermon, Kevin explores the meaning of Matthew Chapter 11. Critics have always found fault with those who do not fit into their perception of acceptable behavior. Music is written to promote and give honor to each groups ideals. Jesus defended John the Baptist proclaiming him to be ‘the messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you’.

On this 4th of July weekend we are reminded that our great country thrives on freedom of expression and diversity. Jesus made himself available to all. Both the Priests and Prophets as well as Prostitutes and Beggars. He encourages us to join in the dance of life inspired by our Heavenly Father... while defending the right to free expression for all.

To listen to this sermon

a cassette is available in the Church Library