Sunday, September 25, 2011

Arguing with Jesus

Rev. Kevin Murphy
Kevin observes in this sermon that the central theme for any message that Jesus gave was: 
What is God’s Will? 
Where is God’s Kingdom here? 
What is wrong with this picture? 
What will make it right?
As we seek to be imitators of Christ we need to adopt this same singular view. Kevin then points out that those who argue with Jesus, probably have different objectives. Listen as Kevin explains how this central theme applies to our own service to the Church and our Community as we seek to become imitators of Christ in building and perpetuating his Kingdom. 
Click the following: 
http://cms.screamingbob.com/PWDA/files/150/Kevin%20Murphy_Arguing%20with%20Jesus.mp3?wosid=whOPGZzTqDQm30ErPdTzbM

Monday, September 19, 2011

“God’s Justice”

Rev. Kevin Murphy
SEPTEMBER 18, 2011
Preparation Scripture: Jonah 3:10-4:11 and Matthew 20:1-16
When God commanded Jonah to go preach to Nineveh (500 miles NE of Israel), he headed to Tarshish, which was as far in the other direction as he could go.
There are many examples, in the scripture, of God appointing leaders who either did not feel adequate for the challenge, or did not understand the purpose of God’s command.
Jonah could not understand why Nineveh deserved God’s warnings rather than his wrath. But Jonah delivered God’s message which successfully encouraged Nineveh to repent. Jonah then became angry that Nineveh was so easily forgiven. 
Have we ever asked why God seems to distribute his blessings unfairly? Listen as Kevin helps us to understand God’s Justice.
Click the following: 
http://cms.screamingbob.com/PWDA/files/150/Kevin%20Murphy_God%27s%20Justice.mp3?wosid=HtKnPCU6tIT8c7yg1tZC6g

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

“Remember”

Rev. Kevin Murphy
SEPTEMBER 11, 2011
Preparation Scripture:
Exodus 13: 3-10, 1st Corinthians 11: 23-26, Luke 22: 14-20
Today is the 10th Anniversary of the terrible tragedy of an attack on our Nation by terrorists at the twin towers of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. At times like these we seem to remember in vivid detail the moment we heard the news.
This sermon compares such moments, that many of us have experienced, to similar events throughout Biblical history. Those moment were also vividly remembered and continue to be recalled and celebrated even to this day. Kevin explains the Seder Passover as well as the Communion tradition. Remembering and understanding these events continues to play an important role in our Religious culture.  
Click the following:
https://soundimages.box.net/shared/azd56ies34e4ppkdrtti

Monday, September 5, 2011

“Teach Me the Way of Truth”

Rev. Kevin Murphy
SEPTEMBER 4, 2011
Preparation Scripture: 
Psalter 119: 33-40, Romans 13: 8-14, & Matthew 18: 15-20
Learning the ways of truth is not a simple matter of memorizing the ten commandments. It is a lifelong journey of learning to understand and make these truths part of our mind and heart.
In this sermon, Kevin reminds us that the greatest truth is “Love Your Neighbor as Yourself”. A person is not inclined to offend themselves with bad treatment or behavior. When you have been offended by someone straying from this truth, you need to address this person privately, one on one, trying to resolve the issue. If this person does not respond, then try again bringing to the meeting two witnesses to help mediate the offensive issue. If this also fails to resolve the issue, then bring the matter before the Church.
As our Church grows in understanding of these truths, we not only learn to become properly REACTIVE to offensive issues, but PROACTIVE as well. We become more aware of offensive issues in our community and get involved in making improvements. Our Church can and is making a difference, with Mission works, Friday Suppers, Kings Closet, and many other activities. Plans are being formed to direct further goals while applying our preferences for personal involvement.
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES
Kevin is setting an example by leading an adult mission trip to Nashville, TN on October 16th. There are 6 available slots available for volunteers, but there will be many ways that you can become part of our lifelong journey. Listen to Kevin’s encouraging words.

CLICK THE FOLLOWING:  
http://cms.screamingbob.com/PWDA/files/150/Kevin%20Murphy_Teach%20Me%20the%20Way%20of%20Truth.mp3?wosid=yYL041vuIvnRsQfptZt0EM