Messages on Gospel of Mark
Family Matters
Sermon for June 9, 2024. In Pastor Wayne’s latest sermon, he explores how Jesus consistently pushed boundaries and challenged the status quo, as depicted in the Gospel of Mark. From the outset of his ministry, Jesus performed miracles, called disciples, and healed the sick, drawing both widespread attention and the ire of religious leaders who saw him as a threat to their power and the stability with Rome. Mark’s Gospel is succinct and direct, highlighting the extraordinary nature of Jesus.…
Easter 2024
The story of the Resurrection as found in Mark 16:1-8 seems incomplete. The women leave the garden because they are frightened and they told no one. It seems incomplete because no one did anything. But is that the story that Mark wanted to convey? Perhaps the emphasis is on the fact that they did nothing because there was nothing to be done. God had done it all. Death was vanquished. Hope was restored. We join with millions around the world declaring “Christ…
Palm-Passion Sunday 2024
The message of Palm Sunday is that Jesus enters Jerusalem in a triumphant pageant with shouts of “Hosanna” at the beginning of the week where he will be arrested, tried, and crucified. The week the begins with shouts of acclamation ends with burial in a borrowed tomb. The purpose of this service celebrating Palm/Passion Sunday is to help us walk that journey with Jesus from ecstasy to betrayal and death. We do so through scripture and song. Sometimes the preacher…
For the Sake of the Gospel
This sermon offers a profound reflection on the nature of discipleship and the essence of Christian faith as portrayed in Mark 8:31-38. Here’s an analysis of its key points: 1. **Peter’s Misunderstanding**: The sermon begins by highlighting Peter’s misconception of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. Peter, like many Jews of his time, expected a triumphant, conquering Messiah who would deliver Israel from its oppressors. However, Jesus redefines the role of the Messiah, emphasizing suffering, rejection, and ultimately, resurrection. 2. **Conflict…
Has Come Near
On this First Sunday in Lent, our Scriptures are: Genesis 9:8-17; Psalm 25:1-10; 1 Peter 3:18-22; and Mark 1:9-15. In his sermon based upon the Gospel text, Pastor Wayne delves into the significance of Jesus’ wilderness experience, particularly focusing on Mark’s concise account compared to the more detailed versions in Matthew and Luke. It reflects on the symbolic elements of the wilderness—temptation, wild animals, and angels—as well as the broader themes of uncertainty, doubt, and reliance on the Spirit. Pastor…
Transfiguration 2024
The sermon reflects on the concept of mountaintop experiences, drawing from the biblical account of the Transfiguration in Mark 9:2-9. These experiences are described as moments of intense connection with God, where individuals feel spiritually uplifted and enlightened. However, Pastor Wayne emphasizes the importance of not remaining on the mountaintop indefinitely but returning to the valleys of everyday life, where the true work of ministry and service takes place. Using personal anecdotes and anecdotes from others, Pastor Wayne illustrates the…
With Wings Like Eagles
Our scriptures today: Isaiah 40:21-31; Psalm 147: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23; and Mark 1:29-39. Pastor Wayne’s sermon on the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany explores the concept of waiting on the Lord. He challenges the traditional understanding of waiting as a passive expectation for God to act, suggesting that Isaiah calls us to recognize God’s presence within and around us. Waiting, in this context, involves trusting, relying on, and being confident in the Lord. The sermon emphasizes the power of service…
With Authority
The Urgency of Jesus’ Authority: A Sermon Reflection on Mark 1:21-28 In this powerful sermon based on Mark 1:21-28, Pastor Wayne emphasizes the urgency of Jesus’ ministry as portrayed by Mark. Pastor Wayne highlights the Gospel writer’s focus on immediacy, showcased by the rapid response of the disciples to Jesus’ call, underlining the swift unfolding of significant events in the early chapters. The sermon centers on Jesus’ visit to Capernaum, where he enters the synagogue and teaches with authority. The…
And They Followed
A sermon for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany in Year B. Texts: Jonah 3:1-5, 10; Psalm 62:5-12; and Mark 1:14-20. We are having equipment issues that are currently preventing us from posting a recording of the sermon. We hope to have these issues cleared up soon. Title: Embracing the Wesleyan Spirit: Following Jesus in Faith and Action Introduction:The timeless melody of “I Will Follow Him” echoes through the years, evoking memories of a young Peggy March and a spirited…
Being Present in Peace
A message for the Second Sunday of Advent: December 10, 2023.
