Sermons on Mark
Receptivity | Luke 8:4-15
Listen as Pastor Ron explores the message of the parable of the sower. Discussion Questions 1. Is the intent of this passage to help us discern who is “saved?” 2. Is it possible for all four soils to co-exist in one person? 3. How do we explain the lesson of this parable in light of Isaiah 55:10,11 ? 4. Can the lesson of this parable be applied to the church ? Is that helpful, and encouraging?
Escape From Our Boxes | Mark 7:24-30
As Pastor Ron continues our series in the book of Mark, we explore how we can see beyond our own perspective. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What is the main point of this passage? 2. Explain the exchange between Jesus and the woman. 3. How does “normal life” limit our perspective and opportunity to accept and serve those different from ourselves? 4. Earlier Jesus chided the disciples for their “little” faith. Here Jesus commends this woman for her “great” faith…
Facing Our Limits | Mark 4:35-41
Jesus led His disciples into a storm. What can we learn from this as we face storms in our own life? Listen as Pastor Ron continues our series in Mark. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What do you think is the main lesson in this story? 2. Does it seem right that Jesus chided the disciples? 3. Why can/cannot fear and faith co-exist? 4. Did the disciples have reason(s) not to fear? Do we when faced with our limits in…
Beyond Our Efforts | Mark 4:26-34
Pastor Ron is starting a new series in the book of Mark called “What We Need, God Provides”. The Lord of the harvest provides all that we need. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What inspires you to persevere when progress seems painfully slow? 2. Why do we so often try to force things into existence by our sheer efforts? 3. How does the parable of sowing seed underscore God’s sovereignty? 4. What do these parables teach us about how God…
Does God Care? | Malachi 2:17 – 3:6
Our view of justice may not always align with God’s justice. Listen to this message as Pastor Ron continues his series in Malachi. Watch here Discussion Questions 1. Are there ways and times when we “project” our attitudes and viewpoint upon God? How can we avoid this? 2. Do we sometimes confuse satisfaction with justice? 3. How do we know from this passage that God’s love for us precedes His exacting justice for breaking covenant with Him?
Lord of the Storm | Mark 4:35-41
This Rembrandt painting is called “Christ in the Storm on the Lake of Galilee.” It depicts Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee. While most of the painting is black and dark grays and blues, you can see golden-light and light blue skies in the distance. Two thieves disguised as police officers broke into the Isabella Steward Gardner Museum in Boston and stole it in 1990. If you know where it is, let the FBI know. Jesus has…
Part 7. “I” – Image of God (Imago Dei) | Mark 12:13-17
I want to start today’s sermon with a quiz. By a show of hands, I want you to guess whether the following portion of tweets are about a sports team or politics. These are actual selections from tweets: His biggest win yet. Let’s hear it for your [blank] champion[1] Sports or politics? “Let’s hear it for your 2021 #NASCAR Cup Series champion. . . ” Sports! Heads, we win. Tails, you cheated. Give me a break man.[2] Sports or politics?…
Part 6. “R” – Reign of Christ | Romans 13:1-7 & Philippians 3:20-21
I loved going to Awana club every week when I was a kid. If you’re not familiar with this part of the Christian subculture, Awana is a weekly after-school program where once a week, kids gathered at church to eat snacks, play games, memorize Bible verses, and sing worship songs. And I loved it! One week when I thought I wasn’t going to get to go, I had a major meltdown. I memorized so many verses I got my Sparky…
Open The Eyes of My Heart | Mark 9:21-24
Time of prayer, worship, and hearing a message from Mark Pender on: Mark 9:21-24 (ESV) 21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24…
The Rhythms of Life: Stopping | Exodus 20:8-11, Mark 2:23-28
Dave Astolfi is a second career pastor, having earned an M.Div from Bethel Seminary of the East. He retired early from a 35 year career in science research to devote more time and energy to pastoral ministry. Dave was ordained at Grace Community Church in Chelmsford, while serving as Pastor of Care. He is enjoying semi-retirement, serving God through pulpit supply, interim ministry, mentoring and volunteering at a community pantry … Oh, and he also keeps busy playing with his…
Homelessness: The Nightmare that can lead to Redemption | Mark 10:17-23
Listen to Pastor Brian Gearin preach on homelessness and what the Bible has to say in Mark 10:17-23, John 4:13-18, 5:1-9, Luke 19:1-10, and Matthew 18:1-5. Brian has served the homeless and trained those working with this population for many years. He has lots of stories and wisdom to share. You can review slides from our service below.
But… Why? | Galatians 6:1-2
This summer my son started doing something that’s really cute. We’ll ask him to pick up his toys, or take a few more bites, or get his shoes on, and before he does any of those things he’ll ask us a question. Do you know what it is? “But… why?!” He throws his arms open wide and with the deepest look of sincerity a two-year old can muster he asks, “But… why?!” That’s probably the first question we are asking…
- 1
- 2