Geneseo Church

The Torture and Humiliation of the King

2010-03-27T11:14:00.001-05:00

This sermon looks at the torture and mocking of Jesus. Although it was meant to belittle him we find that it in fact further confirmed his true identity.

Jesus, Barabbas, and Pilate

2010-03-16T09:06:00.002-05:00

In this fourth sermon in Lent we encounter Jesus and Barabbas in front of Pilate. We take some time to discern who each of these persons are and come to realize that only by the grace of God are any of us pardoned by the act of Jesus taking our place.

Condemned by the Righteous

2010-03-16T08:51:00.001-05:00

In this fourth sermon in the Lenten series we follow Jesus through his trial by the Pharisees and rulers of the law.
Ultimately we find Jesus is proclaimed guilty because of his clear claim to be the God the Messiah.
Do we act like the Pharisees when we act in ways that condemn Jesus?

The Garden of Gethsemane

2010-03-16T08:45:00.000-05:00

This sermon is the second in the series that follows Jesus through the last 24 hours of his life on earth.
Today we follow Jesus from the upper room where he celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples to the Garden where he prayed asking his Father to take this cup from him. (the cross)

The Last Supper

2010-02-26T10:52:00.003-06:00

This week we begin the season of Lent. During these five weeks we will follow Jesus through the last 24 hours of his life. Today we begin by looking at that Last Supper / Passover meal that Jesus celebrated with his disciples. You will learn more details about the traditional Seder meal, and learn the significance of what it meant when Jesus said "This is my body... this is my blood"

Marathon Marriage

2010-02-26T09:42:00.006-06:00

This is the final sermon in our Marriage series. In it we talk about what it takes to maintain a long-term marriage; to see it through the good and the bad times.
Jody and I were in Jerusalem during this week, but we were able to present this sermon via a prerecorded sermon. The discussion format makes it a fun way to address some of the most challenging issues of Love and long-term sacrifice.
We hope that this series blesses you and your marriage.

Marriage Vows

2010-02-26T08:54:00.003-06:00

Ok, I am playing catch up with getting these audio sermons online. I have had many people comment about how much they appreciated this series, and several have asked why the last couple are not online yet. So here you go.

I might mention that this 4th sermon in the Marriage series focuses on the covenant of the marriage vows. In it we look at the famous Love chapter I Corinthians 13. Those who have been married for a few years can look back and see how things are different than what they were when they stood before the altar and made their vows. What does it mean to keep those vows even when you simply don't feel like it. How do we define Love?

Engagement

2010-02-04T09:20:00.002-06:00

In this third series on marriage we will be looking at the challenges of Engagement. I will again compare our relationship with Jesus to our earthly relationships.
In the scripture we find Nicodemus pursuing a relationship with Jesus. But he realizes he does not fully understand what is required to build a relationship. Furthermore he is fearful of what his Pharisee friends will think.
The engagement process is much the same. It takes work to build a relationship, and determine if this one relationship is worth all the changes and challenges it will present.

TheProposal

2010-01-25T13:18:00.002-06:00

This second sermon in the Marriage series takes a serious look at our expectations for our spouse. When we ask them to marry us who do we expect them to be, and what do we expect them to do for us? Is our understanding of marriage based upon how they will fulfill us or on our honest desire to love and serve them?

I hope this will challenge you to look at your marriage relationship with a little more scrutiny to find more ways to love and serve your spouse.

Blind Date

2010-01-18T09:17:00.003-06:00

This sermon is the first in a fun and serious look at the covenant of Marriage.
This week we look at our expectations. What is it when we first date someone that attract us to them? Do we focus on whether or not that person makes us happy, or the fact that we are happy serving them?
Of course the whole sermon is centralized around how Jesus (our Bridegroom) demonstrates his love for us.

The Prodigal

2010-01-12T12:26:00.001-06:00

Guest Speaker Johnathan Wright shares with us words of insight and wisdom surrounding the parable of the Prodigal son.
What would it be like to offend the father so much and yet be received back with overflowing grace?

Resolute!

2009-12-27T11:12:00.003-06:00

Have you ever thought about how the car that you drive reflects your personality?
This is an interesting passage for the week after Christmas. In it we find Jesus telling his disciples that he has to go to Jerusalem to suffer, die and rise again on the third day. Jesus clearly tells them what he intends to do. But Peter tries to deter Jesus.
Jesus, however, knew his life giving purpose was to be fulfilled in the cross. If only we knew and committed to our purpose with that kind of determination.

The Lamb of God

2009-12-23T12:42:00.001-06:00

In this last sermon in the Advent series "Eye-Witness news" our reporter in the field gets an interview with the shepherds. He does his best to explain why Jesus was born in Bethlehem and why his birth was announced to the shepherds. This sermon is down to earth, easy to understand, and presented in the context of an evening news broadcast.

I pray God blesses your Christmas season.

Bed of Hay

2009-12-16T07:36:00.002-06:00

This Christmas sermon takes a look at this traditional passage in a unique way. The sermon is written in a T.V. Eye witness news formate. It delves into the contextual reality of what the city of Bethlehem and giving birth in a stable might have been like in the first century as an unwed pregnant teen.
It is not to be missed however that the reporter on location recognizes that something hugely significant is taking place and he believes that the long awaited messiah has arrived and been placed in a manger full of hay.

God's Correspondent

2009-11-30T08:10:00.002-06:00

This sermon kicks off the Advent Season with hope and a challenge. Today we encounter Mary in a new way. We begin to see her through the judgmental and accusing eyes of her own community.
Can you imagine what it meant to say yes to something that would mean everyone would treat you like an outcast? Mary did. She had her whole life in front of her and she gave it up to serve God. Can we have the courage of a 14 year old girl?

Spirit Gifts

2009-11-23T09:05:00.001-06:00

Everyone has gifts. But not all gifts are the same. This sermon is a look at the giftedness of God's people. It forces us to realize that not every person is gifted to do ministry the same way. In fact, it is our diversity that makes us able to do so much ministry in so many ways. Instead of criticizing the gifts of others and the way they use them, we should celebrate those differences and empower people to use their gifts fully.

L/Earned Gifts

2009-11-16T18:16:00.002-06:00

This sermon is without a doubt a very hard to hear and direct sermon on stewardship. It says it as it is and I am sure could be offensive to many. It is preached with a clear understanding that stealing is a sin, and so is stealing the Tithe from God.
I begin the message with a disclaimer, so if you if you find yourself uncomfortable talking about money, or the fact that we are called to tithe, you might as well find another sermon that will make you feel good.
For those of you who do take time to listen, I hope it will challenge you and bless you. I hope that God will open the windows of heaven with an abundance of blessing for you.

Emergency Brake

2009-11-09T09:05:00.002-06:00

This is the final sermon in the Hitchhiker series. Today we encounter an arrogant, stubborn, and dense Prophet. Jonah determined that the city of Nineveh should be destroyed and he was confounded when God decided to grant them mercy. Actually he was angry that God didn't give them what they deserved.

Jonah needed to learn an important lesson about God's forgiveness. Jonah needed to be reminded that God was in charge.

We need to learn the same thing. That even though someone really hurt us and we want to see God bring the wrath down on them, that we are not called to judge, but to forgive, just as He has forgiven us!

If there is someone who you still hold animosity against, make today your day to forgive them.

Switching Drivers

2009-11-02T10:50:00.003-06:00

This is the third week in the Hitchhiker series and in it we encounter the evil city of Nineveh for the first time. By their behavior they were running away from God just like Jonah. But, when God told them to repent, they did.

This message acknowledges that every person is sinful, and begs the question, will we respond like Jonah who ran and hid, or will we immediately repent and turn to God for forgiveness.

In the same venue as the other hitchhiker sermons, the analogy is related to driving a car the wrong direction. Today it is realizing that sometimes our lives are spinning out of control. This message closes with a song by Carrie Underwood - Jesus take the Wheel.

The closing challenge is to surrender control of those areas in our life that are spinning out of control.

Lost

2009-10-25T14:15:00.002-05:00

This sermon is #2 in the Hitchhiker Series. This week we look at chapter two of Jonah when the prophet prays from the depths of "Sheol".

In this message we learn that God never abandons us. God is there to hold us fast in the most difficult of situations. Not only that, but we also learn that God "controls", or "designates" such seasons in our life as times for us to grow, and for us to learn to trust in God.

Silent Stranger

2009-10-18T11:36:00.002-05:00

This sermon series takes a look at the life of Jonah, the run-away prophet. Are we trying to run the opposite direction that God wants us to go in life? Are we living in fear of some of the obstacles in front of us? How can we learn to face those situations with faith rather than fear.

Harry Emerson Fosdick said it very well, "Fear imprisons, faith liberates; fear paralyzes, faith empowers; fear disheartens, faith encourages; fear sickens, faith heals; fear makes useless, faith makes serviceable - and, most of all, fear puts hopelessness at the heart of life, while faith rejoices in its God."

Extravagant Generosity

2009-10-12T16:22:00.003-05:00

This is the last of the Bearing Fruit Series. Extravagant Generosity is one of the key components of healthy and vital congregations. Generosity is a form of giving of one's self to others for a cause. Part of our responsibility is to be able to give ourselves; (prayers, presence, gifts, service, witness) in effort to fulfill the mission statement of the church.
As a church our mission statement can be summarized as "Geneseo is committed to reach out, receive, relate, nurture, and send out faithful disciples."
The real question of this sermon is, "Are we committed to this mission statement? And how is God calling us to be a more committed Christian?"

Risk-TakingMission and Service

2009-10-05T08:20:00.003-05:00

This is the fourth sermon in the Bearing Fruit Series. It's focus is as the Title says it. Again much of this sermon is resourced from the "Five Practices Leader and Media Manual" by Robert Schnase.
This sermon specifically targets the way churches enact charity or "Risk-Taking Mission and service." The first is a way we make ourselves feel good that we are doing something. The second is vital to a healthy church community and is what Christ expects from his followers.

Intentional Faith Development

2009-09-28T09:04:00.002-05:00

This sermon takes a serious look at out understanding and commitment to growing our faith. Faith is more than just believing in an invisible God. Faith gives us purpose and empowers us to understand why God created us. While this sermon focuses on faith development it reverberates with a feeling of purpose. By growing in faith we find our God given purpose.

In all honesty we must admit that there is not such thing as a graduation certificate in faith. Even with a Masters or Doctorate in religion we can never know and understand everything about God.
With that understanding we can look at our faith as a set of stairs leading toward a closer relationship with God. Each step is different, longer, higher, shorter, wider. Sometimes it is difficult and sometimes it comes easy. The whole key to growing in faith is just to keep on climbing, never be content with where we are.

Passionate Worship

2009-09-22T15:10:00.005-05:00

This is the second sermon in the "Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations" series.
The challenge of encountering God in Passionate Worship is one of the most difficult concepts a congregation can face. We don't know what it would feel like to come face to face with the living God. (Maybe it would cause us all to come to worship with a different attitude)
So how do we change the way we approach worship?
Can we learn that it is not about what we get out of worship, but what we bring to worship that is really important? Can we come with an attitude of anticipation and excitement rather than a mindset of criticism?
Let's worship God.

Radical Hospitality

2009-09-14T13:58:00.002-05:00

This sermon is written in conjunction with the sermon series and congregational study written by Bishop Robert Schanse, The Five Practices of Fruitful congregations.

It takes a serious look at how we offer hospitality in comparison with the Biblical mandate to extend the Radical love and grace of God with limitless and out of our comfort zone hospitality. With all that God has done for us, we should be seriously asking ourselves what more can we do to offer God's Radical Hospitality to others?

The Rainbow

2009-09-07T13:13:00.004-05:00

This sermon begins with the rainbow; the covenant that God made with Noah and all creation. From there we look briefly the way God extends his covenant to humanity throughout history.
In this message we come to understand that God is a covenant God and we are a covenant people.

But what does it mean to be in a covenant relationship with someone?
What kind of covenants have we already entered into? What are the benefits and expectations?
This sermon helps us to take an honest look at our relationship with God.

Puzzled

2009-08-31T07:53:00.002-05:00

This sermon is a rather unique and interactive sermon designed to promote unity in the body of Christ. It helps members of the church to recognize that they are a part of the family and that the family is still missing members. It is a sermon that focuses on community and outreach. We used a picture of the church during this sermon and had members of the congregation take a piece (3" piece) and write a thought about the church on it. Then by length of time that they had been a part of the community (not focused on membership) we began putting it together. The best part was to let them see that the puzzle was still missing pieces when we were all done.

Armed and Dangerous

2009-08-24T14:06:00.005-05:00

This sermon draws the lines of connection between the spiritual world and our our daily lives. Each of us face days when trials overwhelm us. Each of us encounter trouble in relationships or situations. What is it that is really coming against us, and how can we have the strength to overcome those difficult times? How well dressed are we for the Spiritual battle that we face in this world on a daily basis?

Paroled

2009-08-16T11:06:00.002-05:00

In this final sermon of the Prison Break series we find David convicted of his sin, experiencing the consequence, and humbly repenting. His behavior leads to healing and reconciliation with God.
This is a challenging passage for today's world because most people believe that reconciliation is a joke; it is not possible. When faced with a conflict of perspectives or tension of disagreement, most people would rather walk away and avoid the situation. But that is not what the Bible teaches us.
Reconciliation is possible, and in fact it is the core of our Christian faith. That is what the Cross is all about. Christ died to to reconcile us with God. Now we must do the same with the world.

Convicted

2009-08-10T09:56:00.002-05:00

This is the third sermon in the Jail Break Series. In it we are looking at The incident of David and Bathsheba. This passage takes place right after Uriah had been killed and David takes Bathsheba for his wife. We encounter the prophet Nathan who at the direction of God confronts King David for his sin.
The two main points that we draw out of this passage for discussion are: 1. Our natural tendency is to hide our sin. 2. We all need someone in our life to confront us and hold us accountable for our actions before God.
This has been a fun series that I have amplified by preaching in prison clothes and with a large set of jail bars hanging in front of the cross. It has provoked a lot of conversation and thought. Last week will be the final sermon in the series and the bars will come down. Amen.

Cover Up

2009-08-10T09:37:00.003-05:00

This sermon follows David through his indiscretion and attempted cover up of his sin with Bathsheba. I take a moment to compare our modern day lives with David's and help people recognize our own tendency toward making everything look rosy on the outside while still wearing a prison suit of guilt underneath.
Finally I hope to point out that covering up our sin is not a good choice. It is better to confess, repent, and seek forgiveness, both from the persons involved, and from God.

The Wall

2009-07-19T16:03:00.002-05:00

This sermon takes a look at the symbolic barrier of sin in our lives as we attempt to justify or deny our actions as being grievous to God. The text of course is of King David and his moment of indiscretion with Bathsheba.
Next week we will dig into the cover up that David attempted as a way to hide his guilt.

The question we must all ask ourselves is: what is the barrier in our own life that is keeping God at a distance? Can we confess that sin and surrender it over to God?

Selective Hearing - the sermon that did not get preached

2009-07-13T14:44:00.003-05:00

Well this sermon was anything other than what I expected. I organize and plan a six month preaching calendar and this is the fifth month into what I planned in January. The sermon that I wrote fit very much with what I was thinking from this text in January however when it came to Sunday morning I knew that I would be unable to preach it. There are just times when the congregation has to hear the Holy Spirit doing the preaching and not the pastor. (which sometimes feels like a lecture and one sided rebuke) Whether I was right or wrong in not preaching this sermon I will never know. But after reading the text on Sunday I asked the congregation to share what they heard the passage saying to them. The good news is they basically preached the same sermon that I had written, but it was not me saying it. It was the congregation allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through them.
I know this is a bit unconventional, but I also knew that because of the difficulty and poignancy of James that my words could have been misinterpreted. (That fine line between a pastor illuminating the text and standing in front of it I think)
Anyway, I did not record the pseudo sermon but I did decide to post the PDF of what I had prepared. If you would like you can read it and comment.

Anarchy in the Temple

2009-06-29T15:46:00.005-05:00

This Sermon compares our Christian lives to a light house. It forces us to think about the total opposite nature of Black and White, sin and righteousness. We talk about how our world is struggling and becoming more foggy every day, and we all react to that fog of society in different ways. Both Paul and Jesus indicate that we are to be the light of the world even in the midst of a "crooked and depraved generation." How do we do that? What does it look like? How can we honestly inspect our lives and look for ways to improve the way that we are being the Temple of the Holy Spirit? Join us for this fun message and I pray that God will inspire you through the words that you hear.

The Day of Salvation

2009-06-21T11:31:00.004-05:00

This sermon is an exciting venture as we compare our Christian lives to the Titanic. We like our luxury liner, but find out the only way to make it to the other port is to abandon our life and get on the life boat called "faith in Christ." This analogy is powerful and exciting as I draw in the responsibility of fathers to their children like unto Paul's sacrificial giving of himself to the early church.

Thriving

2009-06-01T08:25:00.001-05:00

This message completes the thrive series. In it I ask the challenging question, "If attending church would leave us with a permanent flame sticking out of our head and an uncontrollable urge to speak with everyone about Jesus, would we still be here?"
This is the kind of faith that God wants to give us through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. It is time for us to displace fear of talking about religion with a zeal for Christ that looks like a drunken fervor. We need to abandon our religious reservations and stand up for Jesus like we have a flame burning on the top of our head.

Grasping for Straws

2009-05-24T11:55:00.001-05:00

In this sermon we look at the roots of faith that hold us firm in the face of life's challenges. Specifically I address graduates and challenge them to remain grounded in their faith. The analogy of the plant continues in this message to look at our spiritual health and ability to produce the harvest of faith. I pray we all take a moment to look at the foundation of faith in our own life. Does it need a little tending?

Top Ten

2009-05-17T17:34:00.002-05:00

This is the third sermon in the Thrive series. Today we learn about the importance of herbicide and killing the weeds in our life that can grow up and kill us spiritually. We also learn about the "Round Up Ready" seed that is meant to that is genetically altered to accept the herbicide. That seed is like the word God has put in our hearts. God promises us in Jeremiah and later in Hebrews reminds us that He has put his word in our heart. In essence we are created to live according to God's law and it is intended to be like a herbicide that will kill all the weeds of sin in our life. I hope you enjoy the analogy and are able to apply it to your life.

Loves that Lives

2009-05-11T08:12:00.001-05:00

This second sermon in the series looks at the need for a newly planted seed to be watered. Water is what nurtures the seed to germinate, grow and produce fruit. Without water the seed would die.
The same is true for our spiritual lives. Not only are we called to grow and bear fruit, but we are also called to water the lives of those around us with the love of God so that they can grow up in the faith.
As we look as this sermon on Mothers day it is appropriate to compare the love of a mother and the way it helps a child grow and mature, with the love of God that we experience in those around us.
Let us go forth and share the living water of Christ with the world.

Good Soil

2009-05-04T15:22:00.004-05:00

This sermon is the first in the Thrive Series. We begin by looking honestly at the soil of our heart and recognizing our need to be a soft fertile soil in order for the word of God to bring forth the fruit that God desires for us. The seed itself does not change, but the condition of our hearts must change.
Then finally we must accept the challenge to participate in preparing the soil (hearts) of our community. The harvest is bountiful.

What to do?

2009-05-04T09:58:00.003-05:00

In this message we encounter Jesus as he reassures the disciples that he is risen. They were wondering what they were supposed to do now that Jesus had been crucified. I believe Jesus gave them the answer and that it is the same answer he would give us today. "Be a Witness."

Confessions of a Doubter

2009-05-04T09:22:00.004-05:00

Doubt is an implicit lack of hope or faith. Doubt runs many lives and drowns us in absolute despair. Thomas doubted Jesus and found that his doubt turned into seeds of new faith.
This last week there were a lot of people who initially doubted Susan Boyle, and in the same way their doubt turned into amazement. There is nothing wrong with doubt itself unless we allow it to become our deathbed of despair. Instead our goal is to make it our hope for the future and the seeds of new faith in our life.

Only One Conclusion to Make

2009-04-12T11:39:00.001-05:00

This Easter message focuses on the original ending of the Gospel of Mark. Why did Mark end his message of hope without seeing a risen Christ? What was his intent and who was he writing to? Does his message still apply to us?
The last sentence ends with the women being afraid and not telling anyone. Are we those women; afraid to tell others about the good news?

Toy King

2009-03-31T09:06:00.004-05:00

In this message Marlys Mitchell shares with us the story of Jesus Kingship. We remember as we think of the crown of thorns that Jesus paid a great price to be the king. But do we understand the value of his sacrifice. Do with receive him as a toy that we play around with when it is convenient, or do we trust him as the king of all eternity?
Thank you Marlys for sharing this wonderful and clear message of truth and hope so that I could attend the "Multiplying the Missional Movement" seminar with a group of leaders who are helping develope our second service.

Even the Shirt off His Back

2009-03-22T13:51:00.003-05:00

This sermon is the fourth in the Lenten Banner series as we dig into the events that surround the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Today we look at the contrast between the soldiers casting lots and playing games what was happening behind their backs on the cross.
Have you ever asked yourself the question: "Am I playing games with my life while Jesus is trying to work redemption in my heart?"

This is the real underlying question that we attempt to answer in this message. I look forward to your thoughts.

Guilty!

2009-03-15T11:51:00.002-05:00

This message is a powerful sermon that created a powerful response. The altar of our United Methodist Church was full of people and not an eye was dry.
As Christians is it time to stop playing games, time to stop holding on to our sin, time to repent and ask forgiveness. Do you realize that your sin is what nailed Jesus to the cross. We judged Jesus guilty, and by our sins he was crucified. As you listen may the Holy Spirit turn your heart again to God. Amen.

I Know Him Not

2009-03-08T14:09:00.003-05:00

In this second sermon of the Lenten Banner Series we take a look at Peter's denial.
There is something universally true about fact that we have all denied Christ and walked away from his love. (Isa 53:6) And we probably all face the fear that we have sinned too horribly to be forgiven.
Guilt has a sticky quality. It is like super glue and almost impossible to get it off of you. On occasion we even convince ourselves that God cannot forgive us.
But that is not true. When we look at the rooster it reminds us of our sin, our guilt like Peter's. But if we remember, Christ was headed to the cross at the same time as Peter was Denying him. His guilt was removed at the same time that that Peter created it.
The same is true for us. Christ has washed our sin and guilt away no matter what you have done.
Today if you still have some guilt or a barrier in a relationship, it is time to forgive just as Christ forgave you.

A Servant People

2009-03-01T13:49:00.003-06:00

This sermon is presented as a dramatic monologue from John the Disciples perspective. It identifies Christ's primary role of servant and the conceptual challenge that is for so many people. Furthermore it presses us all to understand that all Christians are called to be a servant people.

Jesus' Investment Strategy

2009-02-22T20:53:00.003-06:00

In this final sermon in the series, "America in Crisis," we look at the difficult economic situation and the horrifying reality of trying to invest in somethings to unstable. I use this as a backboard upon which to discuss how God invested in humanity through his son Jesus Christ. In all honesty with our history of failure and spiritual bankruptcy, humanity is a very poor investment choice. However God did just that and secured our eternal future for us.
The real challenge in this message is for us to accept his buy out offer, and then share the only legal "insider trading info there is... the word of God with a friend so they can make the best investment of their life. This sermon will make you think and challenge to to reallocate your life.

The Economy of Grace

2009-02-15T13:12:00.002-06:00

In this third sermon in the series, "America in Crisis" we look at the difference between the worlds economy and God's economy. While the difficulties of the world and our economy barrage us, we are reminded that God's grace provides a different kind of economy for Christians to live in. It is an economy that gives us hope and stability in a tumultuous time.
As such we believe that God has provided a stimulus package for us that is life changing. It is called grace.

The Religious Bailout

2009-02-08T11:50:00.005-06:00

In our current economic situation this message connects the dots to help us understand that we are in an even greater spiritual crisis. The good news is that God has paid a great price to provide a bailout package that will cover all the cost of sin.
The central message in this sermon is that we need to take advantage of God's offer in Jesus Christ.
Although this message is presented in a fun parody on recent government press conferences, it is very serious in the need of all people to claim their personal and spiritual bailout package from God. If you have never made Jesus your personal lord and savior, at the end of the message there is a short prayer that you can pray that will begin your personal faith journey in accepting the great measure of God's love and grace for yourself.

The Economic Equation

2009-02-01T11:53:00.003-06:00

This is the first sermon in my series on the crisis situation of our American economy. In it I speak bluntly about facts and statistics while pointing us toward the bifurcation and difference of our worldly economy and our heavenly economy.
What was Jesus really trying to say in this parable of the dishonest steward. Did he really mean for us to buy friends with our money, or did he mean something altogether different. I dare you to listen to this challenging word. Then I hope you will take time to share your response.

Infinite Opportunities

2009-01-25T12:38:00.003-06:00

In this final sermon using Toy Story, we find that great opportunities come in the greater diversity of community. As Christians our responsibility is to find new ways to open our doors and welcome people into a vital relationship of faith with Jesus Christ. That requires us to try new things, add new service, and use different gifts of people. This is a very honest message as Geneseo begins the dreaming and planning process of adding a new service.

Infinite Love

2009-01-18T12:06:00.003-06:00

This sermon continues our study into understanding how God calls us to be his people, his church, and his community of faith. It challenges us in our understanding of "reaching out" with Gods love. It reminds us to love the stranger and treat them as if they were one of us.

The message has a special appearance from Buzz and Woody (Video clip) and reminds us that our first reaction to the stranger is not always what it should be. We need to step back and remind ourselves to love others as God loves us.

Beyond Doubt

2009-01-12T10:34:00.002-06:00

This is a creative message shared by two of the main characters in the movie Toy Story. Woody and Buzz meet for the first time and discuss change, faith, doubt, and whether or not Buzz can fly. The summary is that no one can fly if they never try. So as Christians we are called, like Peter in Matthew 14, to step out of the boat, out of our comfort zone, and follow Christ.
Change and growth can be scary, but they can also promise the greatest form of spiritual growth and gratification.

Beyond Fear

2009-01-04T12:19:00.002-06:00

This sermon introduces us to our January series on vision. In it I talk about the fear of change and fear of the unknown. I lay out the specifics of vision for Geneseo as a congregation for the year 2009.

Proverbs 29:18 says, "Where there is no vision the people perish." I believe we are called to be a people of vision. I believe God has given us a mission to fulfill in our community. As a people of God we must stretch ourselves to find new ways to impart the good news of the gospel to everyone around us. In 2009 let us boldly embrace that mission and step out in faith into uncharted areas in our community.

I hope you take time to listen & I encourage your discussion on this topic.

In Christ, Pastor Ferguson

Child of Redemption

2008-12-28T09:30:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Ice skating parking lot!

Unfortunately we were unable to have worship this morning because of the ice on our parking lot. However I hope some of you are able to take advantage of this sermon on the web.

This morning our scripture invites us to witness the revelation of Simeon and Anna, two prophets who recognized Jesus as the Messiah of Israel when he was brought to the temple to be consecrated.
Can you imagine what it feels like to live with such a great anticipation? Then can you imagine what it would feel like to see all your waiting fulfilled?
That is what we can still feel like today if we realize who Jesus really is. He is the Son of God who is always with us, our redeemer, our savior, our Lord. Just like Simeon and Anna, proclaim your faith in Him today.

Peace of the Presence

2008-12-21T13:56:00.002-06:00

Well Today is a great day to have a sermon available online. Because of the weather (high winds and -10 temperature) most churches in the area closed. That also meant that 70% of our congregation was wise enough not to venture out on the roads. Hopefully those who missed worship will take the opportunity to listen to what they missed. I think it is definitely a challenging message. Consider the following, listen to the message, then share your comments.

What would have happened if the Virgin Mary had said "NO!"? If she had felt like the visitation of Gabriel was an intrusion in her life, and that she did not want to accept such a great responsibility. That outcome would have been tragic for all of humanity.
But what about today? What if we say no when God asks us to love our neighbor? What if we say no when God asks us to tell others the good news?
Could our response of "No" be just as tragic for those that God wanted us to tell?

Blessings, Pastor Ferguson

Herald

2008-12-07T16:41:00.000-06:00

This sermon is a look at the reason for the Christmas season through the Gospel of Mark 1:1-3 and a poem by Robert Frost. It seem a little funny in that Mark begins his Gospel by telling of John the baptist, the one who was sent to prepare the way for the coming Messiah. The words Mark begins with are quotes from the prophets of Isaiah and Malachi 800 and 500 years earlier.
By beginning thus Mark informs us that God has been paving a path of redemption for humanity for a long time. The question is, will we see it, will we follow it, and will we help others to find it?
As Frost said:
"I took the one less traveled and
that has made all the difference."

This Advent season will we choose the path of faith?

Fellowship of the Son

2008-11-30T17:54:00.001-06:00

This sermon kicks off our series focusing on Jesus as the reason for the season. This first Sunday of Advent the theme is hope and we are reminded that not only is Christ the hope of the world, but that the responsibility of the Church is to reflect that hope into the world. May we do exactly that this Christmas season.

Pastor Ferguson

All Rise

2008-11-23T12:47:00.000-06:00

In this familiar passage of Matthew 25, we encounter the heavenly courtroom scene where God is sitting as judge, jury, and the full body of witnesses. God has summoned each of us to stand before his eternal throne and make account for our lives.

While we may be tempted today to believe that this is a frivolous and fictional court case that should be thrown out of court, (like the McDonalds hot coffee, or Michael Jordan look alike, or Fear Factor make me sick episode) truth is that we have been summoned and we have been charged based upon how we are living out the great command to love God and love our neighbor as our self.

Blessings, and may you be challenged in Christ, Pastor Ferguson

The Real Oil Crisis

2008-11-16T12:32:00.002-06:00

In this sermon we take a brief look at Jesus' parable of the ten virgins. Five were prepared and entered the heavenly banquet, and five did not bring enough oil.

The challenge of our life is to be filled with the Holy Spirit and waiting for the glorious return of God. But too often we just assume that our life is good enough and we can just show up on heavens door step and expect to be let in. But Jesus tells us here that if we run out of oil, we will not make it to that heavenly banquet because we did not take time to build our relationship with Christ, and go through the wedding ceremony.

Praise God for the Spirit which guides our lives every single day. Amen.

I look forward to you comments.

Pastor Ferguson

Passing the Torch

2008-11-09T12:55:00.001-06:00

This message is a powerful reminder that we have a responsibility to share our faith in Christ. It is not something we should be ashamed of, but we should hold it high.

Using the image of an Olympic torch we recognize that the symbol of the flame unites people of all nations in the spirit of the games. And it is Christ who unites people of faith into one body of believers giving us something we should be proud to let the whole world see.

I hope this message challenges each of you to wear your faith for all to see.

In Christ, Pastor Ferguosn

Sitting or Cleaning?

2008-11-02T14:13:00.000-06:00

This is a fun message (a lot better live) that brings to light our understanding of Christian service. This is all shared in the light of All Saints Day and celebrating the lives of our loved ones who have gone on to glory.
What does Christian love and service look like, and what are the bigger issues that we must embrace as Saints in the Kingdom of God?
I look forward to your thoughts or comments.

Joy

2008-10-27T16:18:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Marlys for sharing such a wonderful word on Joy that can be found in the greatest commandment.

J - Jesus
O - Others
Y - You

May we seek to love with an abundance of joy in this global community.

Tis a Gift

2008-10-19T13:49:00.001-05:00

One of the membership vows of the United Methodist church is to share our gifts. This sermon addresses the difficult topic of finances head on during a difficult economic time.

What is really ours? What has God given us? How do we honor God with all that he has given us?

If you missed the service and would still like to receive your $2 bill, just ask... it will be given.

As always I invite feed back and conversation.

Blessings in Christ, CF

No Excuse Sunday's

2008-10-13T09:24:00.003-05:00

Did you know that keeping the Sabbath day holy is in the same list as "Thou shall not Murder?" Yep the fourth command is keep the Sabbath holy. Yet how easy we forget, and how often we make up excuses for why have to miss worship on any given week.

The sad truth is that none of them are valid. In fact I don't think anyone could come up with an excuse for murder either... Hmmm. Well self defense, but I don't think entering the church on Sunday morning is considered breaking and entering.

This sermon is a fun yet serious way to look at our commitment to God through our worship attendance. I hope you will have fun listening to it and laughing. Furthermore I hope it will provoke you to be more regular in your worship attendance.

Intimate Conversations

2008-10-05T17:47:00.001-05:00

In this sermon we have the final sermon in the spiritual discipline series. Prayer is something we all know is important, but in all honesty most people just don't feel comfortable praying. It is like navigating a submarine up the Mississippi River, virtually impossible because we have no training. David was a man after God's own heart, and we can learn a lot about how to pray by witnessing the intimacy of David's prayers.

I hope this sermon will help you increase your the health and vitality of your relationship with God. Blessings in Christ, Pastor Ferguson

Think on these things

2008-09-28T15:12:00.000-05:00

This is the third in the series of spiritual discipline sermons. Study is the focus, and four keys are highlighted from Richard Fosters - Celebration of Discipline: Repetition, Concentration, Comprehension, and Reflection.
The quality of this recording is very poor because it was not connected to the source. I am sorry, I edited it as much as I could. I even debated going back and rerecording, but in all honest, God had me off of the script more than on it this week. So if you are really interested, you can listen to one sermon and read a second.
I guess this is a good lesson about how much we look act and sound like Christians (even with a good editing, or outward facade) when we are not connected to the source.

Dependency Issues

2008-09-21T12:53:00.000-05:00

This is a challenging sermon, one that I bet you have never heard before. The topic of fasting is something that is absent in our American culture and yet scripture and the history of the church lead us to understand that there is great value in this discipline. I challenge you to listen with open ears, hearts, and minds.

I invite you to share your thoughts and comments.

Ssshhh!

2008-09-14T12:52:00.002-05:00

In this message, the focus is very practical. We are beginning a series of sermons that focus on personal Spiritual Disciplines; meditation, fasting, study, and prayer. This week the discussion is on meditation.

The practice of Christian meditation has fallen on hard times as our society has become so busy, literally hectic. Moments of silence are all but absent in our lives. How can we honestly expect to hear God? Lets try the practice of meditation for a week and see what God will share with us.

Blessings in Christ, Pastor Ferguson.

I Have Decided to Follow Jesus

2008-09-07T15:38:00.002-05:00

This message looks at salvation from the perspective of the unnamed soldier. What did he witness that caused him to seek salvation in Jesus Christ? Evangelism is not comfortable for most of us, but Paul and Silas teach us a form of evangelism in this passage that is simply letting Christ shine. The soldier then risked his life and reputation to share his new faith with his family. Will we be so bold?

Blessings, and I hope this opens up the difficult dialogue of Evangelism as uncomfortable but mandatory. Pastor CF

God's Armor

2008-08-31T21:44:00.002-05:00

In this Message, Lay Speaker Bob Hill shares with the congregation thre main points from out of Ephesians chapter 6, the armor of God:

1. We have an enemy and we must recognize him
2. He will attack us where we are weakest
3. His word provides the plan of peace that will see us through.

I pray God works through this word in your life.

Carried by Water

2008-08-24T12:24:00.002-05:00

The Story of Moses starts with him being pulled out of the water by the daughter of Pharaoh. In this sermon we discuss the similarities of Moses start in life with our own baptism into the kingdom of God.
1. We are all born with a death sentence.
2. We are all place into the waters of life by faith.
3. We are all lifted out of the water by the son of God, and given a new name and purpose.
4. Like Moses, we are saved to do great things.
a. To lead his people through the deep waters of life.
b. To protect them through the deserts.
c. To lead them to the Promised Land.
5. Will we live into the high calling of our baptism?

I pray this challenges each one of us to grow in our Spiritual Faith. Pastor CF

Back Against the Wall

2008-08-17T11:49:00.002-05:00

This recording contains the whole service on August 17, 2008. It was a service that we held in the fellowship hall, with a wide variety of coffee's and doughnuts around tables. The concept is that God is with us, where ever we are, and however we come. We don't have to have all of life in order to receive God's love and forgiveness.

The theme of the message is forgiveness. The Story of Joseph is powerful and compelling. I hope that as you list that you will experience the full forgiveness of God in your life, and that you will find ways to grant forgiveness to those people who have wounded you.

Remember it is only as you give forgiveness that you can experience forgiveness and freedom in your life. Brothers and sisters, "forgive as Christ forgave you."

Please feel free to leave your comments on a very different experience of worship.

Pastor C Ferguson

Why Church?

2008-08-10T11:00:00.002-05:00

Have you ever wondered what your purpose is; why God created you?

This message hits at the heart of purpose, not just our purpose, but also that of the Church. Jesus had a very specific purpose for becoming human, and that purpose is now the Church's purpose. Luke 19:10 is the clearest statement of that purpose, "to seek and to save the lost."

You will find the image of a rock's purpose compels us. You will further hear that the communion bread and cup are ours to share with the lost of the world.

"For those who have ears to hear, let them listen." Pastor Ferguson

Randy Davis

2008-08-07T11:17:00.002-05:00

I have heard from many of you that Randy's Artistic Message was fabulous. I really wish that I could have seen it with you, but God was definitely at work in Jody and I at the School for congregational development. (You will hear more about that this coming Sunday.)

Although we do not have and audio recording of this service, I would like to invite any of you who were touched by Randy's message to make a comment here about how it moved you closer to God.

Blessings in the name of Jesus Christ, Pastor Ferguson

Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better

2008-07-27T11:57:00.002-05:00

This sermon begins with the special music and offering by Jamie Cook (Trumpet) It is in a "sermon chat" style, and pushes the whole congregation out of their comfort zone. It pushes us to realize how much each of us need the love, grace, and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. In a very different format that fits the non-traditional style of this sermon, members of the congregation share their own faith through person testimonies. This is a very challenging service that invites conversation. I look forward to your comments.

Pastor Ferguson

Talents

2008-07-20T20:18:00.002-05:00

Guest Speaker David Harner, Executive Director of the Iowa United Methodist Foundation, gives a challenging message on the use of gifts and talents.

This is a very good message and reminder for each of us that we must use the gifts that we have or watch them slip away. However, if we use them for the glory of God we are blessed even more.

Please share this with your friends and family, and feel free to make comments that might further challenge us all.

Worship Through The Years

2008-07-14T07:33:00.002-05:00

We all have a prefered style of worship; music, liturgy, even setting. The question must ask ourselves, is what is central to faith, and what elements have changed over time bassed upon individuals, culture, and instrument availability?

As this service also draws attention to, transition has been the norm in church worship for many centuries. How then can we worship a non-changing and eternal God, in our infinitely changing environment?

I think you will enjoy the history of hymns and worship music that is the backbone of this service, but do not miss where it begins, with the reading of the Nicean Creed.

I look forward to your thoughts and comments on this one. Pastor CF

Deal or No Deal?

2008-07-06T12:14:00.002-05:00

If we were to play a game show with God, would the briefcase we hold onto be filled with mint, dill, and cummin? What are the expectations of being a Christian today? Do we fulfill our obligations to Christ and to the Church?

This is a difficult text where Jesus accosts the Pharisees, and calls them to a higher standard than the law. What can we find in this text for our world, our nation, and our lives?

I invite each of your comments and thoughts on this difficult passage. How did God speak to you through his word?

Blessings, Pastor C Ferguson

Changing the Rules of the Game

2008-07-01T14:24:00.002-05:00

This sermon is a strong proclamation to accountability and a life of Christian Integrity. I know that it has a bit more of an razors edge than most sermons. It does not allow the listener to sit back an assume the words spoken are for the person in the other pew.

I hope these words challenged each of us to contemplate what it means to love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, and our neighbor as our selves. How are we doing with this great challenge in our personal lives, and in our congregation and community? How could we do it better?

Please share your comments. Pastor CF

Real Life

2008-06-30T17:13:00.002-05:00

The truth of life is that most people (especially the postmoderns) spend 3x more time on the internet per day than they to in church per week. That means they stare at a computer screen, watch video's, play games, listen to audio feeds, email, Blog, or Instant Message more than 21 hours per week (That is conservative in my guess) and only spend 1 hour per week engaging God in the traditional venue we call Church. The attempt of creating a greater web presence for Geneseo United Methodist Church, is an attempt at making disciples of Jesus Christ in this modern paradigm.

Each week, I will enter a new post with connection to the audio and print versions of the sermon. I invite members of the congregation and community to post comments, questions, struggles, or otherwise for the benefit of all.

Blessings in Christ, Pastor C Ferguson