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Sunday Sermons from Mountain View Church of the Nazarene
Episodes
Sunday Sep 15, 2024
Sunday Sep 15, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by Apostle Paul's words in Ephesians 6:19, our message delves into the theme of unity and the strength we find in working together. Are you ready for some engaging participation? Remember, we're not just an audience; we're a congregation united by faith.
In this sermon, we explore the idea that "we are better together" by looking at iconic duos from pop culture and history. More importantly, we examine the biblical partnership of Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla from Acts 18:1-8. Through their story, we learn how our gifts are more powerful when shared, used for both believers and non-believers, and how they expand God's kingdom.
Join us as we uncover practical ways to partner with others, both within and outside our church community, to make a greater impact. Let's embrace our spiritual gifts, serve together, and glorify God in all that we do. Amen!
Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live
We Use Our Gifts Together
Acts 18:1–8
MAIN IDEA: We are better together.
OUR GIFTS ARE BETTER TOGETHER…
- When we share our gifts with others. (v. 1–3)
- When we use our gifts for believers and nonbelievers. (v. 4–6)
- Because when we use our gifts together, the Kingdom expands. (v. 7–8)
Action Points:
- Consider and list practical ways you can work with others to make a bigger impact than you could alone.
- Partner with other Christians in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.
- Partner with God in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.
Sunday Sep 08, 2024
Sunday Sep 08, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast. In this episode, we explore the significance of recognizing and utilizing the unique gifts that God has bestowed upon each one of us. Drawing inspiration from Romans 12:3-8 and Ephesians 6:19, we delve into the story of Malcolm Mitchell and his unexpected journey to becoming an avid reader, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication alongside natural talents.
Join us as we discuss how everyone is a gift with a gift, equipped by God to serve and bless others. Through examining our spiritual gifts and understanding their divine origin, we are encouraged to use them diligently for the glory of God and the benefit of the community. Whether you're a long-time believer or new to the faith, this message aims to inspire you to discover and activate your God-given abilities.
As we continue our series, "You Are Gifted for More," we invite you to evaluate your gifts, recognize their source, and commit to using them effectively. Let's embark on this journey together, seeking to fulfill God's plan for our lives and our congregation. Amen.
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With Pastor Mike Curry
Everyone Is a Gift with Gifts
Romans 12:3–8 NLT
MAIN IDEA: Everyone is a gift with gifts.
GOD HAS GIVEN DIFFERENT PEOPLE DIFFERENT GIFTS…
- It is wise to evaluate your gifts. (v. 3)
- Realize that different people have different gifts. (v. 4–5)
- Your gifts have a unique and specific function. (v. 6–8)
HOW DO WE RESPOND TO BEING GIVEN GIFTS:
- Evaluate what gifts you have been given. (v. 3–5)
- Recognize where our gifts come from. (v. 6a)
- Use your unique gifts. (v.6b–8)
ACTION STEPS:
- Do a thorough evaluation of the gifts that you have. Combine this reflection with the results of your SHAPE Assessment and conversations with those closest to you.
- Recognize how your gifts can be best used in your life (among your family, vocation, community, church, etc.).
- Thank God for his benevolence in giving you gifts.
Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, this sermon aims to bring the Word of God alive in your heart and aid your understanding of His divine plan for your life. Amen.
In today's episode, we kick off a new series titled "Gifted for More." Despite conventional advice against starting a new series on a holiday weekend, our speaker dives into this exciting journey, emphasizing that every individual is blessed with unique talents and abilities. This sermon encourages us to recognize that God has a grand plan for each of us, regardless of age or background.
Through a humorous anecdote about caricatures, the sermon explores how we often create exaggerated versions of God, which can distort our understanding of His true character. By examining Ephesians 2, the message highlights key characteristics of God—His love, mercy, grace, and kindness—and how these attributes should shape our relationships with Him, others, and ourselves.
We are reminded that we are God's masterpieces, created anew in Christ Jesus to do good works. The sermon calls us to recognize ourselves and others as gifts from God and challenges us to share our unique gifts with the world. It concludes with a reflection on the ultimate gift exchange—Christ's sacrifice—and an invitation to adjust our views of God, discover our spiritual gifts, and use them for His glory.
Join us as we embark on this transformative journey of understanding and embracing God's plan for our lives. May today's message inspire you to live out your divine purpose with confidence and joy.
Everyone Is a Gift
Ephesians 2:1–10
INTRODUCTIONS: Caricatures
MAIN IDEA: Our view of God shapes how we see ourselves and others.
CONFIDENCE IN GOD’S CHARACTER…
- Confidence in God’s character changes our relationship with God. (v. 4–9)
- Confidence in God’s character changes our response to others. (v. 1–3)
- Confidence in God’s character changes our relationship with ourselves. (v. 10)
THREE RESPONSES TO GOD’S CHARACTER:
- We recognize ourselves as gifts from God. (v. 5b–6)
- We realize others are gifts from God. (v. 1-3)
- We respond to God’s goodness and share our gifts. (v.7–10)
ACTION STEPS:
- Adjust your view of God's character
What adjustments do you need to make to the way you see and respond to the character of God?
- Identify lies about your identity and others
As people who are made in the Image of God, when we have a warped image of the character of God, it begins to create in us a warped self-image. Can you name lies that you may believe about your identity based on a wrong view of God’s character? What about lies that you believe about others?
- Discovering and use your unique gifts
Knowing that God has a plan and a purpose for each of our gifts, take time to discover your unique gifts and how to steward them. (Take your S.H.A.P.E. Assessment – Coming soon!)
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel Chapter 3. In this concluding sermon of our summer series, we explore the themes of unwavering faith and God's protection in the midst of life's fiery trials.
We begin with a light-hearted yet profound story of Chippy the parakeet, illustrating how unexpected circumstances can leave us feeling stunned and disheartened. This sets the stage for a deeper discussion on how to stand firm in our faith when faced with societal pressures and personal challenges.
Through the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we learn about the importance of resisting compromise, standing strong in our convictions, and trusting in God's presence and protection, even when the outcome is uncertain. Join us as we uncover the lessons from these three friends who faced the fiery furnace with courage and faith, and discover how their story can inspire us to remain steadfast in our own trials.
With Pastor Mike Curry
“Unyielding Faith in the Fiery Trials”
Daniel 3
Introduction: Chippee the Parakeet
- The King’s Command (verses 1-7)
- Universal Command: (vs. 4-5).
- Exodus 20:4-6
- Universal Consequences: Do it or be thrown into a fiery furnace (v. 6)
- Universal Compliance: All fell down (v.7)
- Romans 1:20-25
- Defiance of the King’s Decree (verses 8-18)
- The tale of the tattletales (vs. 8-12).
- The King’s furious assertion (vs. 13-15)
- “…what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?”
- Courageous defiance (vs. 16-18).
- Matthew 10:22, James 1:12
III. Trial by Fire (verses 19-23)
- Seven-times hotter = the fullness of the trial (v19)
- Subdued by strongest soldiers (v. 20-22)
- Falling into the fire (v. 23).
- James 1:2-4, Isaiah 43:1-3a
- Divine Deliverance (verses 24-30)
- A fourth in the fire! (v. 24-25)
- Salvation realized (v. 26-27)
- Praise be to the Most High God (v. 28-30)
- “…no other god can save in this way.” (v. 29)
Action Points
- Resist Compromise
- Make a stand with unwavering faith
- Trust God’s Protection
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
As we near the conclusion of our series on the great stories of the Bible, we reflect on childhood Sunday school lessons and how their profound messages continue to resonate with us as adults.
Today's sermon focuses on "Facing Your Giants." Drawing from personal experiences and the biblical account of David and Goliath, we explore how faith can help us confront and overcome the daunting challenges in our lives. From childhood fears to the more complex giants of adulthood—such as cultural pressures, personal failures, and relational struggles—this message provides insights into identifying and tackling these obstacles through unwavering faith.
Join us as we delve into 1 Samuel 17 and learn from David's courage and reliance on God. Discover how you can replace fear with faith, use wisdom in choosing your battles, and ultimately find victory through the power of God's strength. May this sermon inspire you to face your giants with confidence and faith.
For a copy of today's sermon, other sermons, and the sermon outline, please visit our church's website at www.mvcnaz.org. It is our prayer that you find a church home that recognizes the authority of the Bible and supports your spiritual journey.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
1
“Facing Your Giants”
1 Samuel 17:1-58
Introduction
Main Point: We all encounter “giants” in our lives—obstacles, fears, and seemingly
insurmountable challenges.
HOW CAN WE FACE OUR GIANTS WITH FAITH?
1. Identify Your Giants (vs. 4-7)
• Goliath was intimidating
• Our Modern Giants
o fear of failure, addiction, relational struggles, financial burdens, etc.
• Action: Identify the giants you’re currently facing.
2. Follow David’s Approach: He Chose Faith Over Fear (vs. 26, 34-37)
• David’s Confidence: God would deliver him from Goliath.
• David didn’t rely on his own strength but on God’s.
• Action: Replace fear with faith.
o Philippians 4:6-7
3. Choose Your Battle: Use Wisdom (vs. 45-47)
• David’s Purpose: defending God’s honor.
• Discern your battles.
• Action: Fight for God’s glory, not personal gain.
o Colossians 3:17
Conclusion
• Face your giants with courage, knowing that God is your ultimate strength.
o Psalm 46:1
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Join us in today's sermon podcast where we delve into the transformative power of prayer and faith.
The sermon begins with a nostalgic story about old Western TV shows, leading into a powerful testimony of actor Clint Walker's near-death experience and his life-changing prayer. Walker's prayer, uttered in a moment of desperation, serves as a testament to the life-saving power of faith and divine intervention.
We then explore the story of Hannah from the Old Testament, who, like Walker, prayed a desperate prayer. Despite her barrenness and the mockery she faced, Hannah's unwavering faith and heartfelt vow to God led to the miraculous birth of her son, Samuel. This story highlights the importance of taking action, trusting in God's plan, and responding to His call.
Through these narratives, the sermon encourages listeners to stand up in faith, trust in God's timing, and respond to His guidance, ensuring that their lives align with His divine will. It is a call to live a life of holiness, engage with the community, and lead families in righteousness.
Thank you for joining us today. You can find a copy of this sermon, other sermons, and the sermon outline on our church's website, www.mvcnaz.org. We pray that you will seek a church home that recognizes the authority of the Bible.
Thank you for joining us today. You can find a copy of this sermon, other sermons, and the sermon outline on our church's website, www.mvcnaz.org. We pray that you will seek a church home that recognizes the authority of the Bible.
With Pastor Mike Curry,
“Hannah’s Journey from Barrenness to Blessing”
1 Samuel 1:9-28
Introduction: A Life-Changing Accident Hannah’s Journey
I. Hannah Takes Action – God Hears
a. She stood up (v. 9)
b. She wept and prayed (v.10)
c. She made a vow (v. 11)
i. vow – a voluntary promise to God to perform some service or do something pleasing to him, in return for some hoped-for benefits
II. Hannah Trusts God – God Moves
a. She kept praying (v. 12-16)
b. She received a blessing (v. 17)
i. Her demeanor changed (v. 18)
c. The Lord remembered her (v. 19)
III. Hannah Responds to God – God Accepts
a. She gives birth to a son – Samuel “asked of the Lord” (v. 20)
b. She dedicated him fully to the Lord (v. 28)
c. Hannah Praises God – 1 Samuel 2:1-11
IV. Application:
a. We must take action!
b. We must trust God.
c. We must respond to God.
Sunday Aug 04, 2024
Sunday Aug 04, 2024
Join us in today's sermon podcast as we embrace the Apostle Paul's prayer request from Ephesians 6:19, seeking to boldly proclaim the mystery of the gospel. This episode features Dr. David Ackerman, the academic dean from Asia Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, sharing heartfelt stories of missionary work and the faithfulness of God throughout numerous relocations and challenges.
Celebrate the Ackerman family's journey, from their beginnings in 1999 to their impactful service across Asia Pacific, Australia, and Guam. Discover the growth of the Church of the Nazarene in the Philippines, the innovative approaches to theological education, and the inspiring tales of individuals answering God's call to ministry.
Reflect on the early church's perseverance amidst persecution, and explore how Acts 1:8's promise to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth continues to resonate today. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer, trust in God, and the global mission to make disciples.
Listen now to be inspired and encouraged in your own faith journey and understanding of God's plan for your life.
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
Today’s sermon explores the powerful imagery of being the salt and light of the world, as described in Matthew 5. We delve into how we can enhance the flavor of humanity by seeking righteousness and preserving the essence of Christ-like living.
We start by understanding the functions of salt and light, reflecting on how salt not only preserves but also creates a thirst for righteousness. We then look at the significance of light, which reveals truth and guides us in our daily lives.
Through various scriptures, including the Sermon on the Mount and the story of the Samaritan woman at the well, we examine how our actions can spark a desire for a relationship with God in others. We discuss practical ways to live out our faith, from advocating for the oppressed to expressing God’s love boldly.
Join us as we seek to embody the transformative power of God’s grace, living as beacons of light in a world that desperately needs it. May this message inspire you to reflect on how you can better serve God and others, bringing glory to His name.
With Pastor Ethan Osborne.
Livin’ As Illuminated Salt
Focus Verses: Matthew 5:6, 13-16
Theme: Living as salt and light of the world means pursuing holiness through the process of living out sanctification.
• Function of Light and Salt:
o Function Light:
▪ Light reveals what was previously unseen
o Function of Salt
▪ Flavoring
▪ Preservation
▪ Thirst
• Hunger and Thirsting for righteousness
• It is a pursuit to follow God closer and closer every single day.
o Salt in Hunger
▪ We enhance flavor of humanity by seeking out righteousness
▪ As we develop in sanctification, we preserve what it looks like to seek God.
o Salt in Thirst
▪ Worship is the way in which we partake in living water offered by God
• Acting as Salt and Light
o Acting as Light
▪ When we live a Christologically Centered Life, we then become a light that shows others the true meaning of being human.
▪ We live by faith and become lights that allow others to find their way to righteousness with God in their own lives.
▪ Our thirst for righteousness is to invite the Holy Spirit into our everyday lives and actions.
o Acting as Salt
▪ When we live as the Salt of the world, we should be demonstrating the ways in which we live out the love of God.
• So What?
o Being salt and light means more than simply doing good things, it means we reflect the transformation that God brings to the world.
• Action Points
o In what ways can we dedicate our actions and will for the glory of God?
o Have we allowed God to light our lives and show us how we can better serve God?
o Consider one way that God can bring Transformation over our lives.
Sunday Jul 21, 2024
Sunday Jul 21, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, our pastor aims to speak fearlessly about the mystery of the gospel. In this episode, we delve into a fascinating story from the book of Numbers, focusing on Balaam and his talking donkey.
Our sermon revisits memorable Sunday school stories and emphasizes the importance of aligning our personal desires with divine direction. Balaam's journey and his encounters with divine obstacles offer profound lessons about ignoring God's warnings and the consequences of following our own sinful paths.
As we explore Balaam's errors, we learn the significance of heeding divine guidance and avoiding the pitfalls of sin. This episode encourages us to seek God's will, recognize His interventions, and live a life free from the bondage of sin. Join us in understanding God's plan for our lives through this timeless biblical narrative.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
“When Donkeys Speak: Experiencing Divine Intervention”
Numbers 22:21-31
Main Idea: God intervenes in our lives, even through unlikely messengers.
I. Introduction: A cussword in Church?
II. Learning Lessons from Balaam’s Error
1. Pursuing Personal Desires Over Divine Direction v. 20-21
o Some rush headlong into impending doom! (Jude 11)
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to
death.” - Proverbs 14:12
o We must be eager to do God’s will (James 1:19-22)—listen to it and
practice it.
2. Ignoring Divine Warnings vs. 22, 31
o We must not be blind as we are warned about God’s punishment for
sin (Romans 6:23) and lack of knowledge leads to destruction (Hosea
4:6).
3. Frustrated by Divine Obstacles vs. 23, 25, 27
o Sometimes roadblocks are in place to keep us from falling into sin.
• Work keeps us from idle sins (1 Timothy 5:13-14),
• Isolation keeps us from peer pressure (1 Corinthians 15:33)
• Lack of extra money could prevent us from the casual use of
alcohol, etc.
o Obstacles in our life may redirect us.
4. Foolishness in Following Sin vs. 28-29
o Sin makes a mockery of us.
• Wine is a mocker (Proverbs 20:1).
• Sin desires to rule over us (Genesis 4:7; John 8:24).
• We often do what we know is wrong (Romans 7:11, 14-20).
• We fail to take the way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).
III. Conclusion
• May we recognize and respond to God’s interventions, even when they come
through unlikely messengers. Let’s commit to seeking His will above our own
and being attentive to His guidance.
Sunday Jul 14, 2024
Sunday Jul 14, 2024
Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, this sermon aims to help you understand God's plan for your life and how to overcome the obstacles you face.
Life is filled with challenges, and whether you have many resources or few, there are always barriers to overcome. Drawing from classic Old Testament stories, today's message focuses on the story of Jericho from the book of Joshua. We explore how the Israelites, led by Joshua, faced the formidable walled city of Jericho and how God's unconventional plan led them to victory.
From Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt to Joshua taking over as their leader, we see a pattern of obedience and faith that brings about God's promises. As we delve into the story, we'll uncover how communication with God, compliance with His commands, and confidence in His promises enable us to conquer life's challenges.
Join us as we learn valuable lessons from Joshua chapter 6 and discover how we too can overcome our personal "Jerichos" through the power of God, trusting His plan, obeying His commands, and following His lead with confidence.
May this sermon encourage you to keep your head high and your faith strong as you navigate the obstacles in your life.
With Pastor Mike Curry.
“Conquering Jericho: Overcoming Challenges with Faith”
Joshua 6
Main Idea: We can overcome challenges by trusting God’s promise, obeying His commands, and confidently following His lead.
Overcoming Life’s Challenges
- Communication: Trusting God’s Promise (Joshua 6:1-2)
- God’s Promise: “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands...”
- Psalm 16:7-8
- Matthew 6:33
- Compliance: Obedience in Action (Joshua 6:6-7, 8, 10, 16)
- God’s plan: March around Jericho once a day for six days, with priests carrying trumpets and the ark of the covenant.
- Joshua’s Obedience: He complied, even when the plan seemed unconventional.
- James 1:22
- Confidence: Shouting in Faith (Joshua 6:20-21)
- Faith in Action: March around Jericho seven times, then shout in glory to God.
- Result: The walls of Jericho fell, and victory was secured.
- Romans 8:31-39
Reflection Questions:
- “What ‘walls of Jericho’ do you currently face in your life—challenges that seem insurmountable? How can you seek God’s communication and trust His promise to overcome them?”
- “Reflect on a time when God led you to take an unconventional or unexpected step in obedience. What did you learn from that experience, and how did it impact your faith?”
- “Consider the promises God has given you for the future. How can you hold onto those promises and confidently move forward, even when circumstances appear difficult?”