St Marcus Mke Sermons

THIS WEEK: This week, we will be studying 2 Timothy 2:1-9 under the theme “Apprentice to Jesus.” While the term “disciple” gets used frequently in Christianity, what exactly does it mean? Is there a distinction to be made between having faith in Jesus and being a disciple of Jesus? We’ll see how the term apprentice is a helpful illustration to consider as we think about how Jesus trains us to carry out his work in the world.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to lea

On this Juneteenth celebration weekend, we reflect on Micah 6:6-8 and its call for justice, mercy, and humility before God. We examine the persistent issue of social injustice and the delusion of self-righteousness, emphasizing the need for repentance and reliance on God's grace. Through the lens of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings, we are reminded of the transformative power of love and the Christian duty to uplift the marginalized of society.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This weekend we conclude our O Church Arise series with a celebration of the Day of Pentecost. The Pentecost account in Acts 2 is a thrilling story of how Jesus sent the Holy Spirit as he promised, and the Christian Church was born in an awesomely powerful way. Two thousand years later, Christians may wonder where all that power is today. Come and worship with us this weekend to consider just how powerfully the Spirit still acts today by filling us up with his Word and sending us out with his blessing.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. T

This week, we will study Acts 1:1-11 under the theme “Ascension: Handing Over the Keys of Ministry to the Church.” Why did Jesus ascend into heaven? Wouldn’t it have been more beneficial for God’s Son to stay, work miracles, and convert everyone? Well….not according to him. This is for many reasons we’ll discuss, all related to the believer’s life purpose.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/s

This week, we will be studying Acts 14:8-20 under the theme “Platforming the Right Person.” Americans have a fascination with celebrity and an intoxication with talent. It destroys our relationship with God….and others. Paul and Barnabas would have none of it. Jesus is the only god who came down to earth in human form. No one else can hold a place of ultimate value in our lives.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray

This weekend, we’re studying Acts 11:1–18 under the theme “Religious Discrimination.” In this pivotal moment, Peter defends his mission to the Gentiles after God reveals that the Gospel breaks through ethnic and religious barriers—proving salvation is not by cultural conformity but by grace alone. We’ll see how God confronts human prejudice, expands our understanding of His grace, and calls us to reject man-made divisions in favor of His unifying Gospel.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after h

This week we will be studying Acts 6:1-7 under the theme “Strategic Ministry.” All of God’s people are called to service in his Body (the Church), but we’re not called to serve in the same ways. Each of God’s children is gifted for a role. When we don’t use our gifts to fill our role or we use our gifts in the wrong role, the Body suffers. Looking to Jesus as our Head, we find a way to troubleshoot problems in the Church by compassionately getting God’s people to serve in the right positions.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of

This week, we will be studying Acts 5:12-16 under the theme “Healing in the Church’s Shadow.” Undeniably, God worked miracles through the Apostles and the early Christian Church. Does he do the same today? This requires us to meditate on the nature of a miracle and see what role we play as a member of Jesus’ Body (i.e. the Church) today.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out o

In studying Philippians 2:5-11, we examine Jesus' path of humility and ultimate exaltation, contrasting earthly leaders with His servant leadership. Discover how adopting Christ's mindset can transform relationships and lead us to serve others selflessly, reflecting His glory and majesty.Speaker: Seminarian Zach ThielHow can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This Easter message from John 21:18 explores the profound encounter between Mary Magdalene and the risen Jesus. Discover why Mary, a woman with a broken past, was the first to witness the resurrection and how her story reveals the transformative power of grace. As we delve into themes of sin, reconciliation, and spiritual blindness, learn how Jesus calls each of us by name, inviting us to see Him clearly and share His love with the world. Uncover the hope and redemption found in the resurrection of Christ.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In Luke 18:9-18, Jesus told a parable about two men who went to the temple to pray: a virtue-signaling Pharisee and a miserable tax collector who couldn’t even lift his face because of his shame. Jesus’ startling judgment was that it was only the tax collector who went home justified. The assumption of many religious people is that, on some level, God’s approval is based on our personal obedience and good deeds. We’ll see that humble prayer begins where our self-righteousness ends - not with declarations of how good we are, but with desperate hands empty enough to receive what Christ has done.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week's Lenten reflection delves into the profound abandonment Jesus experienced on the cross, highlighting His cry of forsakenness. We examine how this ultimate sacrifice ensures that believers are never truly alone, as Jesus endured separation from God to guarantee our eternal companionship with Him. Through His love and sacrifice, Jesus dismantles the power of sin and death, offering us everlasting comfort and presence.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we're studying Luke 16 and exploring the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, focusing on the theme of "An Unnamed Rich Man." We'll uncover the reality of hell, the sufficiency of God's Word, and the profound love of Jesus Christ, who endured suffering to save us. We'll explain the spiritual implications of self-centeredness and the eternal trajectory of our choices. Take heart in the gospel truth that, through Christ's sacrifice, we're invited to turn from self-centeredness and embrace the everlasting joy and love found in God's presence.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week's Lenten meditation explores the mockery and suffering Jesus endured before His crucifixion. We reflect on how human rebellion and rejection of authority mirror the actions of those who mocked Christ. Despite the shame He bore, Jesus's sacrifice offers us redemption, transforming our shame into honor and securing our place in His eternal kingdom.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 15:11-32 under the theme “A Parable of Two Sons.” This will be our third straight week hearing Jesus teach on The Banquet. We’ve heard about a Narrow Door. We’ve heard about Making Excuses. And now he’s teaching about the difference between repentant sinners and self-righteous religious practitioners. We’ll explain why the traditional title “The Parable of the Prodigal Son,” which dates back to 16th century English translations and even the Latin Vulgate, is tremendously misleading. This text is as much, or more, about an obedient older brother and how he still stands outside the banquet.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In this week's Lenten meditation, we examine Peter's denial of Jesus and the fear-driven weakness that led to it. We reflect on how our actions can mirror Peter's, revealing our tendency to deny Christ in moments of self-preservation. Despite our failures, Jesus's grace remains sufficient, offering us the strength to repent and the assurance of His enduring love.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 14:15-24 under the theme “A Generous Invitation.” Last week, Jesus talked about the timeliness of response to his gracious invitation. This week, we see that humans, particularly those who are greatly blessed, are often inclined to make excuses for not coming when they realize how disruptive this impending feast could be to their present life. But if the animal has been slaughtered and the food prepared, the feast will continue for all who are hungry and willing to drop everything.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com

In this Lenten reflection, we examine Jesus's prayerful struggle in Gethsemane, where he faces overwhelming sorrow. We explore the significance of the cup of suffering, representing God's wrath, which Jesus willingly accepts for humanity's sins. Despite the disciples' apathy, Jesus's love and sacrifice offer profound forgiveness and redemption.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 13:22-30 under the theme “The Kingdom’s Narrow Door.” Jesus regularly needed to teach the people of his day that they would not be saved by their pedigree or moral performance. Rather, we can only be saved by grace through faith in him. Everyone is invited to pass through that door, but the door itself is narrow and you cannot bring a bunch of things with you. Letting go of the things of this world requires humility, trust, and urgency.  The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like

In this Lenten meditation, we explore the moment at the Last Supper when Jesus reveals that one of his disciples will betray him, causing deep sadness among them. We delve into how Judas's deliberate betrayal underscores the depth of human sinfulness and the potential for betrayal within us all. Despite this, we find hope in Jesus's unwavering love and sacrifice, which offer forgiveness and redemption.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive