Abraham: Faith Goes First

First United Methodist Church Jamestown ND

Abraham: Faith Goes First

July 1, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Genesis 12:1–7, Genesis 13:14–18, Hebrews 11:1

In this powerful message, we explore the story of Abraham's call and journey of faith from Genesis 12. We're reminded that faith often requires stepping out of our comfort zones and into the unknown, just as Abraham left his homeland for a promise yet unseen. God's promises to Abraham - land, descendants, and blessing - teach us about the nature of divine promises and the patience required in our own faith journeys. The message challenges us to consider: Where is God calling us to go? What seemingly impossible promises are we being asked to believe? It encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, even when the path ahead is unclear or challenging.

Chapters:

Chapter 1: The Call of Abraham

0:00 - 1:51

God calls Abram to leave his homeland and promises to bless him and make him a great nation.

Chapter 2: Personal Experience of God's Call

1:55 - 6:06

A personal story of answering God's call to serve in Laredo, Texas, despite challenging conditions.

Chapter 3: Abraham's Faith and God's Promises

6:08 - 12:02

An exploration of Abraham's journey of faith and the challenges he faced in trusting God's promises.

Chapter 4: The Nature of Faith

12:05 - 15:24

A discussion on the true nature of faith and how it precedes works in our relationship with God.

Chapter 5: Faith in Action: Establishing a Food Bank

15:26 - 21:57

A personal story of faith leading to the establishment of a food bank in Laredo, Texas.

Finding Hope in Every Season

November 10, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Ruth 3:1–5, Ruth 4:13–17

In this message, we're reminded that God is always at work, even in our darkest moments. The story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz from the Old Testament serves as a beautiful illustration of God's constant presence and guidance. Despite Naomi's bitterness and loss, Ruth's loyalty, and Boaz's kindness, God was weaving a greater narrative - one that would eventually lead to the lineage of Jesus Christ. This story encourages us to trust in God's plan, even when we can't see the bigger picture. It reminds us that no matter our circumstances - whether we're facing divorce, addiction, loss, or any other challenge - God is there, working in ways we may not understand. The message 'God is being' resonates throughout, urging us to find peace in Jesus' promise: 'In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.' As we navigate life's ups and downs, let's hold onto this truth and allow it to transform our perspective and deepen our faith.

Holy Living and Loving

November 3, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Mark 12:28–34

The Upside Down Kingdom

October 20, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Mark 10:35–45

In this thought-provoking sermon, we delve into the counterintuitive nature of God's kingdom as illustrated through the story of James and John's request to Jesus. By examining the passage from Mark 10:35-45, we explore how Jesus redefines true greatness, not as a position of power, but as an act of service and sacrifice. Drawing parallels between common misconceptions, such as the once widespread belief in a square earth, and the disciples' misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, the message challenges us to reconsider our own perspectives on leadership and success. Through relatable anecdotes and biblical insights, this sermon invites you to embrace the teachings of Jesus and learn how to live right-side up in a world that often operates upside-down. Prepare to be inspired to become a servant-leader and transform your view of what it means to follow Christ.