Sermons

Faith Put to the Test

July 24, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Genesis 22:1–8, Hebrews 11:1, Genesis 18, Genesis 21

In this powerful exploration of Genesis 22:1-8, we delve into the challenging story of Abraham's test of faith. We're confronted with God's seemingly impossible demand for Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. This narrative forces us to grapple with difficult questions about faith, obedience, and the nature of God. As we reflect on Abraham's unwavering trust, we're reminded that our own faith may be tested in ways we don't expect. The story ultimately reveals God's mercy and provision, symbolized by the ram caught in the thicket. This timeless account encourages us to cultivate a deep, resilient faith that can withstand life's trials, always trusting that God will provide.

Abraham Laughed

July 14, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Genesis 17:1–8, Genesis 17:15–19, Genesis 18:1–14

In this powerful message, we explore the timeless story of Abraham and Sarah, a tale of faith, laughter, and divine promises. The key scripture, Genesis 17 and 18, reveals God's covenant with Abraham and the miraculous promise of a son in their old age. This narrative teaches us that with God, nothing is impossible. We're encouraged to embrace hospitality as a pathway to new possibilities and deeper connections. Just as Abraham welcomed strangers who turned out to be divine messengers, we too can open our hearts and homes to experience God's unexpected blessings. The story reminds us that God's timing may not align with our expectations, but His promises are always fulfilled. As we face our own seemingly impossible situations, we're invited to trust in God's plan and respond with faith, even when circumstances appear laughable.

Lessons from Ascension

Pastor Travis Voeltz • 2 Samuel 5:9–10, 2 Samuel 5:1–5

In this powerful message, we explore the journey of faith through the lens of King David's ascension to the throne at age 30. The story invites us to reflect on our own lives at that pivotal age and compare them to David's readiness for leadership. We're challenged to consider how God's timing often differs from our own expectations. The speaker's personal struggles at 30 highlight the common human experience of feeling unprepared for life's responsibilities. Yet, we're reminded that God's plan unfolds over time, much like David's 15-year journey from anointing to kingship. This message encourages us to cultivate patience and unwavering faith, even in the face of trials, as we trust in God's perfect timing for our lives. Chapters Chapter 1: The Contrast of Life at 30 0:00 - 1:42 Comparison between David's life at 30 and personal experiences, highlighting the importance of readiness for life's challenges. Chapter 2: David's Anointing and Qualifications 1:42 - 4:22 Examination of David's anointing as king and the qualifications that led to his selection. Chapter 3: God's Timing and David's Development 4:22 - 9:03 Discussion on why God chose to make David king at 30 and the importance of patience in faith. Chapter 4: Learning from David and Jesus 9:03 - 13:01 Reflection on David's fall and Jesus' example of patience, encouraging faith during difficult times. Chapter 5: Cultivating Patience and Faith 13:01 - 16:06 Practical advice on developing patience and faith in God's plan, with a call to trust in His timing.

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.

Reaching for God by Embracing Humanity

June 23, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Genesis 11:1–9

The Results are In

Pastor Travis Voeltz • Proverbs 4:23, Psalm 139:23–24, 1 Samuel 16:1–13, Acts 13:22–23

Reflections on Fatherhood and the Heart This message explores the profound impact of fatherhood, drawing from personal experiences and biblical narratives to highlight the importance of inner qualities over external appearances. It begins with a reflection on the influence of a father's affirmation on a child's identity and self-esteem, emphasizing how feeling valued by a father figure can shape one's life. The core of this message delves into the biblical story of Samuel anointing David as king, contrasting David's heart with King Saul's outward appearance. Despite David's flaws, his heart was oriented towards God, leading to his selection as king and his significance in the lineage leading to Jesus. This message underscores the importance of the heart's condition, suggesting that it dictates thoughts, feelings, and actions. It encourages self-examination and regular alignment with God's will through prayer and reflection. By sharing personal anecdotes, biblical insights, and practical applications, this message calls listeners to evaluate their own hearts and strive for a heart that beats in sync with God's.

Black and White

June 2, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Mark 2:23–28, Mark 3:1–6

This message explores the deeper meaning behind Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees regarding the Sabbath. We learn that while rules and laws serve a purpose, they should never overshadow the greater commandments of loving God and loving others. The Pharisees, despite their adherence to the letter of the law, missed the heart behind it. Jesus challenges us to examine our own tendencies to prioritize rules over compassion and to let love guide our actions and decisions. The Sabbath, meant to be a gift and blessing to mankind, had become a burden due to the Pharisees' rigid interpretation. As we navigate the complexities of life and faith, we are encouraged to ask ourselves if our choices reflect the heart and character of God, even when they may seem to contradict established norms. Ultimately, Jesus saves us from a religion of mere works and points us to a life centered on love.

No Excuses

May 28, 2024 • Luke 14:7–21

No Excuses. An impactful message from our May 26th, 2024 worship service. #JmstFUMC #Jesus

Chaos, Wind & Fire

May 19, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Acts 2:1–21

Our message from worship on May 19th, 2024.

Lessons from our Mother

May 15, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • John 13:31–35

Lessons from our mother. Our message from worship on May 12th, 2024. #JmstFUMC #MotherDay

Even You

May 8, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Acts 10:43–48

This powerful message reminds us that God's love and forgiveness are available to everyone, regardless of their past mistakes or current struggles. The story of Peter and Cornelius in Acts 10:44-48 illustrates how the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Gentiles, showing that salvation is not limited to a particular group of people. We learn that believing in Jesus as the Son of God is the key to receiving forgiveness and eternal life. The speaker uses relatable examples, such as childhood heroes like Superman and Popeye, to emphasize that we all fall short of our own expectations and need God's grace. The message encourages us to accept God's gift of forgiveness and allow the Holy Spirit to empower us to live the life God intends for us, free from the weight of our past sins. #JmstFUMC #Forgiveness #Jesus

Called to Care for Creation

April 21, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Genesis 6:5–8, Genesis 7:1–4, Genesis 9:12–15

From our April 21st, 2024 worship service.

3 Crucial Truths

April 14, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Acts 3:12–20

Dive into a powerful sermon where tales of redemption and faith merge with the precision of a prison response team's strategies. 🙏 This offers a riveting blend of tactical expertise and spiritual insights. Witness the unseen forces of transformation and learn how embracing faith can guide us through life's toughest challenges. Tune in for a journey of repentance, divine intervention, and the ultimate embrace of a higher purpose. Also, check out the follow up questions in the attached PDF document.

Holey Hands Helping Us

April 8, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Isaiah 40:3–8, John 20:19–29

Holey Hands Helping Us. #JmstFUMC #Jesus

Out of the Tomb

April 2, 2024 • Pastor Marty Toepke-Floyd • Mark 16:1–8

Out of the Tomb. Our Easter Sunday message. #JmstFUMC #Easter #Jesus