The Christmas story goes beyond the nativity. One such story is that of Jesus at age 12 in Luke 2. Ken Kessler emphasizes the significance of this event for both Jesus and his parents, and how it reflects the challenges and joys of parenthood and child development. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of community support for families and the valuable lessons children can teach adults, such as gratitude and appreciation.
The Wild One
December 8, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Luke 3:1–7
John the Baptist, the wild prophet who heralded the coming of Jesus, is described in Luke 3. In a world where God’s prophetic word seemed extinct for 400 years, John emerged from the wilderness with a fresh and challenging call to repentance, preparing the way for the Lord. His mission was deeply rooted in Isaiah’s prophecy, reminding us to align our lives with God’s Word and focus on the hope and peace that come from Christ alone. As we navigate life’s wild moments, Ken Kessler encourages our Christmas to be wild, but in the right way, centered around the Word, focused on your being forgiven, and God somehow reworking your life to where the focus is on Him and not all the other things around.
How Would You Introduce Jesus?
November 24, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Revelation 1:4–8
The theme of "Christ the King Sunday," the final Sunday of the Christian calendar, focuses on Jesus’ eternal kingship as revealed in Revelation 1:4-8. Amid John's exile and the tribulations of early believers, he proclaims the victory and authority of Christ, who reigns over all creation. Reflecting on how we introduce Jesus in a world of diverse perspectives, Ken Kessler emphasizes the challenge and importance of communicating His significance. As we prepare for Advent, we are reminded that Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, is King now and forever, offering grace, freedom, and the promise of His ultimate return.
Dechurching?
November 17, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 13:1–8
Jesus predicts the Temple’s destruction, highlighting that man-made structures and traditions are temporary. He warns of deception, wars, and disasters, likening them to “birth pains” of God’s ongoing work. The Church today faces similar challenges as many turn away due to misplaced priorities. This “de-churching” calls us to re-focus on authentic faith and God’s mission. The fall of the Temple signaled a new season of growth and renewal. We must embrace God’s work in this new season. Ken Kessler challenges us with the question "Are we ready to align with His mission and embrace the transformation He’s bringing?"
The Power of a Penny
November 10, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 12:38–44
Jesus' teaching from Mark 12:38-44 contrasts the actions of the wealthy scribes with a poor widow's offering of two small coins. Jesus warns against the pride of the scribes, who seek public admiration and display wealth and power without regard for those in need. He praises the widow, who, though poor, gives all she has to live on. The sermon uses this story to highlight the concept of “the power of the penny,” where small, humble acts can hold significant spiritual value. Jesus reminds His followers that true discipleship involves relinquishing control and trusting God, regardless of social status or wealth. Ken Kessler urges listeners to examine their own generosity and recognize the value in seemingly small contributions, emphasizing God's concern for the humble and those in need.
Moving the Chains
November 3, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 12:28–34
In Mark 12:28-34, Jesus sums up all commandments with two core instructions: to love God wholeheartedly and to love our neighbors as ourselves. In a world divided by different beliefs and approaches, these commands guide us to focus on what truly matters. Like the chains on a football field marking progress, loving God and others is our measure of spiritual growth. Ken Kessler reminds us that it’s not about rules or religious routines, but a life centered on these two loves, showing us how to live authentically as God's people.
Where Are We Now?
October 27, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Job 42
In this sermon on Job 42, we explore Job’s journey through intense suffering, questioning, and ultimately finding clarity in God’s presence. Job's friends insisted his suffering was due to sin, but Job defended his faithfulness, struggling to understand why he faced such trials. God finally responds in Job 38, challenging Job’s perspective by highlighting His divine sovereignty and wisdom. God reminds Job—and us—that His ways are beyond human comprehension, urging us to trust His purpose even when life feels overwhelming. The message centers on needing an “IDEO” (from the Greek “behold”), a marker of God's presence in our lives, guiding us back to trust and humility. We need to remember that we are not God, and that He is distinctly different from us. Using Job’s story, Ken Kessler encourages us to remember that God is sovereign, and while we may question or suffer, God has a greater plan for redemption and purpose beyond our understanding.
Armenia 2024: Mission Trip Report
October 20, 2024 • 1 Peter 4:10
In August of 2024, 4 of our MBC members participated in the Goshen Baptist Association mission trip to Armenia. Hear the stories of John Bevard, Diane Ragland, Nikisha Diggs, and Pastor Kris Hutchinson.
Jesus Meets HENRY
October 13, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 10:17–31
The challenge and tension of "doing" and "being" has existed since the beginning. It is natural for us to think in terms of "what must I do?" Ken Kessler addresses this question by exploring the account of the rich young ruler (who he dubs HENRY) who approaches Jesus to ask how he can obtain eternal life. The young ruler has followed the commandments since his youth but Jesus know his treasure is somewhere else - his material possessions. We are reminded that we should not let our possessions become more important than our relationship with God which should be our greatest treasure.
Why Don't You Notice the Log in Your Eye?
October 6, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Matthew 7:1–5
Judgement is a big topic these days. People tend to find themselves on one end of the spectrum either judging everyone or ignoring misbehavior. Jesus makes it clear that we should examine our own shortcomings before criticizing others. Ken Kessler reminds us that we are all sinners in need of Christ's forgiveness. With God's help we can see people with compassion and understanding, rather than judging them harshly. With His help, we can deal with our sin, so we can check our assumptions about people and actually help them for the glory of God.
Are You Also Going to Leave?
September 22, 2024 • Ken Kessler • John 6:60–71
In the face of challenges and misunderstandings, faith endures. But a question remains. Are you in or out? Jesus' teachings were often misunderstood by many, including some of His disciples. True faith demands a deep commitment to Jesus' teachings, even when they are difficult. The devil can deceive people and lead them away from faith, causing doubt and discouragement. Ken Kessler reminds us that the choice to follow Jesus is a personal one. Despite challenges, those who truly believe in Him will choose to follow Him, regardless of the cost.
What Do You Want Me To Do For You? (Take 2)
September 15, 2024 • Kris Hutchinson • Luke 18:35–43
Pastor Kris Hutchinson discusses the importance of asking clear and specific questions to God. The story of the blind man in Luke 18 serves as an example of how to boldly express one's needs and trust in God's power. We need to seek God first and acknowledge His role in our lives. Additionally, we should be persistent in our prayers and openly profess our faith, even in challenging situations. This allows us to acknowledge our need for Jesus which helps to deepen our faith.
Why Do You Worry?
September 8, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Matthew 6:25–33
In this sermon, Ken Kessler explores Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6 about worry, particularly focusing on the passage where Jesus tells His disciples not to be anxious about daily needs like food, drink, and clothing. Ken acknowledges his own tendency to worry, citing examples ranging from trivial concerns to significant life issues, such as family and societal problems. Jesus’ message is not about eliminating all concerns but about shifting focus—prioritizing the Kingdom of God above all else. Practical solutions such as prayer, Scripture reading, gratitude, and seeking support from fellow believers are encouraged to combat worry.
Why Are You So Afraid?
September 1, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 4:35–41
In this sermon, Ken Kessler reflects on the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4. He emphasizes how life can unexpectedly hit us with storms—both literal and metaphorical—that shake us to our core. Drawing from personal experiences with storms like hurricanes, he likens these moments to sudden life challenges, such as illness or loss. The disciples' fear during the storm, despite Jesus' presence, mirrors our own struggles when we forget God's promises. The pastor encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and presence, even when circumstances feel overwhelming, reminding them that Jesus has already assured the outcome, just as He did with the disciples.
What Do You Want Me To Do For You? (Take 1)
August 25, 2024 • Ken Kessler • Mark 10:35–52
A simple, yet powerful question, that appears throughout Jesus' ministry can have a tremendous impact on our lives and our faith. "What do you want me to do for you?"—first asked of James and John, who request status, and later of Bartimaeus, who humbly asks for healing. Through these contrasting responses, Ken Kessler reminds us to bring our true needs to Jesus, seeking transformation over self-interest.
