Hope Presbyterian Church (PCA)

Pastor Will Stern

Welcome to the sermon podcast of Hope Presbyterian Church in Media, Pennsylvania. At Hope, we believe the Bible is God's Word and that it reveals the hope found in Jesus Christ. Each week, you'll hear verse-by-verse, gospel-centered preaching that explains the Scriptures, applies them to everyday life, and points us to Christ. Whether you're exploring Christianity, looking for a church home, or seeking to grow in your faith, we pray these sermons encourage you to know Christ more deeply and follow Him more faithfully. To learn more about Hope Presbyterian Church, visit our website. We would love to welcome you to worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in Media, Pennsylvania.

  1. 3d ago

    John 6:29-35 | "You Don’t Need a Sign. You Need a Savior."

    What are you working for in life? We spend our time, energy, and resources pursuing many things—health, wealth, achievement, pleasure, and success. But Jesus warns us that these things ultimately perish. In John 6:26–29, Jesus calls us to stop living for what cannot last and instead to work for the food that endures to eternal life. That food is ultimately found in Christ Himself, and we receive it by faith. How should faith then reshape the way we spend our lives?  Outline I. What We Shouldn’t Work For: Food That Perishes — vv. 26–27a The crowd was looking for Jesus. They were looking for Him for the wrong reason. Jesus warns us not to make perishable things the primary goal of our lives. How can we tell if we're living for what perishes? II. What We Should Work For: Food That Endures to Eternal Life — vv. 27b–29 Jesus is the giver of the food that endures. Jesus Himself is the Bread of Life. We receive this gift through faith. Faith becomes the foundation for a life devoted to what endures: God's Word Prayer People Conclusion: Look to Jesus Repent of living for what perishes. Trust in Jesus Christ. Live for what endures to eternal life. Study Questions Why was the crowd seeking Jesus in John 6:26? What does Jesus mean by “food that perishes”? What are some good things that can become wrong priorities when we begin living for them? What are some things in your own life that are easy to make more important than they should be? What does your use of time, money, and worry reveal about your priorities? How does the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13–21 illustrate Jesus' warning? What is the “food that endures to eternal life”? Why is it significant that Jesus says this food is something He gives? What does Jesus mean when He says, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent” (John 6:29)? How does faith differ from trying to earn salvation through our works? How should faith change the way we prioritize God's Word, prayer, and other people? What is one perishable thing you are tempted to live for? What would it look like this week to look to Jesus and work for what endures?

  2. Aug 17

    John 6:26-29 | "What Should We Work for in Life?"

    What are you working for in life? We spend our time, energy, and resources pursuing many things—health, wealth, achievement, pleasure, and success. But Jesus warns us that these things ultimately perish. In John 6:26–29, Jesus calls us to stop living for what cannot last and instead to work for the food that endures to eternal life. That food is ultimately found in Christ Himself, and we receive it by faith. How should faith then reshape the way we spend our lives?  Outline I. What We Shouldn’t Work For: Food That Perishes — vv. 26–27a The crowd was looking for Jesus. They were looking for Him for the wrong reason. Jesus warns us not to make perishable things the primary goal of our lives. How can we tell if we're living for what perishes? II. What We Should Work For: Food That Endures to Eternal Life — vv. 27b–29 Jesus is the giver of the food that endures. Jesus Himself is the Bread of Life. We receive this gift through faith. Faith becomes the foundation for a life devoted to what endures: God's Word Prayer People Conclusion: Look to Jesus Repent of living for what perishes. Trust in Jesus Christ. Live for what endures to eternal life. Study Questions Why was the crowd seeking Jesus in John 6:26? What does Jesus mean by “food that perishes”? What are some good things that can become wrong priorities when we begin living for them? What are some things in your own life that are easy to make more important than they should be? What does your use of time, money, and worry reveal about your priorities? How does the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13–21 illustrate Jesus' warning? What is the “food that endures to eternal life”? Why is it significant that Jesus says this food is something He gives? What does Jesus mean when He says, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent” (John 6:29)? How does faith differ from trying to earn salvation through our works? How should faith change the way we prioritize God's Word, prayer, and other people? What is one perishable thing you are tempted to live for? What would it look like this week to look to Jesus and work for what endures?

  3. Jul 27

    John 6:16-21 | "Jesus in the Storm"

    Storms are inevitable. Sometimes life is smooth sailing, and then suddenly everything changes—a difficult diagnosis, financial hardship, broken relationships, or unexpected suffering. How should Christians respond when the storms of life come? In this sermon from John 6:16–21, we see that Jesus does not promise His disciples a life free from trials. Instead, He faithfully shepherds His people through every storm. As the disciples struggle against the wind and waves, Jesus reveals Himself as the great "I AM," intercedes for His people, and ultimately brings them safely to shore. This passage reminds believers that no storm is outside Christ's sovereign care, and that every trial is an opportunity to know Him more deeply while looking ahead to the eternal harbor He has prepared for His people. Questions for Reflection & Discussion Why is it important to remember that Jesus Himself sent the disciples into the storm? How does Jesus' present ministry of intercession encourage believers facing suffering today (Hebrews 7:25)? What does Jesus walking on the sea reveal about His identity? Why is Jesus' statement, "It is I" ("I AM"), so significant in John's Gospel? How have difficult seasons of life helped you know Christ more deeply? Why shouldn't Christians expect every storm to end in this life? How does the promise of our eternal home give hope in present suffering? Which of the four truths from this passage most encouraged you personally? Sermon Outline Jesus in the StormJohn 6:16–21 Jesus Sends Us into the Storm (John 6:16–18) Jesus Prays for Us during the Storm (John 6:15; Matthew 14:22–23; Hebrews 7:25) Jesus Reveals Himself to Us through the Storm (John 6:19–20) Jesus Draws Us Out of the Storm (John 6:20–21; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18) Main Idea:The Good Shepherd does not promise a storm-free life, but He faithfully shepherds His people through every storm until He safely brings them home.

  4. Jul 23

    John 6:1-15 | "Lessons from the Feeding of the Five Thousand"

    The feeding of the five thousand is one of only two miracles recorded in all four Gospels, highlighting its unique importance. Why did every Gospel writer include it? In John 6:1–15, this miracle reveals who Jesus is. He is the greater Moses who delivers His people, the compassionate Savior who sees our needs, the Lord who tests and strengthens our faith, the One who uses small things to accomplish great purposes, the abundant Provider who satisfies His people, and the humble King who came to serve rather than be served. Join us as we discover six great truths about Jesus and why He alone deserves our trust and worship. Discussion Questions Why do you think the feeding of the five thousand is recorded in all four Gospels? How does John present Jesus as the greater Moses in this passage? What comfort do you find in knowing that Jesus sees and cares for your needs? How have you experienced God using difficult circumstances to test and strengthen your faith? What "small" act of obedience might God be calling you to trust Him with this week? How does Jesus' miraculous provision point beyond physical bread to our deeper spiritual needs? Why did Jesus refuse to let the crowd make Him king, and what does that teach us about His mission? Which of the six truths about Jesus most encouraged or challenged you, and why? Sermon Outline Title: Six Great Truths About JesusText: John 6:1–15 Jesus Is the Greater Moses (vv. 1–4) Jesus Sees Our Needs (v. 5) Jesus Tests Our Faith (vv. 5–7) Jesus Uses Small Things to Accomplish Great Things (vv. 8–9) Jesus Provides for His People (vv. 10–13) Jesus Is the Humble Savior (vv. 14–15)

  5. Jul 13

    John 5:30-47 | "Why do religious people reject Jesus?"

    Why do religious people reject Jesus? In John 5:30–47, Jesus confronts the religious leaders of His day with a sobering truth: it is possible to know the Scriptures, practice religion, and still miss the Savior. They searched the Scriptures, but failed to see that they pointed to Christ. They were devoted to religious activity, but lacked a genuine love for God. They admired Moses, yet missed the One to whom Moses pointed. This sermon reminds us that the greatest danger is not merely rejecting Jesus through unbelief, but missing Him through outward religion. The Bible exists to lead us to Christ, true religion is marked by love for God, and Jesus alone is the hero of the biblical story—and of our lives. Sermon Outline Title:Don't Miss JesusText: John 5:30–47 Big Idea: Don't miss Jesus. Religious people reject Jesus because they miss the purpose of the Bible. (vv. 39–40) The Scriptures point to Christ. Bible knowledge without Christ cannot save. Religious people reject Jesus because they miss the heart of true religion. (vv. 41–44) True religion is loving God. Outward religion without love is empty. Religious people reject Jesus because they miss the hero of their story. (vv. 45–47) Moses himself pointed to Christ. Jesus is the hero of Scripture, history, and every Christian's life. Study & Discussion Questions According to John 5:39–40, what mistake were the religious leaders making when they searched the Scriptures? Why is it possible to know a great deal about the Bible yet still miss Jesus? What does Jesus reveal about the condition of the religious leaders' hearts in verses 41–44? How does Deuteronomy 6:4–5 help us understand what Jesus means by "the love of God"? In what ways can Christians today become more focused on outward religion than on loving God? Why does Jesus say that Moses would testify against the religious leaders (vv. 45–47)? How does the Old Testament point us to Christ? Can you think of specific examples? Who or what are you tempted to make the "hero" of your story instead of Jesus? How can you read the Bible in a way that continually leads you to know, love, and trust Christ more deeply? After hearing this passage, what is one practical way you can make Christ more central in your Bible reading, worship, or daily life this week?

  6. Jul 7

    John 5:24-29 | "Why should you believe in Jesus?"

    Why should you believe in Jesus? In John 5:24–29, Jesus gives two compelling reasons. First, He has life in Himself and is able to give spiritual life to those who are dead in their sins. Second, He has been given authority to judge the living and the dead. One day, every person will hear His voice—either as the voice that called them to life through the gospel or as the voice that summons them to stand before His judgment seat. This passage calls us to hear Christ's voice today, believe in Him for eternal life, and examine ourselves in light of the coming judgment. It also comforts every believer with the assurance that those who trust in Christ have already passed from death to life and will not come into judgment. Sermon Outline Big Idea: Believe in Jesus because He has life in Himself and will judge the living and the dead. 1. Believe in Jesus because He has life in Himself (John 5:25–26) Jesus possesses life in Himself as the eternal Son of God. He gives spiritual life to those who hear His voice today. He will one day raise every person bodily from the grave. 2. Believe in Jesus because He will judge the living and the dead (John 5:24, 27–29) Jesus has been given authority to execute judgment. Those who trust in Him have eternal life and will not come into judgment. The final judgment will reveal the reality of our faith through the fruit of our lives. Therefore, examine yourself and look to Christ alone for salvation. Study Questions According to John 20:31, why did John write his Gospel? What does it mean that Jesus has "life in Himself" (John 5:26)? How is God's self-existence different from our dependence upon Him? What is the "hour... now here" in John 5:25 referring to? Who are "the dead" in verse 25, and how do they come to life? What is the relationship between hearing Christ's voice and believing the gospel? What future event is described in John 5:28–29? Why has the Father given Jesus authority to judge (John 5:27; Daniel 7:13–14)? How do verses 24 and 29 fit together? How are we saved by faith while still being judged according to our works? How do James 2:17 and Galatians 5:6 help explain the relationship between faith and good works? Which application challenged you most: hearing Christ's voice today, preparing for the resurrection, examining your faith, or resting in Christ's promise of eternal life? How does this passage both warn the complacent and comfort the believer?

  7. Jul 3

    John 5:18–24 | The Divine Authority of the Son

    The Divine Authority of the Son In John 5:18–24, Jesus responds to accusations of blasphemy after declaring His unique relationship with the Father. Rather than retreating from the controversy, He reveals profound truths about His divine identity and authority. In this sermon, we examine two works that belong to God alone—giving life and executing judgment—and the three responses these truths demand from every person: honoring Christ, believing in Him, and marveling at His glory. Jesus is not merely a great teacher or prophet; He is the eternal Son of God, equal with the Father, worthy of our worship, faith, and awe. Sermon Outline The Divine Authority of the Son John 5:18–24 Big Idea: Jesus reveals Himself as the divine Son who shares the Father’s authority to give life and execute judgment, calling every person to honor Him, believe in Him, and marvel at His glory. 1. The Son Gives Life Only God can give spiritual life. Jesus possesses the Father’s authority to give life to whom He wills. Physical resurrections in Scripture point to the greater miracle of spiritual resurrection. Spiritually dead sinners cannot make themselves alive; new life comes only through Christ. Eternal life is found in the Son because He is truly God. 2. The Son Executes Judgment Only God has the authority to judge the world. The Father has entrusted all judgment to the Son. The One who came to save will also return to judge the living and the dead. Christ’s authority demonstrates His equality with the Father. Every person will ultimately stand before Christ. 3. Honor, Believe, and Marvel The proper response to the Son of God. Honor Christ with the same honor given to the Father. Believe in Christ alone for eternal life, knowing that those who trust Him have already passed from death to life. Marvel continually at the glory of Christ, refusing to let familiarity dull wonder and worship. Faith comes through hearing God’s Word, making the faithful preaching of Scripture central to the Christian life. Conclusion How do you respond to Jesus? Do you honor Him as the eternal Son of God? Do you trust Him alone for eternal life? Do you marvel at His glory, or has familiarity replaced wonder? The gospel calls us to behold Jesus Christ as the divine Son who gives life, will judge the world in righteousness, and alone is worthy of our worship, faith, and lifelong devotion.

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About

Welcome to the sermon podcast of Hope Presbyterian Church in Media, Pennsylvania. At Hope, we believe the Bible is God's Word and that it reveals the hope found in Jesus Christ. Each week, you'll hear verse-by-verse, gospel-centered preaching that explains the Scriptures, applies them to everyday life, and points us to Christ. Whether you're exploring Christianity, looking for a church home, or seeking to grow in your faith, we pray these sermons encourage you to know Christ more deeply and follow Him more faithfully. To learn more about Hope Presbyterian Church, visit our website. We would love to welcome you to worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in Media, Pennsylvania.