North Raleigh United Methodist Church Podcast

North Raleigh United Methodist Church

Behind the Scenes is your all-access pass to the heart of ministry at North Raleigh United Methodist Church. We publish the Sermons for easy listening each week. Each "Behind the Scenes" Podcast episode takes you beyond Sunday morning with behind-the-scenes insights, theological reflections, and sermon previews that bring Scripture to life.  Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, explore the "why" behind our worship, or get a sneak peek at what’s coming next, this podcast is your companion for thoughtful conversations and spiritual growth. Tune in as we journey together, asking big questions and discovering God at work in our everyday lives. 

  1. 2d ago

    Sermon: I am the true Vine

    I Am the True Vine | Rev. Laura Johnson | North Raleigh UMC What did Jesus mean when He said, "I am the true vine"? In this message from John 15, Rev. Laura Johnson explores the seventh and final "I Am" statement in the Gospel of John. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gives His disciples one last image to remember: He is the vine, the Father is the gardener, and we are the branches. This beautiful metaphor reveals that the Christian life is not about striving harder or producing fruit through our own efforts. It is about abiding in Christ and allowing God's love to transform us from the inside out. Drawing on John's Gospel and the rich tradition of Wesleyan and United Methodist theology, Laura reflects on God's grace, the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, and the invitation to remain rooted in the limitless love of Christ. As we abide in Jesus, God prunes away what keeps us from thriving so that our lives naturally bear the fruit of love, joy, peace, and faithful discipleship. Whether you're feeling spiritually weary, longing for a deeper relationship with God, or wondering what it truly means to follow Jesus, this sermon offers biblical encouragement and practical hope. Jesus' invitation is simple yet life-changing: remain in His love. As we receive God's extraordinary love, we are empowered to share that same love with the world. Scripture: John 15:1-17 At North Raleigh United Methodist Church, our purpose is to be a church where you can Belong just as you are, Become more like Jesus, and Be Love for God's World. Topics: John 15, I Am the True Vine, True Vine, Abide in Christ, Rev. Laura Johnson, United Methodist Church, Wesleyan theology, grace, sanctification, Holy Spirit, discipleship, fruit of the Spirit, God's love, Christian living, love one another, Bible study, sermon, North Raleigh UMC.

    Sermon: I am the true Vine
  2. Jul 17

    Sermon: I Am The Way The Truth The Life

    I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life | Rev. Kevin Johnson | North Raleigh UMC What did Jesus mean when He declared, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" (John 14:6)? In this message from John 14, Rev. Kevin Johnson explores one of Jesus' most familiar and profound "I Am" statements. Spoken during the Last Supper, these words are more than directions to heaven. They reveal Jesus as the One who brings us into relationship with the Father, fills us with the Spirit of Truth, and invites us to live a new kind of life shaped by the Kingdom of God. Drawing on John's Gospel and the rich tradition of Wesleyan and United Methodist theology, Kevin unpacks what he calls "the geometry of the Trinity," showing how the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit invite us into God's own life through Christ. As followers of Jesus, we are not only shown the way to God. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live the way of Jesus every day. In a world searching for purpose, struggling to discern truth, and weighed down by suffering, this sermon reminds us that God's presence is not distant. Through Christ and the Holy Spirit, God dwells with us and within us, equipping us to bear witness through lives marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Whether you're exploring Christianity, seeking a deeper understanding of John's Gospel, or looking for hope in uncertain times, this message offers biblical teaching rooted in grace, truth, and the transforming presence of God. Scripture: John 14:1-17 At North Raleigh United Methodist Church, our purpose is to be a church where you can Belong just as you are, Become more like Jesus, and Be Love for God's World. Topics: John 14, I Am the Way the Truth and the Life, Rev. Kevin Johnson, United Methodist Church, Wesleyan theology, Trinity, Holy Spirit, Spirit of Truth, discipleship, Christian living, Kingdom of God, Farewell Discourse, fruit of the Spirit, abundant life, grace, North Raleigh UMC.

    Sermon: I Am The Way The Truth The Life
  3. Jul 7

    Sermon: I am The Resurrection and The Life - Rev. Jen Swindell

    I Am the Resurrection and the Life | Rev. Jen Swindell | North Raleigh UMC What did Jesus mean when He declared, "I am the resurrection and the life"? In this message from John 11, Rev. Jen Swindell explores one of Jesus' most powerful "I Am" statements through His conversation with Martha after the death of her brother, Lazarus. Martha comes to Jesus carrying grief, disappointment, questions, and faith all at once. Rather than correcting her or explaining away her pain, Jesus meets her in it and reveals that resurrection is more than a future promise. It is a present reality found in Him. Drawing on John 11, Romans 8, and the imagery of resurrection woven throughout Christian tradition, this sermon reflects the heart of Wesleyan and United Methodist theology by emphasizing God's prevenient grace, the work of the Holy Spirit, and our calling to embody resurrection life in the world today. Resurrection is not simply something Christians wait for after death. Through Christ, it is a life we are invited to live now, as God's grace transforms us and works through us to bring hope, healing, compassion, and new life to others. Whether you're walking through grief, wrestling with unanswered prayers, searching for hope, or longing to deepen your understanding of Jesus' words, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical discipleship rooted in the Gospel. Scripture: John 11:17-27, Romans 8 North Raleigh United Methodist Church (NRUMC) is a welcoming United Methodist congregation in Raleigh, North Carolina, committed to helping people encounter Jesus Christ, grow in faith, build authentic community, and serve the world. Topics: I Am the Resurrection and the Life, John 11, Lazarus, Martha, Mary, resurrection, eternal life, United Methodist Church, Wesleyan theology, prevenient grace, Holy Spirit, Romans 8, Christian hope, grief, faith, discipleship, Bible study, Jesus Christ, Christian living, sermon, North Raleigh UMC.

    Sermon: I am The Resurrection and The Life - Rev. Jen Swindell
  4. Jul 1

    Sermon: I am the Good Shepherd - Rev. Dr. Brett Pardue

    The Good Shepherd: Called by Name | Rev. Dr. Brett Pardue | North Raleigh UMC What does it really mean when Jesus says, "I am the Good Shepherd"? In this thoughtful message from John 9-10, Rev. Dr. Brett Pardue explores one of Jesus' most beloved "I Am" statements through the story of the man born blind. Before Jesus speaks about the Good Shepherd, He seeks out someone who has been questioned, judged, and cast aside by religious leaders. Through this powerful connection, we discover that the Good Shepherd is not simply a comforting image. It is a declaration of God's relentless grace, mercy, and commitment to seek those whom others overlook. Drawing on the rich themes of John's Gospel, Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, and United Methodist theology, Brett reflects on God's prevenient grace, belonging before believing, the church's calling to embody Christ's compassion, and the hope found in being known and called by name. Rather than offering easy answers, this sermon invites us to consider how Jesus continues to pursue people with mercy, healing, and love. Whether you've experienced rejection, are searching for a deeper understanding of God's grace, or want to explore Wesleyan theology through Scripture, this message offers encouragement and a fresh perspective on the Good Shepherd who never loses track of His sheep. Scripture: John 10:11-30 (with John 9), Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34 North Raleigh United Methodist Church (NRUMC) is a welcoming United Methodist congregation in Raleigh, North Carolina, committed to helping people encounter Jesus Christ, grow in faith, build authentic community, and serve the world. Topics: Good Shepherd, John 10, John 9, Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, United Methodist Church, Wesleyan theology, prevenient grace, grace, belonging, discipleship, inclusion, mercy, compassion, healing, identity, faith, Christian living, sermon, Bible study, Raleigh NC, North Raleigh UMC.

    Sermon: I am the Good Shepherd - Rev. Dr. Brett Pardue
  5. Jun 22

    Sermon: I Am The Gate

    I AM the Gate | Rev. Kevin Johnson | John 10:1-10 Podcast Description: What did Jesus mean when he said, "I am the gate"? In this message from John 10:1-10, Rev. Kevin Johnson explores one of Jesus' lesser-known but deeply meaningful "I AM" statements. Using the story of his family's adventurous beagle, Donut, Kevin illustrates why gates matter—and how Jesus serves as both our protector and provider. Drawing on the imagery of sheep, shepherds, and ancient sheepfolds, this sermon reveals how Jesus invites us into the safety of God's care while also sending us out into the abundance of God's provision. We are reminded that faith is not about restriction or limitation but about finding the abundant life Christ promises. This message explores:  The meaning of Jesus as "the gate" in John 10  How God protects us from spiritual predators  The connection between Jesus the Gate and Jesus the Good Shepherd  The rhythm of being gathered and sent in the Christian life  Why abundant life is at the heart of the Gospel  How worship, prayer, and Christian community help sustain us Whether you're feeling lost, overwhelmed, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Jesus' words, this sermon offers encouragement that Christ knows your name, welcomes you home, and leads you into life that is full, meaningful, and abundant. Scripture: John 10:1-10 Keywords: Jesus, I Am the Gate, John 10, Good Shepherd, abundant life, Christian sermon, Bible teaching, Gospel of John, discipleship, faith, spiritual growth, worship, church, United Methodist, North Raleigh UMC, Christian living, grace, protection, God's provision, shepherd and sheep, abundant living, following Jesus, Christian encouragement, Rev. Kevin Johnson, Raleigh NC. About North Raleigh UMC: North Raleigh United Methodist Church is a welcoming church in Raleigh, North Carolina, helping people connect with God, grow in faith, and serve others in Jesus' name. Learn more at North Raleigh UMC.

    Sermon: I Am The Gate

Ratings & Reviews

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About

Behind the Scenes is your all-access pass to the heart of ministry at North Raleigh United Methodist Church. We publish the Sermons for easy listening each week. Each "Behind the Scenes" Podcast episode takes you beyond Sunday morning with behind-the-scenes insights, theological reflections, and sermon previews that bring Scripture to life.  Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, explore the "why" behind our worship, or get a sneak peek at what’s coming next, this podcast is your companion for thoughtful conversations and spiritual growth. Tune in as we journey together, asking big questions and discovering God at work in our everyday lives. 

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