Metropolitan AME Church Sermons

Phillip Dieke
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Sermons from the historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, DC where speakers such as Frederick Douglass, Paul  Laurence Dunbar, Mary McLeod Bethune, Eleanor Roosevelt, Joel Elias Spingarn, E.E. Just, Alain Locke, Mordecai W. Johnson, Hubert H. Humphrey, Charles H. Wesley, James E. Clyburn, Jesse Jackson and Bishop Desmond Tutu spoke.  Hear the weekly sermon from the current ministerial staff, led by Rev. William H. Lamar IV. Find more information about Metropolitan AME here.

  1. 5h ago

    Communion Sunday, October 5 2026 - Rev. William H. Lamar IV

    In this week's sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the provocative idea of 'cursing' as a spiritual act of calling out injustice, hypocrisy, and unfruitfulness within the church and society. He challenges listeners to embrace boldness and authenticity in confronting systemic evil and spiritual emptiness. This week's text: Mark 11:12-14, 20-22 12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see whether perhaps he would find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 He said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it. 12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see whether perhaps he would find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 He said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it. Takeaways Jesus' cursing of the fig tree symbolizes calling out unfruitfulness in religious and societal systems.Boldness in faith includes confronting injustice loudly and clearly.The church must always bear fruit, regardless of the season or tradition.Cursing can be a form of conjuring a new world where justice and abundance prevail.Systemic evil must be called out with the full voice of faith, not silence.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Gospel of Mark and the theme of cursing 01:10 Jesus' cursing as a call for boldness and authenticity 02:08 Dealing with difficult biblical texts and the verbs of Jesus 04:08 The significance of Jesus cursing and its implications 06:27 The symbolism of the fig tree and the church 10:01 The prophetic act of cursing systemic evil 12:32 The call to curse injustice in society 14:40 The symbolic meaning of the season and bearing fruit 16:45 Jesus cursing the church and the preachers 20:29 Conjuring a new world through prophetic speech 21:41 The call to boldly curse unfruitfulness and injustice 23:05 The church's role in calling out systemic evil and hypocrisy

  2. 5d ago

    Sams Annual Day 2026 - Rev. Dr. Vanetta L. Brice

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Dr. Vanetta L. Brice explores the profound connection between faith, service, and social justice through a deep dive into Isaiah 58. Rev. Dr. Brice emphasizes the importance of genuine devotion, compassionate action, and the conditional promises of God that call believers to deeper commitment. This week's scripture - Isaiah 58:10 if you offer your food to the hungry     and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness     and your gloom be like the noonday. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and opening remarks 04:18 Scripture reading from Isaiah 58 06:20 The challenge of serving with love in a broken world 09:03 Rebuilding after exile and social dysfunction 10:01 The importance of the if-then covenant in faith 12:00 The cost of discipleship and authentic service 13:29 The deeper commitment required for true service 15:08 Silencing the madness and focusing on God's call 17:27 Pouring out love and acts of justice 19:23 Relational acts of love versus transactional acts 22:23 The purpose and purposefulness of our service 25:10 God's promises of restoration and healing 26:38 The significance of a rendered heart in devotion 27:12 Jesus as the bridge between the if and the then 28:22 The power of Jesus and the call to love 29:17 Closing remarks and call to action

  3. 6d ago

    Christian Education Sunday 2026 - Rev. Thomas A. Brackeen, Jr.

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Thomas Brakeen Jr. explores the vital role of Christian education in shaping future generations, emphasizing the importance of teaching history, faith, and identity beyond traditional settings. He highlights how the black church has historically been a space for life-long learning and cultural preservation. This weeks scripture, Deuteronomy 6:4-9 4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. 7 Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. 8 Bind them as a sign on your hand, fix them as an emblem on your forehead, 9 and write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christian Education and Its Significance 02:10 Learning Through Time: Lessons from Childhood and Church 05:10 The Role of the Black Church in Teaching Faith and History 07:54 The Urgency of Teaching the Whole Story of Our Heritage 10:51 Generational Transition and the Responsibility to Teach 13:07 The Power of Personal and Collective Memory in Faith 15:56 Beyond Nostalgia: Teaching the Next Generation 18:58 The Importance of Discerning Truth in the Digital Age 21:54 Everyday Life as a Space for Christian Formation 24:50 Preparing Young People for Their Future with Faith and Wisdom 27:52 The Legacy of Teaching and Passing Down the Faith

  4. Sep 15

    Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost - Rev. Cozette Thomas

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Cozette Thomas preaches “Released to Release,” arguing that Jesus is not asking disciples to keep score but to stop counting and let mercy reshape relationships. She distinguishes forgiveness from pretending harm did not happen, stressing that forgiveness does not erase accountability, does not require unsafe access, and does not cancel the need for boundaries or justice. A major theme of the sermon is that release is not only personal but communal and systemic, connecting the biblical debt language to Jubilee, reparative justice, and the possibility of a different economy of mercy. The preacher warns against receiving grace and then denying it to others, describing the danger of becoming free for oneself while reproducing the same oppressive patterns against someone else. This weeks scriptuer: Matthew 18: 21-35: Then Peter came and said to him, “Lord, if my brother or sister sins against me, how often should I forgive? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant23 “For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves. 24 When he began the reckoning, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him, 25 and, as he could not pay, the lord ordered him to be sold, together with his wife and children and all his possessions and payment to be made. 26 So the slave fell on his knees before him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the lord of that slave released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But that same slave, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 Then his fellow slave fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 But he refused; then he went and threw him into prison until he would pay the debt. 31 When his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. 32 Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked slave! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Should you not have had mercy on your fellow slave, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his lord handed him over to be tortured until he would pay his entire debt. 35 So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” Chapters: 00:30 Sermon title and text: Released to Release 01:32 Forgiveness is not spreadsheet math 05:22 Accountability, truth telling, and boundaries 08:19 The impossible debt and the scale of grace 12:26 The servant who refuses to release 15:24 Why worship and holding people by the throat cannot coexist 17:42 Forgiveness, debt, and what Matthew will not separate 21:22 Mercy gets the last word 24:31 Invitation to discipleship and receiving Christ’s release

  5. Sep 8

    Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost - Rev. William H. Lamar IV

    In this week's sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of suffering, community, and the importance of recognizing the marginalized. He draws parallels between the crucified among us and the presence of God, emphasizing the need for solidarity with those who suffer. He also delves into the significance of Apostle Paul's message to the early church, the politics of maps and perception, and the role of Phoebe in the early church. Rev. Lamar passionately argues against the diminishment of humanity and identity, urging listeners to embrace their grandeur and reject narratives that seek to belittle them. This week's scripture: Romans 16:1-2 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon[a] of the church at Cenchreae, 2 so that you may welcome her in the Lord, as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well. Chapters: 00:52 Scriptural Reflections and Teachings 12:28 The Presence of God Among the Crucified 13:39 Apostle Paul's Message to the Imperial Church 15:15 The Politics of Maps and Perception 22:11 The Significance of Phoebe in the Early Church 27:35 The Diminishment of Humanity and Identity

  6. Aug 31

    Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost - Rev. Dr. Shively Smith

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Dr. Shively Smith engages Howard Thurman’s spiritual practice of centering down, and a sermon rooted in Mark 4:35-41. Rev. Dr. Smith explores a close reading of the storm on the sea, asking how stillness, courage, and faith shape the way believers respond when life feels unsteady. She shares how Thurman’s language of the “great silence” helps reframe the story: Jesus is not absent in the storm, but resting in a deeper peace that speaks when needed. The sermon also draws out the difference between ordinary fear and cowardice, connecting the text to modern storms like layoffs, rent increases, racism, misogyny, homophobia, and xenophobia. This week's scripture: Mark 4:35-41 35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37 A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion, and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 And waking up, he rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Be silent! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” Chapters 01:30 - “How Great Is Our God” sets the worship atmosphere 06:37 - Welcome to the Fifth Sunday Community Choir 14:38 - Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost and the Thurman-centered service 16:20 - Howard Thurman’s legacy and why he matters now 18:57 - “Centering Down” begins 24:03 - Breath, presence, and worship in a centering space 27:30 - Call to worship: resting this day in God 28:53 - Morning hymn: “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” 31:47 - Thurman’s prayer from The Inward Journey 42:33 - Announcements, prayer concerns, and community updates 47:05 - Visiting guests are welcomed 52:55 - Stewardship invitation and the vision for debt freedom 59:00 - Guest introduction for Rev. Dr. Shively T. J. Smith 60:43 - Scripture reading: Mark 4:35-41 00:01 - the Spirit has met us here 03:47 - Why hearing Thurman matters, not just reading him 05:57 - “God speaks without words” and the great silence 08:26 - Jesus sets out “just as he was” 11:41 - The disciples mistake Jesus’ sleep for absence 14:47 - Stillness and power are not separate things 16:29 - Jesus wakes unbothered and speaks to the storm 20:04 - Greek word study: fear versus cowardice 23:24 - Thurman on courage and cowardice 26:26 - What the disciples’ great fear reveals about Jesus 28:50 - Modern storms: rent, layoffs, racism, misogyny, xenophobia 31:28 - Peace, joy, hope, and creativity already at work 33:20 - The invitation to listen when Jesus speaks 34:37 - Thurman’s centering down as a practice of rest 36:36 - Invitation into Metropolitan’s community and spiritual family Action Items Practice centering down by taking a breath, releasing tension, and sitting quietly before prayer.Notice the difference between reacting out of panic and responding with courage.Rest in God’s presence before trying to solve every storm immediately.Join the church community in worship, fellowship, and the post-service book celebration.

  7. Aug 25

    Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost - Rev. Nichele Carter-Peterson

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Nichele Carter-Peterson explores themes of community engagement, stewardship, and identity within the church, particularly focusing on the African American experience. She emphasizes the importance of embracing one's cultural heritage and the role of the church in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Rev. Carter-Peterson reflects on the significance of generosity in worship and the need for the church to be a place of justice and support for marginalized communities. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural references, the message encourages individuals to recognize their identity and take action in creating a more inclusive and equitable world. This week's scripture: Matthew 16:13-20 13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist but others Elijah and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” 17 And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” 20 Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. Takeaways Every member has a role through prayer, participation, service, and giving.We can invest more in our children and youth by eliminating debt.The church should prioritize community ministries and support families.Understanding our identity is crucial for empowerment and justice.The church must not imitate dominant culture but embrace its unique heritage.We are called to create a world that reflects God's kingdom on earth.The importance of discernment in understanding spiritual authority.We must recognize and challenge internalized racism within our communities.Celebrating our blackness is essential to our identity and faith.The church has a legacy of social justice and empowerment.Chapters 00:05 Welcoming Guests and Community Engagement 05:53 Stewardship and Generosity in Worship 13:46 Introducing the Speaker and Scripture Reading 15:38 Guest Artist and Musical Worship 29:41 Reflections on Identity and Life's Journey 32:34 Imitation of Life: A Deep Dive into Identity 54:41 Invitation to Embrace True Identity and Community

  8. Aug 17

    Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost - Rev. Kendal McBroom

    In this week's sermon, Rev. Kendal McBroom explores the profound message of Isaiah 55, challenging societal lies about worth, productivity, and abundance. This sermon invites us to trust God's economy of care, community, and divine sovereignty over the oppressive systems of empire. This week's scripture: Isaiah 55:1-5, 8-11 Hear, everyone who thirsts;     come to the waters; and you who have no money,     come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk     without money and without price. 2 Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread     and your earnings for that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good,     and delight yourselves in rich food. 3 Incline your ear, and come to me;     listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant,     my steadfast, sure love for David. 4 See, I made him a witness to the peoples,     a leader and commander for the peoples. 5 Now you shall call nations that you do not know,     and nations that do not know you shall run to you, because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel,     for he has glorified you. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,     nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,     so are my ways higher than your ways     and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven     and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout,     giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, 11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;     it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose     and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. Takeaways God's first declaration over humanity is that it is good.The economy of God is based on need, not possession.Empire's lie is that some are expendable and others deserving.God's invitation is inclusive, regardless of economic status.The visible hand of power shapes society, not the invisible.We are called to imagine and live beyond systemic lies.Rebuilding trust and covenant is essential after exile.God's ways challenge the dominant narratives of scarcity.The prophetic imagination offers hope amid despair.Living out God's economy requires active care and community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Power of Isaiah 55 01:46 The Context of Exile and Disillusionment 04:05 God's Invitation to Come Without Money 07:06 The Lie of Scarcity and Empire 12:01 Babylon's Control and America's Empire 16:00 God's Alternative Economy: Abundance and Need 22:11 Questioning the Invisible Hand of Markets 23:57 The Call to Trust God's Sovereignty 27:09 Cultivating a Culture of Care 28:48 Rebuilding Covenant and Community 30:54 Living in the Difference: God's Ways 32:54 The Invitation to Live and Organize Differently 34:01 Conclusion: The Final Word of God

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Sermons from the historic Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, DC where speakers such as Frederick Douglass, Paul  Laurence Dunbar, Mary McLeod Bethune, Eleanor Roosevelt, Joel Elias Spingarn, E.E. Just, Alain Locke, Mordecai W. Johnson, Hubert H. Humphrey, Charles H. Wesley, James E. Clyburn, Jesse Jackson and Bishop Desmond Tutu spoke.  Hear the weekly sermon from the current ministerial staff, led by Rev. William H. Lamar IV. Find more information about Metropolitan AME here.

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