First United Methodist Church of Kearney Sermons First United Methodist Church

This week we tackle the dynamic and sometimes contentious early days of the Christian church, focusing on the landmark debate of Acts 15, where early leaders grappled with whether Gentile converts should adhere to Jewish laws. Discover how Peter and James championed grace over legalistic tradition, paving the way for a faith that knows no borders.
We'll celebrate the spirit of generosity exemplified by the United Methodist Church's global initiatives and local kindness. Hear the heartwarming story of Velda, a librarian whose simple, yet profound act of kindness, facilitated by our church's support, underscored the essence of community. The mission of the early church is the same as ours today: to extend its reach from small towns to the ends of the earth.

Have you ever chased the highest rewards with the least amount of work? On Sunday we look at the difference between a self-centered approach to a God-centered life; guided not by fear of punishment or desire for reward, but by the aspiration to live in obedience and holiness through the empowerment of God's grace. We'll look at John Wesley's vivid house analogy of grace, we navigate from the welcoming front porch of prevenient grace, step through the transformative doorway of justifying grace, and venture into the heart of sanctifying grace. It's here we truly start to live in harmony with God's purpose, guided by a desire for holiness and obedience. Join in to learn more about "The Method and the Madness."

On Sunday we explore the concept of grace measured against the way of the world. We're taught to measure worth by condition and performance, but today we're flipping the script. It's a universal message of reassurance for anyone feeling the pressure to meet the world's exacting standards. No matter the scars we carry or the knocks we've taken, we are cherished and fully embraced by God, through Christ. 

Have you ever felt that little surge of pride when you're waved through a VIP line, or when your loyalty card bumps you to the front of the queue? That's the allure of exclusivity talking – a feeling many of us know all too well. On Sunday we'll peel back the layers of this societal concept to reveal a starkly different spiritual truth: God's grace doesn't play by these rules. In contrast this with our world, we'll look at God's inclusive grace, a gift that's not earned but freely given. As The United Methodist Church has a general conference later in April We start a new series "The Method and the Madness" about how the theology of John Wesley still makes a difference in the 21st century.

As we welcome nine new students to our congregation on this Confirmation Sunday, we explore the church as a home.  This conversation is not just about a location on a map; it's about where we find our hearts anchored—a sense of belonging forged on faith and fellowship, strengthening ties that transcend ancestry. This goes beyond our own blood, and we are unified by Christ’s.  From the biblical lands promised to Abraham to the modern sanctuary of the church, we ponder the spiritual and emotional dimensions that shape our sense of belonging and community.

What do you do when things don't turn out the way you thought they would? We probably have had this happen for better and for worse. On Easter we'll see how God overturns our expectations, between the astonishment of the disciples at the empty tomb and the grace that flows into our own lives. The resurrection is the ultimate good news, inviting us to embrace the possibility of revitalization in areas of life that may seem lifeless. Join in celebrating Jesus' victory over the grave!