St. Moses Church

St. Moses Church

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RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
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St. Moses Church

Sermons at St. Moses Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

5D AGO

Formed in Community & Formed in Service: Joys & Challenges of Community

This is the first teaching in our summer formation series on Community and Service. Through the lenses of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 and Romans 12:9-2, Ginny Becker explores God's design for humans to live in deep relationship with one another and with him, the wounds that can cause us to pull back from community, as well as practical steps for engaging more deeply in Community. Preached at St Moses Church, Baltimore, on Sunday, July 6th, 2025.

40 min
JUN 30

The Heart of the King: David and Nathan

In this lecture, Sam presents a powerful message centered around themes of forgiveness, repentance, and personal accountability, tailored specifically for a family service at St. Moe's. He emphasizes the importance of including children in the worship experience, indicating that the entire community, regardless of age, plays a vital role in the life of the church. The lecture opens with a call for unity in chaotic moments, underscoring that everyone, including children, belongs within this faith community. Sam transitions into discussing the biblical story of King David, particularly focusing on 2 Samuel 12. He illustrates how Nathan the prophet confronts David about his wrongdoings. Through a parable, Sam narrates the events that lead to David's realization of his own moral failings. The allegorical story of two men — one rich and one poor — reveals a profound truth about human behavior, particularly the imperfections inherent in leadership and authority. As David reacts with anger towards the rich man's actions, he is blindsided by the prophet's piercing revelation that he embodies the very wrong he detests. The use of hands as a metaphor is a significant part of Sam's message. He prompts the audience to reflect on the power and consequences of their actions, highlighting that hands may serve to heal or to harm. David misuses his authority and power, resulting in destructive outcomes. Sam relates this to the notion that often, attempts to cover up misdeeds lead to greater complexity and guilt. The lecture encourages the congregation, particularly the children, to acknowledge their wrongdoings rather than allow shame or fear to dictate their actions. Continuing on the path of David's journey, Sam explains the concept of repentance — a change of mind and heart. He equates this spiritual practice to the challenging sports drills of changing direction while running, pointing out that genuine repentance requires significant effort and humility. The discussion naturally leads to the role of the Holy Spirit as a guiding force in the process of transformation. Sam reassures the audience that while forgiveness is available, it often comes at a cost, which in David's case was the loss of his son, exemplifying the gravity of consequences tied to our actions. As Sam concludes, he connects the narrative back to the central theme of redemption offered through Jesus Christ, underscoring that through Him, believers are granted the opportunity for a fresh start. He likens this to the gaming concept of "respawning," emphasizing that forgiveness leads to new beginnings and enhanced potential for benevolent actions. The final call to action implores the audience to use their bodies — hands, feet, and words — in ways that contribute positively to the community, all the while recognizing the Holy Spirit's role in helping them move towards right actions. The lecture wraps up with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the importance of seeking divine guidance and living lives that glorify the essence of faith.

12 min
JUN 23

Blessing: Portraits of Blessing

The lecture explores the profound idea of blessing as a central theme in the Biblical narrative, focusing primarily on John 17:13-21, where Jesus offers a prayer for his followers during a pivotal moment before his crucifixion. The speaker provides insight into Jesus' expectations that his disciples would experience joy even while facing the trials of a world that stands in opposition to God. This joy, rooted in a relationship with Christ, counteracts the despair often found in a reality separated from divine grace. The emphasis is that, despite being immersed in a challenging world, true discipleship is marked by an enduring joy that transcends circumstances. The lecture then transitions to a broader discussion on what it means for followers of Jesus to be blessings within the world, which includes examining historical figures who embodied this principle. The speaker encourages listeners to look beyond just acquiring knowledge of these figures, urging instead for a transformative engagement that expands the capacity for imagination regarding their own roles as conduits of God's blessing. This discussion serves to highlight the call for contemporary believers to actively participate in bringing about a new reality infused with God's goodness. Three poignant historical portraits serve as case studies to illustrate this theme, beginning with Richard Allen, a profound figure in American religious history who emerged from enslavement to establish the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Allen's conviction led him to advocate against the injustices of his time, particularly in the face of racial discrimination and societal neglect. His profound commitment to serving others during a yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia showcases how acts of sacrificial love can arise from deep personal pain and suffering, ultimately resulting in significant impact and community transformation. The second portrait features Josephine Butler, a prominent advocate for women's rights whose activism was catalyzed by personal tragedy. Following the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Butler dedicated her life to alleviating the suffering of others, particularly women caught in oppressive systems. Her efforts led to significant reforms, lifting the voices of marginalized individuals and challenging unjust societal norms. Butler’s life serves as an inspiration for turning personal grief into a driving force for communal blessings through compassion and advocacy. The final figure discussed is C.S. Lewis, a renowned author whose early life was marked by loss and hardship. Despite the trials he faced, Lewis ultimately found joy in his faith, which propelled him to use his literary talents for greater good. His life exemplifies how personal hardships can inform a commitment to generosity and service, as he utilized his resources to support others while remaining grounded in humility. Lewis’s insights encourage contemporary followers of Christ to recognize that true generosity often requires sacrifice and may elevate the needs of others above one's personal comforts. The speaker wraps up the lecture by calling the audience to embrace their identity as blessings in the world. This approach entails a commitment to live joyfully and sacrificially in a way that points others back to God. The final exhortation encourages participants to deepen their roots in faith and actively engage in transforming their communities through acts of love and service, fostering a spirit of conspiratorial collaboration with the divine in the pursuit of a new world filled with God's blessings. This call underscores the overarching commitment to embody joy and blessing that exudes from a personal relationship with Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and transformation in a world often marked by despair.

33 min
JUN 16

Blessing: Sent to Bless

This lecture centers on the biblical narrative involving Barnabas and Saul, exploring the theme of commissioning and sending as an essential aspect of faith practice. The lecture opens with an examination of Acts 13, where the early church at Antioch, comprised of diverse leaders including Barnabas and Saul, engages in worship and fasting. During this time, the Holy Spirit prompts them to appoint Barnabas and Saul for a special mission, marking the onset of a profound journey of spreading the gospel beyond their immediate community. The speaker reflects on a recent personal experience of being involved in welcoming families from various backgrounds into the community, exemplifying the blessings that come from stepping outside one’s comfort zone. This introspection leads to a broader discussion on the importance of blessing others during times of unrest and uncertainty, paralleling individual experiences with the biblical call to bless and serve others. The lecture transitions into the concept of centrifugal blessing, where the church is seen not merely as a reservoir of faith but as a dynamic entity called to actively extend blessings outward. With a detailed analysis of the commissioning of Barnabas and Saul, the speaker emphasizes the dual nature of sending: the church’s initiative to send based on its discernment and the Holy Spirit’s involvement in affirming that sending. The lecture highlights the emotional complexities tied to sending beloved members of the community on a mission, sharing personal anecdotes about the difficulty of parting. By dissecting the Greek terminology related to 'sending,' the speaker shifts the understanding from mere dispatching to a deeper act of releasing, which involves trust, sacrifice, and active participation in God’s wider purpose. Continuing further, the lecturer explores the implications of being a part of a dynamic, mission-focused church, emphasizing that this mission transcends geographical boundaries. With reference to the historical context and the diverse background of the Antioch church, the speaker illustrates the importance of community discernment in recognizing and responding to God’s call. The narrative unfolds into a broader theme of how believers are invited to participate in God’s mission, whether through direct sending or through supporting those called to go. The lecture addresses potential fears and barriers to responding to God’s call, reinforcing that such fears are legitimate yet surmountable through faith. The speaker encourages reflection on personal capacities and contexts that lend themselves to being a blessing to others, urging attendees to identify their unique callings in their immediate environments. This leads to an empowering message that every member of the congregation has a role to play in God’s mission, whether through direct involvement or by supporting others in their journeys. As the lecture transitions to conclusion, the speaker encourages engagement with the community and prayer for clarity regarding personal callings. Invoking the audience to put their “yes” on the table, the lecturer highlights the importance of community support in facilitating individual commitments to be a blessing. The discussion culminates in a moment of reflection on the significance of communion, connecting the themes of the lecture back to the shared experience of the faith community. Through the exploration of commissioning, the speaker invites all to reflect on their roles within the greater narrative of sending and blessing, emphasizing that this is not just a historical account but a contemporary call to action for believers today. This thoughtful engagement with scripture not only brings to light the practice of commissioning but also reinforces a community ethos centered on mutual support and active participation in God’s mission to bless the world.

38 min
JUN 2

Blessing: A Place of Blessing

This lecture centers on the narrative of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon, as detailed in the biblical account from 1 Kings 10. The speaker begins by introducing the significance of this story, highlighting that it not only illustrates Solomon's extensive wisdom and wealth but also serves to reveal deeper themes regarding God's blessings. The Queen of Sheba, described as a notable figure of antiquity with much intrigue surrounding her persona, brought with her a caravan filled with riches and difficult questions. Her visit was not merely diplomatic; it was also a pursuit for understanding and a recognition of divine favor displayed through Solomon's reign. The discussion shifts to explore the cultural and symbolic implications of the Queen's journey. The speaker notes how the extraordinary wisdom and organization of Solomon's court left her in awe. The details of her experience, such as the opulence of Solomon’s palace and the provision of bountiful feasts, demonstrate the flourishing life of God's people in a land filled with justice and righteousness. The Queen acknowledges the connection between Solomon’s prosperity and the glory of the God of Israel, praising Yahweh for delighting in Solomon and establishing him as king. This connection underscores a poignant theme: the blessings bestowed upon Solomon are not solely personal achievements but are intricately tied to God’s overarching divine plan for the nations. The conversation further explores how Solomon's reign serves as a fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham, emphasizing how God’s blessings are meant to flow outward, touching all people. The speaker stresses that, akin to breadcrumbs, the blessings found in Solomon's Israel are intended to guide others back to the source of goodness, urging those outside of God's covenant to seek and celebrate the God of Israel. The implications of this are profound, suggesting that God’s people are called to be sources of blessing for the world around them, creating environments where all can flourish. As the lecture progresses, the exploration of blessings expands into how God’s faithfulness is intended to create conditions for holistic human prosperity. The speaker references historical narratives, drawing parallels to modern societal structures that reflect characteristics of communal flourishing. The prosperity derived from God's blessing challenges listeners to consider the socio-economic dynamics of their own communities and how they can facilitate environments of equity and justice. The theme of complexity arises with an acknowledgment that wealth, like Solomon's, can intertwine with moral ambiguity. While God's blessings manifest in tangible success, the speaker cautions against blind adulation of wealth without introspection on its use and impact. Solomon's wealth, although grand, is presented as a double-edged sword, with hints of his shortcomings foreshadowing eventual downfall. This reflection demands a nuanced view of success that interrogates the means by which wealth is acquired and its effects on both individuals and broader society. Continuing the discussion, the speaker introduces the notion of "centripetal missions," a concept derived from missiology where God's blessings draw people inward, contrasting it with centrifugal missions that compel believers outward with their light. The central premise is that when God’s people are faithful to steward their blessings well, they embody an attractiveness that draws others toward the heart of God. The speaker notes that this gathering of people around God's presence reflects God's intention for communities to act as agents of blessing, fostering a culture defined by love and charity. To illustrate this point further, the lecture transitions to the New Testament, where Jesus emerges as the pinnacle of blessings personified. By examining Christ's ministry, the speaker emphasizes how Jesus’s actions created spaces for healing, dignity, and belonging, compelling others to seek the blessing he offered. This transformation of personal and communal lives captures the essence of God’s intent to bless, reaching beyond traditional boundaries. In concluding the lecture, the speaker emphasizes the imperative for the church to embody this model of blessing, encouraging congregants to facilitate environments that promote healing, support, and community. The call to action is clear: the church must be a beacon of hope and a tangible expression of God’s blessings, inviting the hurt and lost to experience the nurturing environment that reflects the character of God. The lecture culminates with a vision for the local community and church, emphasizing the need for intention in establishing a culture of blessing that addresses both spiritual and practical needs. The speaker prays for divine guidance as the congregation seeks to manifest the love and compassion that should naturally flow from a community grounded in God's goodness.

41 min
MAY 27

Blessing: A People of Blessing

In this lecture, Ian shares a profound narrative centered around personal experiences and biblical themes of blessing as he reflects on the impact of mentorship and community in the context of faith. Beginning with a poignant story from his recent visit to a mentor's funeral in Vancouver, he illustrates the significance of the relationships we cultivate in our lives. The overwhelming attendance at the funeral during the challenges of COVID exemplified the breadth of influence his mentor had on many lives, highlighting the thematic idea of blessings that transcend individual experience and echo in the lives of others. The central thrust of the discussion revolves around the concept of being a people of blessing, as grounded in biblical teachings. Ian underscores that despite historical failures within the church, the essence of God’s character is to bless, a theme that is rooted in Genesis. With reference to Genesis chapters 1 through 11, he explores the recurring motifs of curse and exclusion, alienation from God, and the human inclination towards building their own names in contradiction to God's command to fill the earth. Ian elaborates on three pivotal theme pairs: curse and exclusion versus blessing and inclusion, alienation and violence transformed into revelation and shalom, and hunkering and name-building replaced by the divine call to go and worship. He asserts that the promise of blessing, as articulated in Genesis 12:1-3, offers a dramatic shift in narrative; where hope appears to hang by a thread, God chooses Abram, a figure without remarkable merit, to exemplify the transformative power of divine blessing intended for all nations. As the lecture progresses, Ian emphasizes God's character as the source of blessing, framing the narrative shift through the lens of grace rather than performance. He dispels the misconception that blessings must be earned, illustrating that God’s decisions flow from His inherent goodness rather than human action. This idea offers both humility and hope, inviting listeners to reflect on their own lives as vessels of God’s blessings. Delving deeper into the implications of Abram's blessing, Ian connects God’s promises to a larger narrative of inclusion for all humanity. He highlights the migrating stories of the Israelites, demonstrating how their journey reflects God’s plan for blessing broader communities. The lecture integrates reflections on faithful living—in following God’s ways, believers become exemplifications of divine revelation to others. In bringing this teaching into contemporary context, Ian invites audience members to consider their own roles in extending blessings to those around them. He provides practical examples of how one might show kindness, welcome, and hospitality to those on the margins or feeling alienated. By actively engaging in community and embodying the principles of peace and inclusion, individuals can participate in the transformative work initiated through Abram's narrative. The concluding reflections encourage listeners to embrace their identity as bearers of blessings, inspired by the promise traced from Abram to Jesus and fulfilled through the community of believers. Ian calls for a life of self-forgetful worship, where individuals step beyond the comfort of self-serving pursuits to actively seek the flourishing of others. He concludes with a prayerful invitation, urging the community to remain attuned to God's call and to embrace the responsibility of sharing blessings in tangible ways.

35 min
MAY 19

Blessing: The God Who Blesses

This lecture explores the intimate relationship between humanity and the divine, centering on the central question of "What is God like?" The speaker begins by recounting a recent men's conference experience and transitions into a thought-provoking reflection on how we describe not only one another but also God. Drawing a connection between the challenges of expressing complex identities in a few words, the lecture invites the audience to consider their own perceptions of God, particularly through the lens of His character as a benefactor rather than a distant authority. The narrative unfolds with a personal anecdote involving a coffee shop encounter where the speaker inadvertently eavesdrops on a barista's struggles. Through this story, the speaker highlights a recurring theme—the search for kindness and understanding in a chaotic world, prompting the audience to consider if they recognize the inherent goodness of God in their lives. Citing an influential American author's assertion that what comes to mind when we think about God is pivotal, the speaker emphasizes the significance of perceiving God as benevolent. The lecture then navigates to the biblical framework by examining the story of Esau and Jacob from Genesis 27, illustrating familial favoritism and the weight of blessings. It raises probing questions about the nature of God's favor, juxtaposing it against human tendencies to deceive and betray. As the narrative progresses, the speaker elaborates on the theological implications of God's blessings in Scripture, underscoring that, despite human flaws and failings, God's essential character is one of blessing. The conversation sheds light on how the Genesis creation narratives stand in contrast to other ancient stories, which typically portray gods in negative, transactional relationships with humanity. Instead, the biblical account reveals a God who intentionally creates humans out of love and bestows blessings upon them, challenging prevailing notions of divine hostility or indifference. This radical proclamation poses a compelling challenge to the audience, encouraging them to shift their understanding and embrace the idea of a God who genuinely desires human flourishing. Throughout the discourse, the speaker intermingles scriptural references with contemporary reflections, addressing the idea of suffering and prosperity in relation to God’s blessings. Building upon this, the speaker critiques modern interpretations of God's generosity, particularly in the light of the prosperity gospel movement, which often equates divine favor with wealth and health. Instead, the lecture articulates a nuanced understanding of God's commitment to humanity, asserting that true flourishing is intertwined with spiritual depth rather than material gain. In examining the implications of Jesus's life and sacrifice, the speaker asserts that God's ultimate act of blessing is epitomized in Christ, who took on human frailty and suffering. This rich theological metaphor of substitution reveals that Jesus embodies the blessings of God and takes upon Himself the curses meant for humanity, thus offering redemption and reconciliation. As the lecture concludes, the speaker transitions to the sacrament of communion, inviting the audience to grasp the depth of God's blessing through a tangible experience. The overarching theme resonates powerfully: God's character is fundamentally that of blessing rather than cursing, and understanding this deeply influences how believers relate to God and each other. This discourse encourages participants to embrace a transformative view of the divine, one that cultivates personal faith and promotes a collective, flourishing community rooted in the reality of a God who is for us.

41 min
MAY 12

Luke's Gospel: Jesus' Final Instructions

In today's episode, I delve into a profound passage from the Gospel of Luke, recounting the extraordinary moments following the resurrection of Christ when He appeared to His disciples. I begin by illustrating the scene where two individuals from Emmaus share their extraordinary encounter with the risen Jesus, only for Him to suddenly be among the gathered disciples, offering peace amidst their fear and doubt. It's a compelling reminder of the intense emotions the disciples experienced — shock, disbelief, and joy — as they grappled with the reality of the resurrection. As I reflect on the narrative, I emphasize the gentleness of Jesus in addressing the disciples’ fears. He kindly invites them to recognize that He is not a ghost, inviting them to touch His hands and feet and even sharing food with them. This act of sharing a meal serves as a powerful symbol of connection and community, reinforcing the notion that Christ desires to be intimately present in our lives — not merely as a distant teacher, but as a close, loving companion. I address the need for believers to confront their doubts and to allow the truths of scripture to penetrate their hearts deeply over time. Throughout our discussion, I draw parallels between the experiences of the disciples and the struggles we face with doubt. I encourage listeners to challenge their doubts, posing the poignant idea of "doubting our doubts." By engaging in open dialogues within community, we can balance our skepticism with the comforting truths of Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us toward understanding and clarity. Moreover, I highlight the vital importance of Christ’s nearness. Jesus does not merely acknowledge the disciples’ disbelief but draws closer to them, filling them with joy and wonder. I explore the transformational effect of being in His presence, reinforcing that this nearness is not just about intellectual understanding but a deeply relational experience. I reflect on the profound joy that comes from knowing Christ intimately, even as we navigate our mixed emotions. As the narrative continues, I discuss how Jesus reminds His disciples of the fulfillment of scripture — showing them how their current experience aligns with the prophecies concerning the Messiah. I emphasize that it is not only about recognizing scriptural truths but that God Himself opens our minds to truly grasp the depth of these revelations. In sharing the responsibility of being witnesses to what they have seen and experienced, I encourage listeners to consider their own call to share their testimonies of faith in a world that desperately needs hope. Finally, I convey a message of hope that transcends our present struggles. Christ's resurrection does not promise us an escape from pain but reveals that He is redeeming our suffering and ultimately brings wholeness and renewal. I share the inspiring testimony of Johnny Erickson Tada, whose faith exemplifies this hope, as I connect it back to the ultimate promise of renewal that awaits all believers. As I wrap up, I lead a heartfelt prayer, asking the Lord to ignite our hearts with passion for Him, encouraging both believers and seekers to embrace this pursuit of a deeper relationship with the risen Christ.

40 min

5

out of 5

8 Ratings

Sermons at St. Moses Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

Creator

St. Moses Church
Years Active

2019 - 2025
Episodes

294
Rating

Clean
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© Copyright St. Moses Church
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