Sermons from St. John the Divine

How do we prepare for Christ’s return while living in a world filled with uncertainty and grief? Through Jesus’ parable of the ten bridesmaids and Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, this sermon explores what it means to wait with wisdom and hope. As we anticipate the promise of resurrection, we are called to live faithfully, love our neighbors, and participate in God’s work of restoring creation.

What does it mean to be ready for Christ’s return? Through Jesus’ parable of the ten bridesmaids in Matthew 25, this sermon reminds us that faith is more than simply waiting—it’s about cultivating a loving relationship with Jesus. Through prayer, Scripture, and everyday encounters, we are invited to recognize His presence, deepen our love for Him, and stay awake, hopeful, and engaged as we await His return.

What does it mean to live in anticipation of Christ’s return? Through Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, this sermon explores God’s promise of eternal life, His plan to restore creation, and our role in sharing the good news of His Kingdom. We are challenged to deepen our understanding of God’s Kingdom, boldly proclaim the Gospel, and remember that our salvation rests not in what we have done, but in what Jesus Christ has done for us.

How do we hold on to faith when life is filled with suffering and uncertainty? Through John's vision in Revelation 7, this sermon explores the hope of heaven and the victory Christ has already won over sin, suffering, and death. As part of our Counter Cultural Faith series, we are reminded that our struggles are not the end of the story, and that Jesus, our Good Shepherd, calls us to persevere with the promise that one day He will wipe away every tear.

What does it truly mean to flourish as a follower of Jesus? Through the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, this sermon explores how the Holy Spirit transforms us to reflect Christ’s humility, mercy, and love. As we seek to become more like Jesus, we are called to live with soft hearts and courageous faith, bringing God’s love and peace into the world.

What does it mean to live boldly for Christ while loving others with gentleness? Through Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, this sermon explores how God calls us to stand firm in faith, resist the pressures of the world, and reflect Christ’s love in all we do. Strengthened by His grace, we are invited to offer our lives to God through courageous faith, humble service, and genuine love for our neighbors.

What does it look like when our lives become a witness to the Gospel? Through Paul’s encouragement to the Thessalonians, this sermon explores the power of prayer, Christian community, and a faith that shines even in the face of hardship. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are called to live in such a way that God’s love and truth sound forth into the world, bringing hope and transformation to those around us.

Who are we beneath the labels and expectations of the world? Through Jesus’ teaching to render to God what belongs to God and Paul’s encouragement to the Thessalonians, this sermon reminds us that our true identity is found not in worldly success or status, but in being loved and chosen by God. Rooted in this truth and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can live with a joy that remains steadfast even through life’s challenges.

What does it truly mean to accept God's invitation? Through Jesus' parable of the wedding feast and the promises of Isaiah 25, this sermon explores God's abundant grace and His desire to make all things new. We are invited not simply to witness His kingdom, but to participate in it—allowing the transforming love of Christ to bring forgiveness, healing, and new life.

What if God's greatest promise is an invitation to feast in His presence? In this sermon from Isaiah 25, we discover the hope of God's eternal banquet, where death is defeated and all things are made new through Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice and the gift of the Eucharist, we are invited to leave behind our old lives, receive His abundant grace, and experience the joy of life with Him.