First United Methodist Church of Kearney Sermons

The Book of John - Day 3

The Book of John - Day 2

The Book of John - Day 1

Is it okay for Christians to be cremated? 🤔This Sunday we’re talking about one of the most frequently asked — and often avoided — questions surrounding death, funerals, and the hope of resurrection. In John 11, Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb and reminds us that He is “the resurrection and the life.”Together we’ll explore the difference between resuscitation and resurrection, why our ultimate hope isn’t in what happens to our earthly bodies, and how the promise of new life in Christ changes the way we grieve, plan, and live today.If you’ve ever wondered how faith speaks into end-of-life questions — or if you just need a reminder of real hope — this message is for you.Join us this Sunday!

Reconciliation means the relationship is restored. Through Christ, we've moved from enemies to beloved children. But reconciliation isn't just a status—it's a lifestyle. Having been reconciled to God, we're now called to live as ambassadors of reconciliation in a broken world. This is the journey of sanctification, where we increasingly reflect God's character not to earn His love, but because we've received it. We pursue holiness from security, not insecurity. We serve from fullness, not emptiness. As you close this devotional series, commit to one specific way you'll live differently this week because of God's pre-approval. Let your actions flow from acceptance, not toward it. You are already His beloved. Now live like it.

Jesus couldn't be everywhere at once, and neither can you. The anxiety of "being there for people" fades when we ask: "What is mine to do?" Don't be lazy, but embrace your limits. You're human-sized, not God-sized. Do what you can—that's enough.

When you don’t know what to do next, the pressure to “have the answer” can leave you feeling exposed, anxious, and stuck. This Sunday we’ll look at Gideon’s story in Judges 6 and discover how God meets us not in our certainty, but in our doubts and small steps of trust. What if, instead of needing all the answers, faith looks like giving God something to work with? Join us as we explore what it means to be human-sized and trust a God who already knows the way.

Perfection can be exhausting—and if we’re honest, it’s often the loudest voice in our heads. This Sunday, Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:48 invite us into something deeper than flawless performance: a life that is growing, maturing, and being shaped by God’s grace. What if God isn’t asking you to be perfect, but to become who you were created to be? Join us as we learn to pursue our potential, not perfection.

Feeling like life is slipping out of your control? In our new series New Years’ Dissolutions, we begin by tackling one of the biggest sources of anxiety: control — and learning what it means to truly trust a sovereign God while taking responsibility for what’s in our hands. Drawing from 2 Chronicles 20 and practical wisdom, this message invites us to release our grip on what we can’t manage and rediscover peace, faith, and freedom for the year ahead.

“If you don’t know where you’re going, you might wind up someplace else.”This Sunday we’re talking vision, direction, and discipleship—rooted in Jesus’ Great Commission (Matthew 28).New year. Clear purpose. One mission.📍 Vision Sunday — don’t miss it.

The shepherds returned to ordinary life—but were forever changed by meeting Jesus. Christmas isn't just a moment; it's a transformation. Keep Jesus first, others second, yourself third. Your life may look the same, but you are completely different.

This Christmas Eve, we’ll be searching for the missing peace—the kind of peace that doesn’t always make sense on paper. In a season full of joy and stress, we’re reminded that Jesus didn’t come to remove every hardship, but to be God with us in the middle of them. Join us as we discover how true peace is found not in perfect circumstances, but in the presence of Christ. Come celebrate the good news of great joy with us on Christmas Eve.

Feeling stuck between fear and uncertainty? This Sunday we’ll explore how Jesus meets the disciples behind locked doors with a gift we all need—peace that isn’t dependent on circumstances. From liminal seasons to big decisions, discover how God invites us to trade anxiety for discernment and learn what it means to walk by the Spirit when the way forward isn’t clear. When you’re going in blind, you’re not going alone.

This week we’re talking about the kind of peace that only shows up after we’re willing to own our mistakes. Romans 12:18 challenges us to do everything within our power to make things right—and sometimes the missing peace is the peace we’re called to make. We’ll explore how obliviousness, pride, and fear hold us back, and how simple, intentional steps toward reconciliation can open the door to healing. If you’ve ever felt the sting of a strained relationship, this message might be exactly what your heart needs. 

Have you ever felt like you’re waiting on God? His timing might always be perfect, but from where we sit, it can also be frustrating. It can even feel like sometimes, He’s forgotten us. This Sunday, let’s look at what happens when God’s timing makes us pause, reflect, and depend on Him. 

Peace isn't found in perfect circumstances but in Christ's presence. This Advent, remember: the world will always lack peace, but Jesus, the Prince of Peace, offers shalom—deep harmony and complete wellness. Peace becomes possible when Christ becomes central. 

We often keep a mental ledger of what others owe us. That insult. That betrayal. That hurt. We calculate the debt and wait for payback. But Jesus offers a radically different approach in Matthew 6:12: "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." Forgiveness is not pretending nothing happened. It is releasing your right to retribution. It is choosing to let go of the demand that someone suffer as much as they made you suffer. This journey moves through three stages: from vengeance (wanting them to hurt like you hurt), to obedience (releasing the debt because Jesus says to), to transcendence (genuinely desiring the best for them). It takes time. It takes grace. But it sets you free.

Time is a finite resource- we can't slow it down or make more. When we have so many things competing for our time it can be overhwhelming to prioritize the most important. How do we avoid spending our time before we even get it? We often hear "time is money" or "time is precious" so how are you spending yours?

This Sunday we'll kick off our new series "In the Red" by tackling one of the most common struggles we face: worry. In a world where we're constantly bombarded with information, news alerts, and social media content, it's no wonder anxiety levels are rising across all age groups. We spend an average of 46 hours a week on screens—essentially a full-time job of consuming content that often fuels our fears rather than our faith. We'll talk about distinguishing between acute anxiety (real, immediate problems) and chronic anxiety (future-based, hypothetical worries) and to recognize that God cares for us even more than He cares for the birds of the air.

On All Saints Day, we emphasizing the role of those who have gone before us in our faith journeys. Through the metaphor of a "great cloud of witnesses" from Hebrews 12, the message encourages us to honor and be inspired by the saints' lives while acknowledging the complex nature of grief. We'll walk through some ways to externalize grief and celebrate memories through meaningful actions. Worship will conclude with a candle-lighting ceremony as a tribute to the saints who have impacted our lives.

This week in worship we'll focus on gratitude and acknowledging God's continuous blessings, even when they become familiar over time. Drawing insights from Lamentations 3:22-23 and 2 Corinthians 9:7, we'll celebrate a year of service and generosity. Come worship in joyful response to God's unwavering faithfulness and to continue the mission of helping others know Christ, grow in faith, and serve the world.

Knowing your "why" can make all the difference. Join in this week as we look at Jesus' parting words to his disciples in Acts 1:8-9 and how it matters to our church 2,000 years later.

"Patience isn't just waiting—it's trusting that God's timing is better than our own." In a world of instant gratification, remember: God is always working, even when we can't see it. Like the Israelites, we must resist impatience and trust in God's perfect timing. 

What if contentment wasn’t about what you have—or what you’ve lost—but about who holds your life together? As we close our journey through Philippians, we’ll learn Paul’s secret to joy that no prison walls or life circumstances could take away. As we close our Philippians series and Bible Book It theme don't forget to read through Philippians and register for your pizza! https://kearneyfumc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3093778

As you read through Philippians we’d invite you to prayerfully consider the following questions:  1.     What inspired you or was meaningful to you?2.     What didn’t you understand?3.     What frustrated or bothered you?4.     What might cause you to make a change?

What’s the best team you’ve ever been part of—and what made it great? In Philippians 3, Paul reminds us that true fellowship isn’t just about friendship or fun, but about the shared struggle of pressing on toward Christ. All earthly gains pale in comparison to the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus, and the church is where we learn to rejoice, even in hardship, as we pursue Him together. Join us this week as we discover how fellowship in Christ transforms struggle into strength.

As you read through Philippians we’d invite you to prayerfully consider the following questions:  1.     What inspired you or was meaningful to you?2.     What didn’t you understand?3.     What frustrated or bothered you?4.     What might cause you to make a change?

This Sunday we continue our Bible Book It series in Philippians, exploring how Jesus “came to reverse everything.” In Philippians 2, Paul reminds us that while the world uses power for gain, Jesus gave up every advantage to serve and to save. Our call is to respond—not by striving to earn God’s love, but by receiving His grace and living with the same mindset as Christ. Come discover how this reversal can reshape your daily life and help you shine “like stars in the sky.”

As you read through Philippians we’d invite you to prayerfully consider the following questions:  1.     What inspired you or was meaningful to you?2.     What didn’t you understand?3.     What frustrated or bothered you?4.     What might cause you to make a change?

As you read through Philippians we’d invite you to prayerfully consider the following questions:  1.     What inspired you or was meaningful to you?2.     What didn’t you understand?3.     What frustrated or bothered you?4.     What might cause you to make a change?

Discover the power of true priorities in this week's sermon as we delve into Philippians 1:9-10. Experience a lively blend of humor and insight as we explore how to keep "first things first" in our fast-paced world. Join us for "Bible Book It," where reading Philippians not only brings spiritual growth but also fun rewards, like free pizza! Don't miss this opportunity to engage with Scripture and transform your understanding of what truly matters.

In this sermon concluding the "It's Just a Phase" series, we'll explore the universal need for assurance and meaning in life. Everyone wants to know their life counts, no matter what generation they're a part of. We'll see in the story of Nicodemus in John 3:1-9 that true assurance comes not from worldly success but from the transformative love and grace of Jesus Christ. Being born again by faith gives our lives purpose and we can find our assurance in the grace of God. We'll remember to cherish life's small moments and focus on what truly matters: finding meaning and assurance at the Cross.

"Our faith and life challenge us to adapt." As young adults navigate diverse life stages, adaptability is key. Like Paul, who became "all things to all people," we're called to adjust to new conditions. Embrace change, knowing God is with you in every phase.

Have you ever had someone talk to you about realizing your potential? An "I See In You" conversation? What if a high dose of those could have unintended effects? In our second week of our series "It's Just A Phase" we'll learn about what this generation of students need most. We'll shape the conversation on Sunday after one of the disciples who has many Biblically recorded encounters with Jesus: Peter. Peter is always trying. Sometimes he nails it, sometimes he fails spectacularly. But through it all, Jesus sees and affirms Peter.

This week we start a new sermon series: It's Just A Phase. What do different generations need? What would each generation want the others to know? Our Director of Children's Ministry Cassie Guinn will be bringing the message! We'll discuss the importance of giving the next generation "unrestricted access" to opportunities for growth and faith. Drawing on personal experiences and biblical examples like King Josiah, she emphasizes that young people are capable of bold actions and deep faith when given the chance. We'll also be blessing backpacks and everyone involved in education. It is going to be a great Sunday!

In a world filled with deceptive promises and false prophets, Jesus reminds us to discern truth by examining the "fruit" produced: actions reveal true intentions. This sermon wraps up a series on the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that anything outside of Jesus is a hollow substitute. May we continue listening to Jesus' words over the noise of modern life, remembering that the fruit reveals the truth.

If you're ever tempted to play the judge, jury, and executioner in the courtroom of public opinion—you're not alone. In this week's message from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, we explore His sobering and freeing words: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged." It's a message that challenges our inner critic, helps us get off the ladder of assumptions, and sets us free to love like Jesus. Join us this Sunday—we promise no judgment. 😉

"Do not worry about your life." Easier said than done, right? Jesus invites us to shift our perspective: from anxiety to trust, from control to connection. Seek God's kingdom first, and watch how it transforms your worries into opportunities for faith, grace, and purpose.

What we treasure reveals where our heart truly is. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:21 that earthly things fade, break, or get stolen—but treasures stored in heaven last forever. When we fix our eyes on God and align our lives with Him, our whole self reflects His light. Let’s live with eternal focus, not temporary distraction.

When was a time you were certain you knew something, then it all changed? Join us this Sunday as we delve into Jesus’ transformative teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, exploring how true obedience begins with the heart. Discover why aligning our inner motives with God's desires changes everything. Don't miss this opportunity to see familiar scriptures in a brand-new light!

This week our NEW Associate Pastor debuts with a message about his favorite scripture and shares his journey that led him to First UMC. Come be reminded of Jesus' call to go and make disciples and welcome our new Pastor Wesley.

What do coaching, salt, and a city on a hill have in common? This week in our “2K: The Sermon on the Mount” series, we’re diving into Jesus’ challenge to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. In a culture quick to complain or hide, what does it look like to bring out the best in others and shine with hope? Join us Sunday as we explore how small, faithful actions can make a big difference. 

"Ever feel like life comes with too much fine print? 📜🔍Today at First UMC, we explore Jesus' revolutionary Sermon on the Mount. Turns out, true happiness isn't found in gift cards, high test scores, or the latest gadgets. It's found in living out God's kingdom values:• Humility• Compassion• Meekness• Justice• Mercy• Pure motives• PeacemakingJesus offers us a life free from the world's false promises and hidden fees. He invites us into true blessing - a life lived fully in God's presence.Ready to trade in the world's fine print for God's good news? Join us as we begin our '2K: Sermon on the Mount' series. Let's discover together how Jesus leads us away from empty promises and into real, lasting joy! 🙌💖

In his farewell message, Pastor Keyarae reflects on the beauty of partnership in the gospel through Paul’s words(Philippians 1:3-6) to the Philippians. Ministry, he reminds us, isn’t a one-person journey—it’s a relay of faithfulness, where every person matters. From powerful worship moments to small acts of grace, each story we share is part of God's greater work. This sermon isn’t just a goodbye—it’s a call to continue running your race with joy and confidence. Because the same God who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion. 

In the sermon "Peace Even in the Midst of the Storm," Pastor Dale explores the profound and enduring peace promised by Jesus, even amidst life's greatest challenges. Reflecting on John 14:25-27, the sermon emphasizes that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a divine gift that transcends human understanding, remaining steadfast through life's storms. The message invites us to embrace Jesus's unconditional love and grace, reminding us that His love and peace are eternal. By trusting in Jesus, we can find strength, healing, and hope, much like the story of the thief on the cross who discovered peace in his darkest moment. Join us as we reflect on the promises of Christ and the transformative power of His love.

This week our message is "Love Keeps No Record of Wrong," we'll study six simple words from 1 Corinthians 13:5. Highlighting the Greek term "agape," the sermon challenges believers to view love as a deliberate choice rather than mere emotion, urging them to desire the good of others without keeping a ledger of past wrongs. By understanding love as a divine, unconditional act, we are encouraged to transcend their instincts and embrace the transformative power of God’s love.

To close our series "Sometimes It Takes A Woman To Win It" we explore the inspiring story of Esther, a remarkable woman whose courage and determination saved her people during a time of great peril. Through her example, we are reminded that no one is "just-a" anything in the eyes of God; we are all fearfully and wonderfully made, with unique purposes and potentials. Just as Esther's bravery transformed her circumstances, we too can trust that God works through all things and all people. Join us as we delve into how God might be preparing you for such a time as this, turning life's challenges into opportunities for growth and impact.

Discover the extraordinary story of Rahab in our latest sermon, "Sometimes It Takes A Woman To Win It: Rahab," as we explore how God uses unlikely heroes to fulfill His divine plans. Delve into the account of a woman defined by her low societal position but admired for her courageous faith that changed the course of history. Join us as we uncover important lessons about humility, faith, and the incredible ways God can work through those who trust Him. You might find yourself inspired to see past your own doubts and embrace how God might use you in unexpected ways.

This Mother's Day, we're celebrating the unsung heroines of our faith and our lives. We'll look at Deborah, one of the nation of Israel's leaders who emerged during a crucial time to govern God's people. We'll look at how she not only broke the mold but gave all the credit to God- which is easier said than done.

In this inspiring Vision Sunday sermon, we explore the evolution of organizations like Netflix to emphasize the importance of having a clear mission. Drawing from Matthew 28:18-20, we learn that the core mission of the church is to make disciples, transcending beyond just activities or events. This message underscores how each church member can live out Jesus’ teachings daily, impacting the world and embodying our true mission. Join us to rediscover how our church is dedicated not just to doing, but to transforming lives and communities.