Dr. Yoost preaches on the theme, “Another Chance!”  When disaster strikes, whether an earthquake in Haiti, or some misfortune in our personal lives, we often assume that these happenings are punishment for sin.  Jesus tells us that these random acts are not necessarily God’s punishment for our bad deeds.  However God has expectations of us, and God is disappointed with our sinful behavior.  The parable of the fig tree reminds us that there is judgment, but that God is also gracious, and willing to give us another chance to repent and change our ways.  

Dr. Yoost preaches on the theme, “A Broken-Hearted God.” We are a fragmented, stressed out, broken people.  God wants to gather us into his arms, like a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wings.  We resist God’s gracious invitation, which breaks God’s heart.  Yet God continues to offer to put the broken pieces of our lives back together again.  

Dr. Yoost preaches on the theme, “The Three ‘P’s of Temptation.”  The tempter is the ultimate salesperson!  He encourages Jesus to settle for less than God through the acquision of possessions, the lure of prestige, and the thirst for power.    Jesus says “no” to the tempter, and “yes” to God.  He is our example as we face these same three temptations in our own lives. 

Dr. Yoost concludes the series on “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” by preaching a sermon on the topic of “Making a Difference.”  We live in fear of scarcity, and so we are reluctant to give.  Yet we worship a generous God, whose love for us exceeds all expectations!  This God calls us to be generous with our resources.  We have to decide whether we will listen to the wisdom of the world or the wisdom of God.  We all want to make a difference in this world.  We will make a difference if we practice extravagant generosity.   

This is the fourth in a sermon series based on Bishop Schnase’s Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations.  Here, Rev. Steiger discusses “Risk-taking Mission and Service.”  He considers the mission work of two of our church fathers; and reflects on the work done by Church of the Saviour Youth Mission Teams.  Finally, he challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and “be the body of Christ” in service to all the world.

The third in the series based on Bishop Robert Schnase’s book, Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, Dr. Yoost preaches a sermon on “intentional faith development,” entitled “Going Deeper.”  Are we closer to Christ than we were five years ago?  What are we doing that is deliberate, purposeful, and a high priority in order to go deeper in our spiritual lives?  Spiritual growth is too difficult for us to go it alone.  We need others for accountability and support.  Jesus instructed the disciples to “put out into the deep water.”  He instructs us to go deeper in our walk with him as well, that God may form us into the people God intends us to be.

Rev. Bogre asks, “What did you expect?”  Have you ever danced the Hokey Pokey at a wedding?  It always ends with putting your whole self in.  Is that how you worship?  Are you all in when you show up at worship on Sunday?  This sermon is about passionate worship.  It’s about worshipping with your whole self in.  I hope this message challenges you to be released from the things that keep you from being all in. 

Dr. Charles Yoost preaches on the theme “Facing Outward.”   The first in the series on Five Practices of Faithful Disciples, Dr. Yoost explores the practice of radical hospitality (caring for people and demonstrating genuine love in a way that is dramatically different from the ordinary practice).  Who can you call at 3 o’clock in the morning if you have an emergency?  Are you part of a caring fellowship?  People need what the church has to offer.  Life was meant to be shared!

Baptism of the Lord - Dr. Yoost preaches on the theme “Water and the Spirit!”   At his baptism, Jesus affirmed his identity and committed himself to fulfilling God’s mission for his life.  When we recall our baptism, we remember that we, also, were created, formed and redeemed by God for a special purpose in this world.  No matter what our calling, we are not alone.  God is always with us. 
 

It’s Epiphany and we are celebrating the arrival of the three wise men with their wonderful gifts.  They had reasons for seeking the Christ child.  Herod also had reasons for wanting to seek the Christ child.  I have a question for you.  Rev. Bogre asks, “Why do you seek him?”  This sermon is about wrestling with all of the reasons that we have journeyed to the manger this year.  Remember, once you get to the manger, it is almost impossible to leave the same way you came.