Sermons by Matt Smith (Page 31)
Pentecost
Our celelbration of Pentecost is rooted in Acts 2.1-21 and the Afrobeat music of Fela Kuti and the hip hop of Agape (Dave Scherer). How are you conspiring with God and your neighbors to transform the world?
Reaching in Love
This worship series invites reflection on John 15 and the poetry of Wendell Berry. The scripture readings each week are a “mash-up” of John 15 and Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front. Matt’s message encourages our community to reach in love by making intentional choices related to food and farms.
Give
This worship series is rooted in Acts 4.32.-35. For the early church depicted in the book of Acts, the resurrection of Christ is less a creedal article of individual faith and hope than a creative force of community formation. How are we, as people of the resurrection, called to relate to our finances on this side of Easter? John Wesley writes, “Having, first, gained all you can, and, secondly saved all you can, then give all you can.” How will…
Gain
This worship series is rooted in Acts 4.32.-35. For the early church depicted in the book of Acts, the resurrection of Christ is less a creedal article of individual faith and hope than a creative force of community formation. How are we, as people of the resurrection, called to relate to our finances on this side of Easter? John Wesley writes, “Having, first, gained all you can, and, secondly saved all you can, then give all you can.” How will…
Easter
Matt’s Easter message is rooted in Mark 16.1-8. The recording includes selections from two of the songs from our 10:30 am worship gathering. The opening song is Christ Is Risen by Brian Wren (arranged by Anthony Coleman II). The closing song is Rise Up with lyrics by Agape (David Scherer)
Passion
Matt’s message is rooted in the history of The Table at Central UMC and Psalm 118. As we journey toward the cross with Jesus, we’re invited to reflect on how we might be broken open into passion.
Solidarity
Matt’s message is rooted in the life of Archbishop Oscar Romero and Jeremiah 31.31-34. As we journey toward the cross with Jesus, we’re invited to reflect on how we might be broken open into solidarity.
Generosity
Matt’s message is rooted in the life of Mother Teresa and Psalm 25. As we begin our Lenten journey toward the cross with Jesus, we’re invited to reflect on how we might be broken open into generosity.
Ash Wednesday
Matt’s Ash Wednesday message is rooted in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. As we begin our Lenten journey toward the cross with Jesus, we’re invited to reflect on how we might be broken open into sacrfice. The worship service closed with the imposition of ashes and the sacrament of communion. The final six minutes of this podcast include selections of the music from our time of prayer, ashes, and communion.
Following Followers
Matt’s message invites reflection on “following followers.” What cautions might be needed in following followers? Who will you follow and how will you see Jesus dancing through the crowds?
First Followers
Matt’s message invites reflection on the “first followers” of Jesus. How might we be called to be first followers in this day?
Reaching in Love
Matt’s message is rooted in the story of Zacchaeus from Luke 19. Our journey toward a “new you” continues with Reaching in Love. How will the new you reach in love?