Sermons from St. James Parish in Wilmington, NC.
Sep 03, 2023 |
Lebanon Chapel: The Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost | St. James 2023
| The Rev. Joseph "Gray" HodsdonLebanon Chapel: The Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost | St. James 2023
Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon at Historic Mount Lebanon Chapel
Rev. Hodsdon addresses the human desire to be victorious, comparing it to our longing to be atop the social ladder. He challenges this perspective, proposing a shift: what if true success meant greater sacrifice? Drawing from Jesus's teachings, he underscores that genuine victory might require us to give more of ourselves. Inspired by Saint Augustine, he speaks of the difference between selfish living and a life of sacrificial love. True love, Rev. Hodsdon argues, has no conditions. By living this selfless love, we find a deeper, more fulfilling victory in life.
Rev. Hodsdon addresses the human desire to be victorious, comparing it to our longing to be atop the social ladder. He challenges this perspective, proposing a shift: what if true success meant greater sacrifice? Drawing from Jesus's teachings, he underscores that genuine victory might require us to give more of ourselves. Inspired by Saint Augustine, he speaks of the difference between selfish living and a life of sacrificial love. True love, Rev. Hodsdon argues, has no conditions. By living this selfless love, we find a deeper, more fulfilling victory in life.
Aug 27, 2023 |
Lebanon Chapel: The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost | St. James 2023
| The Rev. C. Phillip Craig, Jr.Lebanon Chapel: The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost | St. James 2023
In this sermon from Wilmington's Historic Lebanon Chapel, Rev. Phillip Craig explores the significance of the word "church" as first mentioned by Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Reflecting on the journey Jesus and his disciples took, Rev. Craig highlights the moment Peter recognizes Jesus as the Son of the Living God. This isn't just about St. Peter's acknowledgment but a profound insight into what the church truly means.
Rev. Craig emphasizes that the church isn't just a building or institution; it represents the body of Christ. It's the community of believers who gather in Christ's name, serving to increase faith, enhance humanity, provide accountability, and commit to service. Through anecdotes and scripture, he underscores the importance of community and shared faith. Concluding with Jesus's pivotal question to his disciples, Rev. Craig prompts listeners to reflect on their personal beliefs, underlining the power of faith and community.
The scripture for this service includes: Romans 12:1-8, Matthew 16:13-20.
Rev. Craig emphasizes that the church isn't just a building or institution; it represents the body of Christ. It's the community of believers who gather in Christ's name, serving to increase faith, enhance humanity, provide accountability, and commit to service. Through anecdotes and scripture, he underscores the importance of community and shared faith. Concluding with Jesus's pivotal question to his disciples, Rev. Craig prompts listeners to reflect on their personal beliefs, underlining the power of faith and community.
The scripture for this service includes: Romans 12:1-8, Matthew 16:13-20.