St Marcus MKE Sermons

Leading up to Chapter 14, we hear of the dangers that are to come to us in this world. Even in our troubles, fears, hardships, and pain, we learn that this is not a time to worry. Rather "This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people." "This calls for wisdom." The end of times is no different from the beginning of time — God always delivers!

SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.

Our next step in Revelation takes us to the heavenly throne room in Chapter 5, where John’s heart breaks over the sealed scroll—until everything changes when the Lamb steps forward. The new song of heaven bursts out, celebrating what Jesus has done. He has made us a kingdom and priests through His sacrifice. Here we see that unrestrained, joy-filled worship is what we were made for and we join in the chorus sung in heaven as we discover the infinite worth of the Lamb.

SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.

This week we will be studying Revelation 3:14-22 under the theme “A Letter to the Church in Laodicea.” It is in these verses that we learn how Jesus notoriously deemed Laodicea “lukewarm,” saying that if they did not repent, he would spit them out. Prosperity has a way of deceiving God’s people into believing in their own self-sufficiency. Christ calls us to repent and see not only our need for God’s grace but the King’s generous provision of it.

SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.

This week we will be studying Revelation 2:1-7 under the theme “A Letter to the Church in Ephesus.” Ephesus had been a pivotal congregation in the Early Church, but they’d lost their original love. It’s entirely possible for a Christian congregation (or individual) to check major boxes of doctrine and religious practice, but lose internal vitality. We’ll see how that fall happens and needs to be done to reignite vibrancy.

SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.

This week we will be studying Revelation 1:8-18 under the theme “Introducing the Alpha and the Omega.” This week we read the Apostle John’s introductory image of Jesus in heaven. John is overwhelmed. But the Lord tells him, “Do not be afraid,” because this all-powerful King holds the keys to our future.

SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.

This week we will be celebrating the Reformation, as well as concluding our series on David, studying 2 Samuel 12:1-25 under the theme “The Repentant Will Be Reconciled.” The first of Martin Luther’s famous 95 Theses states: “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ‘Repent’ (Mt 4:17), he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance.” Contrary to what this world thinks about progress or self-image, by God’s design, the path forward for humanity is always in humbling ourselves before a holy, gracious Lord. This week we’ll see how David experiences new life in repentance, but also how the prophet Nathan skillfully addresses sin in the life of a man he loved.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying 2 Samuel 11:1-27 under the theme “The Proud Will Fall.” Here, we encounter perhaps the most notorious series of sins in the Bible. Amongst other things, we learn the power of sin to grow from a cell in our hearts to a monster that can ruin our lives. But we also learn that no murderer or adulterer is beyond God’s saving grace.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying 2 Samuel 9:1-13 under the theme “Kindness to Friends & Those in Need.” David had experienced the goodness of God, and he’d also made a vow reflecting that goodness to his friend Jonathan. So, when David had opportunity to do good to Jonathan’s family after Jonathan had passed away, he seized the moment. David’s kindness is a picture of what Jesus (the GREATER David) came to do for us, but also an inspiration to proactively seek out opportunities to extend God’s undeserved goodness to others.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying 2 Samuel 6:12-23 under the theme “When Your Family Won’t Support You.” As David matured as a believer, he sometimes found discouragement from those who should have been encouragers – like his wife, Michal. We’ll learn how to find joy and dancing in God even when the world is dragging us down.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying 1 Samuel 24:1-22 under the theme “Doing Life HIS Way.” King Saul wanted to kill David. David’s friends wanted David to kill Saul. It was easy to rationalize. But David said, “I will not lay my hand on my lord, because he is the Lord’s anointed.” David was committed to the will and grace of God more than justifiable human reason. By God’s grace, we don’t get what we reasonably deserve, but we receive grace through a greater David.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying 1 Samuel 17:32-54 under the theme “Slaying Giants.” “David and Goliath” has become a proverbial term for underdog stories. But it’s actually less about our personal empowerment and more about the courage instilled in us when we recognize that a Greater David’s victory has become our own.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we’ll be studying 1 Samuel 16:1-13 under the theme “God’s Decision Process.” When it is time for God to choose a new king in Israel, he doesn’t just make an unusual choice, but a selection that wasn’t even standing amongst the reasonable considerations. This tells us something about how God operates, how we are to revise our decision-making processes, and even more, something about God’s plan of salvation.

SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points.

This week we will be studying Galatians 6:1-10 under the theme “Doing Gospel Good”. God works through each of us in a different way, and we are to examine ourselves and take responsibility for what He asks us to do. God also calls each of us to sow good, spiritual seeds in this life, so that the harvest may be reaped in our next, eternal life.

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying Galatians 5:13-26 under the theme “Freedom to Fight Against Your Flesh." We are in a daily struggle against temptation and sin, and sometimes we feel like we are losing the struggle more than we are winning. Christ has claimed victory over these daily battles, freeing us from the desires of our flesh, and over the enemy of death.

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying Galatians 4:8-20 under the theme “Haunted by Idols.” The Galatians had been influenced by false teachers (Judaizers) who were leading them into a work-righteousness that was actually quite similar to their old paganism. Paul persuades them away from this error of religion through a combination of truth and love – personalized gospel ministry.

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying Galatians 3:1-14 under the theme “The Appeal and Failure of the Law.” We see here how proud humans are always tempted to plagiarize from God, attempting to give ourselves some level of credit for our salvation, righteousness, and blessings. But self-merit in God’s Kingdom will only cause spiritual sickness.

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying Galatians 2:11-21 under the theme “The Damage of Believers Forgetting the Gospel.” Paul illustrates this theme to the Galatians by telling a story of even the Apostle Peter acting out of line with the gospel and causing great pain. There is great transformation in not scolding ourselves, or others, but explaining how a behavior might be “out of line with the gospel.”

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying Galatians 1:3-12 under the theme “No Other Gospel.” Reversing the gospel is a primary mechanism by which Satan tries to steal confidence, hope, joy, and even salvation away from Christians. This lesson teaches the right order of the gospel. We’ll learn how to fight against an upside-down, perverted ordering of the gospel in our thinking and relationships.

SERIES SUMMARY: Galatians is written to believers who were allowing the gospel to become distorted in their lives. Influential teachers were causing them to focus more on themselves and their obedience than on Christ’s deliverance. In this series, we’ll learn that everything in a fallen world is fighting to drive us further into self-focus. But the beauty of Christ pulls our eyes to him, healing our self-inflicted wounds, and liberating us to love and serve others.

This week we will be studying John 15:9-17 under the theme “Dangerous Friendship.” As God has called us “friends,” and treated us as his greatest friend by laying his life down for us, we are also to go and do likewise – not as friends of the world, but as the best friends in the world.

SERIES SUMMARY: "Dangerous Jesus" is based on a book by Kevin "KB" Burgess. Today, we see a surge of people walking away from the Christian faith. But what's repelling people isn't Jesus - it's that what is often widely spread as mainstream Christianity is simply not worthy of His name. Jesus invaded the world with love for the forgotten, hope for the hopeless, and freedom for the bound. "Dangerous Jesus" reintroduces us to the true Jesus, the one who poses a threat to the status quo, to our division, and to our rebellion. We need to reconnect with this Jesus. We need to become a threat to the threats. We need to be dangerous for good.

This week we will be studying Acts 2:42-47 under the theme “Dangerous Spirit.” After Pentecost, the Spirit of God worked mightily in the Early Church to produce a countercultural lifestyle amongst God’s people as they graciously did life together.

SERIES SUMMARY: "Dangerous Jesus" is based on a book by Kevin "KB" Burgess. Today, we see a surge of people walking away from the Christian faith. But what's repelling people isn't Jesus - it's that what is often widely spread as mainstream Christianity is simply not worthy of His name. Jesus invaded the world with love for the forgotten, hope for the hopeless, and freedom for the bound. "Dangerous Jesus" reintroduces us to the true Jesus, the one who poses a threat to the status quo, to our division, and to our rebellion. We need to reconnect with this Jesus. We need to become a threat to the threats. We need to be dangerous for good.

This week we’ll be studying Philippians 3:17-21 under the theme “Dangerous Citizen.” When Christians in this world forget that their citizenship is truly in heaven, they tend to have an unhealthy relationship with political power. Christian Nationalism has become an unhealthy development. This week we’ll learn the confidence that comes from knowing Jesus on his throne, and how he primarily wants us to influence society.

"Dangerous Jesus" is based on a book by Kevin "KB" Burgess. Today, we see a surge of people walking away from the Christian faith. But what's repelling people isn't Jesus - it's that what is often widely spread as mainstream Christianity is simply not worthy of His name. Jesus invaded the world with love for the forgotten, hope for the hopeless, and freedom for the bound. "Dangerous Jesus" reintroduces us to the true Jesus, the one who poses a threat to the status quo, to our division, and to our rebellion. We need to reconnect with this Jesus. We need to become a threat to the threats. We need to be dangerous for good.

This week, we will be studying Luke 9:18-20 under the theme, "Dangerous Jesus." Jesus asked the question to his disciples and to us all, "But what about you? Who do you say I am? "Find out why the only thing more risky than getting Jesus right is getting Jesus wrong.

SERIES SUMMARY: "Dangerous Jesus" is based on a book by Kevin "KB" Burgess. Today, we see a surge of people walking away from the Christian faith. But what's repelling people isn't Jesus - it's that what is often widely spread as mainstream Christianity is simply not worthy of His name. Jesus invaded the world with love for the forgotten, hope for the hopeless, and freedom for the bound. "Dangerous Jesus" reintroduces us to the true Jesus, the one who poses a threat to the status quo, to our division, and to our rebellion. We need to reconnect with this Jesus. We need to become a threat to the threats. We need to be dangerous for good.

This week we will be studying Revelation 7:9-14 under the theme “Christianity Is Necessarily Diverse.” As we close out our series on Urban Apologetics, we will look back at the doctrines we’ve covered, their implications, and applications for individuals and our church. We will also look ahead to the gathering of saints for worship in heaven, noticing how, by God’s design, they’ve come from every nation, tribe, people, and language.

This series is loosely structured on a book by Dr. Eric Mason. "Apologetics" is the study of the reasonable defense of the Christian faith; being prepared to give the world a reason for the hope that we have. While the world takes offense at the Gospel, those in urban settings face unique challenges that are particular to a diverse context. This series will help members find greater confidence in speaking about distinct issues that our local church faces.

This week we will be studying James 2:1-5 under the theme “Does God Favor Some People Groups?” Why is it that the poor of the world have historically been more receptive to the gospel of Jesus than the wealthy? What exactly is favoritism and what does it look like to rid our lives of a “ME FIRST” approach to human relationships? This passage from James teaches us another upside-down principle of the Kingdom.

This series is loosely structured on a book by Dr. Eric Mason. "Apologetics" is the study of the reasonable defense of the Christian faith; being prepared to give the world a reason for the hope that we have. While the world takes offense at the Gospel, those in urban settings face unique challenges that are particular to a diverse context. This series will help members find greater confidence in speaking about distinct issues that our local church faces.

This week we will be studying Deuteronomy 10:12-22 under the theme “Christians Fight For Human Dignity.” In our annual Juneteenth celebration, we will acknowledge our country’s struggles with human dignity, study God’s approach to viewing one another based on how he views us, and seek steps toward preserving the dignity of all.

This series is loosely structured on a book by Dr. Eric Mason. "Apologetics" is the study of the reasonable defense of the Christian faith; being prepared to give the world a reason for the hope that we have. While the world takes offense at the Gospel, those in urban settings face unique challenges that are particular to a diverse context. This series will help members find greater confidence in speaking about distinct issues that our local church faces.

This week we will be studying Galatians 3:26-29 under the theme “Christianity…a Whitewashed Religion?” Regardless of earthly categories, all who believe in Jesus maintain the status as fully justified children of God. Unfortunately, Christians don’t always communicate that equality in the way we conduct our lives. We begin our new series by seeing how this is problematic and where we can start doing something about it.

This series is loosely structured on a book by Dr. Eric Mason. "Apologetics" is the study of the reasonable defense of the Christian faith; being prepared to give the world a reason for the hope that we have. While the world takes offense at the Gospel, those in urban settings face unique challenges that are particular to a diverse context. This series will help members find greater confidence in speaking about distinct issues that our local church faces.

This week we will be studying 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 under the theme “Give.” Regular, generous giving is a tangible way for us to express gratitude for all that God has already accomplished for us and confidence in all that God promises for our present and future.

As we are renewed by the grace of Jesus, he calls us to a new life of following him called discipleship. At St Marcus, we focus on 4 spiritual habits we call "Vital Signs" that help us grow in healthy ways along our Journey of Discipleship. As we add Vital Signs to our lifestyle, we grow in our ability to lead and disciple others. In this, we strive to walk alongside people with loving compassion through a radical withness that continually points to our dependence on Jesus.

Based on Isaiah 53:7.

God promised Adam and Eve that he would one day send one who would crush the serpent and free his people from sin and its penalty. Isaiah announced that this person is the Lord's Suffering Servant. The fourth and final "Servant Song" in the book of Isaiah expresses the unheard of declaration that the suffering of a single man would release all of us from the consequences of sin. In this season of Lent we will focus on our suffering Savior and the Fourth Servant Song of Isaiah. Written about 700 years before Christ, it depicts his life from the cradle to the grave, from his birth to his resurrection, portraying his suffering and his glory in a particularly vivid and graphic manner. Jesus fulfilled the Lord's will, accomplished our salvation, and was given the victor's reward, which he graciously shares with us.

This week we will be studying John 13:31-36 under the theme “Loving One Another.” Prior to dying for their sins on the cross, Jesus gets down and washes his disciples’ feet. While both, in a sense, are what God’s people do for one another, the latter provides the more accessible daily option and the apologetic of humbly showing love.  

The Gospel of John, written a couple decades after the other Gospel records, focuses less on the facts of Jesus’ ministry and more on the meaning of those facts. John frequently refers to Jesus’ miracles as “signs” – i.e. signals that point us to something even more significant than the miracle itself. John teaches us that Jesus is the “Word Incarnate” who dwelt among us, loved us dearly, and gave our lives eternal meaning.

Based on Isaiah 53:6.

God promised Adam and Eve that he would one day send one who would crush the serpent and free his people from sin and its penalty. Isaiah announced that this person is the Lord's Suffering Servant. The fourth and final "Servant Song" in the book of Isaiah expresses the unheard of declaration that the suffering of a single man would release all of us from the consequences of sin. In this season of Lent we will focus on our suffering Savior and the Fourth Servant Song of Isaiah. Written about 700 years before Christ, it depicts his life from the cradle to the grave, from his birth to his resurrection, portraying his suffering and his glory in a particularly vivid and graphic manner. Jesus fulfilled the Lord's will, accomplished our salvation, and was given the victor's reward, which he graciously shares with us.

Mary's gift and example of sacrifice and unconditional commitment to Jesus calls us to do the same. When will you "break the jar" and freely live in the comfort of His promises? Based on John 12:1-11.

The Gospel of John, written a couple decades after the other Gospel records, focuses less on the facts of Jesus’ ministry and more on the meaning of those facts. John frequently refers to Jesus’ miracles as “signs” – i.e. signals that point us to something even more significant than the miracle itself. John teaches us that Jesus is the “Word Incarnate” who dwelt among us, loved us dearly, and gave our lives eternal meaning.

Based on Isaiah 53:4-5.

God promised Adam and Eve that he would one day send one who would crush the serpent and free his people from sin and its penalty. Isaiah announced that this person is the Lord's Suffering Servant. The fourth and final "Servant Song" in the book of Isaiah expresses the unheard of declaration that the suffering of a single man would release all of us from the consequences of sin. In this season of Lent we will focus on our suffering Savior and the Fourth Servant Song of Isaiah. Written about 700 years before Christ, it depicts his life from the cradle to the grave, from his birth to his resurrection, portraying his suffering and his glory in a particularly vivid and graphic manner. Jesus fulfilled the Lord's will, accomplished our salvation, and was given the victor's reward, which he graciously shares with us.

This week we will be studying John 11:36-44 under the theme “Lazarus.” While Jesus performed many miracles, resurrection was his most important and most impactful sign. We’ll see his humanity, his power, and his intention to undo the results of sin in this world.

The Gospel of John, written a couple decades after the other Gospel records, focuses less on the facts of Jesus’ ministry and more on the meaning of those facts. John frequently refers to Jesus’ miracles as “signs” – i.e. signals that point us to something even more significant than the miracle itself. John teaches us that Jesus is the “Word Incarnate” who dwelt among us, loved us dearly, and gave our lives eternal meaning.

Based on Isaiah 52:14 and Isaiah 53:2-3.

God promised Adam and Eve that he would one day send one who would crush the serpent and free his people from sin and its penalty. Isaiah announced that this person is the Lord's Suffering Servant. The fourth and final "Servant Song" in the book of Isaiah expresses the unheard of declaration that the suffering of a single man would release all of us from the consequences of sin. In this season of Lent we will focus on our suffering Savior and the Fourth Servant Song of Isaiah. Written about 700 years before Christ, it depicts his life from the cradle to the grave, from his birth to his resurrection, portraying his suffering and his glory in a particularly vivid and graphic manner. Jesus fulfilled the Lord's will, accomplished our salvation, and was given the victor's reward, which he graciously shares with us.

This week we’ll be studying John 10:1-29 under the theme “The Good Shepherd.” The image of Jesus as a Good Shepherd and we as his sheep is humbling, helpful, and hopeful. It provides perspective on what we’re capable of, what Christ is capable of, and how valued we are.

The Gospel of John, written a couple decades after the other Gospel records, focuses less on the facts of Jesus’ ministry and more on the meaning of those facts. John frequently refers to Jesus’ miracles as “signs” – i.e. signals that point us to something even more significant than the miracle itself. John teaches us that Jesus is the “Word Incarnate” who dwelt among us, loved us dearly, and gave our lives eternal meaning.

God promised Adam and Eve that he would one day send one who would crush the serpent and free his people from sin and its penalty. Isaiah announced that this person is the Lord's Suffering Servant. The fourth and final "Servant Song" in the book of Isaiah expresses the unheard of declaration that the suffering of a single man would release all of us from the consequences of sin. In this season of Lent we will focus on our suffering Savior and the Fourth Servant Song of Isaiah. Written about 700 years before Christ, it depicts his life from the cradle to the grave, from his birth to his resurrection, portraying his suffering and his glory in a particularly vivid and graphic manner. Jesus fulfilled the Lord's will, accomplished our salvation, and was given the victor's reward, which he graciously shares with us.