Sermons by Bob Rhodes (Page 3)

Some stories are meant to inspire. Others are meant to disturb. This week’s parable does both—just not in the way we might expect. As we continue our #JesusTrending series, we explore a story that challenges our sense of fairness and exposes our hidden assumptions about who belongs. A son returns home after burning every bridge—and instead of punishment, he’s welcomed with open arms and a celebration. What kind of love does that? The kind that still invites us in. Scripture:…

We’ve all hit the snooze button—sometimes literally, sometimes in life. It’s easy to put things off, assuming we’ll always have more time. But what if we’re delaying something that truly matters? As we continue our #JesusTrending series, we explore a story where a fig tree is about to be cut down. Instead of removing it immediately, the gardener asks for more time—one last chance for growth. What do we do with the time we’re given? Are we bearing fruit, or…

We continue our #JesusTrending series by looking at influence—who we follow, what shapes our decisions, and how external voices impact our identity. With just a few clicks, we can follow, like, and share voices that shape the way we see ourselves and the world. But how often do we stop to ask: Who am I really following? Social pressure isn’t new. Even in Jesus’ time, people tried to shape his path, urging him to avoid danger or fit into their…

We live in a world where bigger is often considered better, and the temptation to exaggerate—our stories, our accomplishments, even our identities—is nothing new. Social media makes it easy to curate an impressive version of ourselves, but what does it mean to embrace authenticity instead? As we begin our #JesusTrending Lenten journey, we’ll explore the difference between substance and spectacle, truth and illusion, and what it means to live with honesty and integrity. Scripture: Luke 4:1-13 (CEB)