Victory Church Providence

Don't Stop Believing

Don’t Stop Believing: A Reflection on Hebrews 12

A Sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor at Victory Church in Providence, RI.

The Power and Blessing of God’s Word

The Word of God stands as a timeless, life-changing force. It is not just information, but revelation—a source of power and blessing. For the believer, Scripture isn’t just a traditional book; it is the living, inspired guide that shapes faith and anchors hope.

The Christian Race: Endurance Over Speed

Using the imagery from Hebrews 12, believers are reminded that following Jesus is not a sprint but a marathon. Life in Christ requires perseverance and a willingness to continue through battles, spiritual attacks, and moments of doubt. The encouragement is plain: Don’t stop believing.

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith...”

Faith as a Marathon

• The Christian journey is long and demanding, requiring perseverance, not a short burst of effort.

• Life brings seasons of spiritual honeymoon and also testing, but through faith, every hardship can be overcome.

The Examples of Faith: A “Cloud of Witnesses”

Hebrews 12 begins with a reminder that we are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” referring to the faith heroes listed in Hebrews 11. These individuals—Abraham, Moses, Samson, Gideon, and others—demonstrated faith amidst suffering, deprivation, and daunting obstacles.

• Their stories assure us: If they made it, we can too.

• Their testimonies cheer us on, encouraging us to keep running and believing despite all circumstances.

Believers today have more resources—the full Bible, stories, and testimonies—than those early heroes did, yet the call is the same: keep the faith.

Laying Aside Every Weight

The Hindrances to Running the Race

The passage urges us to “lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily entangles.” Like a runner shedding unnecessary gear, believers must let go of anything holding them back from wholeheartedly following Christ.

Practical Weights to Lay Aside:

Weight	Description
Laziness	Neglecting spiritual discipline or commitments
Lack of Commitment	Merely being involved rather than truly devoted
Distractions	Allowing social media or worldly interests to replace time with God’s Word
Unforgiveness	Holding onto grudges, which hinders spiritual progress
Critical Spirit	Being harshly judgmental towards others within the faith community
Bitterness	Allowing wounds to fester into deep resentment

 

• These are not just bad habits, but actual spiritual weights that slow our progress and can keep us from finishing strong.

• The passage highlights personal responsibility: We must choose to lay these aside.

The Sin That So Easily Entangles: Unbelief

The passage distinguishes between “weights” (various hindrances) and “the sin”—which, in context, is unbelief.

• Unbelief is not a minor issue to God; it reflects a lack of trust in His promises and a turning away from His truth.

• The greatest obstacle to enduring faith is not hardship, but losing faith in the faithfulness of God.

“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” (Hebrews 3)

Enduring with Encouragement

• Like athletes, we don’t compete against each other, but run our own race, in our own lane. The victory is not comparison, but completion.

• The faithful who went before us testify: hardships can be overcome, faith can triumph, and God remains true.

Grace to Overcome

• Lay aside every weight: Make choices that honor God over comfort or distraction.

• Persevere through unbelief: Trust in God’s Word and His purposes, even when you cannot see the end.

Closing Encouragement

Let these truths settle in your heart:

• You are not running alone. The “crowd of witnesses” testifies to God’s faithfulness through all generations.

• It’s too soon to quit. Don’t let weights or unbelief keep you from the victory promised to all who finish.

• The prize is eternal. While runners in ancient games received crowns that faded, your reward in Christ is everlasting.

Stay encouraged. Don’t stop believing. Lay aside whatever holds you back, and run with endurance—the Author and Finisher, Jesus, is waiting at the finish line.

 

 

Real Love

Real Love

A Sermon By Rev. Brenna Kate Simonds, Director of Alive in Christ, a ministry offering hope to individuals, families, and churches impacted by same sex attractions and gender dysphoria.

INTRODUCTORY EXHORTATION

Pastor Richard Sfameni sets the tone with a short exhortation focused on spiritual brokenness and the need for healing in Jesus:

• Message theme: God redeems human brokenness and transforms lives through Christ.

• Illustrative anecdote: People delay coming to church until they “get their life right,” likened to trying to fix a car before seeing a mechanic.

• Critique of religious pretense: Church attendees often “fake it,” pretending to have life figured out rather than seeking healing.

• Call to honesty and humility: Acknowledges that all are “in the process” of healing and need grace.

• Concludes by introducing guest speaker Brenna Kate Simonds, inviting her to speak.

BRENNA KATE SIMONDS – TESTIMONY AND TEACHING

Brenna is a missionary working with the LGBT community and directs the Alive in Christ ministry. She shares her personal testimony and views on sexuality, sanctification, and the church’s role in discipling people dealing with same-sex attraction.

Alive in Christ Ministry Overview

• Mission: Christ-centered, interdenominational discipleship and mentoring for individuals dealing with same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria, including their families and churches.

• Methods: Zoom-based support groups for:

  • Men with unwanted same-sex attraction

  • Women with same-sex attraction

  • Friends and family of LGBT-identified individuals

• Philosophy: Freedom is found in obedience to Christ, not necessarily the absence of temptation.

• Emphasizes discipleship over instant transformation, inspired by the Great Commission.

Ministry Beliefs

Includes a brief theology of sexuality rooted in a conservative Evangelical worldview:

• Sexual intimacy reserved for marriage between a man and woman.

• Transformation is a lifelong process guided by Romans 12:2 (“be transformed by the renewing of your mind”).

• Same-sex attraction is not chosen, but acting on it is considered sin — temptation itself is not sin.

• Comparison to other temptations: Parallels drawn with addiction (e.g., Teen Challenge), emphasizing obedience amid ongoing struggles.

PERSONAL TESTIMONY

Brenna shares her life story with vulnerability and detail:

• Childhood trauma: Born premature; alcoholic mother; relational neglect from parents.

• Bullying in junior high, leading to internalized lies of being “flawed” and “unlovable.”

• At age 15, fell in love for the first time—with a female best friend, leading to a romantic relationship.

• During that period, lacked support or guidance; identified herself as "homosexual" based on available information at the time.

• Built her identity around being gay for ten years, believing the message: “You were born this way, embrace it or you'll never be happy.”

SCRIPTURAL REFLECTION – MARK 10:17–22 (Rich Young Ruler)

• Uses the story of the rich young ruler to highlight how individuals can:

  • Base life decisions on prior experiences and external messages.

  • Struggle to surrender things they believe define them.

• Message: Christ calls everyone to surrender what they cling to—whether wealth, identity markers, or cultural acceptance—for sake of full devotion to Him.

ENGAGEMENT WITH LGBT COMMUNITY AND FAITH

Simonds introduces data from the book Us Versus Us (by Andrew Marin) outlining how the LGBT community experiences faith and religion:

• Majority of LGBT individuals were raised in communities of faith.

• Highlights disconnect between how churches treat people who struggle with drugs/addiction (with grace and redemption paths) vs. those dealing with same-sex attraction (often judged based on whether they still experience temptation).

OTHER DETAILS

• Brenna is an author of two books:

  • Learning to Walk in Freedom – a discipleship resource.

  • Lessons from Joshua – a devotional book.

• She has a speaking ministry and engages audiences often interactively with storytelling and questions.

CENTRAL THEMES (Summarized)

• Healing and transformation require honesty, discipleship, and time.

• Jesus invites all people, including those with complex pasts and identities, into full relationship with Him.

• Same-sex attraction is viewed as a temptation, not sin, and transformation involves spiritual rather than sexual orientation change.

• The church must improve its witness and compassion to the LGBT community.

A Victim No More

A Victim No More

A sermon by Dr. Mike Caparelli, minister, author, and founder of Unmuted a ministry that gives the oppressed their voices back

Introduction and Opening Remarks

• Welcoming the congregation, enthusiasm for the Word of God.

• Importance of receiving new revelation, regardless of Christian maturity.

• Introduction of Dr. Mike Caparelli: friend, PhD in behavioral science, passionate about God and the Holy Spirit.

• Personal anecdote: Dr. Caparelli as an excellent Italian cook, visit to beach house.

Dr. Caparelli’s Background and Ministry

• Broad ministerial reach: local, national, international.

• Upcoming trip to Ghana for a mental health seminar at a university.

• Reference to New York’s “Son of Sam” case: David Berkowitz.

  • Berkowitz's conversion in prison.

  • Caparelli’s correspondence and 100-hour interview project.

  • Book: Monster Mirror – 100 Hours with David Berkowitz.

Caparelli’s Media Involvement

• Discussion of Netflix documentary: "Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes."

  • Caparelli interviewed as a behavioral psychologist.

  • Requirement that Berkowitz’s conversion story be included.

  • Anticipation of the documentary’s spiritual impact.

The Transformation of David Berkowitz

• Berkowitz’s violent past: serial murders, arson.

• His imprisonment and Christian conversion.

• Emphasis on the authenticity and longevity of Berkowitz’s faith.

Ministry to Other Offenders

• Correspondence with Craig Price, another infamous criminal.

  • Price now reading Monster Mirror in prison.

  • Caparelli’s belief in redemption for even the “worst offenders.”

  • Clarification: advocating spiritual, not legal, freedom.

Caparelli’s Published Works

• Overview of books:

  • Dr. Jesus – devotions on mental health.

  • Pain in the Parables – recovering from trauma.

  • Surviving Feelings – recovering from dark emotions.

Transition to Sermon: John Chapter 5

• Prayer for the congregation.

• Statement: The Bible as the greatest psychology textbook.

• Framing the passage: the lame man’s story as an allegory for everyone’s struggles.

• Prayer for freedom from emotional, spiritual, physical, and financial paralysis.

Exegesis of John 5: The Lame Man by the Pool

• Reading and explanation of John 5:3-14 (paralytic at Bethesda).

  • Emphasis on the longevity of the man’s condition (38 years).

  • Jesus’ question: “Do you want to get well?”

    • Difference between needing/wanting healing.

    • Risks of adapting to dysfunctional conditions.

Psychological and Spiritual Insights

• Human adaptability: strength and danger in adapting to dysfunction.

  • Adaptation to negative conditions can lead to a victim mindset.

• University of Adoption study: Victim mentality.

  • Scar experiment: perception of victimhood affects interactions.

• Biblical case study: Naomi/Mara in Ruth 1.

  • Transition from trauma as event to trauma as identity.

Jesus’ Approach: Healing the Mind and Will

• Jesus’ focus on engaging the man’s mind/will, not just his condition.

• Distinction between healing the sick and delivering the stuck.

The African Impala Metaphor

• Description of the animal’s physical ability but psychological captivity.

• Application: psychological and mental barriers limit freedom, not physical ones.

Behavioral Analysis: The Three Mental Traps

Trap 1: Experiences (Routine Becoming Rut)

• 38 years of relying on others, forming habits.

• Neuropsychology: habit wiring in the brain.

• Repetitive mistakes: "Pete and Repeat" analogy.

  • Example: Disciples fishing from same spot (John 21).

Trap 2: Excuses

• The man’s excuse: “I have no one to help me.”

• Analysis: Excuses as self-entrapping.

• “Hidden rescue wish” – waiting for someone else.

• Jesus’ imperative: “Pick up your mat and walk.”

• Principle: Personal responsibility for change.

  • Jesus does not do legwork for those unwilling to put in footwork.

  • Emotional exhaustion of trying to help those unwilling to help themselves.

Trap 3: Exemptions (Perks of Sickness)

• Social/financial incentives to remain unwell (begging mat, benefits).

• Jesus’ challenge: “See, you are well. Stop sinning.”

• Warning against victim identity becoming a form of exemption and entitlement.

• Modern context: proliferation of psychological diagnoses, medicalization of struggles.

Caparelli’s Personal Testimony

• Struggles with depression and institutionalization as a youth.

• Approval for SSDI (disability benefits) despite functional capacity.

• Experience of salvation and transformation—eventual choice to discontinue benefits.

• Illustration of “leaving the mat” as a metaphor for responsibility and healing.

Application and Altar Call

• Call to the congregation: recognize when conditions become mindsets.

• Central question: “Do you want to get well?”

• Invitation to the altar: for those with longstanding problems, habits, or suffering.

Specific Ministry: Targeted Prayers

• Call-outs for insomnia: prayer for sleep restoration.

• Instruction: Trust God’s wakefulness, relinquish worry.

• Call for those lacking hope: prayer for renewal of hope and dreams.

• Call for anxiety: explanation of avoidance as root; prayer for courage and confrontation.

• General encouragement: face challenges directly, break patterns of avoidance.

Encouragement for Belonging and Commitment

• Warning against running from relationships, jobs, or church.

• Affirmation of church community as a place of support rather than adversity.

Congregational Prayer for Pastors

• Praying for church leadership (Pastor Richard & Lisa).

• Acknowledgment of their role and covering in prayer.

• Upholding leaders during times of rest and service.

•  

 

Quick, Get Me to the Emergency Room

Quick, Get Me to the Emergency Room

A sermon by Evangelist Richard Leahey

Opening Remarks and Introductions

• Warm acknowledgment of Pastor Richard and Lisa’s faithfulness and the congregation’s strong core.

• Mention of the preacher’s calling as an evangelist, emphasizing obedience to God rather than financial security.

• Encouragement to support the ministry with prayer and engagement.

Scriptural Foundation and Prayer

• Scripture Reference: Psalm 71:17-18

  • God’s faithfulness through the years and the plea not to be forsaken in old age.

  • Desire to declare God’s strength to future generations.

• Opening Prayer:

  • Invitation for God to shake, elevate, and transform the congregation.

  • Request for destruction of anything in believers that hinders growth and for building up of godly attributes.

The Imperative of True Christianity

• Main Problem Identified: Many seek to add Jesus to their existing lives rather than allowing transformation.

• Jesus requires removal and destruction of sin and corruption before new life can be built.

Main Message: “Quick, Get Me to the Emergency Room”

The Nature of God’s Wondrous Works

• “Wondrous” defined as supernatural and distinguishing God from all else.

• Testimony of personal transformation experienced outside hospital walls; “operations” on the heart with God in moments of desperation.

Three Areas of God’s Supernatural Works (Focus on the First: Salvation)

• Salvation as the Greatest Miracle

  • Salvation brings radical change; if unexplainable, may indicate lack of true conversion.

  • Personal background: Raised as a devout Catholic, free from major vices (drugs, alcohol), but still bound by internal demons and strongholds.

  • Story of meeting wife, subsequent heartbreak, and depression after a breakup.

Personal Testimony: The Journey to Salvation

• College Experience and Divine Interruption

  • Call to “study” led supernaturally to a Campus Crusade for Christ encounter.

  • Reluctance due to Catholic upbringing; avoidance of Christian peers.

• Season of Depression and Spiritual Brokenness

  • Deep discouragement and bitterness after receiving a “Dear John” letter.

  • Admits religious people can be most apt to curse God during trials.

  • The critical turning point: Realizing personal guilt and the need to repent, not just be sorry.

  • Repentance results in lifted depression and spiritual transformation.

  • Reconnection with original love interest—who becomes his wife and spiritual influence.

Importance of Growing in the Word and Early Discipleship

• Stress on the significance of reading and loving the Word of God.

• Contrast between past and current approaches to Scripture engagement.

• The expectation that immersion in the Word changes worship and life experience.

Warnings and Practical Teaching for Growth

The Danger of Pride

• Pride as the chief enemy of spiritual growth, even greater than obvious sins.

• Biblical reference: Ephesians 1:12—life must be for the praise of God’s glory.

• God resists pride, and spiritual progress demands humility and repentance.

Practical Steps for Transformation

• Reference to Romans 6:13: Presenting one’s body and life to God, not to sin.

• Expectation that Satan will oppose serious growth through guilt and condemnation.

• Solution: Hate sin, not oneself. Stand in Christ’s grace while seeking true deliverance.

Example: Deliverance from Anger and Jealousy

• Real-life story of overwhelming rage and jealousy as a young Christian.

• Biblical reference to Galatians 5 on the “works of the flesh” (including outbursts of wrath).

• Honest confession, prayer, and deliverance from controlling sin.

• Emphasis that true liberation requires honest recognition and surrender of sinful areas.

Invitation and Altar Call

• Two-part Appeal:

  • Those needing salvation—to step forward, repent, and receive Christ as Savior.

  • Believers with areas not fully surrendered—to step forward for prayer and confession, seeking deliverance and transformation.

• Practical instructions for coming forward: Find space, stand alone, don’t wait for intercessors—God meets the individual directly.

Summary:
The sermon combines personal testimony, urgent teaching on transformation and repentance, and practical instructions for spiritual growth. It challenges superficial faith, underscores the necessity of inner change, and guides listeners to move from pride and spiritual stagnation to humility, repentance, and a deeply surrendered walk with Christ.

Launch Into the Deep

Launch Into the Deep

A Sermon by Pasquale Granata, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI

 

Introduction and Welcome

• Current Speaker: Filling in for Pastor Richard and Pastor Lisa.

Theme Introduction

• Focus: "Launch Out into the Deep" (Luke 5:1–11).

• Setting: Jesus by the Sea of Galilee, teaching from Simon’s boat.

Scripture Reading and Context

• Luke 5:1–11: Jesus teaches from Simon’s boat, asks Simon to launch into the deep, miraculous catch of fish, call to discipleship.

• Background: Connection to Luke 4 (Jesus filled with the Holy Spirit, ministry in Galilee).

Background and Setting

• Jesus’ Ministry: Preaching and healing with authority and power.

• Response of the People: Marvel at Jesus’ authority and power, unlike religious leaders.

• Jesus’ Encounters: Life-changing for everyone he meets.

The Call of the Disciples

• Previous Encounters: Reference to earlier meetings with Simon (Peter) and other disciples.

• Multiple Calls: Jesus calls Simon more than once; disciples still follow from afar, not yet fully committed.

Jesus’ Use of Simon’s Boat

• Symbolism: Jesus wants to use your “boat” (your life, resources).

• Practicality: Jesus uses Simon’s boat to reach the crowd, but also to reach Simon.

The Miracle of the Catch

• Simon’s Response: “We have toiled all night and caught nothing. Nevertheless, at your word, I’ll let down the net.”

• Result: Immediate, overwhelming catch of fish.

• Disciples’ Reaction: Astonishment, recognition of Jesus’ authority.

Discipleship and Transformation

• Call to Follow: Jesus tells Simon, “From now on you’ll catch men.”

• Leaving Everything: Disciples leave their boats and follow Jesus.

Sermon Application and Reflection

• Obeying Jesus: The importance of obedience even when it doesn’t make sense.

• Letting Go of “Stuff”: The burden of insignificant things that keep us from following Jesus fully.

• Encountering Jesus: Every encounter with Jesus should be life-changing.

• Being Different: The call to be set apart, not to mix serving God with serving other “idols.”

Personal and Contemporary Application

• Personal Stories: The speaker shares memories of fishing with family.

• Word of God: The power of God’s word to break obstacles in life.

• Encouragement: Jesus is ready to “rock your boat” and use your life for his purpose.

Father's Day 2025

Father's Day 2025

A Sermon by Caleb Dubois and Kwame Dapaah-Afriye, members at Victory Church in Providence, RI

 

Faithfulness

• Introduction and Definition
  • Gratitude for the pastor and the church’s commitment to teaching the word of God without compromise.
  • Definition of faithfulness from Webster’s dictionary: steadfastness in affection, allegiance, adherence to promises, and truth to facts or standards.
• Biblical Example: Daniel
  • Daniel’s faithfulness to God despite societal and governmental pressures.
  • Daniel’s consistent prayer life and refusal to compromise his devotion, even when threatened with the lions’ den.
  • Comparison of Daniel’s faithfulness to modern distractions, such as social media, and a call for Christians to set different priorities.
• Practical Application
  • Encouragement to spend more time in prayer and Bible reading, challenging the congregation to be distinct from societal norms.
  • Emphasis on faithfulness during difficult times, not just when it is easy or convenient.
  • Personal testimony of how faithfulness led to spiritual growth and blessings in the speaker’s life.
• Impact of Faithfulness
  • Daniel’s faithfulness resulted in societal transformation and influenced even the king.
  • Christians are encouraged to be set apart and to influence society by example, not confrontation.
  • Reference to Romans 12:2 about being transformed by the renewing of the mind.
  • The importance of role models and setting examples for younger generations in the church.

Integrity

• Introduction and Emotional Context
  • Addressing the emotions of fathers and men on Father’s Day, recognizing different experiences and backgrounds.
  • Encouragement that identity is defined by God, not by upbringing or past failures.
• Biblical Example: Jacob
  • The story of Jacob’s lack of integrity and the consequences of living a life of deceit (Genesis 27–32).
  • The importance of alignment between words, actions, and influence—integrity means consistency and authenticity.
  • The transformative encounter between Jacob and God, leading to a new identity and changed behavior.
• Call to Integrity
  • Integrity is not perfection but honesty before God and willingness to seek His help.
  • The church’s need for people of integrity who walk differently and reflect God’s character in their lives.

Awakening the Mighty Men

• Spiritual Awakening and Encouragement
  • A call for men in the church to “wake up” spiritually and embrace their responsibilities and calling.
  • Recognition that all are imperfect and in need of God’s grace, but each has the potential for greatness in God’s kingdom.
• Prayer and Blessing
  • A corporate prayer for the awakening and empowerment of men in the church, asking God to restore, anoint, and bless them and their families.
  • Encouragement for mutual support, prayer, and unity among men, emphasizing the importance of community and intercession.
• Conclusion
  • Final words of appreciation and blessing for the men, celebrating their role and encouraging them to live out their faith boldly.
•  

Pentecost

Pentecost

A Sermon by Brenard Rowe, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI.

 

Introduction and Opening Remarks

• Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to minister.
• Acknowledgement and prayer for the pastor’s recovery.
• Personal anecdote about being asked to preach on short notice.

Setting the Context: Pentecost Sunday

• Explanation that Pentecost is recognized as the birth of the church and a pivotal event in Christian doctrine.
• Emphasis on the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit and the ongoing relevance of Pentecost.

The Role and Power of the Holy Spirit

• The Holy Spirit transforms believers from fearful followers to bold witnesses.
• The Holy Spirit provides strength, peace, wisdom, unity, and equips believers for service.

Biblical Foundation

• Reference to Acts 2:1-4 describing the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
• Jesus’ instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8).
• Importance of receiving the Holy Spirit before undertaking ministry.

The Experience of the Early Church

• Disciples' state of confusion and despair after Jesus' death.
• Fulfillment of Jesus’ promise through the coming of the Holy Spirit.
• The supernatural signs accompanying the Spirit’s arrival (wind, tongues of fire, speaking in tongues).

Speaking in Tongues

• Definition: A supernatural language for worship and communication with God.
• Old Testament examples of the Spirit coming upon individuals (e.g., Moses’ elders, Gideon, Samson, Saul’s messengers).
• New Testament affirmation of speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism.

Instances of Holy Spirit Baptism in the New Testament

• Jerusalem (Acts 2:4): Disciples receive the Holy Spirit.
• Samaria (Acts 8:14-17): Believers receive the Spirit through the apostles’ laying on of hands.
• Saul/Paul (Acts 9:17): Receives the Spirit after Ananias lays hands on him.
• Cornelius’ house (Acts 10:44-48): Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit while Peter preaches.
• Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6): Believers receive the Holy Spirit through Paul.

Benefits of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit

• Power for ministry (Acts 1:8).
• Spiritual refreshing (Isaiah 28:11).
• Ability to witness and reveal Christ (John 16:13-14).
• Inner strength and comfort (John 15:26).
• Spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
• Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).
• Spiritual quickening (Romans 8:11).

Who Can Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

• Everyone: Rich, poor, young, old, sinners, saints, children, etc.
• Reference to Psalm 81:10 as encouragement to receive.

Who Cannot Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

• Those satisfied with mere salvation and unwilling to serve.
• Disobedient and unyielding Christians.
• Those who do not believe or are closed off to the Holy Spirit.

Conditions for Receiving the Holy Spirit

• Repentance and baptism (Acts 2:28).
• Asking God with faith (Luke 11:13).
• Deep conviction, consecration, and willingness to live for God (John 7:37-39).

The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers

• Teaches and makes believers teachable.
• Enables true worship and confession.
• Guides prayer and leads by God’s word.

Conclusion

• The Holy Spirit is the comforter and helper sent by God.
• Encouragement to be open to the Holy Spirit’s work and to fulfill commitments in service to God and the church.

 

All Call Sunday

All Call Sunday

A Sermon by Judy Mensch, missionary to the children  of Europe.

For more information about Judy here.

 

Ouline

Introduction

• Introduction of the speaker: Judy Mensch, a missionary, children’s pastor, evangelist, and Bible school instructor.
• Personal anecdotes regarding support and shared history with the church community.
• Humorous and personal stories to establish rapport (e.g., pantyhose story behind the pulpit).
• Emphasis on the church as a community of people, not just a building.

Reflections on Aging and Experience

• Positive perspective on aging: increased wisdom and social skills.
• Physical challenges of aging contrasted with personal vitality and ongoing activity.
• Encouragement to embrace age and continue serving.

Purpose and Structure of the Service

• Explanation of the focus: The Body of Christ and individual roles within it.
• Outline of how the service will conclude:
  • Invitation for newcomers to learn about Jesus.
  • Instructions for congregation members to visit ministry tables and sign up for service opportunities.
  • Emphasis that everyone should find a place to serve.

The Body of Christ: Diversity and Function

• Analogy of the body: Each part has a unique and necessary function.
• Encouragement for all members to participate in ministry, not to remain spectators.
• Assurance that everyone has something to contribute.

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30)

• Reference to the parable as a basis for the message.
• Clarification of terminology: preference for “skills and gifts” over “talents.”
• Emphasis that all have received gifts/skills from God.

Key Points of the Message

• A. Variety of Gifts
  • Everyone has received something; no one is left out.
  • Gifts differ in type and measure, reflecting God’s sovereignty and purpose.
  • Biblical references: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians.
• B. Responsibility of Having Gifts
  • Each person is called to use their gifts in service.
  • Serving fills personal gaps and brings fulfillment.
  • God’s will is for everyone to be active, not passive.
• C. Rewards of Using Gifts
  • Joy is the reward for serving and using one’s gifts.
  • Serving others leads to personal growth and spiritual satisfaction.

Diversity and Equality in the Body

• God gives different gifts to different people, but loves all equally.
• No gift is more honorable; all are necessary for the body to function.
• Reference to the “upside down kingdom”: God’s values often differ from worldly values.

Practical Application and Encouragement

• Encouragement to sign up for ministries, including less glamorous roles (e.g., nursery).
• Recognition that some ministries are less visible but equally important.
• Everyone’s contribution matters, regardless of recognition or praise.

Conclusion

• Restatement of the call to serve and be active in the body of Christ.
• Assurance that serving is serving Jesus himself.
• Final instructions for the congregation on next steps after the service.

 

Not on Your Own Understanding

Not on Your Own Understanding

A Sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor of Victory Church in Providence, RI. 

Proverbs 3:5-6

5  Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;

6  In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

God, Israel, and The Church

 

God, Israel, and The Church

A Sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor of Victory Church in Providence, RI. 

Paul’s Perspective

Paul’s Passion

Romans 9:1-5 NKJV

Israel’s Rejection of Christ

9 I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, 2 that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, 4 who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; 5 of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.