Victory Church Providence

International Service Sermon, 2025

A Sermon by Rev. Douglas Ahamefula and Elder Brenard Rowe, Elders at Victory Church in Providence, RI.

Opening Tribute and Introduction

• Reference to Biblical principle: "The seed we sow is the seed we reap."

• Honoring Bernard for 32 years of service to the church, emphasizing long-term commitment and various roles in ministry (especially choir/music).

• Mention of Bernard’s wife, Fanny, who has passed away.

• Note of Bernard’s journey to the church and his active, faithful involvement.

Bernard’s Acknowledgments

• Bernard expresses gratitude to Senior Pastor Richard and Pastor Lisa.

• Occasion: 36th church anniversary, international service.

• Bernard humbly accepts the opportunity to speak and share the good news of Jesus Christ.

Theme: The Power and Nature of God’s Love

• Encouragement to reflect on the strongest force in the universe: love, specifically the love of God.

• God's love described as eternal, unchanging, and foundational.

• Focus on unconditional (agape) love, not romantic or materialistic love.

Illustrated Stories and Examples

• Story of a village fire: neighbors show overwhelming love and support to a woman who lost everything.

  • Love stronger than the devastation caused by the fire.

• International service: church as a community of 26 nations, demonstrating God’s love through unity and cultural celebration.

Biblical Foundations of Love

• Biblical description of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, paraphrased):

  • Love is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not proud.

  • Does not dishonor, is not self-seeking or easily angered.

  • Keeps no record of wrongs, rejoices in truth, always protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres, never fails.

• Call to consistently demonstrate these biblical attributes of love.

The Greatest Demonstration: Jesus Christ and the Cross

• Reference to John 3:16: God's gift of his only son as act of unconditional love.

• Example of Christ’s sacrifice—pleading for forgiveness, promise to the thief: “You will be with me in paradise.”

• Analogy: judge takes punishment upon himself—parallels Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity.

Command to Love One Another

• Quote of John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give you, love one another…”

• Must demonstrate love for others; cannot claim love for God while hating others.

Forgiveness and Restoration

• Parable of the prodigal son: father’s unconditional love and forgiveness; call to emulate this.

• Romans 5:8: God’s love demonstrated while we were still sinners.

Sacrificial Love in Practice

• Example: missionaries risking life for the gospel—sacrificial love.

• No one can outgive God; God’s gifts surpass all.

God’s Love in Creation and Deliverance

• Genesis 1:31: God declares his creation “very good” as a sign of his love.

• God's deliverance in biblical history: freeing Israel from Egypt, crossing the Red Sea.

• Love like a shepherd rescuing a lost sheep.

The Permanence of God’s Love

• Romans 8:38-39: nothing can separate us from God’s love.

• God’s love is likened to a lighthouse—guiding through storms.

Call to Action and Conclusion

• God’s love is the greatest gift, endures forever, accessible to all.

• Challenge to receive and share this love unconditionally: “Love is like a candle, it doesn’t lose light by lighting another.”

• Call for unity and acts of love among church community.

• Closing prayer of thanksgiving, blessing, and request to show sacrificial love.

Don't Stop Believing, Part 3

Don't Stop Believing, Part 3

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

I. Introduction

• Welcome and purpose of the podcast: sharing powerful messages from services.

• Victory Church’s mission: reaching the lost, restoring the broken, reviving believers.

• Call to engagement: readiness to receive the Word of God.

• Message title: "Don't Stop Believing" (better phrased as "Keep Believing").

• Central theme: The necessity and critical importance of living by faith.

II. The Nature and Gift of Faith

• Biblical definition: Faith as the “substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

• Faith is confidence in God’s promises and His character.

• Every believer has a “seed/measure” of faith—faith given by God (Romans 12).

• Faith as a muscle: grows stronger through use, challenges, and spiritual exercise.

• Warning against comparing levels of faith among believers.

• Personal testimony: growth through spiritual trials and resistance, analogy to physical training.

III. The Importance of Faith (Scriptural Emphasis)

• Essential for pleasing God: “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6).

• Two elements: belief that God exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.

• Faith is required in every circumstance; God knows individual limits and provides grace for endurance.

IV. Faith as the Primary Metric in the Church

• Examination of Paul’s concern for faith in the church (1 Thessalonians 3).

  • Paul’s repeated focus on the faith of the congregation rather than external measures.

• What Paul didn’t emphasize: not the size, budget, or facilities of the church.

• Critique of cultural (non-biblical) values in assessing church success.

• Dangers of equating “bigness” or material signs with spiritual greatness.

• Examples:

  • 85% of American churches have fewer than 200 people, illustrating that size is not the key measure.

  • Example from church history: Charles Spurgeon’s conversion in a small chapel, demonstrating greatness is about spiritual impact, not size.

V. Keeping Faith Central

• The importance of keeping “the main thing the main thing”—focus on the growth and exercise of faith.

• Individuals and churches must prioritize spiritual metrics over worldly metrics.

VI. Lessons from the Heroes of Faith

• Review of “the cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 11-12.

• Faith exemplars: those who faced challenges and saw God’s faithfulness.

• The value of biographies/autobiographies of Christians for practical insights into a life of faith.

  • Example: George Mueller’s dependence on faith for provision.

• Recognition of current church members as examples of faith and faithfulness.

VII. Hindrances to Faith

• Identifying and “laying aside every weight”:

  • Bitterness, unforgiveness, distractions, and past failures.

• Analogy of running a race: shed anything that slows spiritual progress.

• Biblical example: Paul “forgets what is behind and presses on.”

• The need for “divine forgetfulness” and remembrance of what matters (the cross, God’s promises).

VIII. Perseverance of Faith

• Faith requires perseverance, endurance—keep moving forward despite obstacles and struggles.

• Examples of perseverance from secular figures (Walt Disney, Einstein, Churchill, Lincoln) to illustrate endurance.

• Claim: with the Spirit of God, believers have even greater potential for perseverance.

• Encouragement for listeners to resolve to succeed and trust in God’s enabling power.

IX. The Focus of Faith: Fixing Eyes on Jesus

• The source and goal (“author and finisher”) of faith is Jesus.

• Spiritual direction comes from focusing on Christ—not on people or circumstances.

• Analogy: Just as a runner focuses on the finish line, Christians must fix their gaze on Jesus.

• Biblical example: Peter walking on water by looking at Jesus, sinking when distracted by the storm (Matthew 14).

• Isaiah 26:3—Perfect peace comes from “mind stayed on Thee.”

• Hymn: “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” used to reinforce the point.

• The danger of spiritual distraction; importance of continual refocusing on Christ.

X. The Cross as Spiritual North Point

• Story: Beach analogy—currents can pull us off course unnoticed, requiring realignment.

• The cross of Christ as a central, guiding reference for believers.

• Regular course corrections are necessary due to “the currents” of worldly distractions and sin.

• Importance of always coming back to Christ and the cross.

XI. Application and Call to Action

• Self-examination: Is your faith growing? Are you focused on Jesus?

• Urge to lay aside distractions/weights and make the necessary spiritual adjustments.

• Invitaton for reflection, response, prayer, and renewed commitment as the service closes.

Don't Stop Believing. Part 2

Don't Stop Believing, Part 2

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

Opening and Welcome

• Greeting and response (“Amen. You may be seated. Praise the Lord…”)
• Appreciation for worship and participation
  • Importance of authentic worship regardless of personal trial
  • Your worship may inspire others seeing you worship through struggles

Introduction to the Message

• Continuation of last week’s sermon: “Don’t Stop Believing”
  • Central theme: The importance of faith
• Church communications and resources
  • Plan to distribute more tools (study notes, questions, etc.)
  • Request for members’ contact information for improved communication
  • Emphasis: Church is not just about large attendance, but engagement and making disciples

The Church’s Mission

• A. Contrast: Mere attendance vs. engagement and discipleship
  • Mission to make disciples, not just fill seats
  • Desire for everyone to participate in the mission
• Illustration: “Church is not a show”
  • Story of the complaining church family and the child’s remark
  • Clarification: True purpose is the kingdom of God and being a church on mission

Textual Foundation: Hebrews 12:1–4

• Reading the passage: Call to run the race with endurance
  • Surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses”
  • Laying aside every weight and sin
  • Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith
  • Enduring hostility/persecution
• Context of Hebrews
  • Audience: New Jewish believers facing persecution and discouragement
  • Emphasis on Jesus’ supremacy (greater than Moses, angels, law, etc.)
  • Faith as a central theme—challenge to keep believing despite opposition

The Value and Battle for Faith

• The cost and value of faith
  • Faith is precious and under attack by the enemy
  • Analogy: No one protects garbage; faith is worth guarding
• Scriptural support: 1 Peter 1:6–7
  • Faith tested by trials is more precious than gold
  • Faith defined as taking God at His word, trusting His promises
• The devil’s strategy
  • Destroy faith to win the war for your soul
  • Example: Peter’s denial—Jesus prayed for his faith, not his flawless behavior
    • Faith enables recovery from failure; without faith, all is lost
  • Restoration possible in every area if faith remains

Encouragement Against Discouragement

• Relating to listeners facing severe trials
  • Message: Keep running, keep believing, keep trusting God
• Faith Lessons from Hebrews 12:1–4
  • Prompt: “I need to learn more about faith.”

Faith as Armor and Protection

• Theme connection: VBS and the armor of God
  • Shield of faith in spiritual warfare
  • Attack of the enemy represented as “fiery darts”
• Practical reminder: The armor and shield are necessary for those following Christ
  • Emphasis on being targeted by the enemy after choosing Christ

Review of Main Points on Faith (from Hebrews 11 and 12)

• Examples of Faith
  • Long-distance race imagery—a “cloud of witnesses”
  • Heroes of faith in Hebrews 11: Overcame challenges through faith
  • Romans 15:4—Scripture written for our learning and hope
• Hindrances of Faith
  • Laying aside “every weight and sin”
    • Illustration: Man with backpack in church = symbolic of carrying burdens
    • Every person has weights unique to them; these hinder the race
  • Philippians 3:12–14—Forgetting the past, pressing to the future
    • Weights may be past hurts, offenses, or nostalgia for “good old days”
    • God grants “divine forgetfulness;” past loses its sting through grace
    • Warning: Some people’s lives are diminished by holding onto the past
    • Everyone gets hurt—must let go of past to move forward
    • Analogy of car: Rear view mirror vs. windshield
    • Not just bad things—even good things can keep you from the best
  • Example from business literature: Jim Collins’ “stop doing list”
    • Need for focus and discipline; not every opportunity is for you

Living With Focus and Purpose

• Personal examples (Clergy Day, Black Hawk helicopter story)
  • • Temptation to take on too much, even good things, but must focus on God’s specific calling
    • Pastor’s personal callings—pastoring, discipling, international ministry
    • Not every door is yours to walk through

The Perseverance of Faith (Major Point)

• Key emphasis: Learning to persevere/endure
  • Life of faith is a marathon, not a sprint
  • Everyone must run their race for a lifetime
  • Many start but give up because of opposition/discouragement
  • Greek word “hupomonē”—active, determined perseverance despite hardship
  • Perseverance needed in all areas: marriage, raising kids, ministry, career
• Illustrations:
  • Father-son story—Elmer MacLurkin (a joke to show the importance of perseverance)
  • Famous perseverance quote: Winston Churchill—“Never, never, never give up”
  • Bible college anecdote: “Never, never, never quit”—words that rang true over time
• Practical encouragement
  • Heroes like Noah and Abraham persevered over decades for God’s promise
  • Breakthroughs often come after the hardest trials—don’t quit before your breakthrough
  • God’s grace picks you up after you fall; faith enables you to keep going

Closing Exhortation and Prayer

• The way to persevere: Prayer and the Word
  • Grace for endurance comes through prayer, worship, and Scripture
  • Not about willpower, but about God’s grace working in you
  • Ministry anecdote: “You can quit Sunday afternoon, just show up Monday morning.”
• Final appeals
  • Don’t quit: on God, on relationships, on dreams, on your walk
  • Don’t miss your breakthrough—greatest attacks precede the next season
  • Reiterate: “Don’t quit. Don’t give up. Never, never, never quit.”
• Closing prayer
  • Ask God to ignite and strengthen the people’s hearts with truth
  • Call for going forward, not quitting, renewed by God’s grace in word and prayer
  • Recap: The critical, non-negotiable importance of daily connection to God’s Word and prayer

 

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.