New Hope Wapwallopen Sermon Podcast

The same people who hid behind locked doors at Easter are now in the streets of Jerusalem, speaking every language on earth. Pentecost didn't recruit new people; it transformed the ones already there. Someone in your life is waiting to hear the good news in their own language. You're the one who speaks it.

Idols are rarely ugly. They're usually the good things we've relied on too heavily. This week we look at what's really sitting at the center of our lives, and what Paul's curiosity in Athens teaches us about pointing people toward the One we're all reaching for.

Jesus didn't say I'll show you the way he said I am the way. But what does it actually cost to walk it? This week we look at Stephen's faithfulness, our very modern fear of speaking faith out loud, and what it means to be a witness when silence feels so much safer.

The early church had four devotions: the story, the community, the table, and prayer. Turns out, that was enough. This week we're in Acts 2:42–47.

Have you ever found yourself on the wrong path? Today’s message explores the story of two disciples who were traveling in the wrong direction until they encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus and shared a meal with Him. 

The disciples were hiding behind locked doors and Jesus showed up anyway. In week one of Witnesses, we explore what it means that Thomas's honest doubt led to the greatest confession of faith in all four Gospels. Witness doesn't begin when the fear goes away. It begins right where you are.

Mary went to the tomb expecting to grieve. She left with news. In John 20, the risen Jesus meets her in the dark, says her name, and sends her somewhere. This Easter, we're asking the question John's whole account is really asking: will you let this change you?

The crowd that welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem wanted a king who would fight for them. What they got was what they needed. This Palm Sunday, we look at what kind of king actually rode into Jerusalem, and what it means to follow him into Holy Week.

In the fifth week of From Wilderness to Resurrection, we wrestle with one of the most common and honest experiences of the Christian life — the long wait between a desperate prayer and God's response. Drawing from Ezekiel 37, Psalm 130, Romans 8, and John 11, this message explores what Scripture says about dry bones, delayed miracles, and a Savior who enters our grief before he changes our circumstances. If you're in a season where hope feels distant, this one is for you.

Most of us have never been truly thirsty. But a lot of us are spiritually dry and don’t quite have a word for it. This week we look at two stories — Israel in the wilderness and a woman at a well — and the God who shows up in both.

Faith isn’t just something you hold — it’s something that moves you. This week, Abram leaves without a map and Nicodemus shows up in the dark. A Lenten challenge to trust God past your comfort zone.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

From garden to wilderness, this week’s message explores trust. Where we grasp for control, Jesus remains faithful—and invites us to do the same.

Transfiguration Sunday reminds us that God’s glory is revealed in the familiar face of Jesus—and in the way we love our neighbors. When we learn to see differently, ordinary life becomes holy. It’s a beautiful day in God’s neighborhood.

Who does God say you are? This week we reflect on Jesus’ baptism and how knowing we are beloved changes the way we treat our neighbors.

This week continues our Won’t You Be My Neighbor? series as we wrestle with forgiveness. Forgiveness is often emotional and complicated, but what if the person we’re really releasing is ourselves? And what if it’s possible to forgive while still setting healthy boundaries?

When the world feels heavy, Jesus reminds us where to look. In Matthew 25, neighbor-love moves beyond kindness into responsibility. Faith isn’t just about noticing the helpers — it’s about becoming one.

Anger is everywhere right now, but what if it isn’t the real problem? In this episode, we explore Fred Rogers’ simple but challenging question—“What do you do with the mad that you feel?”—alongside Paul’s words in Ephesians 4.

This week we reflected on Psalm 139 and Mr. Rogers’ simple but powerful message: “It’s you I like.” Our worth does not come from what we produce or how perfectly we live, but from being created and known by God. When we learn to release guilt and rest in God’s grace, we become people who can truly love our neighbors with dignity and compassion.

“Won’t you be my neighbor?” isn’t just a question—it’s a way of living. Jesus calls us to notice those around us, respond with mercy, and let compassion shape our everyday lives. Epiphany reminds us that God’s light still leads us toward one another.

This week's message invites us to rediscover how loving others, especially the overlooked and forgotten, is at the heart of the Christmas story, and how simple, intentional acts of compassion can become powerful ways God shows up in our world during Advent and beyond.

Christmas often comes with more pressure than peace. In this sermon, we explore how Jesus invites us into a simpler, more meaningful way of living during Advent. By looking at the Christmas story and the words of Jesus and Paul, we reflect on how spending less can create space to give more of what truly matters—our time, our presence, and our love. This message encourages a Christmas shaped less by consumerism and more by the joy of God drawing near.

Advent is loud. Worship brings it back into focus. This week we talk about centering our hearts on God in a season full of distractions.

This week we talk about stepping into the Christmas story and finding a more meaningful Advent. A simple, hopeful invitation to slow down and make space for Christ.

This Christ the King Sunday message explores what kind of King Jesus truly is—a King who leads with truth, love, and nearness. Through gratitude and surrender, we learn how His reign shapes our lives as we prepare for Advent.

This week we looked at Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 1 and the hope that comes from trusting God even when the answer takes time. Her story reminds us that God hears every prayer and that gratitude can grow while we wait. If you’ve ever wondered whether God remembers you, this message offers real encouragement.

Life doesn’t always go the way we plan. In Ruth 1:1–18, we meet two women facing loss, uncertainty, and an unknown future — yet Ruth’s quiet words of loyalty, “Where you go, I will go,” reveal a faith that trusts even when the road ahead is unclear.In this message, Pastor Scott Miller shares how gratitude grows through faithfulness, how God works through ordinary acts of love, and how we can live with steady trust in a world that feels anything but certain.

Daniel didn’t stop praying when it became illegal—he stayed faithful. God didn’t keep him out of the lions’ den; He met him in it. Faith under fire isn’t loud, it’s steady. Trust that God is still good, even when the lions roar. 🦁🔥#FaithUnderFire #Daniel6 #TheRestOfTheSermon

It feels like we’re living in a time when everyone’s running, from each other, from responsibility, and maybe even from grace itself. We cancel, we divide, we draw lines in the sand. And sometimes we do it in the name of faith.That’s why Jonah’s story hits home right now. It’s not just about a man swallowed by a fish, it’s about all of us who’ve ever tried to outrun God’s mercy. It’s about what happens when we’d rather see our enemies punished than forgiven, and how God keeps calling us back toward compassion instead of bitterness.This week’s message, “Jonah: Running from Grace,” reminds us that you can’t outrun God’s mercy for you or for anyone else. And in a world that’s angry and divided, it's something we need to hear now more than ever.

This Sunday we looked at the story of David and Goliath a powerful reminder that faith is bigger than fear. Pastor Scott reflects on the giants we face today—anxiety, division, doubt, and despair—and how courage grows when we remember God’s faithfulness. When we trust that the battle belongs to the Lord, even the biggest giants can fall.

Moses thought his story was over, but at the burning bush God called his name and gave him a mission. Like Moses, we make excuses, but God promises, “I will be with you.” This episode reminds us that God still calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things when they say “Yes.”

Abraham’s story is one of trust, waiting, and stepping into the unknown. In this week’s message, we look at what it means to believe God’s promises even when the road is long and the outcome is unclear. Like Abraham, we’re called to take the next step of faith—trusting not in our own plans, but in the God who keeps His word.

Even when the world feels like it’s falling apart, God sees the faithful. Noah didn’t blend in—he walked with God. What about you? Join us this week as we explore what it means to stay faithful in a world that’s lost its way. #FaithInTheFlood #WalkWithGod #TheStoriesThatShapedUs #newhopewapwallopen

Today we looked at Genesis 1–2 and which reminds us that God created the world with order, purpose, and beauty. Just as He brought light out of darkness, He brings meaning and direction into our lives today. Being made in God’s image means every person has value and dignity, and our lives find fulfillment when we trust His design instead of chasing our own.

This week on The Rest of the Sermon, we’re talking about Labor Day — not just as a long weekend, but as a chance to think about the meaning of our work. Whether we’re on the job, retired, or volunteering, God cares deeply about the work of our hands and our lives.I’ll be walking through the new United Methodist Church vision statement:“The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.”We’ll explore what it means to:Love boldly in a world that encourages division and contempt.Serve joyfully in everyday tasks, even when nobody notices.Lead courageously in our families, communities, and churches, especially when fear dominates the headlines.At the end of the day, Labor Day is about more than jobs and paychecks. It’s about answering the question: What work has God placed before me this week? Big or small, seen or unseen, it can all become part of building God’s kingdom.So join me as we reflect on what it means to live a life of love, service, and courage — a life of work worth doing.

In John 6, many walked away from Jesus when His teaching became too difficult. But Peter responded, “Lord, where else would we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This episode explores what it means to stay with Jesus when His way is hard, and why He’s still the only one worth following.

In John 6:51–58, Jesus gives one of His strangest invitations: “Eat my flesh and drink my blood.” What sounds unsettling at first is really an invitation into deep, daily relationship with Him. In this sermon, Chewing on Truth, we explore how Jesus calls us beyond surface religion and quick fixes into real intimacy with Him—through His Word, prayer, obedience, and community. In a world filled with fast food faith, outrage, loneliness, and distraction, Jesus remains the Bread of Life who alone satisfies.

When Believing Is HardJohn 6:35, 41–51Faith isn’t always easy—sometimes it’s downright hard. Even those who saw Jesus with their own eyes struggled to believe. In this message, we explore why Jesus’ claim to be the Bread of Life was so controversial in His day, why believing in Him still stirs debate today, and how we can hold on when questions, doubts, and life’s challenges tempt us to walk away. When the path is unclear, stay close to Jesus—He is the Bread of Life who gives true and eternal life.

In a world full of noise, distractions, and endless cravings, what are we really hungry for? This week, we explore Jesus’ words in John 6:24–35 and challenge ourselves to stop chasing temporary satisfaction and start seeking the Bread of Life. If your soul feels restless or empty, this message is for you.

Jesus fed thousands with a few loaves and fish and He’s still meeting needs today. Whether you’re feeling empty, overwhelmed, or wondering if what you have is enough, this message is for you. Join us as we discover how Jesus meets both our physical and spiritual hunger—and invites us to be part of His miraculous work.

Today is week 5 of our new series "Empowered" and our scripture today is Mark 6:14-29.Our website is currently on the move, but you can find us on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/yw7ct73rOnline giving is now available through Tithely, just download the app and search for your church. (CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week 4 of our new series "Empowered" and our scripture today is Mark 6:1-13.Our website is currently on the move, but you can find us on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/3mm2hf8sOnline giving is now available through Tithely, just download the app and search for your church. (CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week 3 of our new series "Empowered" and our scripture today is Mark 5:21-43.Our website is currently on the move, but you can find us on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/abb2rd27Online giving is now available through Tithely, just download the app and search for your church. (CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week 2 of our new series "Empowered" and our scripture today is Mark 4:35-41.You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/4athsb2fOnline giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is the first Sunday of our new series "Empowered" and our scripture today is Romans 8:12-17. You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/4kd3f2nt Online giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/. (CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week six of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from Acts 2:1-21, "The Spirit Comes". You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/2zzhkn76Online giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week five of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from 1 Peter 1:3-5, "A Living Hope". You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/tyrvj9thOnline giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week four of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from Romans 6:4-11, "Walking in Newness of Life".You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/4ny78uteOnline giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week three of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from Luke 24:13–35, "Hearts on Fire".You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/38p6f5nbOnline giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week two of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from John 21:1-19, "Follow Me Again".You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/5n7eufbcOnline giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/.(CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)

Today is week one of our sermon series "Resurrection Living". Today's scripture is taken from John 20:19-31, "Peace Be With You". You can find us online at: newhopewapwallopen.org or on Facebook @newhopewapwallopen. Download a copy of the bulletin here: https://tinyurl.com/5yj82nb3Online giving is now available through Tithely. Simply go to our website and select your church: https://newhopewapwallopen.org/give/. (CCLI #21906270 / Streaming #21906263)