Clickable Time Stamps
04:46 Sunday Praise – Elder Ivan Bird
13:33 Pre-Service Meditation – One Sentence Prayers
25:39 Prelude – Margaret Fountain
27:36 Welcome – Elder Jack Hagensen
29:10 Special Music – “This Is My Father’s World” – Anna Beem and Claire Loyd
31:13 Call to Worship – Elder Jack Hagensen
36:48 Special Music – “Liken Unto The Scriptures” – The Loyd Family with Anna Beem on piano.
39:42 Sermon – “Peace Be Unto You” – Elder Vaughn Cornish
75:16 Pastoral Prayer – Elder Bob Dickson

Summary

This sermon centers around a reflection on John 20:19, where Jesus appears to His disciples after His resurrection, offering them peace amidst their turmoil and fear. Elder Vaughn Cornish emphasizes the significance of recognizing Christ’s sacrifice and the comfort and forgiveness He offers to all. The sermon explores themes of faith, redemption, and the importance of understanding one’s worth in the eyes of God. Vaughn calls for acknowledgment of personal covenants made with Christ, the need to forgive oneself and others, and the invitation to come to Jesus for peace and love. Ultimately, Vaughn reinforces the idea that Jesus is present, actively calling individuals to embrace their identity as His children.

Highlights

1. Jesus Offers Peace: In a moment of fear and uncertainty, Jesus stands among His disciples and proclaims peace, symbolizing His presence and comfort in times of distress.
2. The Covenant of Baptism: Vaughn recalls the importance of baptism and the covenant made with Christ, reminding believers of their commitment to live according to His teachings.
3. Forgiveness and Redemption: Emphasizing Christ’s sacrifice, Vaughn highlights the need for individuals to forgive themselves and others, showcasing the power of redemption.
4. The Value of Every Individual: Vaughn reassures that every person holds worth in God’s eyes, urging listeners to recognize their value and the love God has for them.
5. God’s Call to All: The message stresses that it is not up to individuals to judge who may enter the kingdom of God; rather, it is God’s desire for all to come to Him.
6. Personal Testimony: The sermon underscores the importance of sharing personal testimonies of faith to inspire and uplift others in their spiritual journeys.
7. The Future Hope: A promise is made that believers will one day see Jesus and fully understand His love, reinforcing a hopeful anticipation of His return and the gathering of His people.

Key Insights

1. Understanding Jesus’ Peace: The phrase “Peace be unto you” signifies not just a greeting but a profound assurance of Jesus’ presence amidst fear and uncertainty. This highlights the foundational belief that faith in Christ offers comfort and tranquility in troubling times. The disciples, despite their close relationship with Jesus, still faced overwhelming fear, illustrating that understanding His teachings can be a gradual process.
2. Significance of Baptism: The act of baptism is portrayed as a transformative covenant between believers and Christ. It serves as a reminder of the commitment to follow His teachings and live according to His example. Vaughn emphasizes that the ritual is not merely symbolic but a vital part of the spiritual journey, instilling a sense of belonging and identity within the community of believers.
3. The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is central to the message, both in the context of receiving it from Christ and extending it to others. Vaughn challenges listeners to let go of grudges and recognize the futility of holding onto past grievances. This insight encourages a shift from a mindset of judgment to one of compassion, reflecting the unconditional love that Jesus exemplifies.
4. Inherent Worth of Individuals: The sermon reinforces the idea that every person is valued in the eyes of God, regardless of their past. This insight is crucial for fostering a community where individuals feel accepted and loved. Vaughn’s reflections serve to empower listeners, reminding them that they are not defined by their mistakes but by the love that Jesus has for them.
5. Inclusivity of God’s Love: The sermon underscores that it is not for individuals to decide who is worthy of God’s love or entrance into His kingdom. This perspective promotes an inclusive understanding of faith, where everyone is invited to seek a relationship with Christ. It challenges the notion of exclusivity often found in religious settings, advocating for a welcoming approach to all.
6. Role of Personal Testimony: Sharing personal experiences of faith is highlighted as an essential part of spiritual life. Vaughn emphasizes that testimonies can inspire and uplift others, providing tangible evidence of Christ’s love and presence in one’s life. This insight encourages believers to be open about their faith journeys, fostering connections within the community.
7. Hope for the Future: The sermon concludes with a promise of future revelation and unity among believers. The anticipation of seeing Jesus and experiencing His power underscores the hope that sustains faith. This insight encourages listeners to remain steadfast and hopeful, reminding them that their struggles are temporary and that divine fulfillment is assured.

In conclusion, the reflections based on John 20:19 offer profound insights into the nature of faith, forgiveness, and the personal relationship that believers can cultivate with Christ. The themes of peace, redemption, and the inherent worth of individuals resonate deeply, inviting all to embrace the love that is freely offered. Through the act of communion, believers are reminded of their commitments and the continuous presence of Jesus in their lives, encouraging them to spread His message of love and peace to others.