"Use Me: Mary Magdalene” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
This week in our Use Me series, Pastor Vicki shares the remarkable story of Mary Magdalene—a woman healed by Jesus, a leader among the disciples, and the first witness to His resurrection. Her story invites all of us to ask: What does God want to do through our brokenness.
This week in our Use Me series, Pastor Vicki shares the remarkable story of Mary Magdalene—a woman healed by Jesus, a leader among the disciples, and the first witness to His resurrection. Her story invites all of us to ask: What does God want to do through our brokenness?
Scripture tells us that Mary was afflicted by seven demons before encountering Jesus (Luke 8:1–3), but from that moment on, her life is changed. She becomes one of the women supporting Jesus' ministry and is consistently listed first among them. She’s there at the cross when the others flee (Matthew 27:55–56) and the first at the empty tomb (Matthew 28:1–7). Her healing becomes the foundation of her calling.
Pastor Vicki points out that Mary Magdalene’s past didn’t disqualify her. In fact, it was her testimony. She reminds us that:
Your past does not dictate your future.
True healing only comes from Jesus.
Jesus loves us just as we are—but loves us too much to leave us that way.
God uses those who simply show up.
Mary didn’t have a title or public platform. What she had was availability. Her presence—faithful, persistent, and bold—made her a part of history.
Mary, once afflicted by seven demons (Luke 8:1–3), was transformed by her encounter with Jesus—becoming a devoted follower and leading supporter of His ministry.
Discussion Questions
From the sermon:
Mary Magdalene had seven demons before Jesus healed her. What does her transformation say about God’s willingness to redeem our past?
What parts of your story do you feel might disqualify you? How could God use them for His glory instead?
Jesus loves us just as we are—but not enough to leave us unchanged. How do you see His transforming love at work in your life?
Mary kept showing up, even when things were hard. What does it look like for you to keep showing up?
Are there places in your life where God is asking for availability more than ability?
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“You Will Receive Power: The Holy Spirit in the Church” | Pastor Vicki Harrison
Pastor Vicki Harrison shares how the Holy Spirit empowered the early church in Acts 2—and still empowers us today. Discover how the Spirit unifies believers, equips the church with spiritual gifts, fuels worship, and leads the church into mission.
This week’s message explores what it means for the church to be truly empowered by the Holy Spirit. Pastor Vicki challenges us with a sobering quote from A.W. Tozer:
"If the Holy Spirit was withdrawn from the church today, 95 percent of what we do would go on and no one would know the difference. If the Holy Spirit had been withdrawn from the New Testament church, 95 percent of what they did would stop, and everybody would know the difference."
In Acts 2, we see the dramatic arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost: a mighty wind, tongues of fire, people speaking different languages and understanding one another, and 3,000 people coming to faith in one day. That was the power of a Spirit-filled church.
Pastor Vicki reminds us that the same Holy Spirit is still with us today—not a different Spirit, not a diminished one. The Spirit transforms ordinary church gatherings into vibrant, world-changing movements that embody the Kingdom of God here on earth.
Through Acts 2:42-47, we see how the Holy Spirit shaped the early church into a community of unity, generosity, worship, and mission. The Spirit unified people from different backgrounds, equipped believers with spiritual gifts, fueled their desire for God's fullness in worship and prayer, nourished them through comfort and teaching, and empowered them to engage in spiritual warfare against darkness.
We are challenged to examine how much of what we do in our own churches relies on human effort versus the power of the Holy Spirit. A Spirit-empowered church is not simply a good organization or a social gathering—it becomes an extension of heaven itself.
Discussion Questions
From the sermon handout:
What were some ways that the Holy Spirit led and guided the early church, as we read in Acts 2?
What are some real ways the Holy Spirit empowers the church today?
The Holy Spirit allows the church to experience unity. What are some ways you have seen Jesus’ church embody the unity of the Spirit? Have you also seen disunity? Explain.
The Holy Spirit equips and empowers the church for ministry. How does the Spirit use spiritual gifts in the church? Do you know your own spiritual gifts? Are you using them to build up Jesus’ church?
The Holy Spirit gives the church a desire for his fullness in worship and prayer. Explain the difference between the omniscient presence of God and the manifest presence of God in worship. Have you experienced the manifest presence of God? Explain.
The Holy Spirit nourishes and comforts the church. How have you personally experienced this?
The Holy Spirit empowers the church to engage in spiritual warfare. How does what’s going on in the spiritual realm affect the church?
Do you believe that a Spirit-empowered church can be an extension of heaven?
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“Sealed by the Spirit” | Pastor Vicki Harrison
In this message from Pastor Vicki Harrison, explore what it means to be sealed by the Holy Spirit from the moment you believe. Learn how the Spirit assures, convicts, empowers, and transforms.
The Holy Spirit is not a reward for spiritual elites—it is a gift promised by Jesus the moment we believe.
This week, Pastor Vicki teaches from Ephesians 1 and John 16, focusing on what it means to be sealed by the Holy Spirit. A seal represents ownership, protection, and permanence. When we say yes to Jesus, the Spirit marks our lives, offering assurance, conviction, guidance, and power.
This message invites listeners to reflect: Where are you in your understanding and experience of the Holy Spirit? Are you skeptical, uncertain, or longing for more? The Spirit isn't meant to be a mystery we avoid—but a daily reality we embrace.
You are not alone, and you are not powerless. You are sealed, assured, and empowered by the Spirit of God.
Discussion Questions
From the message handout:
Where are you right now, as far as your understanding of the Holy Spirit?
I am not sure about the Holy Spirit. I’m skeptical.
I know the Holy Spirit exists, but I haven’t felt him at work in me yet.
I think I’ve felt His work in my life, but I’m not sure how to describe it.
I know He’s working in my life, but I’m afraid of what others might think if I start talking about it. He’s working in my life, and I’m hungry for more.
I know He is at work in my life and I’m fully embracing it.
What does it mean that we are sealed by the Spirit as believers?
What are some practical ways we experience the power of the Holy Spirit as individual believers?
The Holy Spirit assures us of our salvation.
If you have said yes to Jesus as Savior, do you have complete assurance that you will spend eternity with Him? Why or why not?The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin and guides us in the right direction.
How do you define conviction? Do you experience it?
Have you been led by the Spirit? How do you experience the Holy Spirit guiding you?The Holy Spirit gives us power to do what God calls us to do.
How has the Holy Spirit called you to do hard things?
When is the last time the Holy Spirit called you to get out of your comfort zone?The Holy Spirit helps us become the people God designed us to be.
Is there evidence of the Spirit growing fruit in your life?
Are you intentionally working to become more like Jesus?
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"What Are You Waiting For?” | Pastor Vicki Harrison
Discover the significance of baptism as Pastor Vicki Harrison explores Acts 22:6–16. Learn why baptism is a sacrament, a covenant, and a public declaration of new life in Jesus. What are you waiting for?
What Are You Waiting For?
This week’s message focuses on the meaning and significance of baptism, through the lens of Acts 22:6–16—Paul’s account of his transformation and baptism.
Pastor Vicki begins by asking a personal question: What has been your experience with baptism? In Scripture, baptism is a powerful and public response to the saving work of Jesus—a visible expression of new life and a covenant made with God. Across multiple passages (Acts 2, 8, 16, and 22), we see a consistent pattern: when people meet Jesus, they respond with immediate, wholehearted obedience. Baptism is never delayed. It’s a next step of surrender.
Pastor Vicki reminds us that baptism is both sacrament and symbol—a mystery of God’s grace at work and a declaration that our lives now belong to Jesus. She explores what it means to enter a covenant with God and why it’s so important to make that commitment public. As Paul recalls in Acts 22, he is told, “What are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on His name.”
So today, we ask you the same question:
What are you waiting for?
Discussion Questions
What has been your experience with baptism?
What did you notice about the New Testament baptism passages that were shared in the message? What did they have in common?
What is a covenant? What is the relationship between baptism and covenant?
Why is a public declaration of faith in Jesus important?
What is the relationship between baptism and new life in Jesus?
How is baptism a sacrament?
Explain the significance of God taking the initiative in baptism.
Would you consider being baptized (if you never have been) or remembering your baptism? What are you waiting for?
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“Faith That Leaves a Legacy: Raising the Next Generation” Pastor Vicki Harrison with Bobby & Katherine Lain and Eric & Catherine Stout
How can the church leave a lasting spiritual legacy for the next generation? Listen to Pastor Vicki Harrison and a panel of young parents share insights on parenting, discipleship, and welcoming Millennials back into the fold.
This week’s message centers around a vital question for the church family:
Are we intentionally leaving a legacy that honors God and makes a lasting spiritual imprint on the next generation?
Pastor Vicki opens with Deuteronomy 6:4-9, reminding us that forming a spiritual legacy is a sacred calling: loving God with all our heart, soul, and strength—and passing that love down to our children in our daily rhythms. She also highlights Deuteronomy 4:9, which challenges us to be mindful not to forget what we’ve seen God do—and to intentionally teach it to our children and grandchildren.
The core of today’s message is a panel conversation with two couples from our church community, each raising young children. Together, they reflect on parenting challenges, share how New Hope has helped them stay grounded in faith, and offer guidance on how the church can better support families.
Discussion Questions
From the sermon handout:
According to the panel, what are some of the challenges that parents today are facing?
How can the church come alongside to support them?What are some specific ways that New Hope can help young families...
grow deep roots in Christ as a family
develop strong marriages
grow individually as disciples of Jesus
While we are seeing a resurgence in Generation Z (born 1997–2012) coming to Jesus,
the generation before them (Millennials, born 1981–1996) have left the church in droves.
What can the older generations do to welcome Millennials back into the fold?
According to the panel, what does their generation need most from the church?
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“Faith That Leaves a Legacy: Passing The Paton” Graduation Sunday - Julie Hamilton and the Next Gen Teams
On May 18, 2025, New Hope celebrates Graduation Sunday with a powerful service led by the Next Gen team. Discover what it means to live a life that matters and pass on your faith legacy.
Graduation Sunday at New Hope is always something special—and this year is no exception. We celebrate not just academic accomplishments, but the faith journeys of our students and the spiritual impact of their families, mentors, and the church community that have walked with them every step of the way.
High school senior Brindley Rhodes kicked off our message by sharing her testimony of transformation, how her individual faith matured into shared community after years of praying for meaningful connections. She reminded us that we are not just small groups scattered through a congregation—we are one unified body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12–20). Her challenge was simple: take time to truly connect with one another and recognize the legacy we are all helping build, together.
Then we heard a video message from college graduate Rosie Harrison. Rosie offered powerful insights on what her generation longs to see in the church—genuine, lived-out faith. She emphasized that her peers are not interested in tradition for tradition’s sake, but in churches that prioritize justice, compassion, humility, and mercy—the kind of radical love Jesus taught and lived. She called on the church to be bold, to stand with the vulnerable, and to live out Micah 6:8 in both word and action.
After the students spoke, graduates symbolically passed red batons to the next generation—an act of spiritual commissioning. They then handed out roses to someone in their “village,” honoring those who shaped their faith. The moment was emotional and unforgettable.
Pastor Vicki Harrison concluded with a heartfelt charge to the graduates, encouraging them to live lives that truly matter by embracing:
Passion: Find joy in your journey and live fully.
Humility: Serve others with the heart of Jesus.
Purpose: Let your life reflect the light of Christ and draw others to God.
She reminded us all that the greatest legacy we can leave is not material—but spiritual. Our job is to love deeply, disciple well, and trust that God is working through us in every season.
As the baton is passed, the mission continues. To our graduates: remember who and Whose you are. You will always have a home at New Hope.
Reflection & Discussion Questions
What does it mean to you to “live a life that matters”?
In what ways can you live with passion, humility, and purpose this week?
How are you helping pass the baton to the next generation?
Who has been part of your faith journey—and who are you helping shape spiritually today?
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“Faith That Leaves a Legacy: Spiritual Legacy” Rev. Vicki Harrison with Miriam Swanson
In this opening message of the Faith That Leaves a Legacy series, Pastor Vicki Harrison (she/her) explores how the church can pass on its faith to the next generation. Featuring insight from Miriam Swanson of Fusion USA, this sermon challenges believers to prioritize presence over programs and commit to spiritual investment.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4–9, Deuteronomy 4:9, Mark 10:13–16
Pastor Vicki Harrison opens our new series, Faith That Leaves a Legacy, with a powerful message on what it means to pass on our faith to the next generation. She challenges us to think beyond material inheritance and instead consider the spiritual mark we leave on our children, our church, and our community.
Drawing from Deuteronomy, Pastor Vicki reminds us that God calls His people to impress His commands on their children—not casually or occasionally, but as part of daily life. In Mark’s Gospel, we see Jesus welcome and bless children, making it clear that they matter in the Kingdom of God.
The message features a video interview with Miriam Swanson, Global Student Mission Leader and Director of Fusion USA. Miriam shares insight on what young adults today are longing for: not perfect programs, but people. Real connection. Authentic love. Presence over performance.
Pastor Vicki reflects on the church’s responsibility to walk alongside young people. She shares personal stories, including how difficult it was for her own children to find churches that welcomed them during college. Her reminder is clear: one person showing up can make all the difference.
This week’s takeaway: the next generation doesn’t need another polished event—they need someone who cares. Leaving a spiritual legacy starts with showing up, speaking life, and living the Gospel with humility and love.
Discussion Questions
What is the role of the church for the next generation?
What are some practical steps you can take to reach youth and young adults?
What are some challenges the church faces as we seek to reach the next generation?
What does it mean that presence is more important than programming? How did Jesus exemplify this?
What might we need to let go of in order to reach both the lost and the next generation for Jesus?
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April 6, 2025 | "Christianity Explored: Grace: How Can God Accept Us?” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
In this sermon from Mark 10:17–27, Rev. Vicki Harrison explores the radical nature of God’s grace and what it really means to be accepted by God—not by earning it, but by receiving it. Watch the message and reflect on what it means to depend fully on Jesus.
This week in our Christianity Explored series, we wrestle with one of the most important and often misunderstood aspects of our faith: grace. What does it really mean? How can God accept us—just as we are?
Using Mark 10:17–27, Pastor Vicki walks us through the story of a man who asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” This man seems to have everything going for him: wealth, moral character, religious obedience. But Jesus responds not by praising him, but by challenging him to give everything up and follow him. The man walks away sad, unable to release what he holds most dear.
In contrast, just before this interaction, Jesus welcomes little children and says the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. The irony is clear: the man who had everything still lacked what really matters, and the children who had nothing were already close to the heart of God.
This message challenges the idea that we can earn God’s love through good behavior or a perfect track record. Instead, grace means God offers us acceptance, love, and new life—not because we deserve it, but because he loves us.
It’s not about earning God’s approval. It’s about depending on Jesus completely. Grace is the undeserved love of God freely given, and it is the only thing that can bridge the gap between our sin and God’s holiness.
If we think we can earn our way to God, we miss the point entirely. But if we acknowledge our dependence, receive God’s grace, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts, we begin to live the new life Jesus offers.
Watch the full message and reflect on the questions below. Let this be a moment where grace takes root deeper in your life.
Discussion Questions
Do you see yourself in the young man in Mark’s scripture? Why or why not?
How are you totally dependent on Jesus? How are you not dependent?
Have you fallen into the trap of thinking God might love some people more than others?
Have you accepted God’s free gift of grace?
How is the grace of Jesus pouring out of you? Or is it?
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March 30, 2025 | "Christianity Explored: Sin: Why Did Jesus Come?” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
This week at New Hope, Pastor Vicki continues our Christianity Explored series by asking a powerful and personal question: Why did Jesus come?
The answer goes straight to the heart—literally.
This week at New Hope, Pastor Vicki continues our Christianity Explored series by asking a powerful and personal question: Why did Jesus come?
The answer goes straight to the heart—literally.
In Mark 7, Jesus tells us it’s not what’s outside of us that defiles us, but what comes from within. From our hearts come things like selfishness, envy, pride, lust, deceit, and greed. These are the things that break our connection with God and hurt our relationships with others.
Jesus doesn’t come just to teach good morals or inspire a better way of living. He comes to deal with sin—the sin that starts in each of us. He comes because we have a heart problem, and we can’t fix it ourselves.
This message might be hard to hear, but it’s good news. Because once we understand the depth of our need, we start to understand the depth of God’s love.
Jesus sees everything—every choice, every motive, every failure—and still chooses the cross. He gives His life not because we’ve earned it, but because we need saving. And that grace changes everything.
When we admit that we’re sinners in need of a Savior, we open ourselves up to the transformation only Jesus can bring. He doesn’t just forgive us—He gives us a new heart.
We invite you to watch the full message and take some time to reflect on what this means for your life. Below are the same discussion questions shared during the service. Consider praying through them on your own, or talking through them with your small group.
Discussion Questions:
Do you agree with the idea that “there is something wrong with the world because there is something wrong with us”? Why or why not?
How do you see Jesus’ description of the heart in Mark 7:20–23 reflected in the world today—or in your own life?
How would you define sin in your own words?
What is the connection between sin and our ability to love God and love others?
If Jesus watched a movie of your entire life, every single scene, how would you feel? What do you think He would say?
Do you believe you have a heart problem? Have you ever honestly admitted to God that you are a sinner?
What are you going to do about it?
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March 23, 2025 | "Christianity Explored: Jesus’ Identity: Who is This Man?” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
In a storm-tossed boat, the disciples cry out, “Who is this man?” As Jesus calms the wind and waves, we’re left asking the same question. Explore the identity and authority of Jesus as revealed in the first chapters of Mark—and discover why it changes everything.
In week 2 of Christianity Explored, Rev. Vicki Harrison walks us through a foundational question of our faith: Who is Jesus? Drawing from Mark 4:35–41, we explore Jesus’ power over nature—and reflect on the deeper identity revealed through His miracles, teachings, and authority.
Mark doesn’t just tell us stories; he presents evidence. Jesus heals the sick, casts out demons, forgives sins, teaches with authority, calms storms, and raises the dead. These aren’t just acts of compassion—they are signs of His divine identity.
And when the disciples ask, “Who is this man?”—Mark invites us to answer that question for ourselves.
As you consider the message, take time to sit with these questions. You may want to journal your answers, talk about them with a trusted friend or group, or simply bring them to God in prayer:
1. What storms are you currently facing?
In what ways do you need to be reminded that Jesus is in the boat with you?
2. Have you ever asked, “Jesus, don’t you care?”
How did He respond—or how might He be responding now?
3. Which part of Jesus’ authority—over nature, illness, evil, death, or sin—do you find most comforting? Most challenging to believe?
4. Mark gives us a clear picture of who Jesus is. What do you believe about Him right now?
Be honest—are there areas of doubt, questions, or places where you long for more clarity?
5. What would it look like to give Jesus full authority over your life?
Are there any areas where you’re still holding on to control?
6. When you reflect on your life, how has Jesus already proven His presence, power, or love?
How might those memories strengthen your trust today?
7. What would it mean for you to rest in the boat—while the storm still rages—because Jesus is with you?
Can you pray for that kind of peace?
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March 16, 2025 | "Christianity Explored: Good News: What Are We Doing Here?” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
What happens when God says "No" to our plans? In Acts 16, Paul learns a crucial lesson: working for God's Kingdom is not just about effort—it’s about following God's vision. Discover how embracing God's direction leads to multiplication, revival, and a faith that grows in ways we never imagined.
9:30 AM Service
In Acts 16, Paul and his companions experience something unexpected—God tells them no. Twice, they try to enter different regions to preach the Gospel, but the Holy Spirit stops them. It’s only on the third attempt that Paul receives a vision, calling him to Macedonia. Why? Because God's mission isn't just about working harder—it's about working smarter by following His vision.
This sermon challenges us to examine our own plans vs. God’s vision. Have we been pushing forward in places where God has closed doors? Are we investing in fruitless ministries instead of multiplication-focused discipleship? Just as God led Paul to Macedonia to find Lydia, the jailer, and others who became key multipliers, He calls us to invest in people and places where His work will bear the most fruit.
The question is: Are we listening?
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January 19, 2025 | "Mission Ready: Grow Faith” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Spiritual growth isn’t optional—it’s essential. In Week 2 of our Mission Ready series, Pastor Vicki unpacks what it means to Grow Faith—moving beyond spiritual infancy into maturity. Learn why growing in faith matters, how to recognize spiritual immaturity, and how to take the next step in your journey with Jesus.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
Spiritual growth isn’t optional—it’s essential. In Week 2 of our Mission Ready series, Pastor Vicki unpacks what it means to Grow Faith—moving beyond spiritual infancy into maturity. Learn why growing in faith matters, how to recognize spiritual immaturity, and how to take the next step in your journey with Jesus.
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January 12, 2025 | "Mission Ready: Know Jesus” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Pastor Vicki Harrison's sermon, 'Know Jesus,' explores how to develop a personal relationship with Jesus through prayer, scripture, and community. Learn how to grow in your faith at New Hope Church.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
Pastor Vicki Harrison's sermon, "Know Jesus," from the Mission Ready series focused on moving beyond simply knowing facts about Jesus to cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Him. Using John 10 as the foundational scripture, she emphasized the difference between knowing about someone and truly knowing them. The sermon highlighted practical steps to grow in our faith, including prayer, scripture reading, and engaging in small community groups. The message challenged the congregation to take active steps toward knowing Jesus intimately and living out their faith through life transformation.
Join a small group, spend time in daily prayer, and commit to knowing Jesus deeply. Visit https://www.findnewhope.com/groups to find your community.
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January 5, 2025 | Wesleyan Covenant Service | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Rev. Vicki Harrison’s sermon at the Wesleyan Covenant Service explores John 15's depiction of Jesus as the true vine, emphasizing the critical need for believers to remain in Christ to live fruitfully and fulfill their call as His disciples.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
In her sermon at the Wesleyan Covenant Service, Rev. Vicki Harrison delves into the meaning of true discipleship through the lens of John 15, where Jesus describes Himself as the true vine. She challenges the congregation to consider their relationship with Jesus, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Christ to bear fruit in their spiritual and everyday lives. The service is a call to self-examination and rededication, encouraging everyone to reflect on their faithfulness as disciples of Christ. Rev. Harrison underscores the necessity of continual connection with Jesus, likening it to a vine providing life-sustaining sap to its branches, and stresses the role of pruning in fostering spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
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December 29, 2024 | "Who are you?” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Explore Rev. Vicki Harrison’s sermon "Who Are You?" as she challenges us to reflect on our identity as servants of Christ, encouraging a life dedicated to God’s purpose and the freedom it brings.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
In her compelling sermon titled "Who Are You?", Rev. Vicki Harrison delves into the essence of our identity as Christians, challenging listeners to contemplate their roles as servants of Christ. Drawing from her personal calling to shift the sermon's direction, she emphasizes the importance of heeding God's guidance and aligning our actions with His will. Using Apostle Paul's letters as a foundational reference, she explores the concept of being a 'doulos'—a servant or bond-servant of Christ. This role, as Rev. Harrison illustrates, is not about subservience but about embracing a life of purpose, freedom, and dedication to Jesus’ mission. She invites the congregation to reassess their lives as the year ends, urging them to fully embrace their identity as servants of Christ, thereby finding true freedom and fulfillment in committing wholly to God's plan.
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December 24, 2024 | "Shine in the Darkness: Christmas Eve” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Explore Rev. Vicki Harrison's Christmas Eve message from the "Light in the Darkness" series, where she illuminates how Jesus's birth offers enduring light in our lives' darkest moments, providing hope and transformation.
5:00 pm Family Service
7:00 pm Traditional Service
Summary:
In her poignant Christmas Eve message titled "Light in the Darkness," Rev. Vicki Harrison invites us to reflect on the profound significance of Jesus’s birth into a world engulfed in both physical and spiritual darkness. She artfully draws connections between contemporary struggles with darkness, such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and the oppressive darkness experienced during Jesus's time under Roman rule. Rev. Harrison reminds us that Jesus, prophesied by Isaiah as a beacon of hope, was born to be the light in our darkness, offering salvation and a new way of being. Her message reaffirms the power of Jesus’s light to overcome any form of darkness we face today and encourages us to carry and share this light, transforming our surroundings and pointing others towards the Father.
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December 8, 2024 | "Shine in the Darkness: Darkness is Over!” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Explore how the light of Christ transforms darkness into hope in Rev. Vicki Harrison’s sermon, "The Darkness is Over!" from the "Shine in the Darkness" series.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
Rev. Vicki Harrison's sermon, "Darkness is Over!" part of the "Shine in the Darkness" series, centers on the prophetic words of Isaiah 9:2-7. Through these scriptures, Rev. Harrison explores the theme of light overcoming darkness. She emphasizes that even when we face periods of deep darkness, whether due to personal challenges or broader societal issues, the light of Christ has the power to break through and transform our experiences. This message encourages the congregation to not just hear about the light but to actively walk in it, embracing the hope and joy that comes from Jesus, our everlasting light.
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December 22, 2024 | "Shine in the Darkness: Let There… Be Light!” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
In her sermon, "Let There… Be Light!” from the "Shine in the Darkness" series, Rev. Vicki Harrison explores the profound call for Christians to embody the light of Christ in a dark world. Drawing from Matthew 5:14-16, she emphasizes that as followers of Christ, we are not just carriers of light but are inherently the light of the world, tasked with demonstrating God’s goodness through our actions. Rev. Harrison encourages the congregation to live in such a way that points others towards God, transforming our communities by letting our light shine forth in all we do, thereby glorifying God. She challenges us to assess how we reflect this light in our daily interactions and community engagements, affirming that our role as bearers of light is not merely a calling but our identity in Christ.
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Other Sermons from Pastor Vicki
November 24, 2024 | "Blueprint for a Godly Life: Protected Against the Devil’s Schemes” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Explore the power of God's armor in our daily battles against spiritual forces in the "Protected Against the Devil’s Schemes" sermon, concluding the "Blueprint for a Godly Life" series at New Hope.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
In the concluding sermon of the "Blueprint for a Godly Life" series, Pastor Vicki Harrison addressed the pressing topic of spiritual warfare, emphasizing the reality and proximity of spiritual battles. Reflecting on Ephesians Chapter 6, Pastor Harrison reinforced the necessity of recognizing our spiritual conflicts, not as abstract or distant, but as intimate and pervasive influences in our daily lives.
She explored the theme of The Reality of Spiritual Warfare, querying our understanding of spiritual forces and challenging the Western dismissal of such notions due to rationalism. The sermon pressed on the importance of discerning spiritual influences beyond our own flawed actions, anchored in scriptural teachings.
Moving into Fighting the Battle, Pastor Harrison detailed the armor of God as our divine provision for spiritual defense, stressing the power of prayer and scripture as our primary offensive tools against satanic forces. She shared personal testimonies within the church community that resonated with the struggle against unseen spiritual pressures, illustrating the practical application of biblical truths in resisting spiritual attacks.
In an empowering conclusion, Pastor Harrison called for vigilance and spiritual readiness, advocating for a proactive stance against the devil’s schemes through prayer, scriptural engagement, and communal support. She reminded us that while the ultimate victory in Christ is certain, the daily battles require our active participation in faith, clad in the full armor of God.
Call to Action:
Join a community group to deepen your understanding of spiritual warfare and support each other in wearing the full armor of God daily. Engage in regular scriptural study and prayer to fortify your spiritual resilience.
For a deeper exploration of our spiritual defenses and to connect with our mission, visit New Hope's beliefs page and our mission page.
Listen to and subscribe to the audio-only podcast with your favorite podcasting app below.
More Sermons in this Series
Other Sermons from Pastor Vicki
November 17, 2024 | "Blueprint for a Godly Life: United By his Spirit” | Betty Bricker
Pastor Betty Bricker's sermon, "United By His Spirit," dives deep into family dynamics both in the biological and spiritual sense. Drawing on Ephesians 4:1-16, she encourages us to live lives worthy of our calling by embodying humility, gentleness, and patience. She explores how these virtues help maintain unity in the church, reflecting our identity as members of God's family. Pastor Bricker challenges us to use our diverse gifts in harmony, promoting peace and spiritual growth within our community. Join us at New Hope as we strive to be Rooted in God’s Word, Renewed by the Holy Spirit, and committed to Reaching the World for Jesus Christ.
9:30 AM Service
Summary:
Pastor Betty Bricker's sermon, "United By His Spirit," dives deep into family dynamics both in the biological and spiritual sense. Drawing on Ephesians 4:1-16, she encourages us to live lives worthy of our calling by embodying humility, gentleness, and patience. She explores how these virtues help maintain unity in the church, reflecting our identity as members of God's family. Pastor Bricker challenges us to use our diverse gifts in harmony, promoting peace and spiritual growth within our community. Join us at New Hope as we strive to be Rooted in God’s Word, Renewed by the Holy Spirit, and committed to Reaching the World for Jesus Christ.
Listen to and subscribe to the audio-only podcast with your favorite podcasting app below.
