Book: Acts

We who enjoy the luxuries of 21st century America are the unmatched champions of vain things! Our lives are so dedicated to vain things, trivial things, pointless things, that we go out of our way to celebrate vanity itself! The Gospel calls us away from vain things just as it did the pagans at Lystra. But are we willing to turn away from vain things?

Jesus told his disciples, “Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34). The Rev. Galloway challenges us to examine how far we fall short of this commandment and reminds us that love does not mean saying things people want to hear – it means telling the truth.

Decades of spiritual apathy have given over Western Civilization to the evils of abortion, lured in by the false promises offered by politicians and celebrities – and the modern Church bears much of the blame. The Rev. Galloway exhorts Christians to defend the dignity of life regardless of the fate of Roe v. Wade.

Our lives are littered with difficulties and differences which seem irreconcilable. The will of the nations are brought to naught, and so the nations go to war. Our own plans for life and ministry are thwarted, and we go to war with ourselves to find the answers. Looking to the Apostles Peter and Paul, let us remember that God’s plan for our lives is dramatically different from what we want in our sin - and that is a good thing.

After Christ’s death, the disciples took refuge in the Upper Room. Without warning, the risen Christ appeared to them. Listen as the Rev. Galloway discusses Christ’s miraculous appearance and explains what it means for our lives. “Shalom,” Christ said, “Peace be with you.”

What is the significance of Jesus' Baptism? The Rev. Galloway answers this question in light of Luke's words: "for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). The Baptism of Jesus had tremendous importance for his earthly ministry, and it modeled our own call to righteousness that begins in Holy Baptism.

We long for unity in our time. When we look around, it seems we are more divided than ever. So where is true unity to be found? Elder Nathan discusses the perfect unity God offers His people in the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

Today we celebrate Christ's Ascension into Heaven. This final miracle of His earthly ministry offered a glimpse of Jesus' power and majesty. How great is Jesus' power, and what does it mean for our life and ministry here and now?

Sermon given by the Rev. Mark R. Galloway (Bishop-retired) on 5/9/2021 (6 Easter). Most of us have plenty to be joyful for. So why aren't we happy? Christians indeed must be joyful, for having received the gift of eternal life. Listen as the Rev. Galloway unpacks Psalm 33.