Good Shepherd Nashville

The Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost | Eric Willits

Eric discusses the dichotomy of fear and faith in Mark's Gospel, using various biblical examples. The disciples' fear contrasts with Jesus' call for faith, which involves confidence and action. He urges us to evaluate our faith cycles and fears, advocating for action-based faith. He encourages the exploration of fear-driving actions through introspection and making conscious efforts toward faith-driven behaviors.

The Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost | Austin Becton

Austin discusses the chaos in the world and the hope rooted in Isaiah's prophetic vision of restoration. He explores the idea of God bringing life to barren places despite current despair. He encourages us to participate in God's kingdom on earth through acts of restoration, encouragement, and healing. He addresses the struggle of why God seems distant at times but emphasizes the importance of honest relationships and trust in God's promises of total renewal.

The Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost | Austin Becton

Austin discusses the tendency to create curated versions of ourselves on social media and in life, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the heart rather than outward appearances. Using the example of the Pharisees, he highlights how adherence to traditions can overshadow genuine connection with God and others. He encourages listeners to embrace authenticity, loving neighbors, and living out God's love. The sermon concludes with an invitation to the communion table, welcoming attendees in their imperfections as they seek divine grace and transformation.

The Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost | Brain Goodwin

Brian explores the theme of choice in scripture and the nature of God's love. He reflects on how human choices and God's perfect, unwavering love differ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being open to God's love and the enduring nature of divine love, even when human fidelity wavers. We end with an invitation to embrace God’s love through communion.

The Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost | Andrea Herlong

Andrea discusses the theological significance, historical context, and personal meaning of the Eucharist in the Anglican tradition. We explore John 6:53-59 and connect it to the current practice of communion, highlighting its sacramental value and the transformation it can bring to believers.

The Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost | Derek Axelson

This week we delve into the scriptural theme of manna, exploring its significance as a symbol of God's faithfulness, a tool for Israel's transformation, and a precursor to eternal life in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Highlighting various biblical passages, Derek emphasizes how manna served as both sustenance and a means of teaching obedience and trust in God, transitioning Israel from a slavery mindset to one of divine promise, maturity, and eternal life and offered beyond suffering and death. Derek links the sacrament of Jesus Christ to the manna, emphasizing Jesus as a personal and transformative gift from God.

Kick off Sunday | Austin Becton

This week we explore the core mission of Good Shepherd Parish, focusing on hospitality as a vital aspect of God's kingdom. Austin discusses the increasing divisiveness in society and the need for the church to reclaim the art of hospitality. Citing Henry Nouwen and the parable of the great banquet from Luke 14, we look to move away from judgment and hostilities, toward embracing the radical, sacrificial hospitality exemplified by Jesus. How are we welcoming strangers in our lives and extending divine hospitality to them?

The Tenth Sunday After Pentecost | Suzie Anderson

This week we explore Biblical healing through the stories of a little girl raised from the dead and a woman with an issue of blood. We discuss personal struggles with chronic pain, feelings of shame, and the understanding of healing in the Christian context. God's healing and salvation are not limited by human emotions or faith, and this sermon examines how Jesus' responses to illness and death illustrate his unwavering compassion and understanding.

The Ninth Sunday After Pentecost | Austin Becton

This week Austin speaks to the deep divisions in society and within the church, urging us to unity through Christ as described in Ephesians. He emphasizes that Christ has torn down walls of hostility, calling the church to be a beacon of God's love. Unity is highlighted as a key testimony of God's work, not requiring uniformity but celebrating diversity. Central to the work of unity is humility, avoiding judgment, and extending generosity in orthodoxy.

The Eighth Sunday After Pentecost | Brian Goodwin

This week, Brian delves into the concept of the 'Christ mystery,' focusing on how it shows God's commitment to universal wholeness and shalom. By examining Paul's letters, Hebrew scriptures, and the teachings of Jesus, we see how God's involvement, symbolized through Christ, is meant to guide the building of a new kingdom. We are called to true shalom through contemplation and action while we guard against distractions that can diverge us from God's plan.