
Michael Flowers
- Sermons
- Bio
Sermon on the Mount Ii - New Creation Identity - Salt, Light, City
1.2K20:33New CreationHAB 3:17MAT 5:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of being salt and light in the world as followers of Jesus. He emphasizes that Jesus cares about the earth and sets the stage for the Sermon on the Mount. The speaker explains that the beatitudes provide descriptive qualities of being in the kingdom of heaven, rather than prescriptive commands. He also highlights the paradoxical properties of salt and light, which can both illuminate and expose darkness. The speaker encourages the audience to embrace qualities such as being poor in spirit, mourning, and meekness, and to throw parties that include the poor and marginalized, as instructed by Jesus.
Christ, the First Fruits of New Creation, 2 of 4
1.1K26:21New Creation1CO 15:12In this sermon, Paul discusses the importance of recognizing that it is not our will, but the will of the Father that should guide us. He emphasizes that the evil influences in the world target humanity because God became man, and therefore, the forces of hell are directed against the church. Paul also mentions the future resurrection of the dead and the judgment of Christ, highlighting that judgment in Christ is a good thing as it brings justice where there has been injustice. He concludes by emphasizing the significance of believing in the resurrection of the dead and the narrative of the church living towards the end in the presence of Jesus Christ.
The Life - Giving Spirit of New Creation
1.1K23:54New CreationJOL 2:28MAT 6:33ACT 2:38ROM 5:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and sharing the gospel. He explains that we were created by God to have fellowship with Him and to receive His divine breath and communion. The preacher highlights the role of Jesus Christ in reconciling us to God and rescuing us from the present evil age. He emphasizes the need for repentance, faith, and baptism for the forgiveness of sins and the receiving of the Holy Spirit. The preacher also emphasizes that as believers, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ and to proclaim the message of reconciliation to the world.
The Woman, the Dragon & the Male Child - Christmas Eve 2017
54524:53ChristmasGEN 49:8MAT 1:1MRK 1:1LUK 3:23JHN 1:1REV 12:1REV 12:6In this sermon, the preacher explores the unseen story behind the rebellion against God and the cosmic realities surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. The book of Revelation is highlighted as a source of both seen and unseen realities, with the author, John, taking readers on a journey through time and space. The sermon emphasizes that the main focus of Revelation is the unveiling of Jesus Christ and the ability to see him with spiritual eyes. The preacher also mentions the significance of Christmas as the unfolding of Jesus Christ and encourages listeners to have a "cosmic Christmas" by delving into the deeper meaning of the holiday.
His Cosmic Battle Scars of Peace - 2nd Sunday of Easter
53323:31EasterMAT 28:19JHN 20:19In this sermon, the speaker describes the tense atmosphere in the upper room where the disciples were gathered after Jesus' death. The disciples felt deep failure, betrayal, and bewilderment as they believed Jesus was another failed Messiah. Jesus appears among them and questions their whereabouts during his crucifixion, highlighting their betrayal. The speaker emphasizes that many people perceive God as a judgmental figure, leading to a constant cycle of trying to improve oneself. However, the speaker argues that the true image of God is one of loving judgment and empowerment, as demonstrated by Jesus' wounds. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of the church continuing Jesus' mission and ministry, with the understanding that failure, sin, and death are inherent to humanity and can only be overcome through a connection with Jesus.
Wait, Watch & Worship - Advent 2017
49221:41AdventPSA 119:11ISA 64:1MAT 6:331CO 1:9REV 22:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses our tendency to want to fast forward and speed up the process of growth and construction in our lives. He uses the example of watching a video of a nine-year construction process in just three minutes, highlighting our impatience and desire for instant results. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's timing and walking in Kingdom time, rather than being consumed by chronological time. He encourages listeners to wait, watch, and worship in faith, trusting that God is at work even when we can't see it.
Abba, Father - the Spirit of Adoption
48625:15AdoptionGEN 15:6PSA 127:3ISA 61:1JHN 3:16ROM 7:7GAL 3:19EPH 6:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of being an heir and the role of the law as a temporary custodian for the nation of Israel. He explains that while an heir is underage, they are no different from a slave, even though they own the entire estate. The speaker then introduces the idea of the elementary spiritual forces of the world, which refers to the fallen creation and the period when Israel was under the law. He emphasizes that the law was a temporary measure until the time set by God, when He sent His Son to redeem those under the law and bring them into adoption as sons and daughters.
Drawn Into the Father's Heart - John 1
47824:43Character Of GodIn this sermon, the speaker focuses on the prologue of the Gospel of John, which introduces key themes that will be developed throughout the rest of the book. The prologue describes an eternal beginning, emphasizing the communion of love between God the Father and His Son, the eternal Word. The speaker highlights the idea of "new light" that comes from God's incarnate Word, connecting it to the terminology used in John's prologue. The sermon also explores the concept of Jesus as the true light, who shines in the darkness and gives light to everyone, pointing back to the Father.
Participatory Identity in Christ
47627:34IdentityMAT 6:33LUK 15:11JHN 8:11ROM 5:21ROM 6:14ROM 8:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the prodigal son and its relevance to our understanding of God's grace. He highlights the father's unconditional love and forgiveness towards his wayward son, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness in our own lives. The preacher then transitions to the book of Romans, specifically focusing on Romans 6. He addresses the question of whether we should continue in sin so that grace may abound, clarifying that the arrival of the law does not heal the condition of sin but rather reveals it. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus' death and resurrection and the need for believers to live in the new humanity in Christ.
2nd Sunday of Lent - When You Give Alms
46619:09AlmsIn this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of loving mercy, doing justly, and walking humbly with God. He encourages the audience to ask questions and take them into prayer, seeking to become more in tune with the Father's heart. The speaker references biblical stories, such as Cornelius and 2 Chronicles, to illustrate how God notices and rewards those who have a heart completely devoted to Him. The sermon also discusses the concept of meritorious almsgiving and the promises attached to a life of caring for the weak and the poor. The speaker acknowledges the challenges and fears that come with being generous and addresses the grip of greed in our lives, urging the audience to seek ways to overcome it.
1st Sunday of Lent 2017 - Beware of Strutting Your Stuff
46216:00LentMAT 5:13MAT 6:1MAT 6:16MAT 25:31LUK 11:331CO 13:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the season of Lent and its emphasis on following Jesus. The sermon focuses on the first four verses of Matthew chapter 6, which talk about practicing righteousness in secret rather than for the approval of others. The speaker highlights the importance of embodying the ways of Jesus in the church and being a visible representation of God's kingdom on earth. The sermon concludes with the reminder to let our light shine before others so that they may see our good works and praise our Father in heaven.
Ministry in the Spirit - 3. the Complementarity of Grace Gifts
45631:27Holy Spirit GiftsMAT 11:29LUK 4:18EPH 4:21HEB 12:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the completion of a membership class and the ministry assessment that was taken. The speaker emphasizes that while these assessments can be helpful, they should not be relied upon too heavily. The focus should be on understanding one's spiritual gifts, as outlined by Paul in 1st Timothy and 2nd Timothy. The speaker also highlights the importance of caring for others and imparting Jesus Christ through preaching and teaching.
Ministry in the Spirit - 5. the Gift of Tongues and Prayer Language
45433:22Tongues1CO 13:81CO 14:11CO 14:31CO 14:121CO 14:221CO 14:26In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of exercising spiritual gifts in the context of the corporate gathering. They emphasize the need for order and understanding in the manifestation of these gifts. The speaker acknowledges that their interpretation and theology are not foolproof, but they draw from their experiences in the charismatic renewal movement and teaching on this topic globally. They also mention the concept of seeing things dimly in the present, but having faith in what will be fully known when Jesus returns.
Becoming a Member of St. Aidan's
44221:32AnglicanGEN 13:8MAT 23:10MAT 25:40HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of clear communication and accountability within the church. He shares a story about four people named everybody, somebody, anybody, and nobody, highlighting how a lack of clarity and responsibility can lead to blame and unfulfilled tasks. The speaker then discusses the role of submission to church leaders and the mutual care that should exist within the congregation. He also emphasizes the significance of choosing a church family and the high view of the church as the body of Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of treating one another with love and kindness, as it is ultimately a reflection of our relationship with Christ.
Embodied Liturgy - Practices as Catechesis
44126:36CatechesisGEN 1:31ROM 6:13ROM 12:1ROM 12:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of repetition in Christian growth and formation. They highlight the idea that sin has caused a break in communion between humanity and God. The speaker also discusses the need for intentional and liturgical worship, where believers offer their bodies and minds as living sacrifices. They encourage obedience to God's commands, even when emotions may not align, and emphasize the power of community and love for one another in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Catholicity - Four Marks of the Church Series
44126:16CatholicityISA 61:10MAT 6:33ROM 12:5GAL 3:28EPH 5:21HEB 4:16REV 21:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the supernatural nature of our faith and the role of grace in our lives. He highlights the concept of eternal life and how it resides within us, making us worthy of veneration. The sermon also discusses the universal presence of God and how it works within us to bring light and transformation. The gospel is presented as the solution to the universal problem of sin, offering healing and restoration to all who believe.
Christ Empowers to Overcome - 1st Sunday of Lent
43826:15OvercomingIn this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and our Lord. He highlights the key events in Jesus' life, including His conception by the Holy Spirit, birth from the Virgin Mary, suffering under Pontius Pilate, crucifixion, death, burial, descent to the dead, resurrection on the third day, and ascension into heaven. The preacher also mentions the belief in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. He encourages the congregation to continue in the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers, as well as to repent and return to the Lord whenever they fall into sin.
New Creation - Easter Morning
42924:57EasterGEN 3:9EXO 20:8MAT 28:1JHN 20:2In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Mary Magdalene and the empty tomb of Jesus. He highlights the initial confusion and despair felt by Jesus' followers, including Mary, as they discovered the empty tomb. Peter and John rush to the tomb upon hearing the news, symbolizing the frantic movement in the midst of darkness that can be seen in our own lives. The speaker emphasizes the paradox of rejoicing in the resurrection of Christ while still living in a world filled with pain and darkness. He concludes by discussing the encounter between Mary and Jesus, where Jesus appears in a different form and instructs Mary not to cling to him.
Do You Know What I Have Done to You - Maundy Thursday 2018
42821:27Maundy ThursdayMAT 6:33JHN 13:12EPH 5:261JN 4:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the iconic moment when Jesus washes the feet of his disciples. He compares this act of washing dirty feet to the effectual grace of baptism and the restoration of communion with God. Jesus is illustrating his identity and mission as the divine Son taking on human flesh. He emphasizes that only Jesus can transform us and that it may require self-denial and walking by faith. The preacher also highlights the betrayal of Judas and the price at which he valued Jesus, contrasting it with Jesus' role as a love slave, enslaved to love.
I'm Spiritual but Not Religious, the New Gnosticism
42322:48GnosticismGEN 15:5MAT 22:37MAT 25:36LUK 9:23PHP 1:61JN 3:16JUD 1:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the power of grace and how it can keep us from falling and present us faultless before God. He references the book of Jude and emphasizes the amazing ability of God to present us faultless before His glory. The preacher also mentions Matthew 25, where Jesus teaches about the importance of visiting and caring for those who are in prison or in need. He highlights the idea that we will be judged based on how we treat those who break the rules. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the significance of the church as a community and family, emphasizing the importance of coming together and supporting one another.
The Undoing of Death - Good Friday 2018
42209:34Good FridayGEN 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses Jesus' response to Pilate's questions and his self-consciousness, mission, and origin. Jesus came down from heaven, referred to as the Father's house, and became a human being with the purpose of dying. The speaker highlights the paradox of the Lord of all life coming to die. Jesus' death took place over three hours on a Friday outside Jerusalem, during which he prayed seven one-sentence prayers. The speaker emphasizes the significance of Jesus' death, stating that it accomplished salvation and was the cure for the death-dealing sins of the world. The final words of Jesus, "It is finished," signify the undoing of death and the crushing of the serpent's head, as mentioned in Genesis 3:15. The speaker encourages the audience to not only remember Jesus' death but also to understand the meaning of their own daily dying in the company of Jesus. The sermon references biblical passages such as Galatians 2:20, Philippians 2:5, and Colossians 3:3 to emphasize the participation in the mystery of Jesus' death and the need to have the mind of Christ.
The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord
41118:58BaptismGEN 1:2ISA 40:3MAT 3:16JHN 1:32JHN 3:5JHN 8:12PHP 2:8In this sermon, the preacher explores the symbolism and significance of John the Baptist and Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. John the Baptist is portrayed as the bridge between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, calling people to repentance and preparing the way for Jesus. The baptism in the Jordan River represents a passage from the present evil age to the Kingdom of God. Through this baptism, Jesus is revealed as the Son of God, with the Spirit of God resting upon him and the Father proclaiming his sonship. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being united with Christ through baptism, becoming a new creation and hearing the voice of God declaring us as beloved children.
These Holy Mysteries - Eucharist, 1 of 2, Sacred Meal
41029:25EucharistMRK 2:5JHN 1:29In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of the Eucharist in the New Covenant. They emphasize the connection between the blood and water that flowed from Jesus' side and the sacrifice of the high priest in the Old Testament. The speaker also references Exodus 12, highlighting how the meal of the Passover lamb brought God's people together and formed their identity. They discuss the temptation of Adam and Eve and how it led to a breaking of communion with God, drawing a parallel to our attraction to junk food and worldly desires.
Sermon on the Mount I - Beatitudes - Paradox of True Happiness
40816:44BeatitudesMAT 5:31CO 1:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, specifically the Beatitudes. The sermon starts by highlighting the two groups of people present: the crowds and the disciples. The preacher suggests that the difference between those who admire Jesus and those who become his disciples is their willingness to come to him. The sermon emphasizes that the Beatitudes are not recommendations, but rather a description of the life of those gathered by and around Jesus.
3rd Sunday of Lent - Behind Closed Doors With the Father
40721:56LentPSA 76:1PSA 78:22MAT 6:5MAT 6:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being in the presence of God through prayer. He encourages listeners to close the door on distractions and anxieties and simply rest in God's love and trust. The sermon is based on Matthew chapter six, where Jesus addresses the practices of Christian community, including arms giving, prayer, and fasting. The speaker warns against being like hypocrites or pagans in prayer and emphasizes the need to seek God and prioritize communion with Him above all else.