Central Presbyterian Church - Sermons

God takes what the world sees as broken and transforms it into something beautiful, just as Michelangelo saw David hidden in flawed marble. Through stories of faith, loss, and everyday encounters, we can be reminded that our lives are meant to reflect Christ’s transforming power. God’s redeeming work reshapes us to be witnesses of His glory in a world longing for hope. Listen to this sermon as Rev. Michael Davis explores how to live as a witness of the one true God. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

The biblical story of Jehosheba is remarkable yet little-known. Set against a backdrop of palace intrigue and danger, her split-second decision to hide a baby in a supply closet changed the course of history. And just as Jehosheba recognized the true king in her day, we’re called to live boldly for the ultimate King — Jesus — right where we are. Listen to this sermon as Rev. Andrew Smith offers a reminder that God often works through ordinary people placed in the right spot at the right moment to do the right thing for his glory.  ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

The key to living boldly in the world starts with being hidden away. But what does that mean? When we look at the life of Elijah, it reveals the surprising power of a “concealed life” with God. But a hidden faith that never shows up in real life? That’s only half the story. Listen to this sermon from Rev. Andrew Smith as he challenges us to live fully rooted lives that move from quiet trust to courageous action. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

There are a lot of difficulties in ministry, but if we’re not careful, the presenting challenges can easily distract us from one covert challenge with damaging potential. When ministry goes well, the danger of success creeps in, tempting us to chase a name for ourselves instead of elevating the name of the One to whom we owe credit for all our successes. Listen to this sermon as Rev. Alex Watlington instructs us to be on guard against this danger as we engage in God’s mission. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

Humans love a good comeback story. Whether it’s sports, rags-to-riches, or otherwise, there’s something about a new start — a second chance — that resonates with us in the depths of our souls. The book of Jonah tells us one such story and reminds us that God is a God not just of second chances but of third chances, fourth chances, and millionth chances. Listen to this sermon from guest preacher Brent Harriman as we consider God’s mercy and our response to it. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

The earliest Christians had their lives radically transformed by Jesus, and their response was justice, mercy, and faithfulness, yes, but in addition to the practice of tithing. The radical generosity of Jesus in giving his very life naturally led to the Church radically giving to support the advancement of the gospel and to provide for those in need. Listen to this sermon as we consider the voluntary, responsive, and sacrificial gift of generosity. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

We live in between God’s promised future and our present reality. This place of suspense causes pain — pain for us as the people of God, pain for all of God’s creation, and even pain for God’s Spirit, who hears our groanings and groans along with us, longing for the day when pain will be overshadowed once and for all by God’s glory. Listen to this sermon as we consider how to wait eagerly and patiently for that day, all the while interceding on behalf of the world through lament and prayer. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.