In our culture, unhealthy attitudes and flesh driven behaviors are often repackaged as spiritual virtues. Counterfeits do not lead to growth and life. In fact, they stifle growth and life. Control can be disguised as love. Silence can be mistaken for peace. Enabling harmful behavior can be called kindness. Demanding unquestioning agreement can be framed as patience. Yet, when we test these “spirits” that are sold to be loving, peaceful, or faithful on the surface, we find them to be rooted in fear, pride, manipulation, or self-interest.
In this opening message of our new series, Weaponizing the Fruit, we’ll explore Paul’s warning that “the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh” (Galatians 5:17). The Fruit of the Spirit is meant to be evidence of genuine transformation. Jesus calls us beyond appearances and performances into lives that are truly shaped by the Holy Spirit, able to recognize the difference between authentic spiritual fruit and convincing cultural counterfeits.
Order of Worship | Sermon notes printable for kids | Sermon Notes printable
8:30am Worship at Trinity UMC, Woodward, 109 Trinity Dr., Woodward is recorded on site, shared later
9:45am Worship at St. James UMC, Coburn, 501 Main St., Coburn. Zoom in by clicking here.
11am Worship at Sprucetown UMC, 177 Upper Georges Valley Rd., Spring Mills. Zoom in by clicking here.
Watch the pastor’s pre-recorded message at the bottom of the page.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: ** Indicates change to the regular schedule
– We are a collection partner for Angel Packs items for victims of human trafficking. The list of items needed is available near the collection bin. Thank you for supporting FierceLove4Good!
– July 19 is our Unified Worship and Potluck Picnic. All three charge churches, friends and families will gather at the host church, Trinity Woodward UMC, for worship at 10:30am followed by a potluck picnic. Bring a lawn chair for worship. Plenty of picnic tables and outlets for crockpots are available. Table service and beverages will be provided by the host church. Come and get to know your brothers and sisters in Christ in the valley. [All other services are cancelled for this day.]
Scripture and pre-recorded message from the pastor’s office: