Sunday, November 9, 2025, the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost Pastor Bruce Johnson preached a message titled “Is the Lord in the House?” based on Haggai 1:15b–2:9 and Luke 20:27–38.

We recognized and honored our veterans. Together we reflected on God’s presence in uncertain times and the hope that anchors us in faith.

Come be encouraged, challenged, and reminded that God is still building something lasting among us.

All are welcome as we gather for encouragement, worship, and the good news of God’s presence with us.

Whether in person or online, those who join will be renewed by God’s Word, music, and the warmth of Christian community.

Transcript: Building God’s House Anew

Scripture References
- Haggai 1:15b–2:9
- Luke 20:27–38
- Acts 3

Introduction

Pastor Bruce opened with the story of Bishop Richard Allen—former slave, Methodist preacher, and founder of the AME Church—to illustrate how God raises prophets to confront injustice and rebuild His people. Like Allen, the biblical prophets—and Jesus Himself—declare that God is “God of the living,” ever restoring His dwelling among His people.

Key Points / Exposition

# 1. Prophets Then and Now - Richard Allen’s stand against racial segregation mirrors prophetic courage; he became a reformer who formed a new denomination when discrimination persisted. - Prophets are not self-appointed; God chooses them to announce judgment, mercy, and a call to action. - Jesus, the ultimate prophet, affirmed resurrection life (Luke 20) and exposed the Sadducees’ limited vision.

# 2. The Message of Haggai: “Get to Work” - Historical setting: Post-exilic Jews, temple ruins, discouragement about the “small” new structure.
- God’s word through Haggai:
• Remember former deliverance (Exodus).
• Take courage—God’s Spirit “abides among you.”
• Future glory will surpass Solomon’s temple; silver and gold already belong to God.
- Practical import: comparison breeds despair; obedience ignites renewal.

# 3. Holiness—The Methodist Birthright - John Wesley’s stated purpose: “to spread scriptural holiness.” - Holiness = inward and outward love; Christians are God’s living temple. - The pastor lamented that Methodists rarely speak of holiness today; yet it remains God’s will to transform sinners into saints.

# 4. God’s New Work at Pender
- Evidence cited:
• Newcomers returning to faith.
• Growing hunger for Bible study (Acts 3 highlighted).
• Partnerships with Korean and Latino congregations.
• Fresh energy for local and global mission.
- Question faced: “Is God still in the house?” Answer: unmistakably yes—He is rebuilding.

# 5. Worship First, Work Next - Worship resets identity and aligns hearts with God’s purposes.
- From worship flows stewardship, service, evangelism, and courageous public witness.
- “To work for God is always to work with God”—He is architect, engineer, and laborer.

Major Lessons and Revelations
- God never abandons His people; He inhabits living temples, not just buildings.
- Remembering God’s past faithfulness fuels present courage.
- Holiness is not optional décor but the very material of God’s house.
- Christian labor is fruitful because the Spirit precedes and empowers it.
- Communities can—and must—confront injustice while proclaiming resurrection hope.

Practical Application
- Embrace daily worship and prayer before tackling tasks.
- Examine personal and congregational “temple projects”: where are we delaying obedience?
- Seek scriptural holiness: repent, pursue love-driven ethics, and practice means of grace.
- Participate in church rebuilding: volunteer, give proportionally (Consecration Sunday), engage in mission trips (e.g., Philippi).
- Testify like Sandre: share healings and answered prayers to strengthen faith community.

Conclusion and Call to Response

Standing on God’s promises, the pastor urged the congregation to leave worship and “get to work”—building up Pender UMC and the wider Kingdom. God’s glory will outshine former days when His people yield to holiness and courageous action.

Prayer “Lord of angel armies, You have built and rebuilt—from creation to Exodus, from exile to resurrection. Abide among us; make us whole and holy. Strengthen veterans and their families, heal the sick, provide for the jobless, and empower us to labor with You until Your glory fills this house and every heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”