Though the Apostle Paul penned his letter to the Ephesians from behind prison walls, his spirit remained unconfined. The chains that bound him could not bar him from the promises of God. Far more than a prisoner of earthly authorities, Paul was utterly devoted—captivated—by his faith. In Ephesians 4:1–3, he shares what it means to live as a prisoner of faith. In these verses, Paul shows us not just the chains of circumstance, but the strength and beauty of a faith that holds us fast. This sermon explores what that kind of “captive faith” truly looks like.

John 16:33 marks a pivotal moment in the Fourth Gospel, closing the Upper Room Discourse with Jesus declaring victory and hope for his followers. The verse connects truth and trouble, offering encouragement to both the apostles and future believers. This message which Dr. Stubblefield shared recently at the historic St. Paul United Church of Christ in Carlinville, IL explores the “truth about trouble” revealed in this passage.

In Psalm 51, "then" is a spiritual location that should be the goal of every believer. Because of sin, David had taken a detour from his destiny, but through confession and repentance reached his destination.

In Jeremiah, Chapter 8, the prophet laments and mourns because of the plight of the covenant people of Israel. Thousands were living in captivity in Babylon. The prophet’s anguish is ultimately demonstrated by the questions he raises and not the declarations he makes. Down through the centuries, priests, prophets, preachers and pastors are sought out for their answers to life's perplexing and troubling questions. The reality is that we have questions too and more than often we must stand compassionately, yet silently with others who are trying to live with the questions that life inevitably brings. This sermon offers help, hope and healing for those who are living with the questions!

In Chapter Eleven, verse 6 of the Book of Hebrews, the biblical writer, with a pastor’s heart discusses the spiritual foundation of the Christian faith to those who may be considering returning to Judaism due to suffering and persecution. The text emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's faith and experiencing God's favor as demonstrated in Jesus Christ, presented in this book as a Superior Person, Superior Priest, and Superior Principle. This message highlights how the requirement, relationship, and reward mentioned in this pivotal passage remain relevant to believers today.

In Joshua Chapter Fourteen, verses six through fifteen, Caleb, at the age of eighty-five years old, expresses his willingness and desire to go to battle as the Israelites solidified their gains in the new land of promise. He was by all accounts, “a faithful man” because he was devoted, delivered and daring. Even in the seasoned sunset of his life, he was still looking for another opportunity to serve the Lord.

Habakkuk whose name means “to embrace” or “cling to” was a contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah and served during the difficult days that preceded the demise and destruction of the nation of Judah and the subsequent Babylonian Captivity. Fear and uncertainty were rampant! So many people were living lives of quiet desperation. It is not unlike the times in which we live. Uniquely, Habakkuk did not confront the people but CONFRONTED GOD as he wrestled with the problems of sin, evil and suffering around him. God’s final word to him and to us was “the just shall live by faith” (2:4). This message challenges us to have “the faith that holds on when life holds out”.

We are bombarded daily with choices and risk becoming increasingly preoccupied and self-absorbed. The Gospel of Luke, Chapter Ten introduces us to two extraordinary women who invited Jesus into their home. On this occasion, Martha was too busy to be blessed. On the other hand, her sister Mary ends the evening sitting at the feet of Jesus listening to the Word. While Martha was pulled and pressured by her work and the immediate needs of the moment, Mary withdraws from what she was doing and sits quietly at the feet of Jesus and listens to His teaching. She overcame the “attraction of distraction” and so can you! This message tells us how.