In his sermon, Pastor Chris Atwood emphasizes the importance of being a wholehearted follower of Jesus through service. He discusses the role of peacemakers in a fractured world, the need for unity in diversity, and the call to love God and others wholeheartedly. Atwood encourages the church community to embody these principles in their daily lives, fostering healing and connection amidst societal challenges.
In a recent sermon delivered on September 14, 2025, Pastor Chris Atwood explored the profound implications of being a wholehearted follower of Jesus, particularly in the context of service. He began by acknowledging the challenging times the community faces, marked by recent tragedies and societal unrest. Atwood's message serves as a reminder of the church's role in promoting peace and unity in a fractured world.
Pastor Atwood opened his sermon by addressing the current state of the world, noting the half-mast flags that symbolize mourning and loss. He reflected on the heartbreaking incidents involving children and prominent figures, emphasizing the emotional toll these events take on the community.
He reminded the congregation that Jesus calls us to be peacemakers. This role is crucial in a society where anger and division often dominate conversations. Atwood explained that a peacemaker is someone who can enter any situation—be it a room, an online space, or a community—and help to lower the temperature of conflict. He highlighted the importance of being aware of how societal structures, including media and algorithms, can exacerbate tensions and distract from the call to serve others.
Atwood emphasized that service begins at home and extends to our workplaces and online interactions. He urged the congregation to be individuals who bring peace and healing to broken places. This can be achieved through prayer, active listening, and showing grace in all interactions.
Furthermore, he encouraged the church community to forge friendships with those who are different from themselves. In a world that often encourages division based on socio-economic status, race, and political beliefs, the church stands as a unique space where diverse individuals can come together under the shared belief in Jesus Christ. Atwood pointed out that this unity is a testament to the church's mission and a reflection of God's kingdom on Earth.
Pastor Atwood acknowledged the diversity within the church, noting that members come from various backgrounds and hold different beliefs. He expressed the delicate balance he must maintain as a pastor, focusing on the gospel while addressing the diverse perspectives of the congregation.
He reiterated that what unites the church is the desire to be wholehearted followers of Jesus. This unity is essential, especially in a world that often feels fractured. Atwood encouraged the congregation to continue being a place of hope and healing, where individuals can find common ground despite their differences.
Transitioning to the core message of the sermon, Atwood discussed the church's mission statement: to make wholehearted followers of Jesus. He reflected on Jesus' teaching that summarizes the law and the prophets: to love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself.
Atwood posed a thought experiment, asking the congregation to consider what it would mean if Jesus loved us halfheartedly. He concluded that such a love would not compel Jesus to sacrifice himself for humanity. Instead, Jesus' love is whole-hearted, demonstrated through his willingness to become human and serve others.
In closing, Pastor Chris Atwood's sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the call to serve wholeheartedly. He encourages the church community to embody the principles of peace, unity, and love in their daily lives. By doing so, they can contribute to the healing of a fractured world, reflecting the love of Jesus in every interaction. As the congregation continues to navigate the complexities of modern life, Atwood's message remains a guiding light, urging them to be peacemakers and wholehearted followers of Christ.
