https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/podcasts/186445/ The newest sermons from Phoenix United Reformed Church on SermonAudio. Religion & Spirituality Phoenix United Reformed Church http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification https://vps.sermonaudio.com/resize_image/sources/podcast/1440/1440/phoenixurc.1681277044.jpg https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/podcasts/186445/ en Tue, 12 May 2026 15:37:52 +0000 30 Rev. Michael Spotts no The newest sermons from Phoenix United Reformed Church on SermonAudio. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/417262131472169 This passage from Mark's Gospel presents a powerful call to faith, humility, and reliance on Christ's sovereign authority, as Jesus returns from the Transfiguration to confront a demon-possessed boy and the spiritual hardness of those around Him. The narrative warns against the danger of hardened unbelief, particularly in religious leaders who prioritize argumentation over genuine faith and compassion, and underscores that true faith is not in human strength but in Christ's power, which is revealed through prayer and dependence on Him. It affirms the real and destructive nature of demonic oppression, not as mere metaphor or medical condition, but as a spiritual reality that Christ decisively overcomes through His word, demonstrating that His authority extends over all creation. The passage also teaches that effective ministry and spiritual breakthrough come not through human effort or ritual, but through humble, persistent prayer—often intensified by fasting—acknowledging our weakness and trusting in God's goodness, even when doubt lingers. Ultimately, it reassures believers that though trials may intensify before deliverance, Christ's hand is always ready to lift us up, for He holds His people securely and will never let them perish. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/417262131472169 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:37:26 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/32626334524891 The transfiguration of Jesus, as recounted in Mark 9:1–9, serves as a divine revelation of His divine glory and supreme authority, affirming His identity as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophets while surpassing them in dignity and power. Through a carefully structured event echoing the Exodus and Sinai theophanies, Jesus is revealed in radiant glory alongside Moses and Elijah, who discuss His impending 'exodus'—His death and resurrection as the ultimate deliverance from sin and death. The voice from the cloud declaring, 'This is My beloved Son; listen to Him,' establishes Jesus as the final and authoritative revealer of God, surpassing even the greatest figures of the Old Covenant. This moment calls believers to prioritize Christ above all earthly authorities, to endure present suffering with confident hope in future glory, and to live in humility and faithfulness, knowing that every believer shares in Christ's transfigured destiny. Ultimately, the passage underscores the urgency of faith and evangelism, warning that eternal judgment awaits those who reject Christ, while affirming that salvation is found only in Him. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/32626334524891 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 22 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:35:40 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/32626340524300 This sermon centers on the necessity of embracing suffering as a fundamental aspect of discipleship, drawing from Mark 8:31–36 to contrast Christ's humble acceptance of the cross with Peter's fleshly resistance, which reflects humanity's natural aversion to pain and death. It emphasizes that true faith requires a mindset aligned with God's purposes—rejecting a 'theology of glory' that seeks earthly triumph and ease in favor of a 'theology of the cross' that finds glory in faithful endurance. The call is not to seek martyrdom, but to recognize daily trials as opportunities to deny oneself, bear one's cross, and follow Christ in humility, trusting that such sacrifice leads to eternal life and ultimate glorification. The passage urges believers to view suffering not as a sign of failure, but as a means of participating in Christ's redemptive work and growing in holiness, anchored in the promise that eternal reward far surpasses any temporal loss. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/32626340524300 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 15 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:55 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/327261611581474 The sermon centers on Jesus' gradual healing of a blind man in Mark 8, using this unique two-stage miracle to illustrate the progressive nature of spiritual sight in the Christian life. In the immediate context, the miracle underscores Christ's sovereign freedom in healing—working not only through words but also through physical means like spit and touch—revealing that divine grace is not bound by human expectations or methods. In the broader context of Mark's gospel, this event highlights the disciples' partial understanding of Jesus as the Christ, recognizing His messianic identity yet still failing to grasp His suffering and sacrificial mission, thus reflecting the gradual maturation of faith. The preacher calls believers to humility and patience, affirming that full spiritual clarity is not achieved in this life but will be realized in eternity when believers will see Christ face to face. Ultimately, the passage invites Christians to live in hopeful anticipation, to persevere in faith, and to bear witness to their own transformation by testifying that they were once blind but now see. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/327261611581474 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 08 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:39 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/417262142425347 On several occasions, we read that Jesus groaned or sighed aloud. Usually in response to how dull his disciples were. Nevertheless, we'll see that God's compassion does not depend on our comprehension, but on his faithful mercy. We must show similar patience toward those who "aren't getting it." https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/417262142425347 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:10 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/34252038355993 The same Lord who said, "come to me, all who are hungry," and, "I am the Bread of life," once multiplied a few loaves to feed a crowd of many thousands. We'll see how this miracle stands as an assurance of God's merciful compassion as well as plentiful provision for all who seek Jesus. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/34252038355993 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 09 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:35:30 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/2525205151614 This passage shows the high price of faithfulness to our prophetic calling in Christ, and the even greater worth of endurance. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/2525205151614 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 02 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:35:57 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/25251959106845 This passage recounts Jesus sending his twelve disciples to proclaim God's kingdom throughout Judea. We'll compare and contrast their calling with our Christian mission today. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/25251959106845 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:37:51 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/25251943576862 This story serves as a warning not to shut our ears to God's message, which can be especially difficult when he uses familiar people to speak it. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/25251943576862 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:32:54 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/520242342466567 Mark 5 describes two miracles sandwiched together. In both cases, those seeking help are faced with discouraging delays. Yet as they persist in faith, we find Christ is more than willing to bless them in due time. Even so, the Lord leads you to persevere in hopeful prayer. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/520242342466567 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:31:05 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/5212445434895 Sometimes God purposes terrible sufferings for a season, not to destroy his chosen ones, but to showcase Jesus' goodness and power. Such was the case of the demoniac. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/5212445434895 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 05 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:18 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/429242154115707 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/429242154115707 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:25:37 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/42924205403396 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/42924205403396 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:41:33 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/430241946544039 Jesus' parable compares the progress of the heavenly kingdom to the growth of a crop. Just as farmers need to labor, but are not ultimately responsible for the the life that springs up from the soil, so we are called to serve Christ's mission, while resting in the Lord to bring his plan to fruition. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/430241946544039 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:28:45 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/8924193698014 God purposes that the light of the Gospel to go forth into the world. And he desires that we, his professing servants, would not cover that light, but lift it up. To the extent we do so, we can expect to receive even greater light and blessing. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/8924193698014 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 04 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:31:48 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/12225201113284 Many of Jesus' parables are enigmatic, which Jesus acknowleged. They "veiled" the truth from those who were disinterested, as a judgment. But here, Jesus provides an explanation which serves as the key to unlocking his other parables of the kingdom. Essentially, he says that participation in the future fullness of Christ's kingdom requires present possession of the Spirit, who is the "downpayment" of the age to come, which is evidenced by fruitfulness. It is not enough to hear his teachings, but one must walk in them by faith. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/12225201113284 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:38:47 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/117242013492529 All unrepented sins go unpardoned. But Jesus warns that one in particular, called "blasphemy against the Holy Spirit," is of such a heinous character that it is "unpardonable." Anyone who commits it has no hope of redemption. What is it? How do we know if we've done it? And how should we relate to those who have? https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/117242013492529 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:53 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/11824152226460 The Bible warns of a spiritual "strong man," called Satan, whose false "kingdom" wields great, destructive power in the world. But Jesus ability to bind even the devil shows us who the true king is. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/11824152226460 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:39:01 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/118241820435237 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/118241820435237 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:37:27 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/118241842436691 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/118241842436691 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:33:42 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/123242247475891 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/123242247475891 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:36:54 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/12524181257273 https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/phoenixurc/sermons/12524181257273 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Rev. Michael Spotts 0:37:21 no Rev. Michael Spotts - Gospel of Mark