"Dead Stuff”

Join us for this powerful and deeply personal message from Rev. Ron McDougald as he explores the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John 11:1-4, 17-27. Titled Dead Stuff, this sermon confronts the raw realities of grief, loss, death, and the hope of resurrectionboth in Scripture and in our everyday lives. In this message preached on March 22, 2026, Pastor Ron reflects on: The deep friendship between Jesus, Mary, Martha, and Lazarusand the painful question: "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." Why Jesus waited four days, allowing Lazarus to be in the tomb, and what that reveals about God's timing and glory. The true meaning of "Bethany" as the "house of affliction," a place for the suffering and outcasts. Personal stories of unexpected loss, including family grief, friends' tragedies, and the lingering pain of deatheven years later. The powerful moment when Jesus cries, "Lazarus, come out!" and then commands the community: "Let him go!" unbinding the grave clothes and setting him free. How the church plays a vital role in helping people release the "dead stuff" in their lives: old sins, wounds, doubts, and griefso they can walk in new life. The ultimate purpose of miracles like this: not just personal healing, but so that the world may believe Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Pastor Ron shares vulnerably about his own family's ongoing journey with a loved one's terminal illness, weaving in stories from COVID, tornado devastation in Mississippi, and personal encounters with profound loss. He reminds us that Jesus never acts by accidentHis purpose is always to heal, forgive, redeem, and bring resurrection life. This sermon includes: Scripture reading from John 11 The Nicene Creed as an affirmation of faith A call to believe that Jesus is "the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25) An invitation to communion, prayer for healing, and new life in Christ Whether you're facing grief, questioning God's timing, or seeking freedom from what binds you, this message offers hope: Jesus calls us out of the tomb and invites the community to unbind us for new lifeso others may see and believe. Scripture Focus: John 11:1-4, 17-27 Key Verse: "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.'" (John 11:25)