Sermons by Michael Howell
Michael Howell
Before Him Lowly Bend
Matthew 2:1-18 This Sunday morning, Pastor Michael speaks from Matthew 2:1-18, where God’s Word highlights the contrasting responses to the birth of Jesus. We saw the hostility of King Herod, who rejected Jesus because he wanted to control his own life, much like many today who resist Christ’s rule. We also considered the indifference of the religious leaders, who, though aware of the prophecy, chose comfort over confrontation. Finally, we reflected on the worship of the Magi, who, guided by…
The Blessed Life
Psalm 1 In this sermon preached by Pastor Michael on Psalm 1, we explore the contrasts between delighting in God’s word, bearing fruit through abiding in Christ, and the ultimate fate of the wicked. Emphasizing the importance of daily meditation on Scripture, the message highlights how a close relationship with God benefits not only ourselves but also our families and those around us.
Reaching a World of Seekers and Skeptics
John 1:43-51 In this sermon, Pastor Michael highlights key principles of evangelism from Jesus’ encounter with Nathanael. Evangelism starts with a deep conviction that Jesus is the most important thing in the world. We are called to invite others to “come and see” Jesus, especially when they are seeking answers in the wrong places. Ultimately, while we point others to Christ, it is He who does the work of conversion. We are encouraged to remember that many people are more…
The Gospel According to Micah
Micah 7 In this sermon, Pastor Michael takes us through the journey of Micah, beginning with his lament over Israel’s sin and darkness. From there, we move into a song of hope, where Micah leads us in humble confession, prayerful submission, and ultimately, confident trust in God’s unshakable character. He highlights the powerful truth that no one is like the Lord—He is unmatched in His mercy and faithfulness. This message encourages us to respond with humility, prayer, and unwavering trust…
What does the Lord Require of You?
Micah 6:1-8 In this sermon from Pastor Michael, we reflect on God’s call through the prophet Micah, who examines what God requires of us. Drawing from Micah 6 and Deuteronomy, we learn that God desires not just good works, but hearts that love justice, mercy, and humility. The message challenges us to examine our own motives and responsibilities before God and His church. It also warns of the judgment Israel faced for their disobedience, reminding us that, though we too…
The Road to Restoration
Micah 4-5 In this sermon from Micah 4-5, Pastor Michael reminds us that true restoration comes not through our own efforts, but through the pain of exile, the hope found in the birth of Jesus—the King who brings peace, and the breaking down of our self-sufficiency. Discover how God’s plan to restore us is deeper than we expect, and how the path to peace and wholeness begins with surrender. Watch now and be encouraged by the promise of a future…
A Crisis of Leadership
Micah 3 This Sunday morning, Michael exhorts us from the book of Micah. Micah 3 details God’s Judgement on unjust rulers, false prophets, and crooked leaders. Godly leaders use their power to bless others, they love God not money, and they courageously speak God’s truth, even when it is unpopular.
Human Plans, God’s Plans
Micah 2 This Sunday morning, we continue our series in the book of Micah. Michael demonstrates to us from Micah to God’s woe against the covetous, the selective hearing of God’s people, and His plan to gather a remnant for Himself.
A Call to Repent
James 4:1-3 This Sunday evening, Michael brings us the Word of God from James 4. James tells us that we must repent because friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God, because God jealously longs for us, and because God gives grace to those who humble themselves. Humble repentance looks like submitting to God, purifying our actions and attitudes, and experiencing Godly sorrow for sin.
Out of the Depths
Jonah 1:17-2:10 This Baptism Sunday morning, Michael exhorts us from the book of Jonah. He explains how God’s grace is for those who admit their helpless predicament, His grace means new life, and His grace fuels our commitment to Him.
Who is Like the Lord?
Micah 1 This Sunday morning, Michael introduces our new morning series on the book of Micah. He explains the historical background and context of Micah before showing how Micah 1 demonstrates the announcement of God’s judgement, the extent of God’s judgment, and the reason for God’s judgement on the people of Israel. The heart of the human problem is that we have lifted up other things in worship in the place that only God deserves to be. These are counterfeit…
Learning to Listen
Nehemiah 8 Michael brings the Word of God from Nehemiah 8 this Sunday evening. In it, we see how we are to listen to God’s Word expectantly, attentively, and submissively. Likewise, we are to respond to His Word with tears of repentance, with joyful hearts, and with readiness to obey what He has instructed us to do.