Richland Center Free Methodist Church

Every part of the body matters, even the parts that are easy to overlook. When one part is weak, hurting, or hidden from view, the whole body feels it. In a world that often celebrates the most visible gifts, it is easy to forget how much strength, care, and purpose are found in each person God has placed among His people.
In 1 Corinthians 12:22-31, we're reminded that the church was never meant to run on comparison, competition, or status. God has joined His people together with intention, giving different gifts for a shared purpose.
Recorded April 12th, 2026Message by Chaplain Dave FrankScripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31

There are moments in life when we look back on great sorrow and wonder how we would have responded if we had been there. At the cross, the noise of the crowd, the weight of rejection, and the silence of suffering all press in with one question: where would we stand?
In Isaiah 53, we see the suffering servant who was despised, pierced, and crushed, yet willingly carried the sin and grief of others. This Easter, we consider what Christ has done for us; facing both the cost of sin and the depth of God’s mercy, and remembering that the story of suffering does not end in the grave.
Come stand near the cross, behold the Lamb, and rejoice in the hope of the Risen Savior!
Recorded April 5th, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Isaiah 53

As the crowd lined the streets with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," a group of Greeks approached the disciples and asked: “Sir, we would like to see Jesus.” This simple request triggers a shift from the public spectacle of the Triumphal Entry to the personal necessity of beholding Christ for who He truly is.
While the Pharisees watched in frustration, noting that "the whole world has gone after him," the arrival of those seeking from outside the nation of Israel signaled the beginning of a global mission. The King of the Jews was being revealed as the Hope of the Nations.
On this Palm Sunday, we move beyond the noise of the crowd to encounter the Christ who came to give His life for the world.
Recorded March 29th, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: John 12:12-22

Waiting can feel long when the outcome is uncertain. A farmer plants the seed, works the soil, and then watches the sky, knowing the crop depends on rain that has not yet come. Seasons like that test our patience and reveal what we truly trust.
In James 5:7–12, James points to the patience of the farmer and the endurance of the prophets as examples for believers. Instead of grumbling or giving in to frustration, we are called to steady our hearts and trust the Lord’s timing. This passage also reminds us that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy, and it calls us to live with integrity, letting our “yes” be yes and our “no” be no, as we wait on Him.
We invite you to join us as we learn how to strengthen our hearts together. Whether joining the service in person or watching our online stream, we look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
Recorded Sunday, March 22nd, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 5:7-12

Most of us spend our lives trying to stay in the driver’s seat, carefully planning our "tomorrows" and managing our own outcomes, but this Sunday we explore a different way of living. Picking up in James 4:1-17, we’re looking at what happens when we finally stop fighting for control and start leaning into God’s grace.
True submission isn't about losing your identity, but rather about finding your place in a much bigger story. From the conflicts that arise when we want our own way to the pride of thinking we know exactly what next year holds, James challenges us to trade our self-reliance for a humble, "if the Lord wills" perspective. It’s a call to draw near to God with the confidence that He is already moving toward us.
Join us as we explore how to live a life that is fully surrendered and find the peace that comes with it.
Recorded Sunday, March 8th, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 4:1-12

We’ve all heard the old advice: “If you can’t say something good about somebody, don’t say anything at all”. This Sunday at Richland Center Free Methodist Church, Pastor Tim explores the heart behind that sentiment in a message titled “Overcoming a Critical Spirit”. Drawing from James 4:1-12, we look at how the root of all sin is ultimately self. When we find ourselves in fights or quarrels, James points us back to the desires that battle within us, showing that these destructive conflicts are always harmful to our community.
The message dives into the danger of sitting in judgment of others, reminding us that when we slander or judge a brother or sister, we are actually speaking against the law itself. Since there is only one Lawgiver and Judge who is able to save and destroy, we must ask ourselves who we are to judge our neighbor. Instead of prideful judgment, Scripture calls us to a different path: submitting ourselves to God and resisting the devil so that he will flee from us.
Join us as we walk through practical steps to overcome a critical spirit. From purifying our hearts to grieving and repenting in sincerity, the goal is to draw near to God so that He will come near to us. 
Recorded Sunday, March 1st, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 4:1-12

"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness." — James 3:9
This Sunday, Pastor Tim Ward explores one of the most practical and challenging passages in the New Testament: James 3:1-12. We’re looking at why such a small part of our body has such a massive impact on our lives and our relationships.
Whether you’re looking to find more grace in your speech or simply want to dive deeper into the Word, we invite you to join us for worship.
Recorded Sunday, February 22nd, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 3:1-12

Faith can feel strong in the quiet moments—during prayer, in worship, or while reading Scripture. But when life demands action, when obedience costs something, or when someone needs help right in front of us, belief is tested. Words are easy. Action requires trust. 
In James 2:14–26, we are confronted with a faith that moves. James points to Abraham and Rahab as examples of trust expressed through obedience. Their lives show that genuine faith responds to God and serves others. Faith and works belong together as evidence of a living relationship with Christ. 
Consider what it means for our faith to be active in daily life, shaped by obedience, compassion, and courage.Recorded Sunday, February 15th, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 2:14-26

Walk into almost any gathering, and it doesn’t take long to notice how quickly we size people up. Who seems important, who feels comfortable, who gets noticed, and who fades into the background. These moments may feel small and even unintentional, but they shape the way communities function and who feels like they belong.
In James 2:1–13, James speaks directly to favoritism in the church, calling believers to examine how faith in Jesus shows up in everyday interactions. We're challenged to see people the way God does, to measure our actions by mercy rather than status, and to live out a faith that reflects God’s impartial love. Together, we’ll consider how obedience, compassion, and humility are woven into genuine faith.
Recorded Sunday, February 8th, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 2:1-13
 

Most of us have heard God’s Word many times. We know the verses, we recognize the language, and we’re familiar with what Scripture says. But hearing alone isn’t the goal. James reminds us that God’s Word is meant to shape how we live, not just what we know.
In James 1:19–27, we’re challenged to move beyond listening and into obedience. This sermon follows James’ clear progression: hearing God’s Word, accepting it with humility, and then putting it into action. Using everyday examples like mirrors, speech, and practical care for others, James shows what genuine faith looks like when it takes root in real life.
Join us as we consider what it means to let God’s Word truly sink in—and to live it out in ways that reflect Christ to the world around us.
Recorded Sunday, February 1st, 2026Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: James 1:19-27