Trinity Church of Portland Sermons

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  The Gospel Is Good News for the Whole World 06.09.2026

  Guest preacher Ryan Robertson opens Romans 10:9–15 and traces the missionary logic of the gospel: confessing Jesus as Lord, believing God raised him from the dead, calling on his name, and sending preachers so the nations can hear. Drawing on the story of John Paton and the New Hebrides, he presses Trinity Church to see that the gospel is good news for the whole world—and that beautiful feet still go, suffer, and proclaim Christ where he has not yet been named.
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  The Last Word 30.08.2026

  Pastor Thomas Terry explores the profound call of Romans 12:1-2, inviting believers to respond to God's abundant mercies with a life wholly surrendered to Him. Drawing from Paul's appeal to present our bodies as living sacrifices, Pastor Terry emphasizes that true worship extends beyond Sunday gatherings into every aspect of daily life. He unpacks how worship is not confined to sacred spaces but is embodied in ordinary routines—whether at work, home, or in quiet moments—highlighting that our entire lives are to be spiritual acts pleasing to God. Pastor Terry also addresses the challenge of conforming to the patterns of this world, urging the congregation to allow the Holy Spirit to renew their minds continually. This renewal enables believers to discern God's will in the complexities of everyday decisions, shaping their thoughts and actions according to Christ's image. Finally, he reflects on the benediction as God's final blessing and sending forth, reminding the church that the last word belongs to God—not only in worship but throughout the week. This sermon calls Christians to embrace the fullness of worship as a response to mercy, empowered by the Spirit, and lived out in every sphere of life.
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  The Heard Word: Hearing as an Act of Worship 23.08.2026

  In this sermon titled "The Heard Word: Hearing as an Act of Worship," Pastor Paul explores the profound way in which hearing Scripture is not merely a passive activity but an active, worshipful engagement with God's living and active Word. Drawing from Luke 24:13-35, the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, he highlights how their journey from confusion and sorrow to recognition and faith mirrors our own responses to the gospel as we gather each week. Pastor Paul emphasizes that hearing the Word involves reflection on our personal experiences, remembrance of God's faithfulness, revelation of Christ’s beauty, and a heartfelt response that shapes our lives and witness. The sermon invites listeners to consider how their own stories intersect with the gospel story, encouraging a posture of openness to God’s transformative work through Scripture read, sung, and preached. Pastor Paul underscores that the ordinary acts of worship—like breaking bread—become extraordinary moments where Christ reveals Himself and renews our faith. Ultimately, this message calls the church to embrace hearing the Word as a dynamic act of worship that leads to renewed belief, gracious hospitality, wonder, and faithful witness in the world.
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  Before the Face of God 16.08.2026

  In this sermon, Pastor Thomas Terry explores the profound truth that preaching is not merely a speech or lecture but an act of worship, grounded in the presence of God. Drawing from 2 Timothy 4:1-5, he emphasizes that preaching occurs "coram Deo"—before the face of God—where the preacher stands under oath to proclaim the whole truth of God's Word without omission or alteration. Pastor Terry unpacks the weighty responsibility of faithfully delivering God's inspired message, highlighting the tension between the fear of God's judgment and the freedom it brings from seeking human approval. He reminds listeners that preaching addresses the whole person—mind, will, and heart—calling for repentance, endurance, and active participation in worship. Pastor Terry also reflects on the insufficiency of any human preacher to fully carry out this task apart from God's cleansing and sustaining grace, pointing to Isaiah's vision and ultimately to Jesus Christ, the perfect Herald and Word made flesh. The sermon challenges both preachers and hearers to embrace the full truth of Scripture, resist the temptation to edit or avoid difficult parts, and respond in faith and obedience. This message invites the congregation to see preaching and listening as integral acts of worship, where God speaks and His people respond, empowered by His presence and Spirit.
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  The Lord's Table: Remembering and Proclaiming Christ 09.08.2026

  In this sermon titled "The Lord's Table: Remembering and Proclaiming Christ," Pastor Andrey Gorban explores the profound significance of the Lord's Supper as taught in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. He emphasizes that this ordinance is not merely a ritual but a deeply meaningful act of worship where believers remember Christ's sacrificial death and proclaim His return. Pastor Gorban carefully unpacks the biblical narrative surrounding the bread and the cup, highlighting Jesus' broken body and shed blood as the foundation of the new covenant that brings salvation and forgiveness to sinners. The sermon also addresses common misunderstandings about the Lord's Supper, contrasting various theological views such as transubstantiation and consubstantiation with the biblical memorial view practiced at Trinity Church. Pastor Gorban calls the congregation to approach the table with gratitude and repentance, reminding them that the Supper is about exalting Christ and reflecting on the grace that saves. Ultimately, this message invites believers to remember their redemption, celebrate the finished work of Christ, and eagerly anticipate His return.
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  A Spectator in the Dark 02.08.2026

  In this sermon titled "A Spectator in the Dark," Pastor Thomas Terry explores the nature and purpose of worship through the lens of Colossians 3:16-17. Drawing from his personal experience in a large, production-heavy church setting, Pastor Terry contrasts the spectacle of concert-style worship with the biblical vision of worship as a communal, participatory act centered on the Word of Christ. He emphasizes that true worship is not about performance or individual expression but about the gathered church singing together, teaching and admonishing one another with thankfulness in their hearts to God. Pastor Terry unpacks the meaning of "liturgy" as biblical service and highlights how worship is God-defined, not shaped by cultural trends or personal preferences. He stresses the importance of letting the gospel—the word of Christ—dwell richly within the community, filling the room and forming the people. Congregational singing, he argues, is a vital means by which the church teaches, encourages, and builds up one another in love. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to embrace its identity as a singing people, redeemed by Christ, who sing not to ascend to God but because God has come down to them. The message is a pastoral invitation to move from passive spectatorship to active, joyful participation in worship that reflects the power and grace of the gospel.
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  The Gospel Made Visible 26.07.2026

  In this sermon titled "The Gospel Made Visible," Pastor Andrey Gorban explores the profound significance of Christian baptism as presented in Acts 2:38-41. He begins by inviting the congregation to reflect on their understanding of baptism, framing it as the visible sign of initiation into the church and a public declaration of the gospel. Drawing from Peter's Pentecost sermon, Pastor Gorban emphasizes that baptism follows repentance and faith, serving as an obedient response to the transformative work of God in a believer's heart. He highlights baptism as a powerful symbol of identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, illustrating the believer’s new life in Him. Pastor Gorban also addresses common misconceptions and divergent practices surrounding baptism, contrasting biblical teaching with views such as baptismal regeneration and infant baptism. He underscores that baptism is not a means of salvation but a gracious act of obedience that publicly proclaims the gospel. The sermon concludes with a pastoral call to those who have trusted Christ but have not yet been baptized, encouraging immediate obedience and participation in the life of the local church. Throughout, the sermon weaves theological depth with pastoral warmth, inviting all listeners to see baptism as the gospel made visible and a vital part of Christian worship and discipleship.
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  The Public Reading of Scripture: God Addresses His People 19.07.2026

  In this sermon, Pastor Jared Pulliam explores the vital role of Scripture in the public worship life of the church, focusing on 1 Timothy 4:14. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's instructions to Timothy, Jared emphasizes the pastoral priority of the public reading, exhortation, and teaching of God's Word as central to Sunday gatherings. He highlights how this practice, rooted in Jewish synagogue tradition and early Christian worship, remains essential for grounding believers in the truth of the gospel amid a world saturated with competing voices and ideologies. Pastor Jared reflects on the unique significance of Sunday worship as a corporate expression of praise and spiritual formation, where the Word of God is proclaimed to reorient hearts and minds toward Jesus Christ. He underscores the necessity of regular, faithful engagement with Scripture to combat forgetfulness and spiritual drift, encouraging the congregation to embrace the public reading and teaching of the Bible as a means of grace that refreshes, convicts, and transforms. The sermon invites listeners to recognize the power of God's Word to sustain faith, foster godliness, and prepare believers to live faithfully in a challenging cultural context.
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  Regulated by the Word: How God Tells us to Worship 12.07.2026

  In this sermon titled "Regulated by the Word: How God Tells Us to Worship," Pastor Sean Jim explores the biblical foundation and practical implications of the regulative principle of worship, grounded in Deuteronomy 12:32: "Everything that I command you, you shall be careful to do. You shall not add to it or take from it." Sean emphasizes that true worship must be conducted according to God's explicit commands rather than human imagination or innovation. Drawing from a range of Old and New Testament examples—including Cain and Abel, the golden calf incident, Nadab and Abihu, King Saul, Jesus' rebuke of the Pharisees, and the Corinthian church—he illustrates that God cares deeply about how He is worshipped and that there are serious consequences for worshiping Him incorrectly. The sermon also addresses common misunderstandings about the regulative principle, clarifying that it applies primarily to corporate worship and that there is freedom within the boundaries God sets. Sean highlights the importance of not binding consciences with man-made traditions and stresses that worship elements such as reading Scripture, preaching, singing, praying, baptism, and the Lord's Supper are clearly commanded by Scripture. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to submit to God's authority in worship, recognizing that only through Christ's perfect mediation and the Spirit's work can we truly worship God in spirit and truth. This message invites believers to reflect on their worship practices and encourages non-believers to embrace the gospel that enables genuine worship.
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  The Call to Worship: God Speaks First 05.07.2026

  In this sermon titled "The Call to Worship: God Speaks First," Pastor Andrey Gorban explores the profound invitation God extends to His people to enter into worship, as revealed in Psalm 95:1-7. Opening a new series on worship called Living Liturgy, Pastor Gorban emphasizes that worship is not merely a Sunday activity or a musical style but the entire Christian life lived in joyful, grateful, and reverent response to God’s greatness. He highlights that worship begins with God’s call—"O come"—underscoring that we cannot approach God on our own terms but only as He invites us. The psalmist’s call to worship is both exuberant and humble, combining joyful singing with reverent bowing, reflecting the tension of worshiping a God who is both our loving Shepherd and the sovereign Creator of all.
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  Death to Life 28.06.2026

  In this sermon titled "Death to Life," Pastor Samuel Nagel explores the profound theological truths found in Romans 5:18-21, focusing on the contrast between the consequences of Adam's disobedience and the redemptive work of Christ's obedience. Pastor Nagel begins by reflecting on his personal journey and deepening appreciation for the local church, setting the stage for a heartfelt examination of justification and grace. He emphasizes the doctrine of original sin, explaining how all humanity inherits a sinful nature from Adam, resulting in condemnation and spiritual death. The sermon then turns to the hope and assurance offered through Jesus Christ, whose one act of righteousness leads to justification and eternal life for all who receive Him by faith. Pastor Nagel carefully unpacks the biblical meaning of justification as a legal declaration of righteousness credited to believers, contrasting it with the condemnation inherited from Adam. He also addresses common misunderstandings about universalism and highlights the necessity of faith in Christ. Finally, the sermon considers the role of the law in revealing sin and the overwhelming abundance of God's grace that reigns through righteousness, empowering believers to live transformed lives now and looking forward to eternal life. Throughout, Pastor Nagel encourages both believers and seekers to respond to the gospel with faith, assurance, and a commitment to live in the freedom Christ provides.
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  Either the First or the Last Adam 21.06.2026

  In Romans 5:12-17, Cody Cannon traces Paul’s contrast between Adam and Christ. Through the first Adam, sin and death entered the world and spread to all humanity. But through Jesus, the true and final Adam, grace abounds, righteousness is given, and life reigns. This sermon considers the doctrine of original sin, the reality of death, and the greater hope found in union with Christ.
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  Christ Died for the Ungodly 14.06.2026 43мин

  In this sermon from Romans 5:6-11, Andrey Gorban proclaims the astonishing love of God shown in Christ's death for the ungodly. Paul does not present salvation as a reward for the strong, righteous, or worthy, but as God's gracious rescue of sinners who were weak, guilty, and even enemies of God. Andrey walks through the rich gospel realities of justification, reconciliation, and salvation from wrath, showing how each rests entirely on the finished work of Jesus. The sermon invites believers to rejoice in the God who loved them at their worst and to rest in the confidence that the One who has already reconciled them by Christ's death will surely save them by Christ's life.
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  Foundation of Faith 07.06.2026

  In this brief but heartfelt introduction to the sermon "Foundation of Faith," Paul Hoffman prepares the congregation to receive the Word of God from Romans 5:1-5. The passage explores the profound truths of justification by faith, peace with God, and the hope that does not disappoint because of the love of God poured into believers' hearts through the Holy Spirit. Pastor Hoffman emphasizes the importance of God’s Word as the foundation for faith and the source of boldness and transformation in the believer’s life. He prays for the Spirit’s guidance both in the preaching and in the hearts of the listeners, highlighting the communal and spiritual nature of receiving Scripture. This sermon invites the church to trust deeply in the promises of God revealed in Romans and to allow the Holy Spirit to work powerfully through the message to strengthen faith and hope.
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  Set Apart For The Work 31.05.2026

  In this sermon titled "Set Apart For The Work," Pastor Kris Castro explores the pivotal moment in Acts 13:1-3 when the church at Antioch, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, commissions Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for missionary work. Pastor Castro emphasizes that the mission of God advances not through random events or individual efforts but through the ordered, Spirit-led worship, prayer, and sending of the local church. He highlights the significance of Antioch as a diverse, gospel-shaped community that faithfully nurtures and sends out workers for the gospel, underscoring the church’s central role in God’s mission to the nations. The sermon unpacks three key movements in the passage: mission arises from a worshiping church, is directed by the Holy Spirit, and is confirmed and sent through the church. Pastor Castro challenges believers to see their weekly worship and faithfulness as vital participation in God’s global mission. He also reflects on the unity and diversity within the Antioch church as a powerful testimony to the reconciling work of Christ. Ultimately, this message calls the Trinity Church family to embrace their identity as a worshiping, praying, and sending church, trusting the Spirit to empower them for the work of proclaiming the gospel both locally and to the ends of the earth.
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  God's Wrath on Immorality 24.05.2026

  In this sermon titled 'God's Wrath on Immorality', Pastor Sean Jim preaches from Romans 1:26-32, addressing the profound reality of human sinfulness and God's righteous judgment. He explores how humanity's rejection of God's truth leads to idolatry and immorality, culminating in God 'giving us over' to the consequences of our sin. Sean emphasizes that this divine giving over is both a manifestation of God's wrath and an opportunity for repentance, revealing the depth of our need for the gospel. The sermon highlights the brokenness of human identity apart from God, contrasting cultural notions of self-fulfillment and expressive individualism with the biblical call to find our true identity in Christ alone. Sean also confronts the specific issue of sexual immorality, including homosexuality, within the broader context of sin and idolatry. He affirms the historic Christian teaching on sexuality, underscoring the seriousness of sexual sin and the necessity of repentance and transformation through the gospel. The sermon offers pastoral encouragement to those struggling with same-sex attraction, reminding the congregation of the hope and new identity found in Christ. Throughout, Sean calls the church to respond with both truth and grace, living counter-culturally while extending the love of Christ to all. Ultimately, this message challenges believers to reject sinful identities and live out their new life in Christ, empowered by the Spirit to mortify sin and display holiness.
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  God's Wrath on Idolatry 17.05.2026

  In this sermon, Elder Sean Jim explores the sobering reality of God's wrath against idolatry and unrighteousness as revealed in Romans 1:18-25. He begins by illustrating how humanity often makes unwise exchanges, trading something valuable for something far less worthy—paralleling this with the spiritual exchange of worshiping the Creator for created things. Sean emphasizes that understanding God's wrath is essential to grasping the gospel's power and necessity. He explains that God's wrath is not only a just response to sin but also a vital aspect of His character, revealing the seriousness of our rebellion and our desperate need for salvation through Jesus Christ. Sean unpacks Paul's message that all people suppress the truth about God despite clear evidence of His existence through creation (general revelation). This suppression leads to idolatry—exchanging the glory of God for images and created things—and results in moral and spiritual futility. The sermon highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating hearts to receive the gospel, underscoring that evangelism is about proclaiming Christ's saving work rather than merely persuading others of a moral worldview. Finally, Sean calls listeners to self-examination, urging them to identify and repent of idols in their lives and to embrace the gospel's transformative power, which replaces our sin and idolatry with Christ's righteousness.
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  Beginning Romans 10.05.2026

  In this opening sermon of a new series on Romans, Pastor Thomas Terry explores Romans 1:1-17, setting the stage for the entire letter by focusing on the author, the audience, and the aim of the gospel. He introduces the Apostle Paul not merely as a historical figure but as a transformed servant of Christ, whose life was radically changed from persecutor to preacher by the power of the gospel. Pastor Terry emphasizes that the gospel Paul proclaims is not a new invention but the fulfillment of ancient promises, centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ—fully God and fully man, crucified and resurrected, now reigning as Lord. This gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles and calling all to live by faith.\n\nPastor Terry also vividly portrays the original audience of Romans: a diverse and tension-filled church in the imperial city of Rome, facing external pressures from a pagan culture that worshipped Caesar as Lord and internal struggles between Jewish and Gentile believers. Against this backdrop, Paul’s declaration, \"I am not ashamed of the gospel,\" challenges believers today to rediscover the gospel’s power amid cultural hostility and personal familiarity that can dull our awe and boldness. The sermon closes with heartfelt invitations to embrace the gospel anew, to be reminded of its sustaining breath, and to boldly proclaim it in everyday life, trusting in God’s power to save and transform.
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  The Salt and the Light 03.05.2026

  In this sermon, Pastor Andrey Gorban explores Jesus’ famous metaphors of salt and light from Matthew 5:13-16, inviting listeners to consider the profound calling placed upon every follower of Christ. Drawing from the context of the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Andrey reminds the congregation that Jesus’ teaching is not merely about private piety but about a public, transformative presence in the world. The Beatitudes, which precede this passage, describe the character of those blessed by God; the call to be salt and light describes their influence—how Christians are to bring flavor, preservation, and illumination to a world in need. Pastor Andrey unpacks the historical and theological significance of salt as both a source of zest and a preservative, and light as a beacon that cannot be hidden. He challenges the church to resist apathy and cultural conformity, instead living lives that provoke spiritual thirst and point others to Christ. The sermon emphasizes that this influence is not rooted in personal strength but in the life and light of Jesus himself, reflected through his people. Even amid suffering and hardship, Christians are called to rejoice and shine, demonstrating the hope and joy found in Christ. Ultimately, the message is a call to intentional, visible discipleship that glorifies God and blesses the world.
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  The Things Jesus Did 26.04.2026

  Pastor Andrey Gorban concludes Trinity's study of John's Gospel with a reflection on the final verses of John 21:20-25. This sermon explores two key themes: the will of Jesus and the works of Jesus. Pastor Gorban examines Peter's tendency to compare himself to others even moments after his restoration, highlighting how Christians often struggle with similar distractions from following Jesus wholeheartedly. He emphasizes that God's plan for each believer is unique and calls for trusting obedience rather than comparison with others. The sermon then turns to John's testimony about the countless deeds of Jesus that could never be fully recorded, demonstrating both the trustworthiness of the Gospel account and the inexhaustible nature of Christ's works. Pastor Gorban concludes by noting that Jesus continues to work today—saving, healing, and transforming lives—and that even eternity will not be sufficient to fully praise the one who has done so much for his people.