St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

The Marketing of Evil [Part 1] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad begins a series on "The Marketing of Evil," exploring how society has been systematically influenced to accept as virtuous what previous generations regarded as immoral. Drawing from the book *Marketing of Evil*, he outlines a deliberate strategy used to reshape public perception, especially focusing on the normalization and celebration of homosexuality.Fr. Matthias explains the organized campaign by activists starting in the 1980s, including a psychological marketing plan designed to desensitize, emotionally confuse, and ultimately convert public opinion. He discusses how media and propaganda manipulate emotions rather than appeal to logic, presenting homosexuality as natural and worthy of acceptance while silencing opposition with shame.He emphasizes the distinction between loving individuals and accepting lifestyles he views as harmful, framing this change as part of a broader moral decline influenced by deliberate manipulation rather than natural societal progression. This talk sets the foundation for understanding ongoing cultural shifts related to sexuality and morality.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”Life of Faith” by H.H. Pope Shenouda [Part 10] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this concluding part of the "Life of Faith" series, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the test of faith as described by H.H. Pope Shenouda. He discusses how true faith is revealed through love, especially loving those who are difficult to love or who oppose us, reflecting Christ’s example on the cross. Fr. Matthias emphasizes that faith is shown not just through belief but through works, obedience, purity, contentment, and generosity.He highlights the importance of trusting God’s will during trials and maintaining faith even when prayers seem unanswered. The discussion includes how faith influences our actions, shapes our view on eternity, and calls for firm, practical, and growing commitment. Fr. Matthias also addresses how to defend the faith thoughtfully, focusing on love and relationship rather than argument.This message encourages spiritual growth through perseverance, humility, and active love as the true measure of faith.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”What Will Be the Sign of Your Coming” | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the question of “What Will Be the Sign of Your Coming” in this sermon delivered on the last Sunday of the Coptic year. He discusses how Jesus revealed to His disciples about the end times but kept details hidden, emphasizing that only God the Father knows the exact timing. Fr. Matthias explains that God withholds full knowledge to protect us from fear and to develop our faith gradually, using biblical examples like Joseph, Moses, and Gideon.He highlights that God’s daily provision and preparation help believers face future trials with trust and discernment. Fr. Matthias also stresses the importance of seeking comfort in God alone rather than worldly things, encouraging a faithful, watchful life focused on today. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to grow in faith, peace, and readiness for Christ’s return without anxiety about the unknown future.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”The Love of Many Wil Grow Cold” | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the biblical warning that "the love of many will grow cold," focusing on its causes, manifestations, and remedies. He outlines factors such as lawlessness, distraction by worldly concerns, isolation from God and others, and stinginess as key contributors to spiritual coldness. Fr. Matthias discusses how coldness affects relationships, prayer life, and empathy, leading to instability and brokenness both personally and communally.He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a stable environment grounded in worship, fellowship, and intentional love. Through consistent church participation, strong family bonds, forgiveness, gratitude, and intentional affection, believers can revive warmth in their hearts. Drawing from scripture and everyday examples, Fr. Matthias calls listeners to self-examination and practical steps to rekindle their love for God and others amid a world marked by increasing hostility and spiritual indifference.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Responding to Attacks | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the calling of Levi (Matthew) and the criticism Jesus faced from Pharisees for associating with tax collectors and sinners. He examines how Christ responded to attacks with silence, patience, and restraint, offering a model for dealing with false accusations and criticism.Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of resisting retaliation, recognizing honorable suffering for righteousness, and honoring even harsh authorities as part of Christian obedience. He encourages trusting in God’s perfect justice rather than taking vengeance into our own hands. Drawing from scripture examples like King David and Joseph the righteous, he highlights the value of self-examination, humility, and responding objectively with love and truth.This sermon addresses how Christians can maintain peace and integrity amid conflict, relying on God’s guidance and justice.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”Life of Faith” by H.H. Pope Shenouda [Part 9] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this lecture, Fr. Matthias Shehad continues exploring "Life of Faith" by H.H. Pope Shenouda, focusing on factors that weaken faith. He discusses the limits of human reason in comprehending the divine, emphasizing the need for humility and trust in God's mysteries beyond intellectual grasp.Fr. Matthias addresses the dangers of mixing faith with human logic, associating with doubters, fear, and love of worldly things as challenges that can erode belief. He highlights how external trials, Satan’s deceptions, and doubt test believers, urging vigilance and reliance on prayer and scripture to maintain faith.Using biblical examples and personal stories, Fr. Matthias explains the delicate balance between reason and faith, providing guidance on guarding against spiritual pitfalls, and preparing for ongoing struggles in the Christian walk. This teaching offers a framework for understanding and strengthening faith amid daily challenges.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”Life of Faith” by H.H. Pope Shenouda [Part 8] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this talk, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores factors that weaken faith in the Christian life, emphasizing that faith involves daily decisions and commitment rather than mere knowledge. He discusses how satanic deception, sinful desires, self-exaltation, and misplaced attachments challenge believers’ perseverance. Using biblical examples like Judas, the prodigal son, and the Pharisees, Fr. Matthias explains how subtle temptations and pride lead people away from God. He highlights the necessity of self-denial and spiritual discipline, comparing the spiritual journey to a battle requiring watchfulness, sacrifice, and consistent prayer despite difficulty or lack of immediate feeling. Fr. Matthias encourages identifying personal weaknesses, pursuing humility, and valuing the spiritual treasure above worldly comforts to strengthen faith and maintain a relationship with God.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”Life of Faith” by H.H. Pope Shenouda [Part 7] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his "Life of Faith" series, exploring Chapter 7, which focuses on the life of submission and trusting God through trials and uncertainty. Drawing from scripture and the teachings of H.H. Pope Shenouda III, Fr. Matthias discusses the role of faith in suffering, emphasizing joy in trials as a reflection of believing in God's purpose and provision.He examines biblical examples such as the Israelites in the desert, Abraham’s obedience, and the disciples’ reliance on God rather than material security. Fr. Matthias highlights the cost of discipleship, the importance of trusting God beyond our senses, and how faith grows through confidence in God’s promises, timing, and fatherly care.The talk challenges viewers to embrace faith like children, trusting God completely even amid unanswered questions and hardship while recognizing that ultimate healing and fulfillment come from God alone.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

A History of Rebellion | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the parable of the wicked vine dressers, illustrating Israel’s history of rebellion against God’s persistent calls through prophets and ultimately His Son. He emphasizes that God entrusts us with His vineyard—our lives, talents, and relationships—to bear spiritual fruit for His kingdom, not for selfish gain.Fr. Matthias highlights God's repeated patience despite human rejection, the consequences of rebellion, and the necessity of repentance. He underscores the ongoing relevance of Christ as the chief cornerstone and the call for believers to actively participate in producing the fruits of the Spirit, such as kindness, gentleness, and self-control.This sermon challenges viewers to examine their stewardship, embrace humility, and respond to God’s persistent invitation to live a life of service, obedience, and sincere repentance. It reminds us that our ultimate purpose is to offer ourselves and our fruit back to God as living sacrifices.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

A Story of Two Deaths | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of Lazarus’ resurrection to explain the Christian understanding of death and eternal life. He distinguishes between two kinds of death: the death to avoid, which includes the carnal mind, worldly sorrow, sin, and hatred; and the death to embrace, consisting of baptismal death, spiritual renewal by the Holy Spirit, and mortification of sinful desires.Fr. Matthias emphasizes that true resurrection comes through dying to one’s old sinful nature and living a new life led by God’s grace. He discusses the daily spiritual battle to crucify the deeds of the flesh, the necessity of humility, and the rejection of self-pity for growth in faith. The message calls for a committed transformation, leading to eternal life through union with Christ’s death and resurrection.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org