Sermon Notes for Sunday, January 4, 2026 – Radical Kindness: Moving Beyond the Surface in 2026
In 2026, we are moving beyond the surface by deepening our faith in Jesus Christ to ignite a life of purpose, power, and transformation. This journey begins with Radical Kindness, an intentional action fueled by the Holy Spirit that transcends boundaries and builds up the lives of others. Join us as we explore what it means to be a disciple who is firmly rooted in Christ through kindness, tenderheartedness, and the radical power of forgiveness.
Radical Kindness: Moving Beyond the Surface in 2026
In 2026, Queens Chapel United Methodist Church is committed to moving beyond the surface by deepening our faith in Jesus Christ to ignite a life of purpose, power, and transformation1. As we begin this journey, we are exploring what it means to be a disciple with “Radical Faith”—one who is firmly rooted and grounded in Jesus2.
What is Radical Kindness?
True kindness is often misunderstood. It is not merely a feeling or a fleeting emotion4. Instead, it is:
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An Intentional Action: Kindness is a deliberate choice we make every day5.
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Spiritual Strength: It requires inner moral strength that comes directly from the Holy Spirit6.
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A Building Block: It is a deliberate act intended to enhance and build up the lives of others7.
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Universal: Radical kindness transcends boundaries of association, ethnicity, and race8.
Three Radical Christlike Qualities
Following the teachings of Paul and the examples in the New Testament, we are called to embody three specific qualities to live out this radical kindness:
1. Being Kind to Others
We are challenged to shift our perspective from ourselves to those around us. As 1 Corinthians 10:24 reminds us, “Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others”9. We see this modeled by David, who sought out anyone left in Saul’s family specifically to show them kindness10.+1
2. Remaining Tenderhearted
In a world that can often make us cynical, we are called to be of one mind, to sympathize, and to love one another as brothers and sisters while maintaining a humble attitude11.
3. Forgiving One Another
Perhaps the most “radical” aspect of kindness is forgiveness. When Peter asked if he should forgive someone seven times, Jesus responded, “No, not seven times, but seventy times seven!”12. We forgive because God, through Christ, has already forgiven us13.+1
Join us as we grow together. How can you show an intentional act of kindness today that builds someone else up? Let’s make 2026 a year of transformation.
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