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Mark Ellingsen

Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor of Church History at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored 26 books including his latest, Wired for Racism? How Evolution and Faith Move Us to Challenge Racial Idolatry, published by New City Press and Reality and Waves: A Quantum Physics Cosmology, Philosophy of Religion, and Ethic (Lexington Books). He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.
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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Despite Our Sin... -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2024
To be sure, the theme of Ash Wednesday is about sorrow for sin in the midst of life’s meaninglessnes
God's Love Shines Through the Cross and Changes Us -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2024
The theme of Passion Sunday is about how God’s love shines through the cross and changes us.
Our All-In-All -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2024
These lessons all testify to Jesus is our all-in-all.
Finding God in the Least Expected Places -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2024
The lessons remind us that we are not likely to find God or what God wants in the places we expect. 
Jesus Is Our Only Way Out -- Matthew 4:12-23, Isaiah 9:1-4, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2023
This is a Sunday for reminders that Jesus is our only way out.
We Dare Not Duck Our Sinfulness -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2023
All the lessons and the theme of the day remind us that we dare not duck our sinfulness.
With God, You Can Always Get a Fresh Start -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Romans 8:6-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Ezekiel 37:1-14
Christ and His Resurrection Have Their Way with Us -- John 20:19-31, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, 1 Peter 1:3-9 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2023
The lessons and the theme of the Second Sunday of Easter testify to how Christ and his resurrection
What the Heavenly Power and Cosmic Presence of Christ Mean for Us Today -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2023
All the lessons and the Festival of Ascension testify to the heavenly power and cosmic presence of C
The Deliverance of God's Promise -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2023
All the lessons proclaim collectively God’s promise on which he always delivers.
Living the Gift of Faith -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2023
Genesis 29:15-28
How God Keeps Us Together -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2023
Exodus 12:1-14
The Surprising Character of Grace -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20, Philippians 3:4b-14, Matthew 21:33-46 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2023
The texts for this Sunday send a message about the surprising character of grace.
Inspired By the Saints and Love of God -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
The text for this festival concerns how in our walk of faith we are inspired by the saints and love
The Power of Gratitude -- Luke 17:11-19, Deuteronomy 8:7-18, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2023
All the lessons provide insight into what thankfulness does for us.
Why the Incarnation Matters -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2023
This is a set of lessons that explores why the Incarnation matters.
From Evil to Grace and Wisdom -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Luke 16:1-13, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2022
Jeremiah 8:18--9:1
God Will Make Things Better -- Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Luke 19:1-10, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2022
Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
The Peace of Christmas -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2022
Isaiah 9:2-7
Christ Is In Control -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2022
Jeremiah 31:7-14
Called To Respond -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2022
Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13)
The Lord Changes You -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
Hanging around the Lord changes you.

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Jesus Is Our Only Way Out -- Matthew 4:12-23, Isaiah 9:1-4, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2023
This is a Sunday for reminders that Jesus is our only way out.
We Dare Not Duck Our Sinfulness -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2023
All the lessons and the theme of the day remind us that we dare not duck our sinfulness.
Living the Gift of Faith -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2023
Genesis 29:15-28

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Second Sunday of Easter (2024) -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2024
Acts 4:32-35
Sermon Illustrations for the Third Sunday of Easter (2024) -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2024
Acts 3:12-19
Sermon Illustrations for Easter 4 (2024) -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2024
Acts 4:5-12
Sermon Illustrations for New Year's Day (2024) -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- New Year's Day - B -- 2024
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2024) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2024
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2024) -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2024
Genesis 1:1-5
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 2 (2024) -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2024
1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20)
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 3 (2024) -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2024
Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (2024) -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2024
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 5 (2024) -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2024
Isaiah 40:21-31
Sermon Illustrations for Transfiguration Sunday (2024) -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2024
2 Kings 2:1-12
Sermon Illustrations for Ash Wednesday (2024) -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2024
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 1 (2024) -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Genesis 9:8-17
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2024) -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 3 (2024) -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Exodus 20:1-17
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 4 (2024) -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Numbers 21:4-9
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 5 (2024) -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Sermon Illustrations for Passion Sunday (2024) -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2024
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2024) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2024
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
Sermon Illustrations for Good Friday (2024) -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1--19:42 -- Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen -- Good Friday - B -- 2024
Isaiah 52:13--53:12
Sermon Illustrations for Easter Day (2024) -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Easter Day - B -- 2024
Acts 10:34-43
Sermon Illustrations for Thanksgiving Day (2023) -- Deuteronomy 8:7-18, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Luke 17:11-19 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2023
Deuteronomy 8:7-18

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Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 3 (2024) -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2024
Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2024) -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 3 (2024) -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
Exodus 20:1-17

Political Pulpit

Emphasis Preaching Journal

One Out of Two Americans Has Low-Income Status: Why Is There So Much Silence and What to Do About It -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2012
The title is the subject for this column, a topic that the lectionary texts for March, April, and Ma
What American Christians might do to enhance Muslim life -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
The months of March, April, and May are months of repentance and celebration for Christians.
More on financial responsibility in America -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
The assigned lectionary texts for the fall invite our further attention to our economy, the federal
Are we still fighting wars? How come? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
These months (especially at Christmas) are the season of peace. Yes, we sing and pray for peace.
Getting real about ecology -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
The lessons for the spring are rich in socio-political opportunities for preaching.
Getting maladjusted to business as usual -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of Jesus and Christians as "maladjusted" to certain social dynamics.
Is less government really good for America? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
These months will likely be dominated politically by the upcoming elections and their aftermath.
Expanding political horizons in the local congregation -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2009
Wes has offered important reflections on implementing what we write about in these columns in your p
The market needs some managing -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
When it comes to economics, things haven't changed much for our nation or for the
The curse of special interests -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
I agree with my friend and boss, Wes, that a key issue for the new president, a factor that
We still need affirmative action (as long as there's sin) -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
A significant number of the assigned biblical texts for these summer months are about
The war in Iraq: what's next? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Because we have to submit this column months ahead of the actual publication date, we
Gas prices and the war -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
Although only the "political junkies" in your congregation will be interested in it, in
Somebody's child is still fighting -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
November and December are supposed to be months for giving thanks and extolling
Favoring the rich -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
Most of us know that Jesus and the biblical witnesses were concerned about the plight of

Preaching

SermonStudio

Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 18 -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2018
Theme of the DayBeing fed by our Lord and the companionship it brings.
All Saints Day -- Matthew 5:1-12, 1 John 3:1-3, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayInspired by the saints and the love of God.
Proper 26 / Ordinary Time 31 -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 43, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe marvelous things God's word does.
Proper 27 / Ordinary Time 32 -- Matthew 25:1-13, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25, Psalm 78:1-7 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe difference relating to God makes.
Proper 28 / Ordinary Time 33 -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayServing God His way. Collect of the Day
Christ the King Sunday -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe good news of the reign of Christ.
Thanksgiving Day -- Luke 17:11-19, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18, Psalm 65 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayWhat thankfulness does to us. Collect of the Day
Proper 25 / Ordinary Time 30 -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12, Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayIt's what God does, not what we do, that counts!
Reformation Day -- John 8:31-36, Romans 3:19-28, Psalm 46 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayFreedom! Collect of the Day
Proper 14 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 19 -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayUnited in the grace of Christ. Collect of the Day
Proper 15 / Pentecost 12 / Ordinary Time 20 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayMore about the bread that brings life, wisdom, and unity.
Advent 1 -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 16 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 21 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayAn almighty, caring God who dwells among us.
Advent 2 -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 17 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 22 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayA love that changes lives. Collect of the Day
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 18 / Pentecost 15 / Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayGod cares for the poor. Collect of the Day
Advent 4 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayOur Savior is coming! Collect of the Day
Proper 19 / Pentecost 16 / Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayOnly by the grace of God. Collect of the Day
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayWhy the Incarnation matters! Collect of the Day
Proper 20 / Pentecost 17 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayIt takes God to get our relationships right.
Christmas 1 -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
Theme of the DayChristmas: dreams realized. Collect of the Day
Proper 21 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 26 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayBaptizing worldly wisdom. Collect of the Day
Epiphany of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayThe light of grace shows the way.
Proper 22 / Pentecost 19 / Ordinary Time 27 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayReflections on the love of God. Collect of the Day

Sermon

SermonStudio

If Your Sense Of Purpose Ever Becomes A Burden, Remember Your Value -- Matthew 10:40-42 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Do you ever wish you counted for something, that you had value?
Having Fun With The Great Commission -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
I find it interesting that today as we commemorate the Trinity doctrine, the church assigns the Bibl
Sick People Like Us Will Always Need The (Divine) Doctor -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
Jesus spent a lot of his time hanging around undesirable folks, not with "good" people like us.
How Jesus' Friendship Makes Your Burdens Light -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
Jesus was teaching about the kind of authority he has.
It's Not About You; It's All About God -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Jesus left the house (which one we are not sure).
Life's Purpose Is Often Hidden! -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2007
Life is a messy affair. Our purpose is often hidden.
Life And Forgiveness Come Easy When You're Filled With The Spirit -- John 20:19-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
It's Pentecost Sunday, a day when we celebrate the birth of the Church and the giving of the Holy Sp
With A Firm Foundation, Application Is Second Nature -- Matthew 7:21-29 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
Practice makes perfect. If you do these things for Jesus, the Lord will bless you.
Wonderful Opportunities For Mission -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Jesus' ministry and mission was shifting into high gear.
When You're Free (In Christ), Sacrifice Is No Burden! -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
It takes a lot to be a Christian; you have to make your share of sacrifices.
God Will Prevail -- John 6:40 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a family manGod Will Prevail
He Celebrated Easter With His Life -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For an inactive memberHe Celebrated Easter With His Life
Death Saddens Us -- John 3:16, Psalm 90 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For an elderly shut-inDeath Saddens Us
An Our Good works And Generosity -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 1992
To whom was Jesus referring with these words?
God Works Through Opposites -- Matthew 21:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Passion Sunday - A -- 1992
God simply does not seem to do the sort of things we would expect our God to do.
Wash Up First For The Meal Before You Eat! -- John 13:1-15 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 1992
"People just do not take the Lord's supper as seriously as they should.
Why Did Jesus Have TO Die? -- John 19:17-30 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Good Friday - A -- 1992
Of course, there is that wonderful, moving moment when, though wracked by pain, he saw his mother an
The Empty Tomb -- John 20:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Easter Day - A -- 1992
The story continues: "But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look i
What Happens When We Can't Believe It? -- John 20:19-31 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
All three of our Bible lessons for today touch on themes that cannot help but direct our attention t
What Happens To You When You Die? -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
"What happens to you when you die, Dad?" "Of course, son, if you believe in God, you go up to heaven
Led By The Shepherd -- John 10:1-10 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Decisions, decisions. Life is full of decisions.
Focus Your Faith -- John 14:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
"There are so many religions in the world. Everybody believes in God his/her own way.
Good Works Will Not Save You! -- John 14:15-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Jesus was still in the middle of his farewell discourse to his disciples.
The Majesty Of God's Love -- John 17:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Jesus was drawing near to the end of his farewell discourse to his disciples, a sermon he gave to th
The Temptations Of Christ And Our Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
Some of the worst temptations seem to come when you are alone, do they not?

The Political Pulpit

Emphasis Preaching Journal

The war in Iraq: what's next? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Click here
The health-care crisis: -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Recent reports indicate that 47 million Americans were without health insurance in the
The health-care crisis: Are the candidates really concerned? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Recent reports indicate that 47 million Americans were without health insurance in the summer of 200
Conspicuous consumption and its politics -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Tax time and the season of Lent. There are a lot of crosses for the faithful and the
Beware of virtues -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Of course, Christians should be good citizens! That is just common sense, most
What Christians can do to help our schools -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
In the first weeks of September and October many members in your congregation will
Assaults on the elderly: what politics have to do with it -- Mark Ellingsen
Time magazine predicts that a hot-button issue for the upcoming midterm
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Quantisha Mason-Doll
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
Dean Feldmeyer
Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
George Reed
For April 21, 2024:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
These lessons all testify to Jesus is our all-in-all. The Good Shepherd theme could also be stressed.  

Acts 4:5-12
Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 4:5-12
The hymn, “The Church’s One Foundation” was written by Samuel J. Stone around 1866. It was part of a collection of twelve hymns that emphasized a part of the Apostles’ Creed. “The Church’s One Foundation” speaks specifically to article nine of the Apostles’ Creed, and it emphasizes that Jesus is the one upon whom the church is built. According to C. Michael Hawn, the song became known as the “battle song of the church.”

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff — they comfort me. (v. 4)

Are there angels among us who save people in danger?

One of the stories I tell in response to this question, was sent to me by Robyn Bradley of Oxford, Wisconsin. She’s a therapist and licensed clinical social worker who is the Director of Psychological Health for the Wisconsin Army National Guard.

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John Jamison
Object: A hearing aid.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Great! Let’s go!

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
There was a farmer living in a remote part of the Norfolk countryside who had been burgled a number of times. On the last occasion he was disturbed in middle of the night, he went downstairs with his gun and when a torch was shone into his face, he pulled the trigger several times.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

If asked how many images of God this most familiar of all psalms includes, most people would probably say one, that of shepherd. (And, while saying it, there's a good chance they'd actually be picturing Jesus with a lamb in his arms, thanks to the famous painting of that scene hanging in Sunday school rooms all over America.) But, in fact, there are two images of God in this psalm -- the shepherd (vv. 1-4) and the host at a banquet in the temple (vv. 5-6).

Richard E. Zajac
... the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep...

Doctor Bernie Siegel claims that coincidences are God's way of remaining anonymous.

__________

I have spent nine years here at the hospital. In the course of those nine years I've witnessed and experienced many strange things. I've watched events occur that made me stop and think and wonder. I've found myself doing something or I've found others doing something that made me scratch my head. I've come across many coincidences that made me wonder if indeed they were coincidences.
David H. Webb
It is hard to find a more bold expression of the Easter faith than what we hear from Peter today in our first lesson.

Peter and John had just healed a lame beggar at the gate of the temple. Without hesitation Peter proclaimed to the astonished crowd that the healing was the work of God who had raised Jesus from the dead. Almost immediately, the Sanhedrin arrests Peter and John and puts them on trial. They ask. "By what power or by what name did you do this?" (v. 7).

Mark J. Molldrem
Easter is in springtime for a reason. Springtime is that time of year when new life emerges from the old. Easter is that time of history when New Life emerged from the old.

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