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Epiphany of the Lord - C

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Children's Activity

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"The reason for the season" -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
Teachers or Parents: It is true that much of the world

Gospel Grams 2

Epiphany of the Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C

Gospel Grams 1

Epiphany of the Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Who Belongs Here? -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6 -- David Coffin -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2025
An upper middle-aged man is politely led out of the factory where he works by both the union and man
Has it dawned on you? -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2022
Note: This installment was originally published in 2007.
Turn the Lights On! -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
Apocalyptic visioning is nothing new.
Shine, Jesus, shine! -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
In their book Resident Aliens, Stanley Hauerwas and William Willimon tell the story of a Unit
The glory of God -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2001
These are the longest hours of darkness.
The unification of humanity -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1998
The English word "epiphany" derives from the Greek epiphaneia, which means "appearance" or "appearin
Variations on a theme -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1995
The readings for this day are firmly fixed in all cycles of the lectionary and this poses a challeng
Christmas lights -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
Editor's note: Because some churches now use the Epiphany Day lections instead of th

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Epiphany of the Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C

Gospel Grams 1

Epiphany of the Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C

Children's sermon

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Being Honest! -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2025
Object: A large paper bag with candy or stickers inside, depending on what you are
Decisions -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2022
Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared
Discovering Jesus: Eee - pif - on - eee -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
“On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and
Wise People Still Look For Jesus -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
The Point: Seek Jesus with your wealth, your worship, and your life
Now I See! -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2012
First Thoughts
Revelation -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
I have here a picture. (In this trick picture, I have a
The reason for the season -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
Good morning! I brought a star with me this morning to

The Immediate Word

Keepers Of The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
For January 6, 2019:
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t

Children's Story

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The Tale Of A Camel -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
I was only just full-grown when we set out on the journey, but I was strong and eager for advent

Devotional

SermonStudio

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
For he delivers the needy when they call, the poor and those who have no helper.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
... enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
... and they knelt down and paid him homage....-- Matthew 2:11

Drama

SermonStudio

Unfathomable Riches! No Assembly Required, Gentiles Included -- Isaiah 60:1-6, 9, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2025) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2025
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2022) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2022
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2019) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
Isaiah 60:1-6a
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2013) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Mark J. Molldrem, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Isaiah 60:1-6
Epiphany is a story of the light... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Epiphany is a story of the light, the star, which leads the wise men to the light of the world.
Colin Powell, as Secretary of State... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Colin Powell, as Secretary of State, tried to negotiate peace between Palestine and Israel.
What is a revelation and how does it come?... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Bob Ove -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Almost all of us have read the Bible or heard it read, but how many have had a revelation?
In our system of government... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
In our system of government, as well as in many other systems around the world, there is the positio
Romance stories touch my heart... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Romance stories touch my heart, but give me a "mystery," one with good suspense. Great reading!
Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens enlisted in the Navy... -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Currently seated Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens enlisted in the Navy several hours before t
our sense of propriety are easily offended... -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
Reason and our sense of propriety are easily offended by the lowly state of the baby whom the wise m
Many strange things have been... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Many strange things have been done in the name of science -- even in outer space. The
Many young campers have been... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Many young campers have been awakened by a rousing rendition of the chorus to "Arky
For too long, Christina remained... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
For too long, Christina remained silent. It might have been from her childhood that she
Once there was a cave... -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Once there was a cave that lived in darkness underground, as you would expect a cave to
Tom was vaguely disturbed. He... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Tom was vaguely disturbed. He felt it all day, starting at the office. He thought for sure
Many people today are prisoners... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Many people today are prisoners. No, they are not living at a correctional facility, or in
As I write this, some... -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
As I write this, some secret plans to blow up airplanes are making headlines. In contrast,
A story is told of... -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
A story is told of the late King Hussein of Jordan. In the latter years of the king's reign,
Small or insignificant towns sometimes... -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Small or insignificant towns sometimes produce legendary figures. Take the city of
What we learn during our... -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
What we learn during our formative years can become a life lesson. Renee's father

StoryShare

Once Upon a New Year's Eve -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2024
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

The Immediate Word

Keepers Of The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
For January 6, 2019:
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t

Prayer

SermonStudio

The momentous witness of the wise men -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The momentous witness of the wise menGospel Note:
THE EPIPHANY -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-14, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Keepers Of The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
For January 6, 2019:
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t

SermonStudio

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day The Magi were people of high resolution.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycles A and B; see
Epiphany of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
This serves as the stated text for Epiphany in all three cycles of the lectionary.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
Seasonal Theme
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
The Epiphany Of The Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Richard A. Jensen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1998
The focus in Matthew 1 was on names. Name after name after name culminating in THE Name: Jesus!
The Star -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1997
1. TextIn the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem
Star Miracle -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1991
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from t
The Epiphany of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Perry H. Biddle, Jr. -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1988
Comments on the Lessons

Free Access

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day The Magi were people of high resolution.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Keepers Of The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
For January 6, 2019:
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t

SermonStudio

To God Be The Glory! -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
One of the most prolific songwriters of the nineteenth century was Fanny Crosby.
Ambassadors Of The Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
There is an ancient Christian story that speaks of a fourth wise man, Artaban, in his pursuit of the
Jesus Makes All The Difference -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
Our gospel reading for this Epiphany Sunday is a marvelous story about confrontation.
Walking In The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Walking in the dark is difficult, even in the familiarity of your own home.
What Gift Do You Bring? -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Gary L. Carver -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
I remember watching a football game between Kansas State and Ohio State.
Two For The Price Of One -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- John T. Ball -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Today is an important day in the life of the world and the life of the church.
The Promise Of Sight -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Harry N. Huxhold -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
The Epiphany of our Lord never fails to arouse fascination for the story of the Visit of the Magi.
What A Star Can't Tell You -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- William G. Carter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
"Hi, Pastor! How are you?" She waved a glove from the other end of the parking lot.
From Crumbs To Half A Loaf -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
On a Boy Scout camping trip, the little group of scouts hiked up a mountainside and made camp for su
The Narrow Way Broadens Us -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- James H. Bailey -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1985
I grew up with the "anti-Epiphany heresy" that says being a Christian and being narrow are synonymou

Stories

StoryShare

Once Upon a New Year's Eve -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2024
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Living in Hope -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2022
“I know they’ll come.” Mary shifted in her wheelchair but kept looking out the window.

SermonStudio

The Gospel By Starlight -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?
The Magi Got A Gift, Too -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star ha
Tipping Etiquette -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
I don't frequent fine restaurants regularly, but occasionally I will visit an establishment that com
Seeing The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
Much of my Christian experience has come through the "School of Hard Knocks," better known as prison
One Tiny Light -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
It's a strange phenomenon that scientists are surely able to explain.
Epiphany Of The Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- John Steward -- Epiphany of the Lord - C
Many years ago there was a play named Eagerheart.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Keepers Of The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2019
For January 6, 2019:
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t

SermonStudio

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
The light of truth is in the skies. Or it may be only a shadow.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 60:1-6Theme: Witness To The Light
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Ephesians 3:1-12Theme: Mystery Solved
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 2:1-12Theme: Stopping For Directions
Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
Theme: Tell The Good News Of What The Lord Has DoneCall To Worship
Look Around, See The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
Call To Worship Leader: Look around, see the light.
Epiphany -- Wayne H. Keller -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2000
Liturgical Color: Green(January 6 to the Beginning of Lent)
The Light has come -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- James R. Wilson -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1997
Call To WorshipLeader: Come, let all of God's people give praise and worship the Lord!
THE EPIPHANY -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Heth H. Corl -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 1976
First Lesson: Isaiah 60:1-6
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 16 | OT 21 | Pentecost 11
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 17 | OT 22 | Pentecost 12
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 18 | OT 23 | Pentecost 13
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Tom Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For September 14, 2025:

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A sheep stuffy or toy.

* * *

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

Did you know that Jesus traveled around and hunted for people who were doing something illegal and breaking the laws? (Let them respond.) He really did.And when he found someone who was doing something illegal, do you know what he did with them? (Let them respond.)

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28
Our text tells us that we are skilled in doing evil (v.22). An anonymous late medieval treatise titled German Theology tells us why:

It is the nature and property of the creature to seek itself and its own things, and this and that, here and there, and in all that it does and leaves undone as desire is to its own advantage and benefit. (Varieties of Mystic Experience, p.162)

Martin Luther King, Jr. offers an alternative to this vision:
David Coffin
All three of today’s texts can be viewed as good news that God never gives up on God’s people. This is despite their resistance to repent or simple straying from the community of faith. We can observe family and loved ones at various points of their faith journey through the lens of each of these texts. Jeremiah 4 informs the people their neglect of honoring their covenant with God is about to result in disastrous consequences. Paul recalls in 1 Timothy 1 how he thought he was falling God’s will until he had his literal come to Jesus moment!

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. (vv. 6-7)

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus told stories to illustrate to the people God's gladness whenever anyone turned to him and chose life. There is still rejoicing in heaven whenever any one of us turns to God.



Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes I think I'm too insignificant for you to bother with me.

Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes I don't bother with you.

Christ, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes I don't bother with other people, but only with myself.

SermonStudio

James Evans
(See Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)

The psalm writer has an interesting perspective on the origin of injustice in our world. He begins this psalm with the assertion that those who do not believe in God are "fools." He goes on to accuse them of corruption and of being incapable of doing good. Later on he writes, "Have they no knowledge, all the evildoers who eat up my people as they eat bread, and do not call upon the Lord?" (v. 4).

Elizabeth Achtemeier
"Now it is I who speak in judgment upon them" (v. 12). Ours is a society that does not accept that as the Word of God. Many people do not believe that God judges anyone. Rather, the Lord is a forgiving God, a kindly deity who overlooks all wrong. As in the Gospel lesson for the morning, the Lord searches for the one lost sheep and returns it gently to the fold, or he hunts for the one lost coin until he finds it. God accepts the lost as they are, we think, overlooking Jesus' teaching about repentance and transformation of life.
Scott Suskovic
We usually don't spend too much time thinking about our own sinfulness. On occasion, of course, our feelings of guilt overwhelm us. We can't stop thinking about our sinfulness. If we are in that situation, we may need to talk that out with someone. Apart from times like that, we don't think much about our own sinfulness. We have ways of getting around that.

R. Robert Cueni
Back before the ways of the Taliban became common knowledge, there was a fascinating little article about how they jailed barbers when they didn't do culturally correct haircuts.1 The newspaper reported that young men in Kabul, Afghanistan, have started wearing their hair the way the actor Leonardo DiCaprio wears his. Long, not only on the sides, but so long in the front that hair can drop over the eyes. They call the style, "the Titanic," named for the blockbuster movie starring DiCaprio about the 1912 sinking of the cruise ship by that name.

Special Occasion

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