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Colossians 3:1-4

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Lost and Found! -- Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
The promise of the resurrection is not only for Jesus, but for all who are lost – we shall be found.
Transformation -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
Second chances are important to us.
Easter Makes A Difference In Our Lives -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
All of the texts for this Easter’s celebration of the resurrection direct us to consider the resurre
An open, empty tomb -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Sandra Herrman -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Many years ago, this pastor was invited to Easter dinner in the home of a parishioner.
A day of surprises -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- David Kalas, Schuyler Rhodes -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
Every so often, I have been unable to watch a sports event that I am interested in when it has been
All things to all people? -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
What does the territory ahead look like as you chart your way through what is
Old life, new life, different life -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Easter Day - A -- 2002
Easter is a joyous time, a time of new life and new hope, of spring after winter, of the holiday aft
The wondrous mixture of joy and fear -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Matthew 28:1-10 -- Easter Day - A -- 1999
We are accustomed to greeting others and to hearing others greet us at this time of year with the wo
Promise and fulfillment -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - A -- 1996

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Dawned -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
For April 12, 2020:
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
Dead Men Believing -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton, Scott Suskovic -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
March 23, 2008Easter Day / Cycle ADear Fellow Preachers:
Our Lead Story -- Acts 10:34-43 or Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- George L. Murphy -- Easter Day - A
March 27, 2005Easter Sunday| Cycle A

Free Access

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:

CSSPlus

Consider the lilies -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Leah Thompson -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
Note: This piece was originally published April 24, 2011.
Future goals -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (v. 2)
Raised with Christ -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A
Happy Easter! Who can tell me what Easter is about? (get responses) That's right.
Think about Jesus -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A
Good morning! What are we celebrating today? (Let them
Sweet good news -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A
Good morning! This is Easter. CHRIST IS RISEN! What a
Sky-gazing -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A
As you greet the children, talk while gazing into the heavens

SermonStudio

The Sponge -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Wesley T. Runk
(Appropriate for Easter)

Devotional

SermonStudio

Easter Day -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Set your minds on things that are above....-- Colossians 3:2

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Easter Sunday (2023) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
Jeremiah 31:1-6
Sermon Illustrations For Easter Sunday (2020) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, M Adryael Tong -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
Acts 10:34-43
Sermon Illustrations For Easter Sunday (2017) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
Acts 10:34-43
Sermon Illustrations for Easter Sunday (2014) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Derl G. Keefer, Ron Love -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Acts 10:34-43
Too often the impact... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Too often the impact of Easter does not register in our lives.
Two young men were... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Two young men were making fun of the Christian idea of resurrection from the dead, saying that it wa
Envy is also determined... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Ron Love -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Envy is also determined by "proximity." This hypothesis was put forth by David Hume, the 18th-centur
NULL -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
Acts 10:34-43
NULL -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Leah Thompson -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
As Peter Pan reminds Wendy, John, and Michael, we must "think happy thoughts!" before we can fly.
NULL -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Ron Love -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
Lou Holtz, the renowned coach of Notre Dame, concluded his autobiography with this message: "God ans
Malcolm Ellis, an Episcopal priest... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
Malcolm Ellis, an Episcopal priest in St. Paul, Minnesota, tells a story of his daughter,
A good friend took me... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
A good friend took me aside a few years ago and said, "Look. You talk about Jesus. But
To demonstrate the new life... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
To demonstrate the new life we have in Christ, on Easter Sunday people at Willow Creek
Lying on our backs as... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
Lying on our backs as children, on a dark summer night, we were amazed at the many
One woman writes:br... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2002
One woman writes:
There was a family, not... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2002
There was a family, not very well off, who stayed overnight in a cheap motel on their way to a new t
The Electric Kool-Aid Acid... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2002
The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test by Tom Wolfe is a vivid account of the excesses of the 1960s.
Clyde was a constant thorn... -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Easter Day - A -- 2002
Clyde was a constant thorn in the side of most church members and the new pastor.

The Immediate Word

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Dawned -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
For April 12, 2020:
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
Dead Men Believing -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton, Scott Suskovic -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
March 23, 2008Easter Day / Cycle ADear Fellow Preachers:

Free Access

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Sermon Illustrations For Easter Sunday (2023) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
Jeremiah 31:1-6

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Dawned -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
For April 12, 2020:
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
Dead Men Believing -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton, Scott Suskovic -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
March 23, 2008Easter Day / Cycle ADear Fellow Preachers:
Our Lead Story -- Acts 10:34-43 or Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- George L. Murphy -- Easter Day - A
March 27, 2005Easter Sunday| Cycle A

Free Access

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:

SermonStudio

Resurrection Of Our Lord / Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Carlos Wilton -- Easter Day - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
The Resurrection Of Our Lord -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Jeremiah 31:1-6 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Easter Day - A -- 2004
THE LESSONSLesson 1: Acts 10:34--43 (C, E); Acts 10:34, 37--43 (RC)
The Resurrection Of Our Lord (Easter Day) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Easter Day - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme Resurrection and new life in the risen Christ.
The Lord's victory over the powers of sin and death -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Easter Day - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Easter Day - A -- 1992
Lesson 1: Acts 10:34-43 (C, E, L); Acts 10:34, 37-43 (RC)

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Dawned -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
For April 12, 2020:
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
Dead Men Believing -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton, Scott Suskovic -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
March 23, 2008Easter Day / Cycle ADear Fellow Preachers:
Our Lead Story -- Acts 10:34-43 or Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- George L. Murphy -- Easter Day - A
March 27, 2005Easter Sunday| Cycle A

Free Access

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:

SermonStudio

Life In The Resurrection Zone -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- David O. Bales -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Sermon Note: Before this sermon something like the following needs to be included the worship
Taking You Up With Him -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Richard W. Ferris -- Easter Day - A -- 2004
"If I go down, I'm taking you down with me." We've all heard that line.
Easter Is About You -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Harry N. Huxhold -- Easter Day - A -- 2001
Probably the most difficult sermon the Christian preacher is assigned to deliver is the sermon for E
The Second Article: Risen From The Dead -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-20 -- James A. Lucas -- 2000
The Apostles' Creed -- The Second Article
Easter: A Time For Higher Things -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Frank Luchsinger -- Easter Day - A -- 1998
Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!

Stories

StoryShare

A Change Of Perspective -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Contents"A Change of Perspective" by Peter Andrew Smith
No Respecter Of Persons -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Craig Kelly, Peter Andrew Smith -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
Contents"No Respecter of Persons" by Craig Kelly
Anticipation -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Argile Smith, David O. Bales -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
Contents What's Up This Week "Anticipation" by Argile Smith
Easter Stories -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Easter Day - A
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "The Door to Eternity"

SermonStudio

Doing Something - For God -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Constance Berg -- Easter Day - A -- 2001
"Honey, I want to do something for God. What should I do?"

Worship

The Immediate Word

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Dawned -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - A -- 2020
For April 12, 2020:
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
Dead Men Believing -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton, Scott Suskovic -- Easter Day - A -- 2008
March 23, 2008Easter Day / Cycle ADear Fellow Preachers:
Our Lead Story -- Acts 10:34-43 or Jeremiah 31:1-6, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- George L. Murphy -- Easter Day - A
March 27, 2005Easter Sunday| Cycle A

Free Access

Resurrection Tears -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
For April 9, 2023:
Easter Day -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Greeting(each set is increasingly louder) P: He is risen.
The Resurrection Of Our Lord -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: This is the day

SermonStudio

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE -- Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Beth Huener -- 2011
A Witness to the Resurrection Opening Hymn
Easter Day -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Greeting(each set is increasingly louder) P: He is risen.
The Resurrection Of Our Lord -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: This is the day
We Can't See This Enough -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Matthew 28:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - A -- 2004
Call To Worship (Acts 10:39-40)
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Easter Day - A -- 2004
HymnsThine (Yours) Is the Glory (NCH253, PH122, CBH269)
Easter Day (Resurrection Of Our Lord) -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Easter Day - A -- 2001
Theme: New Life In ChristCall To Worship
Easter (Resurrection Of Our Lord) -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, John 20:1-18 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Easter Day - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Acts 10:34-43Theme: The Whole StoryCall To Worship
Raised With Christ -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Easter Day - A -- 1992
Suggestions:Use as a call to worship or as a benediction.2 readers - 2 men
EASTER -- Acts 10:34-43a, John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4 -- B. David Hostetter -- Easter Day - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Easter as God's "Yes" -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 118, Matthew 28:1-10 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Easter Day - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: The heart of the kerygmatic recapitulation contained in Peter's speech to Gentiles
Christ's resurrection is for all people -- Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Heth H. Corl -- Easter Day - A -- 1986
Call to WorshipPastor:
EASTER DAY -- John 20:1-18, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:14-24 -- Norman A. Beck -- Easter Day - A -- 1986
More than on any other day during the Church Year, our Easter Day message must be subjective and it
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
24 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sandra Herrmann
Merry Christmas! The midwinter festival has come, and it calls for parties, feasting and drinking and dancing and the exchange of gifts. Like all people in the northern hemisphere, we need light in the dark days of winter. The only problem with all of this is that the pressure to be joyful can send us spiraling in the exact opposite of mind sets.
Christmas shops are not just for Christmas anymore. These stores that specialize in everything yuletide-ish do business year round and can be found everywhere. I have seen them in an outlet mall near Washington, D.C., nestled in a small village in the mountains of North Carolina and adorning the white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is born! A bright light has come into our world, so let us thank and praise God for his gift to us of Jesus, the Messiah.

Invitation to Confession:

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, make us worthy to worship at your crib.

Lord, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, may we remember you in today's excitement.

Christ, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, be born in our hearts today.

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
A Story to Live By: "
Christmas Stories: "Christmas Presence" by Janice Hammerquist
"Silver In His Soul"
"www.ChristmasHouse" by John Sumwalt
Scrap Pile: Great Prayer of Thanksgiving for Christmas Eve by Thom M. Shuman


What's Up on Christmas Eve

Lamar Massingill
John E. Sumwalt
Contents
"Taking His Joy unto Ourselves" by Lamar Massingill
"God Acted that We Might Act" by Lamar Massingill
"The Hopes and Fears of All the Years" by John Sumwalt
"God with Us" by Peter Andrew Smith


* * * * * * * *


Taking His Joy unto Ourselves
Lamar Massingill
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

Christmas would be incomplete without recognizing Incarnate Love's first fruit, which is joy. Johann Sebastian Bach recognized it when he, as an act of worship, composed "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring."

SermonStudio

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 9:2--7 (C, RC); Isaiah 9:2--4, 6--7 (E)
Mark Wm. Radecke
Year after year, we are drawn to this night: This night with its carols, its candlelight, its communion, and the combined fragrance of pine, poinsettia and perfume. (Is that Passion or Poison you're wearing? Or maybe it's Polo!) The gentle poetry of Luke's story draws us, too.

Why is it that we are so drawn to this night, I wonder? There are, I suppose, as many answers as there are people in this room.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
It's not an easy life, I'll tell you that. I work my small farm during the day, but that doesn't bring in enough money. I have a family to support, taxes to pay -- oy, don't get me started on taxes -- so I need more than my farm brings in. I do the only other thing I know how to do. I hire myself out for the night shift watching other people's sheep. Tending sheep would not be my first choice, you understand. First, I have to stay awake all night. Then, there's counting the sheep to make sure one or two haven't wandered off. Thieves are always a problem.
Timothy J. Smith
There is a special feeling from being in church on Christmas Eve. For many of us it feels like coming home for Christmas. We come to hear the familiar story of Mary and Joseph making their way to the little town of Bethlehem. We hear once again of Baby Jesus born in stable. Soon after an unexpected encounter with angels, the shepherds head to the manger to see Jesus for themselves. Children have creatively acted out this story for generations complete with the wise men offering their gifts. Living Nativities complete with live animals are portrayed in church parking lots in many communities.
Frank Luchsinger
"The grace of God has appeared ... training us ... to await our blessed hope" (Titus 2:11-13), and oh, how we have waited! The air is filled with anticipation, the Holy Night has come. We each wait for different things: the lighting of candles, the singing of carols, loved ones returning home, feasting, and forgetting ferment, for the Prince of Peace is coming. We wait for delight in the eyes of someone we love as he or she opens that special gift. We wait in awe in the hope that one star's strong light lingers still and will lead us home to him who redeems us.
John B. Jamison
He stood on the steps and waved. He nodded to those cheering to him from below, and took a deep breath as if to soak up their praise.
Susan R. Andrews
At the risk of putting you to sleep, I'd like to ask each one of you to close your eyes. Right now, for just a minute. Please close your eyes. And now imagine with me. Imagine that you are holding a newborn baby. Imagine how this baby feels - skin touching skin, curves touching curves - harmonious heartbeats as life surges between you. Imagine the smell - the earthy sweetness of breath and body perfuming the air. Imagine the sound - the silent melody of sighing, stretching, settling. Right now, for just a minute, let your imagination go. Feel the baby. Smell the baby. Hear the baby.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Gathering
P: Born into this world,
C: born into our lives,
P: God made flesh.
C: O Emmanuel, we praise you now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Of Praise
O Come, All Ye Faithful or Jesus, What A Wonderful Child

Gospel Procession
Have the children (dressed as Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds) process and then read the gospel from the center of the congregation.

Intercessory Prayers
After each petition:
L: O God of love,
C: be born in us today.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Sing A New Song To The Lord (PH216)
Angels From The Realms Of Glory (UM220, PH22, NCH126)
Born In The Night (PH30, NCH152)
Once In Royal David's City (PH49, UM250, NCH145)
The First Nowell (PH56, UM245, CBH199, NCH139)
On This Day Earth Shall Ring (UM248, PH46, CBH192)
What Child Is This? (UM219, PH53, CBH215, NCH148)
Silent Night (PH60, UM229, CBH193, PH134)
The Friendly Beasts (UM227, NCH138)
That Boy--Child Of Mary (PH55, UM241)
Frank Ramirez
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 9:2-7)

One:
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light -

All:
Those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shone.

Women:
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.

Men:
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders -

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Merry Christmas, boys and girls. (Show one of your signs). Do any of you know what this sign means? (Let them answer.) That's right, it means (provide answer). (Show another sign and ask what it means. Let them answer.) Very good. Signs are very important aren't they? They give us direction. They tell us what to do and what not to do. The Bible gives many signs also.

You all know the story about the shepherds on Christmas Eve. The shepherds were in the field watching their sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared to them. The Bible says that the shepherds
Leah Thompson
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all… (v. 11)

Good morning, boys and girls! How are you today? (allow answers) Who can tell me what today is? (allow answers) That's right -- it's finally here! Today is Christmas [Eve]! We have spent the whole season of Advent preparing for right now. The long preparation is finally over. Christmas is here!

Special Occasion

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