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Ephesians 3:14-21

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wilderness Provisions -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David Coffin -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
Regardless of who we are and where we live, we will all one day face some form a wilderness.
Kids' Stuff? -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David Kalas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
I grew up in the church.  I was a preacher’s kid, and so I was in church every Sunday morning of my
Reaching Out -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
2 Samuel 11:1-15
Taking and offering -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
When do we have enough?
Character -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
Every parent of young children can identify with this: a little boy was asked his name, and he repli
Might -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2000
There are all kinds of power and might displayed in our world.
The subtleties of power and temptation -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1997
There are few texts in the Bible or illustrations from the lives of public figures that more aptly d
"Even those who are pure in heart" -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1994
The preacher who chooses either the Old Testament or Gospel lesson as the basis for a sermon will wa
Growth -- 2 Samuel 12:1-14, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-15 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1991
Church growth has been a topic of concern for some time.
Raising Our Sights -- Ezekiel 23:1-9, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-15
Serving an underestimated God -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- David Kalas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From time to time in the car, especially during football season, I listen to sports talk

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Reaching Out -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
2 Samuel 11:1-15

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Making Do with Leftovers -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14, 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
For July 28, 2024:
The Love of Power vs. The Power of Love -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
For July 25, 2021:
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber
A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
The Uses and Abuses of Power -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
We cannot read much in the newspaper or watch the evening news without encountering some reference t

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Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018

CSSPlus

A growing faith -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of your parents have a garden?
God gives us understanding -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning! Do all of you speak English? (Let them
We bow before God -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning! I brought this plant with me this morning to
Fill 'er up please -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever gone
Your family -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth take

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2008
2 Samuel 11:1-15

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2024) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
2 Samuel 11:1-15
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2021) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
2 Samuel 11:1-15
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2018) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
2 Samuel 11:1-15 and Psalm14
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2015) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
2 Samuel 11:1-15
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2012) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
2 Samuel 11:1-15
N.T. Wright tells the following story about Desmond Tutu... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
N.T. Wright tells the following story about Desmond Tutu's prayer life.
2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- David O. Bales, Dennis A. Becker, Mary S. Lautensleger, Timothy Smith, Leah Thompson, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2009
2 Samuel 11:1-15
When perusing a bookstore’s novels... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2009
When perusing a bookstore’s novels, one of my critical “inspection points” is the first word on page
There’s a Br’er Rabbit story... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2009
There’s a Br’er Rabbit story in which all the animals get together and decide to build a house.
The new Christians in Ephesus... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2009
The new Christians in Ephesus are urged to lead lives of patient love, using their various gifts in
It is the power and... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2000
It is the power and authority of God that enables us for godly living and all earthy achievement.
Thomas Jefferson had political enemies... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2000
Thomas Jefferson had political enemies who thought he was a faithless, lost soul who would burn all
Jesus not only taught love... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2000
Jesus not only taught love; he is love.
When I was in Egypt... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1997
When I was in Egypt in 1995 on a mission trip, the things that we saw each day were just overwhelmin
There are many things in... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1997
There are many things in life that make no sense whatever.
How are you able to... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1997
"How are you able to do it, Dorothy?"
Former President Jimmy Carter worships... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1994
Former President Jimmy Carter worships in a baptist church in Plains, Georgia.
The novel, Miracle Monday by... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1994
The novel, Miracle Monday by Elliot S. Maggin, gives us a picture of a despondent Superman.

The Immediate Word

Making Do with Leftovers -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14, 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
For July 28, 2024:
The Love of Power vs. The Power of Love -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
For July 25, 2021:
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2018) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
2 Samuel 11:1-15 and Psalm14

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Making Do with Leftovers -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14, 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
For July 28, 2024:
The Love of Power vs. The Power of Love -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
For July 25, 2021:
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber
A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
The Uses and Abuses of Power -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
We cannot read much in the newspaper or watch the evening news without encountering some reference t

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018

SermonStudio

Proper 12 / Ordinary Time 17 / Pentecost 9 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayWe're all in the same boat! Collect of the Day
Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2005
Revised Common 2 Samuel 11:1-15 Ephesians 3:14-21 John 6:1-21
Proper 12 (C, E) -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: 2 Samuel 11:1-15 (C)
God fills us with the Bread of Life for our bodies and our spirits -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: God fills us with the Bread of Life for our bodies and our spirits.
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1993
Here is the story of a tragedy of a great man's downfall, of
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1990
It is essential for the parish preacher to be aware of the meaning and purpose of Sunday for the Chr
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1990
It is essential for the parish preacher to be aware of the meaning and purpose of Sunday for the Chr
Proper 12, Pentecost 10, Ordinary Time 17 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Seasonal Theme

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Making Do with Leftovers -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14, 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
For July 28, 2024:
The Love of Power vs. The Power of Love -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
For July 25, 2021:
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber
A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
The Uses and Abuses of Power -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
We cannot read much in the newspaper or watch the evening news without encountering some reference t

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018

SermonStudio

Love That Surpasses Knowledge -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2008
I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the sain
Let God Do The Rest -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2005
Once there was a boy who loved to look at the birds of the air, the flowers of the field, and the cl
The Highest Bidder -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2002
An auction is a fun event, especially when you are the highest bidder for an item you really want to

The Village Shepherd

God's Power -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
It sometimes seems to me that our world is based upon power.

Stories

StoryShare

The Measure of the Universe -- Ephesians 3:14-21, Psalm 14 -- Frank Ramirez, John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
Contents“The Measure of the Universe” by Frank Ramirez
The Lord Will Provide -- Psalm 145:10-18, 2 Kings 4:42-44, John 6:1-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Keith Wagner, John Fitzgerald -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Contents “The Lord Will Provide” by Keith Wagner
One Big Family -- John 6:1-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, Psalm 14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
Contents "One Big Family" by Frank Ramirez "Sacrifice" by Keith Hewitt
What's Your Theme? -- John 6:1-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, Psalm 14 -- C. David Mckirachan, Lamar Massingill -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
Contents "What's Your Theme?" by C. David McKirachan
The Lad's Miracle Of Sharing -- John 6:1-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, Psalm 14 -- Lamar Massingill, John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2009
ContentsWhat's Up This Week
At Least I'm Not That Bad -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Terry Cain, David O. Bales, Peter C. Garrison -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "Making a Difference"

SermonStudio

Flattening Fences -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2008
In 1983, in the tiny, rural town of Liberty Hill, South Carolina, this true story took place.1 Liber
Grounded In Love -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kai M. Mcclinton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in

Worship

The Immediate Word

Making Do with Leftovers -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14, 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2024
For July 28, 2024:
The Love of Power vs. The Power of Love -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2021
For July 25, 2021:
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber
A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
The Uses and Abuses of Power -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
We cannot read much in the newspaper or watch the evening news without encountering some reference t

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018

SermonStudio

Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipA general Call To Worship. Leader: Call upon the Lord.
Contradiction -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Come, let all of God's people give praise and worship the Lord!
PROPER 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPCome without concealment to confess your sins. Return to your
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

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What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

Special Occasion

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