Login / Signup

Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18

Hold down Ctrl (Windows) / Command (Mac) for multiple selections (scroll list to see all options)

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Turning Point -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
There is an ancient legend first told by Christians living in the catacombs under the streets of Rom
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.
God of the ages -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Psalm 27 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
Note: This installment by David Kalas is from 2004.
A tragic turn -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Psalm 27 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2007
For several years of our married life, my wife and I had jobs working with very different
Jesus is the sign of the times -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2001
In our consumer culture, advertising plays an extremely vital role.
Sacrificial love -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1998
The sacrificial love of God is the dominant theme for today's texts, providing a focal point for all
God of the ages -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
What is the relationship between the past, the present, and the future?

Free Access

Turning Point -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
There is an ancient legend first told by Christians living in the catacombs under the streets of Rom

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Are You Chicken? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Tom Willadsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
For March 16, 2025:
God Calls Back -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
For March 13, 2022:
In God We (Sometimes) Trust -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
For March 17, 2019:
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.

Devotional

SermonStudio

Lent 2 -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
And he believed the Lord; and the Lord reckoned it to him as righteousness.

Drama

SermonStudio

As Many As The Stars? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Psalm 27 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
I love the movie Oh, God! Some may take issue with its theology, but George Burns as God is i

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2025) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2022) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
Genesis 15:1-12,17-18
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2019) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Ron Love -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2016) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, R. Robert Cueni -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2013) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Mark J. Molldrem -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2012
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
NULL -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Ron Love -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2012
Jeremiah Denton, a Navy pilot who was held captive in the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam War, under
NULL -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2012
The American Dream seems to be in shambles today.
Management and life-planning guru... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2007
Management and life-planning guru, Stephen Covey, wrote a book several years ago
Count the stars, if you... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2007
"Count the stars, if you are able," was the Lord's challenge to Abram. Abram, of course,
Laurie Beth gave her life... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2007
Laurie Beth gave her life to Christ when she was seventeen years old. She asked Jesus to
I've had big enemies and... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2007
I've had big enemies and small ones. Some threatened me with violence. A few wanted
I am always intrigued by... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1995
I am always intrigued by the parts of scripture which are left out of the lectionary.
Faith can accomplish many experiences... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1995
Faith can accomplish many experiences in our personal lives, but faith cannot count.
Whate'er we leave to God... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1995
Whate'er we leave to God, God does,and blesses us;
Almost every day we hear... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1995
Almost every day we hear things that are hard to believe.
Entering a crowded restaurant with... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
Entering a crowded restaurant with a friend, film star Gregory Peck found no table available.
High in the Rocky Mountains... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
High in the Rocky Mountains, there is a place of great geographical significance -- a location marke
We can identify with Abraham's... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
We can identify with Abraham's doubting that God would fulfill his promises.
A farmer I know lives... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
A farmer I know lives on a "Centennial Farm," which means that it has been in her family for more th
In his book, U.S... -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
In his book, U.S.

Free Access

Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2025) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18

The Immediate Word

God Calls Back -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
For March 13, 2022:
In God We (Sometimes) Trust -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
For March 17, 2019:
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou

Liturgy

The Immediate Word

Are You Chicken? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Tom Willadsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
For March 16, 2025:

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Are You Chicken? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Tom Willadsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
For March 16, 2025:
God Calls Back -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
For March 13, 2022:
In God We (Sometimes) Trust -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
For March 17, 2019:
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.

SermonStudio

Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Second Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
The preacher who confronts the three stated texts for this Sunday once again faces the confusing sit
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
Seasonal ThemeJesus and his disciples move toward Jerusalem and the cross.
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2000
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Lent 2 -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Perry H. Biddle, Jr. -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1988
Comments on the Lessons
Lent 2 -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 9:28-36 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1985
The LessonsGenesis 15:1-12, 17-18 (C, RC)

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Are You Chicken? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Tom Willadsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
For March 16, 2025:
God Calls Back -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
For March 13, 2022:
In God We (Sometimes) Trust -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
For March 17, 2019:
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.

SermonStudio

A Resume Of Righteousness -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Statues don't perspire. The characters portrayed in stained-glass windows don't blink.
Abraham Believed God -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
If you've traveled with small children in a car, you've probably heard this conversation more than o
Falling Into Faith -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
Woody Allen once quipped, "If there is a God, he is the ultimate under-achiever." This statement is
The Promise Of A Son -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Carlyle Fielding Stewart, III -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2000
A son was a symbol of the strength of the inheritance.
The Problem With A Promise -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Barbara Brokhoff -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1991
You have all made promises; and kept them, but some you have broken.

Stories

StoryShare

Founded on a Dream -- Luke 13:31-35, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Psalm 27 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
Contents “Founded on a Dream” by C. David McKirachan
Living Our Beliefs -- Luke 13:31-35, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Psalm 27 -- Keith Wagner -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
Contents "Living Our Beliefs" by Keith Wagner
Chasing Buzzards -- Luke 13:31-35, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Psalm 27 -- C. David Mckirachan, Richard A. Jensen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
Contents"Chasing Buzzards" by C. David McKirachan
As Clear As The Milky Way -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Scott Dalgarno, Argile Smith, Richard A. Jensen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
ContentsWhat's Up This Week "As Clear As The Milky Way" by Scott Delgarno

SermonStudio

Beyond Belief -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, "Do not be afraid, Abram, I am
Flash-in-the-pan Christians -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
Back in the good old days of the dotconomy, people were making money hand over fist in what Alan Gre

Worship

The Immediate Word

Are You Chicken? -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Tom Willadsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
For March 16, 2025:
God Calls Back -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
For March 13, 2022:
In God We (Sometimes) Trust -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2019
For March 17, 2019:
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.

SermonStudio

Lent 2 -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
You shall pass judgment on yourself. That is the hardest thing of all ...
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18Theme: Just In Case You Forget ...
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
Theme: Abram Put His Trust In The LordCall To Worship
Second Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2000
First Lesson: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18Theme: What Will You Give Me?
Faith in God's covenant -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- James R. Wilson -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1997
Call To Worship
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:22-35 -- Heth H. Corl -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 1976
First Lesson: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18Theme: Faith is belief in God's covenant promise
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 20 | OT 25 | Pentecost 15
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 21 | OT 26 | Pentecost 16
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 22 | OT 27 | Pentecost 17
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

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For September 21, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Frank Ramirez
Well, it’s autumn, and by now the seeds we planted in the spring either took root and produced or else the weather, pests, rabbits, or our own laziness conspired to make this year’s garden less than a success. But at one point we had to get started and actually plant seeds for the future.

Jeremiah is looking back from the perspective of our spiritual well-being and laments than our spiritual harvest has all been for naught. He wonders if it is now too late for a recovery. Is there no healing, no balm in Gilead, to apply to our wounds?
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 and Psalm 79:1-9
In the spring as farmers and gardeners prepare to plant we are looking at a summer of possibilities. Hard work, to be sure, but also potential. What will happen? What will this season be like? At summer’s end there will be no more questions. We’ll know. Maybe it was a great season, and we have canned or frozen many vegetables. Maybe the farmers have brought in a bumper crop and they got a good price besides.

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: This message will be based on a game you will play. See the note below.

NOTE: Ask three or more adults to come up and play the role of Simon for your group. Tell them to all speak at once, asking the children to do different things. The goal is to create a nice bit of confusion for the children to experience.

* * *

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

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Hey!” Annie waved at the woman standing next to the open doorway. “Can you come here?”

The woman made her way past the other nursing home residents and stood next to Annie’s wheelchair.

“What can I do for you?”

“You look familiar.” Annie squinted at her. “Do I know your name?”

“I’m Brenda.” The woman pointed at her name tag. “I work in the kitchen and sometimes help serve the meals when they are ready.”

“That’s right. I think we’ve met before.” Annie tapped her lips with her finger. “You have the nice smile.”

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus said, “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much.” In our worship today let us remember the little things in our lives and ask God to help us to be utterly faithful in them.



Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes we pretend that little sins don't matter.

Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we imagine that you don't notice little sins.

Christ, have mercy.

SermonStudio

James Evans
This poignant prayer of lament and community grief gives expression to what it feels like to suffer as a person of faith. If we believe we are truly part of God's community, then the destruction of that community -- as was the case with Israel in 587 B.C. -- becomes a time for doubt, anger, and confusion. Furthermore, if we believe we are individual members of that community, our personal suffering also creates an opportunity for a crisis of faith: "Why didn't God protect me?" Of course, it does not take a national catastrophe to raise those sorts of questions.
Kirk R. Webster
If feedback is the breakfast of champions, perhaps we would do well to examine some of our prayer habits. If you have ever heard someone use The Just Really Prayer, you know exactly what problem we are talking about.

That prayer goes something like this, "Lord, we just really thank you for this day. We come before you and just really pray for mercy. We offer ourselves to you and just really ask that your will be done in our lives. Amen." I'm thankful this particular Just Really prayer was mercifully short, unlike the next example, The Good Guilt-Based Prayer.
John W. Wurster
Another season has come and gone. Promises that were made have not been fulfilled. Good intentions haven't yielded any tangible results. Dreams have not come true. High hopes have proven to be only wishful thinking. Nothing has really changed; nothing has really improved. The time keeps moving along, but we seem stuck in the same ruts. Old routines remain, prejudices persist, dullness and anxiety continue to be constant companions. Lingering in the air is that nagging sense that things aren't quite right, not as they could be, not as they should be.
R. Robert Cueni
In the scripture lesson for today Jesus tells a perplexing parable about a thoroughly dishonest employee who was praised for his dishonesty. In this story Jesus not only seems comfortable suggesting that it is acceptable to compromise with moral failings, but our Lord appears to commend his disciples to "go and do likewise." For centuries, preachers, commentators, and scholars have struggled to make sense of this outrageous tale.

Special Occasion

Wildcard SSL