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Romans 4:1-5, 13-17

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Traveling with Abraham -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
You remember the story... Abraham was a great old man, probably 125 or so!
Clone of Traveling with Abraham -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
You remember the story... Abraham was a great old man, probably 125 or so!
Worthwhile Journey -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Matthew 17:1-9 -- David Coffin -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
It is the second Sunday in Lent!
The Faith Of Abraham -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Faith that would become stronger must become not only a public faith, but a faith that makes commitm
Father of the faithful -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
When we meet him, his name is simply "Abram." In Hebrew, it means "exalted father." Along the way, t
Question me an answer -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
There is an old show tune, made popular by Bobby Van, whose chorus goes like this:
Father of a multitude -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Both the Old Testament and New Testament lections this week prominently feature the
Question me an answer -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
There is an old show tune, made popular by Bobby Van, whose chorus goes like this:
Journey into the world -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
Jules Verne wrote some fascinating books about journeys.
Turning points -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1996
In the three texts today hearers meet three classic figures: Abraham, who receives a call of God and
Far from the tree -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Two thousand years earlier, Abram sat alone one night, when the Lord came to speak to him.

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For March 5, 2023:
Masking Our Fears -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 8, 2020:
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Unholy Promises -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The ongoing crisis in the Ukraine has seen the re-emergence of international dynamics not experie
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
No doubt many of our faithful are asking some theological questions as we witness the aftermath of t
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
The Keeper -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,Serious proposals for radical change in the U.S. Social Security

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Trust -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Leah Thompson -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
But to one who without works trusts him who justifies the ungodly, such faith is reckoned as righ
Working -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Now to one who works, wages are not reckoned as a gift but as something due.
Given, not earned -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
(Hold up the maze) Look at what I've got here.
The price of admission -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning! How many of you have gone to a movie at a theater?
Have faith -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
I have a set of keys to my car here. When I am through later
Father of many nations -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought a dollar bill this
For love or money -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you know what the word love means?

SermonStudio

Jumping With Help -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Wesley T. Runk
Object: string or rope

Devotional

SermonStudio

Lent 2 -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
... "Abraham believed in God and it was reckoned to him as righteousness."

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Lent 2 (2023) -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Genesis 12:1-4a
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 2 (2020) -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Bill Thomas, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Psalm 121
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 2 (2017) -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Bill Thomas, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Genesis 12:1-4a
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2014) -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Scott A. Bryte, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Derl G. Keefer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Genesis 12:1-4a
NULL -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Genesis 12:1-4a
NULL -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Craig Kelly -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Sometimes I wish I could have been there in the room with Thomas Edison when he heard the first reco
For thousands of years, natives... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
For thousands of years, natives on the northwestern American coast celebrated with
Many Christians I know have... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Many Christians I know have trouble relating Christ and the law of Moses. They see the
Victor Frankl, a Jew who... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Victor Frankl, a Jew who spent three years in the jail at Auschwitz, and other Nazi prison
History has shown again and... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
History has shown again and again that faith precedes many great accomplishments.
As teenagers, my brothers and... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
As teenagers, my brothers and I could hardly wait to drive. My parents were firm.
Woodrow Wilson, addressing some new... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
Woodrow Wilson, addressing some new citizens of the United States, said to them:
Denominational-level ministry committees, those... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
Denominational-level ministry committees, those who must interview neophyte pastors, find many who a
Marsh has Down's Syndrome. At... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
Marsh has Down's Syndrome. At ten, one might mistake his actions for those of a five-year-old.
Jeff, I just might have... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
"Jeff, I just might have something special for you when I come home from work today.
Dave had drifted through a... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
Dave had drifted through a number of jobs following college.
Paul vividly reminds us in... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
Paul vividly reminds us in these passages that we cannot earn our own salvation.
One pastor (unknown to me... -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1996
One pastor (unknown to me) tells of Teresa, before she became Mother Teresa, who looked around the c

The Immediate Word

Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For March 5, 2023:
Masking Our Fears -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 8, 2020:
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Unholy Promises -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The ongoing crisis in the Ukraine has seen the re-emergence of international dynamics not experie
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
No doubt many of our faithful are asking some theological questions as we witness the aftermath of t
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For March 5, 2023:
Masking Our Fears -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 8, 2020:
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Unholy Promises -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The ongoing crisis in the Ukraine has seen the re-emergence of international dynamics not experie
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
No doubt many of our faithful are asking some theological questions as we witness the aftermath of t
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
The Keeper -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,Serious proposals for radical change in the U.S. Social Security

SermonStudio

Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
THE LESSONS
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Genesis 12:1-4a (C, RC); Genesis 12:1-8 (E)
Christ Confronts Nicodemus - The new birth -- Genesis 12:1-4, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For March 5, 2023:
Masking Our Fears -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 8, 2020:
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Unholy Promises -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The ongoing crisis in the Ukraine has seen the re-emergence of international dynamics not experie
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
No doubt many of our faithful are asking some theological questions as we witness the aftermath of t
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
The Keeper -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,Serious proposals for radical change in the U.S. Social Security

SermonStudio

For Example -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- David O. Bales -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
If you're going to study a subject or learn a profession, a good strategy is to investigate one of t
Abraham Believed God -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Richard W. Ferris -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Abraham believed God.
Abraham, Our Father -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Harry N. Huxhold -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Abraham is the central character in the First and Second Readings appointed for today.
Inherit The World -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Frank Luchsinger -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
"The promise to Abraham and his descendants, that they should inherit the world, did not come throug

The Village Shepherd

The Faith Of Abram -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Janice B. Scott -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
My generation was brought up in an age which regarded inactivity with deep suspicion, thus there

Stories

StoryShare

Comfable? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Psalm 121 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Contents “Comfable?” by C. David McKirachan
Words, Words, Words -- John 3:1-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Psalm 121 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Contents"Words, Words, Words" by Frank Ramirez* * * * * * *
Any Where But There -- John 3:1-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Psalm 121 -- C. David Mckirachan, John E. Sumwalt -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Contents"Any Where but There" by C. David McKirachan
Get Up And Go -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Frank Ramirez, John S. Smylie -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Contents What's Up This Week "Get Up and Go" by Frank Ramirez
Coming To The Light -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Contents What's Up This Week Stories to Live By: "God Will Keep Your Life"

Worship

The Immediate Word

Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For March 5, 2023:
Masking Our Fears -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Matthew 17:1-9, Psalm 121 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 8, 2020:
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Unholy Promises -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The ongoing crisis in the Ukraine has seen the re-emergence of international dynamics not experie
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
No doubt many of our faithful are asking some theological questions as we witness the aftermath of t
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
The Keeper -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,Serious proposals for radical change in the U.S. Social Security

SermonStudio

Lent 2 -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Like Abraham and Sarah,
Lent 2 -- John 3:1-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Psalm 121 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Confession And Absolution
All The Families Of The Earth Shall Be Blessed -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Call To Worship
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
HymnsThe God Of Abraham Praise (NCH24, UM116, PH488)
Second Sunday In Lent -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Theme: Victory Through FaithCall To Worship
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Genesis 12:1-4aTheme: ObedienceCall To Worship
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17 -- B. David Hostetter -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
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

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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