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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

Ant -- Proverbs 6:6-8 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
The Wise Worker
A Father's Desire -- Luke 13:31-35 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To communicate our Father's desire to gather and save his children.
Bear -- Proverbs 17:12 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Diligent Provider For Family
Fishers Of Men -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The evangelistic nature of Christianity.
Camel -- Mark 10:25, 27 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Prepared For Storms
The Upside Down Cup -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The priorities of Kingdom living.
Cattle Or Oxen -- Psalm 50:10-11 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
The Ox Knows Its Owner
The Truth Will Upset You Before It Sets You Free -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: We must listen to hard words as well as pleasant words.
Coney -- Proverbs 30:26 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Life Can Be Fragile
Great Expectations -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Growing up and fulfilling a calling.Props: None.
Crow Or Raven -- Luke 12:24 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Purpose In Common Things
Wine Into Water -- John 2:1-11 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Miracles do not make a Messiah; the Messiah made miracles.
Deer -- Psalm 42:1-2 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Longing For God
Be One -- John 17:20-26 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Christian Unity.
Who Is Jesus? -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To give an understanding of John's prologue and his understanding of Jesus' n
Donkey -- Luke 19:28-40 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Jesus Rides In Triumph
Only The Messiah -- Mark 8:27-29 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children settle down on the chancel steps, I welcome them, then open my palm to reveal a smal
What's Inside -- 1 Corinthians 1:28-31 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
This morning a large group of children has assembled, their numbers increased by junior-high youths
Help Wanted -- Exodus 4:11-13 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Have any of you ever gone to look for a job?" I ask the assembled children.
Helping Hands -- Matthew 14:16 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
It's one of those Sundays on which I have decided to risk doing something different with the childre
"Remember Me!" -- Luke 24:13-17 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Raise your hand if you have a pet!" Immediately almost every child present shoots an arm into the
Letting Go -- Ephesians 4:26b, 31-32 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children gather in the front of the sanctuary, I extract a large rubber band from my pocket.
In Praise Of God -- Psalm 95:1 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
On this particular Sunday the children's choir, the youth bell choir, and the adult chancel choir ar
Grapes And Donuts -- John 6:51a -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children gather I place a rectangular basket on the floor.
Light -- John 12:35 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
To explore this text with the children I have brought a camera with fairly high-speed film in it.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

Church Anniversary

Church Growth

Church Leaders

Church Programs

Death

Devotional

SermonStudio

Passion/Palm Sunday -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus....-- Philippians 2:5
Proper 14 / OT 19 -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
... You of little faith, why did you doubt?-- Matthew 14:31
Epiphany 3 / OT 3 -- Matthew 4:12-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2007
From that time Jesus began to proclaim, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."
O Lord, Who May Abide In Your Tent? -- Psalm 15 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Those who walk blamelessly and do what is right
The LORD Is King; Let The Peoples Tremble -- Psalm 99 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The LORD is king; let the peoples tremble! Mighty King, lover of justice ...
Epiphany 8 / OT 8 -- Matthew 6:24-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2007
So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own.
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.-- Psalm 86:1
Advent 4 -- Isaiah 7:10-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.
May God Be Gracious To Us -- Psalm 67 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us,
Proper 27 / Pentecost 25 / OT 32 -- Matthew 25:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this.
Happy Are Those Whose Way Is Blameless -- Psalm 119 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Happy are those ... who seek him with their whole heart ...
Contend, O LORD, With Those With Those Who Contend With Me -- Psalm 35 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me;
The Day Of Pentecost -- 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
... no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit.
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / OT 28 -- Exodus 32:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
... These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.
Passion/Palm Sunday -- Matthew 21:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David!
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / OT 20 -- Genesis 45:1-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
And now do not be distressed, or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here; for God sent me
Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Micah 6:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice,
Protect Me, O God -- Psalm 16 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I keep the LORD always before me;
Make A Joyful Noise To The LORD -- Psalm 100 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing ...
Epiphany 9 / OT 9 -- Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2007
You shall put these words of mine in your heart and soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on yo
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Romans 6:1b-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Should we continue in sin in order that grace may abound?-- Romans 6:1b
Advent 4 -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.-- Psalm 80:3
Let God Rise Up, Let His Enemies Be Scattered -- Psalm 68 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
But let the righteous be joyful; let them exult before God;
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / OT 33 -- Judges 4:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
At that time Deborah, a prophetess ... was judging Israel.-- Judges 4:4
In My Distress I Cry To The LORD -- Psalm 120 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace. I am for peace;

Drama

SermonStudio

The Prophet Has His Doubts -- Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
N-o-o-o-t Exactly ... -- Matthew 24:37-44, Isaiah 2:1-5, Romans 13:8-14 -- John A. Tenbrook -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Never Give Up On God ... God Never Gives Up On You! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-17, Romans 1:1-7 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
What's The Word? -- John 1:1-14, Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-12, Psalm 98 -- John A. Tenbrook -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Unfathomable Riches! No Assembly Required, Gentiles Included -- Matthew 2:1-2, Isaiah 60:1-6, 9, Ephesians 3:1-12, Psalm 72 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Holy Spirit, Where Are You? -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
A three-part series for teens, identifying the power and work of the Holy Spirit in individual li
Dad, Does God Play Football? -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Victory in one's Christian life often comes down to priorities, priorities that the world parades
Grand Finale -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Setting: Hall outside school auditorium moments before graduation
Graduation Is Not For Angels -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
One of the most important events in the life of a church is the graduation from high school or co
This Is Athletics -- Check Your Christianity At The Door -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Decisions for Christ are sincere at the moment, but too often
All Choices Have Consequences -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Teenage drinking often brings with it painful, irreversible consequences.
That Heavenly Call -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This four-part drama may be presented as a unit or as individual scenes.
The Heralding Of Advent -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Includes Christmas morning and an additional Sunday, if desired, to round out a longer Christmas
Is Christ In The Manger? -- Isaiah 61 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Scenes I - IV are placed in various areas of the sanctuary.
Christmas Letters -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Appropriate for both Christmas and Advent.
Is Your Christmas A Compromise? -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Like the rest of the world, Christians often get so caught up in the gift giving and festivities
It's Part Of The Plan -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This drama centers on the relationship between Joseph, Pharaoh's second in command, and Joseph's
Joy For The Journey -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Each scene of this intense drama portrays a different situation in life, in three different time
A Widow's Plight -- Luke 18:1-5 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This play is written in three parts.
What Does God Require? -- Leviticus 2:1-3, 11-15, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This short drama, in two scenes, presents a visual contrast between the sacrificial demands of th
The Spirit Of The Lord Is Upon Us -- Ezekiel 37 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This intense drama takes the dry bones vision of the prophet Ezekiel in Ezekiel 37 and ties it wi
All Things Hidden Will Be Revealed -- 1 Corinthians 4:5, 1 Corinthians 10:17 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
God admonishes his people to be unified and have no divisions among themselves but be made comple
The Compelling Call -- Acts 13:1-3 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This set of four scenes is especially suitable to accompany a series of sermons or studies on the
To Jericho -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Moses readied the younger Joshua over many years to assume his role in leading the children of Is
The God Of Naomi -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This drama is enhanced by the Biblical character, Ruth, wandering about the sanctuary as she talk

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

Illustration

Inspirational

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

SermonStudio

The cosmic coming of the Son of man -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This passage, near the conclusion of the so-called "little
Let the end come! -- Dennis Koch -- 1993
Gospel Note: When the universe falls apart, Christ will soon return to
Restrictive religion versus redemptive righteousness -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: In the two incidents recorded here, both related to Sabbath-
A mission modeled on the Master's message and ministry -- Mark 6:14-29 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The commissioning of the Twelve underscores the continuity
A madman with a mysterious ministry -- Mark 3:20-35 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This interesting passage is an example of a pericope (on
Be prepared -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Dennis Koch -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Having uttered two parables that urge watchfulness, Jesus here
The urgency of the Christian mission -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: In these verses, in which Mark concludes one pericope and
The growing reality of the Kingdom of God -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark probably connected these two originally independent "seed
Confession and repentance, cleansing and renewal -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Dennis Koch -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: In this beginning to his Gospel, Mark uses (with some
The Christ who feeds the hungry -- John 6:1-21 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle recorded by all
The puzzling identity of Jesus -- Mark 4:35-41 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark constructs his narrative of this storm-stilling incident
Waiting and witnessing -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Dennis Koch -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: These two passages are John's prose interpolations into the
The spiritual satisfaction in the bread of life -- John 6:24-35 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: While the pericope preceding this one dealt with the
Compassionate faith -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark tells of a healing and a resurrection. The stories are
The birth of the Messiah -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Dennis Koch -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Our theme focuses on Mary's immediate, positive response to
God's gracious spiritual nourishment -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The two "I am the bread" sayings here are followed by a series
Those who know Jesus best may know him least -- Mark 6:1-13 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark places the rejection of Jesus by people in "his own
The blessing of the ascension -- Mark 16:15-20 -- Dennis Koch -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This passage overlaps the selection for the Third Sunday of
The living bread from above -- John 6:51-58 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This passage continues the "I am the bread" sayings of the
The astonishing event of resurrection -- John 20:1-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Easter Day - B -- 1993
Gospel Note:
Right rituals for the wrong reasons -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Dennis Koch -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: In these sayings Jesus uses three common rituals -- almsgiving,
Disciple disbelief and defection -- John 6:56-69 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: After concluding his apparently sacramental remarks about his
Fumbling in the face of the fantastic -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Dennis Koch -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark's description of the transfiguration of Jesus, though
The subjectivity and secrecy of the first epiphany -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Dennis Koch -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Unlike the description of Jesus' baptism delivered by Matthew
Human customs versus divine commandments -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: These excerpts deal with two rather loosely related issues:

Preaching

SermonStudio

Proper 8 / Ordinary Time 13 -- Psalm 13 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2006
This psalm is an individual lament with which almost every Christian can identify, for almost all of
God's Selfless Love -- Matthew 5:38-45a -- 2006
"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, Do not resi
Easter 6 -- Psalm 67 -- James Evans -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
The opening verse of this psalm echoes the blessing of Aaron found in Numbers 6:24-26: "The Lord ble
Maundy Thursday -- Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Stan Purdum -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Cycle A for an alternative approach; see also
Proper 18/Pentecost 16/Ordinary Time 23 -- Psalm 125 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
Psalm 125 celebrates the presence of God during times of distress.
Fourth Sunday Of Advent -- Micah 5:2-5a, Hebrews 10:5-10, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Theme For The DayAdvent is a time for seeing the promise.
The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Romans 5:1-5, John 16:12-15 -- Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Faith helps us to endure suffering, and move beyond it to hope.
Epiphany 5/Ordinary Time 5 -- Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2006
This is a dangerous psalm -- dangerous, because it is so open to misinterpretation.
Proper 23/Pentecost 21/Ordinary Time 28 -- Psalm 66:1-12 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
(See Easter 6, Cycle A for an alternative approach to vv. 8-20.)
Salvation Message -- 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 -- 2006
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
Thanksgiving Day -- Psalm 126 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2006
There is perhaps no greater challenge to the life of faith than suffering.
Proper 27 / Ordinary Time 32 -- Psalm 78:1-7 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2006
(See Proper 21/Pentecost 19/Ordinary Time 26, Cycle A, for an alternative approach to vv.
Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14 -- Psalm 45:10-17 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2006
(See Proper 17/Pentecost 15/Ordinary Time 22, Cycle B, for an alternative approach, emphasizing v
The Healing Power Of Jesus/Death As A Healing -- Matthew 14:35-36 -- 2006
And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 47 -- Stan Purdum -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
Both Psalms 47 and 93 (the alternative psalm for this day) are enthronement psalms, praise hymns cel
Epiphany 9/Ordinary 9 -- Psalm 81:1-10 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- 2006
This song, written in call-and-response style, summons the people to worship, then treats them to an
Proper 19/Pentecost 17/Ordinary Time 24 -- Psalm 19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2006
Psalm 19 celebrates two different media through which God is revealed: nature and the law.
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Jesus Christ is God incarnate.
Proper 4/Pentecost 2/Ordinary Time 9 -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39, Galatians 1:1-12, Luke 7:1-10 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day True faith always finds itself in conflict with falsehood.
Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6 -- Psalm 119:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2006
There was a school crossing guard in Florida who had grown very frustrated with the many drivers who
Proper 24/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 29 -- Psalm 119:97-104 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2006
Psalm 119 is well-known as the longest chapter in the Bible.
In The Fullness Of Time -- Ephesians 1:5-10 -- 2006
He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure
Advent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
(See Lent 1, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)
Proper 28/Pentecost 26/Ordinary Time 33 -- Psalm 123 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2006
This short psalm is a communal lament, pleading as a nation for God's mercy, though in what particul
Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2006
Today the lectionary identifies a second, alternative psalm selection besides the Psalm 45:10-17 roy

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Television: The Plug-In Drug -- Matthew 6:22-23 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
The eye is the lamp of the body.
Namibia -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do peopl
The Man Who Wasn't There -- Acts 16:9-15 -- David Kalas -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
I've never had a vision -- at least not of the sort that Paul had.
God As A Consuming Fire -- Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
Every pastor sees the damage that is done to people by too heavy an emphasis on God's judgment.
God's Gift -- Jeremiah 33:14-16 -- Derl G. Keefer -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Margery Tallcott relates that during the Depression she and her husband were barely making the money
Transformed To Christ -- 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2009
One magnificent, moonlit night, a fisherman climbed the wall of a private estate to partake in the b
That We May All Be One! -- John 17:20-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
In the nineteenth century, most American denominations felt pretty smug that theirs was the real fai
How To Worry Like A Christian! -- Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:6-7 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or
Forgiveness -- Matthew 18:21-35 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, if another member of the church sins against me, how ofte
A Stupid Question -- Acts 1:1-11 -- David Kalas -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
Generous teachers sometimes assure their students that there is no such thing as a stupid question.
The Unchanging Christ In A Changing World -- Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2009
When we come to church, we usually do not come primarily to learn about doctrine.
Finding Redemption In The Midst Of Judgment -- Malachi 3:1-4 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
A vase shatters, brushed by a careless elbow; a toy breaks, handled roughly by young fingers; and fa
Show Me Your Credentials -- 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2009
When you apply for a job, offer service to a customer, or try to get a license ...
Veni, Spiritus Sanctus, Veni -- John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- Arley K. Fadness -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
On this Pentecost Sunday, as we celebrate the birthday of the church, I want to teach you a simple a
Of Logs And Specks ... -- Matthew 7:1-6 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Do not judge, so that you may not be judged.
A Force To Contend With -- Acts 2:1-21, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, John 7:37-39 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2009
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place.
You Guys Are Gonna Be Different! -- Matthew 5:1 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to
The Place Of Prayer -- Acts 16:16-34 -- David Kalas -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
"Where is the place of prayer?" they asked. "We're looking for the place of prayer."
From Slave To Brother -- Philemon 1:1-21 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
We often shortchange love.
Hope Again! -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Charles Swindoll wrote a book titled Hope Again, with the subtitle "When Life Hurts and Dream
Did God Really Say...? -- Romans 10:8b-13 -- Steven E. Albertin -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Today is "Temptation Sunday." Every year on the first Sunday in Lent we focus our attention on the s
Holy, Holy, Holy -- John 16:12-15 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
On this festival, The Holy Trinity, we celebrate one of the great treasures and mysteries of the chu
Praying Through -- Matthew 7:7-11 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Poverty Of Spirit -- Matthew 5:3 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Birthdays And Marriages -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
It is common to speak of Pentecost as the birthday of the church.

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

She Gave All She Had -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
She Gave All She Had
Confidence Training -- 2 Corinthians 3:1-6 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2005
Confidence Training
Grace For All -- Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31) -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2004
For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are n
Yule Shoppers Clash -- Isaiah 2:1-5 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their s
Wrapped In Pentecost -- 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2004
Kate Jones
Fruit Punch, A Poppy Seed Muffin, And A Bar -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2004
And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with
Choose Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2004
I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, b
The Fire Within -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
"I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me;
A Light To My Path -- Psalm 119:105-112 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2004
Linda Willis Harper
From Suffering To Hope -- Romans 5:1-8 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2004
And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance
An Enemy Loved -- Matthew 5:38-48 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2004
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say t
Why Come To Earth? -- Matthew 11:2-11 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples and said to h
A Father's Love, A Mother's Good-bye -- Romans 8:12-25 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2004
R. Ellen Rasmussen
Not Left Behind -- Matthew 24:36-44 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
Late have I loved you, O beauty so ancient and so new. Late have I loved you!
How Insignificant? -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2004
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny?
The Lord Provides -- Matthew 6:24-34 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2004
"Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we we
The Perfect Imperfect Pageant -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his
Praying: Even When You Can't -- Romans 8:26-39 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
Too Churchy -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2004
Paul Karrer
Coventry Story -- Isaiah 11:1-10 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion
King Thrushbeard -- Matthew 10:40-42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2004
Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. (v.
Out Of The Minds Of Babes -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2004
When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.
Heroes And Villains -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, "Who are these, robed in white, and where have they
Angels In Haunted Places -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2004
Richard H. Gentzler, Jr.
Right Here In My Church -- Luke 1:47-55 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
April McClure Stewart

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

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SermonStudio

Second Sunday Of Easter -- Revelation 1:4b-8, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Revelation 1:4-8Theme: Will The Real Jesus Please Stand Up!
Proper 23/Ordinary Time 28 -- Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7Theme: Make Yourself At Home
Christ The King (Proper 29/Ordinary Time 34) -- Colossians 1:11-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 1:11-20Theme: Share In The Inheritance
First Sunday Of Advent -- Luke 21:25-36 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 21:25-36Theme: God Is Near AgainCall To Worship
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 9:28-36 (37-43)Theme: Is That Really You?
Proper 12/Ordinary Time 17 -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19)Theme: Debt Relief
Second Sunday After Christmas -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Ephesians 1:3-14Theme: The Reading Of The Will
The Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 2:1-21Theme: Clarity!
Second Sunday In Advent -- Philippians 1:3-11 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Second Sunday In AdventFor Philippians 1:3-11
Is This the Road to Bethlehem?: A Children's Liturgy for Advent -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2006
Order of Service PreludeWelcomeProcession Of Acolytes
Call To Worship -- Lamentations 3:23 -- 2006
Leader: We loved him,People: And now he is gone.
Second Sunday Of Easter -- John 20:19-31 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 20:19-31Theme: Believing Thomas
Proper 23/Ordinary Time 28 -- 2 Timothy 2:8-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 2 Timothy 2:8-15Theme: If, Then, Therefore
Christ The King (Proper 29/Ordinary Time 34) -- Luke 23:33-43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 23:33-43Theme: Anguish And Resolve
Second Sunday Of Advent -- Malachi 3:1-4 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Malachi 3:1-4Theme: My Messenger
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17Theme: Lost And Found
Proper 12/Ordinary Time 17 -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 11:1-13Theme: Our Father With A Twist
Second Sunday After Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 1:(1-9) 10-18Theme: True Confession
The Day Of Pentecost -- Romans 8:14-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Romans 8:14-17Theme: No Fear
Second Sunday In Advent -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Second Sunday In AdventFor Luke 3:1-6
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering Music
Call To Worship -- John 11 -- 2006
"I am the resurrection and the life," said Jesus to his friend, Martha, whose brother had died.
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 9:1-6 (7-20)Theme: Real Change In Real People
Proper 23/Ordinary Time 28 -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 17:11-19Theme: Good Odds Or Bad Odds
Reformation Sunday -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 31:31-34Theme: The New In The Heart Of The Old

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The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
Elena Delhagen
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For May 12, 2024:
Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
Elena Delhagen
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For May 12, 2024:

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John Jamison
Object: A sheet large enough for your children to stand around it. A dozen or so golf balls, or other small unbreakable balls. If you have a large number of children you could use two sheets to make room, or just ask for volunteers to play the game.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent! But we’re not starting with the story today. I have something else I would like you to try. (Lay the sheet on the floor and put the balls in the middle of it.)
John Jamison
Object: A piece of clothing that a superhero might wear. I used a simple cape made from a sheet, but you could also use a belt, a ring, or anything else your favorite superhero might wear.

* * *

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Over the Christmas season, I saw a picture of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes with his wife Brittany and their two young children. Like many people, the Mahomes’ took their kids to see Santa Claus. Patrick, Brittany, and Santa are all smiles, however, two-year-old daughter Sterling and one-year-old Bronze looked just like thousands of other kids, scared, and wanting to be somewhere else. It reminded me of how alike people are.
Mark Ellingsen
Bonnie Bates
Frank Ramirez
Bill Thomas
Acts 1:1-11
As I write this, world events have inspired any number of Christians in my area to speculate that these are clear signs of the end. By the time you read this those great events will be history, but don’t worry, stuff is happening as you read this that is causing some to speculate those current events are clear signs of the end.
Frank Ramirez
Today’s scriptures call upon us to listen carefully — to Jesus, through his words in the New Testament, and to the Spirit helping us to interpret that word and speaking directly in our hearts. And sometimes God is also speaking to us in the created universe. But make sure it is God we are listening to, and not ourselves.

Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Mark Ellingsen
The lessons for this Festival of Ascension all testify to the heavenly power and cosmic presence of Christ. 

Acts 1:1-11

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
…God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his son. (v. 11b)

Have you ever experienced the presence of God? Have you felt, seen, heard, smelled, tasted or known in some way that the Creator was near?

My colleague Becky Ardell Downs, pastor of John Knox Presbyterian Church in Houston, tells of a time forty years ago when she was attending the funeral of her uncle in the Chicago suburbs. He had died of multiple sclerosis at a relatively young age.
Frank Ramirez
When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. (Acts 1:9)

Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)

Defying gravity! What a concept? Is there anyone here who has not dreamt at one time or another that you were actually flying? Or floating? Or in some way defying gravity?

SermonStudio

John Jamison
Have you ever come across a piece of scripture that you really just didn’t know what to do with? Everything you read before it makes sense, and everything after it, but that one passage just sits there staring at you, almost defying you to understand why it is there and what it means.
Stan Purdum
Both Psalms 47 and 93 (the alternative psalm for this day) are enthronement psalms, praise hymns celebrating God's rule over the nations. They were most likely used on festal occasions when Israel again declared that God was its king.

While Psalm 47 was for Israel's celebration, verses 1-2 call all the nations of earth to recognize God as their monarch as well. Verses 3-4, however, return to the specific relationship between God and Israel.

David H. Webb
Today is Ascension Sunday.

Today we commemorate the day when Jesus bid farewell to his followers and friends and ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father.

In some ways it's an anxious day. "How will we go on without him?" they surely whispered among themselves. "How can we possibly maintain the strength and perspective -- the motivation to live according to his teachings and promises? How can we live with determination and purpose if he is not here to sustain us?"

John T. Ball
One of the blessings of God is the gift of writing, of putting our thoughts and observations on clay tablets or jars, on parchment, or on paper. Scholars are not certain when humans first began to write. Many think it happened in Samaria, the civilization between the Tigris and Euphrates, now modern-day Iraq. It may have happened about 3000 B.C.E. Nor is there a consensus on how writing was first used. It may have come from Shamans using it to pass on their skills and secrets. Or writing could have originated as a means to inventory the goods of merchants.
Mark J. Molldrem
Mark -- warlike

Shirley -- bright meadow

Jennifer -- fair lady

Jeffrey -- God's peace

Jesus -- God saves

What's in a name? Ever since God gave Adam the privilege of naming all the creatures, humankind has had a fascination with names. Names are important. Parents take great care when they select a name for their baby. They know the name will be with this new person for a lifetime and will identify him or her to other people.
Jerry L. Schmalenberger
It simply was unthinkable that the appearances of Jesus should grow fewer and fewer after Easter until they finally 'petered out' and melted away. That would have effectively weakened the faith of all people who had seen him. There had to come a day of dividing -- when Jesus of earth became Christ of heaven.
Richard E. Gribble
Many years ago one of the most popular shows on weekly television was Mission Impossible. Each episode of the show opened in a similar way. The head of the Impossible Missions Force, or IMF for short, would be found alone in some isolated office, home, or similar space. He would find a large manilla envelope, generally hidden in a desk drawer or possibly in a safe. Inside the envelope he would find materials that described the next mission of his IMF team. There would be lots of printed material, photographs of the principal people involved, and often maps to show various locations.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Sandy wasn't very good at prayer. Privately he thought it was probably a waste of time, although when things went really wrong he always found himself praying. He wasn't sure that God ever heard his prayers.

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