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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

The Cover -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the importance of Bible reading.
The Insulting Bonds -- Matthew 26:47-56, Mark 14:43-50 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
After the crowd, with swords and clubs, and the Jewish police arrested Jesus, they bound him in chai
What Shall You Give? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To share with the children some wonderful gifts they can
You Are All That Matters To God -- Psalm 50:7-15 -- Erskine White -- 1993
"I know all the birds of the air, and all that moves in the field is mine." (v.
The Need For Balance -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the need for a balanced life and for personal responsibility for it.
The Warning Dream -- Matthew 27:11-26 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
I have a place where I can be alone.It's cool and bare,And quiet there
A Winter Experiment -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To think about how love affects us all.
The Set Face -- Luke 9:51-56 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
A wise old archer, training two young men to shoot arrows that would hit the target, asked the first
Listening To The Whistle -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show the need to put into practice what we learn.
The Useless Water -- Matthew 27:11-26 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
All day Sam and Richard played football, sometimes simply fighting over the ball.
New Year's Resolution -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remember that outward appearances are not the most important things in life.
The Misdirected Tears -- Luke 23:26-31 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
All of us cry sometimes. Jesus wept over Jerusalem, his people.
What Shall We Be? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the importance of what a child learns in the early years.
Earphones -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To share with the children our need for time alone and time with other people.
The Rejected Drug -- Matthew 27:32-37 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
A ten-year-old once said, "When you're put here on earth, it's for a reason.
Patience In Learning -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remind children that patience is an essential part of life.
Through Others Too Far Away -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show the affect of our influence upon others.
Even Children Can Be Good Samaritans -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to be good Samaritans.
The Torn Curtain -- Matthew 27:45-54, Mark 15:33-39, Luke 23:44-49 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
There is a story that says there was once a very large religious statue in a temple, but one day a m
How God Is Heard Today -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To help children understand one way whereby God speaks to people today.
Silence -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: Learning to use silence.
The Unused Spices -- Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Spices are a symbol of love, the love of the women who brought the spices to the tomb of Jesus to po
The Spoiled Child -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To focus on one way that we learn from God.
Easter Is Colorful -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remind the children that life is beautiful with Jesus and because of Jesus.
The Misplaced Christ -- John 20:1-18 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Ty asked his father, "Why do we go to church?" When his father did not reply, Ty asked again, "Why d

Christian

Christian Faith

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Death

Devotional

SermonStudio

Hear My Cry, O God -- Psalm 61 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint.
Advent 2 -- Romans 15:4-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in
Lent 5 -- Psalm 130 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord ... O Israel, hope in the Lord!
I Will Extole You, My God And King -- Psalm 145 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Every day I will bless you, and praise your name forever and ever ...
Proper 21 / Pentecost 19 / OT 26 -- Philippians 2:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2007
... Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.-- Philippians 2:12
Why, O LORD, Do You Stand Far Off? -- Psalm 10 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Rise up, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand; do not forget the oppressed.
Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / OT 18 -- Romans 9:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants....
O LORD, You God Of Vengeance ... Shine Forth! -- Psalm 94 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Rise up, O judge of the earth ... how long shall the wicked exult? ...
Epiphany 2 / OT 2 -- John 1:29-42 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2007
I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, "He on whom
Easter 7 -- Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
God gives the desolate a home to live in; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebel
For God Alone My Soul Waits In Silence -- Psalm 62 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation ...
Advent 2 -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near ...
Lent 5 -- Romans 8:6-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Praise The LORD! Praise The LORD, O My Soul -- Psalm 146 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I will praise the LORD as long as I live;
Proper 21 / Pentecost 19 / OT 26 -- Matthew 21:23-32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2007
... By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?
In The LORD I Take Refuge -- Psalm 11 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
... how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains"? ...
Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / OT 18 -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
... the disciples came to him and said ...
Proper 14 / OT 19 -- Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
... and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver....
O Come, Let Us Sing To The LORD! -- Psalm 95 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O come, let us sing to the LORD;
Epiphany 3 / OT 3 -- Isaiah 9:1-4 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2007
But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish....-- Isaiah 9:1
Easter 7 -- 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Discipline yourselves, keep alert.
O God, You Are My God, I Seek You -- Psalm 63 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you;
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 35:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom ...
Lent 5 -- John 11:1-45 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazaru
Praise The LORD! How Good It Is To Sing Praises To Our God -- Psalm 147 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! How good it is to sing praises to our God ...

Drama

SermonStudio

The Unprofitable Servant -- Matthew 25:19, 21, 26 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:
Walter And Francesca -- 2 Chronicles 36:14-23, Ephesians 2:4-10, John 6:4-15, Psalm 122 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Parable Of The Sower (Soil) -- Mark 4:3, 5, 7, 8 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:Mr. Sower -- the soil is now ready.
A Single Granary -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Psalm 51 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Wicked Husbandmen -- Mark 12:6-7, 9 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:
Every Knee? -- Isaiah 45:21-25, Philippians 2:5-11 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Waiting -- John 16:4b-15, Acts 2:1-21 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersChurch Secretary: either sex and any age older than college
The Committee -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersJanet Jason: female, older than college age
Cooking With Carol -- John 6:24-35, John 6:35, 41-51 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAnnouncer: either sex, very friendly, warms up the audience for Carol
Searching -- John 6:51-58, John 6:56-69 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersNarrator: male or female, any age
The Deeds -- James 1:17-27 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersMinister: male or female any age over college
The Applicants -- James 2:1-10 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersSecretary: male or female over college age
The Grocery Store -- James 3:1-12, Mark 9:30-37 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
(The lights come up on a woman, sitting on the couch talking on the telephone)
The Pray-er -- James 5:13-20 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersMildred: an elderly lady who is handicapped
The Hotel And Restaurant -- Hebrews 1:1-4, Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersPeter: the maitre d' hotel, middle-aged or older
The Mission -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAgent 1: male or female, any ageAgent 2: male or female, any age
Are You Calling Me? -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
(The lights come up on a solitary figure, with no set or props.
The Adoption Agency -- Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAgency Director: male or female older than college age
Isaiah's Surprise -- Nancy Steltz -- 1987
Staging: Gabriel is on the far right; Mary is sitting center stage; the chorus stands at left stage.
Recollections of Enoch, A Jewish Captive In Babylon -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I thought I was an old man when we were brought to Babylon, and I am ten years older now.
Recollections of Sarah, Servant in the Home of Zacharias and Elizabeth -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I am not really an old woman yet - at least I know a few who are older!
Recollections of Reuben, Uncle of a Young Bethlehem Shepherd -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
It's a great time for you to be asking questions now, after all the blood your soldiers spilled and
Recollections of Abdul, Camel Boy for An Eastern Potentate -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I'm glad I'm home. That's the first thing for me to say. I'm really glad I'm home.
Recollections of Mary, Daughter of the Keepers of a Bethlehem Inn -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
Children, I just can't sit down with you now. I have too much work to do for our guests.
The Women -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Five women gathered in a courtyard garden for conversation

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

Preaching

SermonStudio

Hardship/Overcoming Hardship -- Psalm 129 -- 2006
They have greatly oppressed me from my youth -- let Israel say -- they have greatly oppressed me
First Sunday Of Advent -- Jeremiah 33:14-16, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Luke 21:25-36 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 17 / Pentecost 12 / Ordinary Time 22 -- Psalm 81:1, 10-16 -- James Evans -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2006
The writer of Psalm 81 employs a most interesting mixed metaphor.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Christmas Day -- Psalm 98 -- James Evans -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
This psalm gives us the proper theme for a Christmas Day celebration: "Make a joyful noise to the Lo
Why In The World Is There A World? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: The subject concerns the reason for our existence.
Fifth Sunday in Lent -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Revised Common Jeremiah 31:31-34 Hebrews 5:5-10 John 12:20-33
Three Little Pigs -- Jesus' Version -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Sometimes we have to preach the obvious such as: we need a strong faith founda
Begging, Touching, Healing, Growling -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2005
Miracle Three Begging, Touching, Healing, GrowlingThe Text
God Always Wins At Hide And Seek -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: We can't get away from God.
Should Acolytes Wear Sneakers? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How formal or informal should we allow our worship services to become?
Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 or Genesis 2:18-24, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 1:1; 2:1-10 or Genesis 2:18-24 Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12
Should You Be Sophisticated Or Naive? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: What should our natural stance be in relationship to the world?
Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2005
Revised Common Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Putting Leftovers In The Offering Plate -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Do we give our best for God, or have we conveniently placed the church and our
Can Pagan Objects Be Sanitized? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Are there certain objects or ideas that are off limits to Christians because t
Forgiveness Starts A Fight -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2005
Miracle Four Forgiveness Starts A FightThe Text
Mom, Where Did We Come From? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Occasionally a sermon on who we are, historically, would be appropriate.
Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 or Amos 5:6-7, 10-15, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 23:1-9, 16-17 or Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 Hebrews 4:12-16
What If Your Minister Misleads You? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How do we recognize the truth or know we can trust the sermons we hear since w
Passion Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Mark 11:1-11 -- Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2005
Revised Common Isaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11
Do You Ever Pretend To Be A Christian? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How do we evaluate our own personal sincerity as we try to put our faith into
A Just-In-Case Arrangement With God -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: It may not be possible to have a playing-it-safe kind of approach to religion.
Breaking The Law To Fulfill It -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2005
Miracle Five Breaking The Law To Fulfill ItThe Text
One Bible -- So Many Churches! -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Why are there so many different denominations?

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Tongue Is Mightier Than The Sword -- James 3:1-12 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.
Skin Game -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2008
Let's think about skin for a minute. Skin is something very precious to us.
Genuine Hope -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Nancy Kraft -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
The season is upon us once again.
Commissioned For Christ -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2008
On a warm and sunny early June day in 1943, John Francis Laboon, "Jake" to his friends, stood with h
Planning Your Way Out -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2008
I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.-- John 6:47
Heavenly Wisdom -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
Who is wise and understanding among you?
Jesus At Home -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2008
When he [Jesus] returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home.
The Wisdom Of The Cross -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Nancy Kraft -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
There are some people who have the gift of persuasion.
Let The Shofar Sound! -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Ken Lentz -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2008
The school bell rings. The noonday siren sounds. The church bells call the faithful to worship.
When The Baker Becomes The Bread! -- John 6:51-58 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2008
This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world ...
Antidote For Bad Times -- James 5:13-20 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2008
A minister waited in line to get his car filled with gas just before a long holiday weekend.
Due For Renewal -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2008
Every pastor, on occasion, feels the need to remind a congregation that we need not fear things that
It's About Grace -- Ephesians 2:1-10 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
When Bill Clinton was running for president, there was a phrase that drove his political campaign.
Troubled Waters -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- Ken Lentz -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
A man from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, died and went to heaven.
Tough Talk For Tentative Disciples -- John 6:56-69 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2008
This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?-- John 6:60
Living In The Present -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2008
Look to this day, for it is life, the very life of life.
Looking Up: Looking Out -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Robert J. Elder -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2008
This passage serves as a gift to the church as we prepare to enter into the season of Lent beginning
God's Great High Priest -- Hebrews 5:5-10 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
Redeemer, Word made flesh, Messiah, Savior, Son of God, Prince of Peace, Christ, Good Shepherd.
Unwanted Freedom -- John 8:31-36 -- Chris Ewing -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2007
The trouble with words is that they can mean so many different things, depending on who is using the
Lent 2 -- Psalm 27 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
Strong In God's Name -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Lee Griess -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
A young man was sent to Spain by his company to work in a new office they were opening there.
Spiritual Resuscitation -- Romans 8:6-11 -- David O. Bales -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
One spring when I was about ten, I was home alone after school.
All In The Family -- 1 John 3:1-31 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
"Surprise!
Storm Walker -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
The call came on a Sunday after church just as we were sitting down to lunch.
Mistaken Identitiy -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
Appearances can be deceiving.

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The heartbeat of holiness is the pulse of God.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christ -- The One Road
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Love Sign in a pet shop: "Love Guaranteed Forever." (Quoted by King Duncan)
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Fear
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"I should as soon attempt to raise flowers if there were no atmosphere, or produce fruits if there w
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The joy of motherhood is what a mom experiences when the kids have gone to bed.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Cross
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
It is God's will that you should be filled with His Spirit and be controlled by His righteousness.
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The Spirit, not chance, determines destiny.
Attending To The Needs Of Others First -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2001
John was tired. He could hardly stand up. He needed rest. Mrs.
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"The future destiny of the child is always the work of the mother." (Napoleon Bonaparte)
Conscience-Building -- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11,16-23 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2001
Trace was known for his strong, durable buildings.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
A little girl was shown pictures of her mommy and daddy on their wedding day.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Alcohol
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Human Freedom
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Being alive unto God comes through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christians
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Lust
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Following God's Plan
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Before the church can be sent into the world, it must be sent by the Spirit.
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
One new mom wrote back to her mother that she had worked without ceasing from son-up to son-down!
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Cross
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"The Comforter has come! The Comforter has come!
Matthew 14:22-33 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2001
Gail, a fourth year graduate student, asked the first year women if they wanted to go for a boat rid

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

NULL -- Hebrews 13:5 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, beca
Theme: Silent Lips, Praying Lips -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (1 Samuel 2:1-2, 8)Call To Worship (1 Samuel 2:1-2, 8)
Theme: Never Been There -- Never Done That -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Revelation 2:3-5) One:
Theme: Stop The Presses! New Story! -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
NULL -- Luke 16:13 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "No servant can serve two masters.
Theme: Standing Stones -- Exodus 24:3-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 116:12-13) One:
Third Sunday in Advent -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Exodus 25:2 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering.
First Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
NULL -- James 1:25 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continu
Theme: Have No Fear -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 22:26-28) One:
Theme: Lots Of Luck -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 1:1-2) One:
Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 125.
NULL -- Luke 21:2, 3 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.
Theme: Yours, Mine, And Ours -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Exodus 35:4, 5a -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Moses said to the whole Israelite community, "This is what the Lord has commanded:
Second Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipBased on the Genesis 17 passage. Leader:
NULL -- 1 John 3:17, 18 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on
Theme: As The Lord Lives, I Will Not Leave You -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 50:1-6) One:
Theme: You Explain It -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 118:1-2, 8-9, 14, 18) One:
Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 19 Leader: The heavens sing of the glory of God;
A Christmas Gift -- Rod Tkach -- 2005
A Christmas Gift Order Of Worship Gathering Music
NULL -- Acts 2:44, 45 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: All the believers were together and had everything in common.

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Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
New Year's Eve/Day
13 – Sermons
40+ – Illustrations / Stories
16 – Children's Sermons / Resources
6 – Worship Resources
6 – Commentary / Exegesis
2 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas 2
20 – Sermons
60+ – Illustrations / Stories
12 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
12 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany of the Lord
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Nazish Naseem
Mary Austin
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 4-6, 2026:
Nazish Naseem
Mary Austin
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 4-6, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
I was only just full-grown when we set out on the journey, but I was strong and eager for adventure. And by the time we returned to our own land after many years, I was older and wiser than my age might have you believe.

Don't get me wrong. I was happy in my home, living in the paddock with my brothers and sisters and the rest of the herd, for we were well looked after. We always had food and water, and the camel master almost never beat us, even when occasionally we'd spit at him, just for fun.

StoryShare

David O. Bales
Frank Ramirez
Timothy F. Merrill
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Sons from Far Away, Daughters in Nurses' Arms" by David O. Bales
"Tenting Among Us" by Frank Ramirez
"God's Resolutions" by Timothy F. Merrill


What's Up This Week
C. David Mckirachan
Larry Winebrenner
Keith Hewitt
Contents
"A Time for Everything" by Larry Winebrenner
"A Word of Hope" by Larry Winebrenner
"You Were Adopted" by C. David McKirachan
"Behold the Man" by Keith Hewitt


* * * * * * * *


A Time for Everything
Larry Winebrenner
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

Henry didn't like Jack.

Oh, he loved him like a brother. He would die for his friend. But oh, the arrogance. He always thought he was right. And he would always use authority, authority of some kind, to support his claims.

SermonStudio

Mark Wm. Radecke
This season, the boundaries of darkness are pushed back. A light shines in the darkness and the darkness is powerless to extinguish it.

Darkness has always been a potent metaphor for those things in life that oppress and enthrall us, frighten and intimidate us, cause us worry and anxiety and leech the joy from our lives.

We know darkness in our physical lives when illness is close at hand, when we lack the basic necessities of life -- food, shelter and clothing.
Paul E. Robinson
Early in January in northern Canada the sun peeks above the horizon for the first time after six weeks of hiding. An important dawn for Canada. Imagine how the lives of people in the northern latitudes would be different if they got used to the darkness and never even expected that a dawn would ever lighten their horizon again.
John N. Brittain
We lived in Florida for a while in the 1980s and it was then that we learned about Tarpon Springs. Not a large city, it has the highest percentage of Greek Americans of any place in the US. This dates back to the 1880s, when Greek immigrants moving into the area were hired as sponge divers, a trade they had plied back in the old country. Today Tarpon Springs' main claim to fame is the Greek Orthodox Church's Epiphany celebration, which is held every January 6, with the blessing of the waters and the boats.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
Early January always feels like a fresh start. The Christmas whirlwind has settled down. We still have a fighting chance to keep our resolutions for the new year. Cartoons always depict the New Year as a baby, full of possibilities and innocence. We hope that with a new year we can leave the baggage behind us, stretching toward a brighter future.

Stephen M. Crotts
Many things are written with all of the excitement of some fresh truth recently received. Other things are written from anger. And there is much these days in any pastorate to make one mad. Still other messages are delivered from depression. I'm convinced that the majority of preachers I know are over the edge into burnout. And what of this particular study? Where am I coming from? Today, I'm writing from a broken heart, a heart shattered by a fallen comrade.
William B. Kincaid, III
Did you notice that bad things did not stop happening through the holidays? And is any warning necessary that bad things will happen in every season of this year? Surely there is better news than that, but we ought to be honest about the bad news. Not even the holidays generate enough good will to stop people from blowing up airplanes and destroying people's reputations and abusing children and selling drugs to teenagers and gunning down their neighbors.
Robert A. Beringer
"So, what's new?" he asked. It happens all the time. You meet someone on the street you have not seen for awhile. "What's new?" "Oh, nothing much, really.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

When to accommodate and when not to accommodate? That's the question we face today. Most likely, the minds and hearts of our congregations will be focused on the new year. They will have just celebrated the advent not only of a new year but in this case a new millennium. With all the hype about the year 2000, our attention will doubtless be engrossed in the calendar. On the other hand, today is also an important liturgical celebration of the naming of Jesus. It provides us opportunity to acknowledge the importance of that name which has become sacred in our tradition.
Mark J. Molldrem
Schuyler Rhodes
These are the longest hours of darkness. Although the winter solstice is passed, the darkness lingers for many more weeks. The season becomes a symbol for the longing of the human spirit to "see the light." It becomes difficult to catch sight of the light, however, when so many shadows lurk at every turn of a corner we make. We claim to be an enlightened people; yet settle for clap-trap on television and spend countless hours absorbing it like a sponge under a dripping faucet. We call athletes heroes for nothing more than being good at what they do.
Cathy Venkatesh
In many countries, January 6 is a public holiday with parades, parties, and festivities celebrating the visit of the wise men. For some Christian churches, the main celebration of Christ's incarnation occurs on this day. But in the United States, Monday, January 6, 2014, is nothing special in the public sphere. For most of us, this day marks the beginning of our first full week back at work or school after the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

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Teachers: Most youngsters (and many adults) have a misconception of the wise men. The Bible does not state that the wise men visited Jesus at the manger. Even so, our tradition of gift giving at Christmas may relate to the wise men's gifts. The church celebrates the arrival of the wise men's visit to Jesus 12 days after Christmas. This event is called "Epiphany."

Take a moment to explain to your students the significance of Epiphany, the wise men, and Jesus. The lesson from Matthew states three gifts that the wise men gave Jesus: gold, frankincense and
Today we are going to be like the wise men from the East who looked for baby Jesus. They were told the wonderful story about a promised Messiah who would save the world. He was the "king of the Jews" and would be king of all people. They traveled a great distance. They wanted to see the baby. They had to see the baby! So they left and ended up in Jerusalem. There they asked about the promised king.

The man who was king became very jealous. Even though they were looking for a spiritual king -- a king of our hearts, minds,
Teachers or Parents: Have an Epiphany pageant to close off the Christmas season and the twelve days of Christmas with the children of your church. Have people stationed in various parts of the home or church building where you might go to ask the question, "Are you the Messiah?" They will, of course, say, "No." The first group might add, "Look for the star." Involve as many children as possible. Let them ask the question. Let them get into the role of wise men from the East. Help them relive the story and see that Jesus is more than king of the Jews or king of

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