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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

Lion -- Proverbs 28:1 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Boldness
Kingdom Order -- Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To teach that in God's Kingdom victory does not fall on the strongest and fas
My Father's House -- Luke 2:41-52 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The sanctity of the church.
God's Training Wheels and Laying On Hands -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To teach that baptism is a foundational event in the life of a Christian.
Lizard -- Proverbs 30:24, 28 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Inconspicuous, Yet Clever
Sometimes You Gotta Bend The Rules! -- Luke 13:10-17 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Rules and laws are good.
Open Access -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To demonstrate that we have access to God through Christ.
The Golden Rule -- Luke 6:20-31 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Treating others the way we want to be treated.
Locust -- Exodus 10:10-15 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Warning From God
Sign Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Winter and cold as symbols and signs of the world's darkness and the need for
How Should We Live? -- Luke 3:7-18 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To convey John the Baptist's understanding of compassion.
To Rebuild Or Not To Rebuild -- Galatians 2:15-21 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To explain that we should not keep doing things that we know are wrong.
Ostrich -- Job 40:18 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Strength For Sensational Speed
Watch And Be Ready! -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Conditioning God's children to be watchful and ready.
God Became Human -- John 1:1-18 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To teach the incarnation.Props: Fingers and Toes.
What Can God Do? -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: God can do some awesome things.
There Is No Law Against Such Things -- Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: For some things there are no laws.
Owl -- Isaiah 43:20 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Wisdom Is A Virtue
Gobble, Gobble, Gone -- Luke 12:13-21 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: A lesson of sharing.
Trinity -- John 16:12-15 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To teach the Trinitarian nature of God.
The Shortest Distance Between Two Points -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: We should allow God direct access to our lives. Key verse: 5b.
Peacock -- 1 Kings 10:22 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Beauty -- A Gift From God
Magic Prayers -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: To teach the children that prayer forms a relationship with God.
Work And Worship -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Sometimes we need to sit still, listen, and worship and not let the cares of
What Do The Signs Say? -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The relationship between world disasters and our faith.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

Church Anniversary

Church Growth

Church Leaders

Church Programs

Death

Devotional

SermonStudio

Epiphany 4 -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28, Psalm 111 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2008
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Pick Up Your Underwear! -- Ephesians 5:25 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Epiphany 5 -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2008
Isaiah 40:21-31
Fun Things To Do At 3 A.M. -- Matthew 18:1-5 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of hea
Epiphany 6 -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45, Psalm 30 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2008
2 Kings 5:1-14
The Future! -- Proverbs 22:6 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.
Epiphany 7 -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12, Psalm 41 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2008
Isaiah 43:18-25
Talk To Your Dad (And Mom)! -- Proverbs 4:1-4 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Listen, children, to a father's instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight; for
Epiphany 8 -- Hosea 2:14-20, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Mark 2:13-22, Psalm 103:1-13, 22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2008
Hosea 2:14-20
Telling Stories -- Luke 15:11-12a -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Then Jesus said, "There was a young man who had two sons.
Epiphany 9 -- Deuteronomy 5:12-15, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6, Psalm 81:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2008
Deuteronomy 5:12-15
Quiet Time -- Luke 22:14--23:56 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed hi
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9, Psalm 50:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2008
2 Kings 2:1-12Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.
Now You Know About Unconditional Love -- Ephesians 2:8-9 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not of your own doing; it is the g
Easter 7 -- John 17:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom
Proper 22 / Pentecost 20 / OT 27 -- Psalm 19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2007
The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Epiphany 3 / OT 3 -- Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2007
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?-- Psalm 27:1
How Long, O LORD? -- Psalm 13 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
How long must I bear pain in my soul, and have sorrow in my heart all day long?
O Sing To The LORD A New Song -- Psalm 96 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD all the earth.
Passion/Palm Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward.
Proper 14 / OT 19 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
He had sent a man ahead of them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave.-- Psalm 105:17
Advent 3 -- Luke 1:47-55 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.-- Luke 1:50
Praise The LORD! Praise The LORD From The Heavens -- Psalm 148 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise him, all his angels; praise him all his host! ...
Hear My Voice, O God, In My Complaint -- Psalm 64 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, from the scheming of evildoers ...
The Day Of Pentecost -- Numbers 11:24-30 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
But Moses said to him, "Are you jealous for my sake?

Drama

SermonStudio

Mary, Mother of Jesus -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Narrator: Mary and her devout parents may have once lived in Jerusalem, but while Mary was quite you
Blessed -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For Blessed
Jonathan's Cloak -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For Jonathan's Cloak
Wow! Baby Jesus Is Born ... For Me! -- Isaiah 9:2-4, 6-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Psalm 96 -- John A. Tenbrook -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Proclamation -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For Proclamation
Transfiguration -- 1 Kings 19:9-18, 2 Peter 1:16-19 (20-21), Mark 9:2-9, Psalm 27 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Big Picture -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For The Big Picture
Barbecue Bob And The Fresh Wineskins -- Hosea 2:14-23, Mark 2:18-22, Psalm 103 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Christmas Story -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For The Christmas Story
A Hiding Place -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12, Psalm 32 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Shawl -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For The Shawl
Heal! -- 2 Kings 5:1-15ab, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45, Psalm 42 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
You Are There -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2002
Synopsis And Stage Directions For
Whatever ... -- 2 Kings 4:8-37, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39, Psalm 142 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts"Whatever."
Puffing And Building -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Mark 1:21-28, Psalm 111 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological ThoughtsHe is God ... and I am not!
Can Anything Good Come From ____________? -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), John 1:43-51, Psalm 63:1-8 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Peter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Narrator: We do not know where Peter was on the day his Master hung from the cross.
Immediately They Left Their Nets And Followed Him -- Jeremiah 3:21-4:2, 1 Corinthians 7:17-23, Mark 1:14-20, Psalm 130 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological ThoughtsImmediately!
John, the Beloved Disciple -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Narrator: John, sometimes described as Jesus' beloved disciple, never attained the prominence of Pet
A Pizza With Everything -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-38, Mark 1:7-11 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts"I truly understand that God shows no partiality."
Judas -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Defender: As children we had little trouble understanding Judas.
Wilbur, The Wakeful Wise Man -- Isaiah 60:1-6, 9, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Barabbas and Simon of Cyrene -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Presenter: Two men were thrust into the trial and death of Jesus. They had no warning.
Who Ya Gonna Trust? -- 2 Samuel 7:4, 8-16, Luke 1:26-38, Psalm 132 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2002
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Mary Magdalene -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2002
Narrator: The biblical record of Mary Magdalene is sparse.

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

Positive praying -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Positive prayingGospel Note:
From confusion at Cana to clarity at Calvary -- John 2:1-11 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:From confusion at Cana to clarity at CalvaryGospel Note:
The false security of material possessions -- Luke 12:13-21 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The false security of material possessionsGospel Note:
An overture for the oppressed -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:An overture for the oppressedGospel Note:
Christian priorities and preparedness -- Luke 12:32-40 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Christian priorities and preparednessGospel Note:
Human desires versus divine destinies -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Human desires versus divine destiniesGospel Note:
The disruptive side of the Gospel -- Luke 12:49-56 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme: The disruptive side of the Gospel
Godly vocations for the unworthy -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Godly vocations for the unworthyGospel Note:
The exclusivity of God's inclusive reign -- Luke 13:22-30 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The exclusivity of God's inclusive reignGospel Note:
God's values versus the world's -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 1994
Gospel Note:
Status given versus status gained -- Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Status given versus status gainedGospel Note:
Imitating God, not humanity -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Imitating God, not humanityGospel Note:
The difficult demands of discipleship -- Luke 14:25-33 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The difficult demands of discipleshipGospel Note:
The sin within -- Luke 6:39-49 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The sin withinGospel Note:
Repentance as response -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Repentance as responseGospel Note:
The difficult dilemma -- riches or righteousness -- Luke 16:1-13 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The difficult dilemma -- riches or righteousness
The Christ's self-sacrifice -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Dennis Koch -- Good Friday - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The Christ's self-sacrifice
The sufficiency of the Scriptures -- Luke 16:19-31 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The sufficiency of the ScripturesGospel Note:
Obedience as owed -- Luke 17:5-10 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Obedience as owedGospel Note:
Patient faith in times of God's apparent inactivity -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Patient faith in times of God's apparent inactivity
Persistence in prayer -- Luke 18:1-8 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Persistence in prayerGospel Note:
The pitfalls of prideful piety -- Luke 18:9-14 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The pitfalls of prideful pietyGospel Note:
Grace that begets grace -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme: Grace that begets grace Gospel Note:
God of the living, Guarantor of life -- Luke 20:27-38 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme: God of the living, Guarantor of lifeGospel Note:
Testimony and triumph amid tribulations and trials -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Testimony and triumph amid tribulations and trials

Preaching

SermonStudio

Psalm 32 -- Psalm 32 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Forgiveness is a beautiful thing.
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"I owe you one." These words came out of my mouth only yesterday as a church member graciously agree
Anaphora Is Useful, Anaphora Is Memorable, Anaphora Is Biblical -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
Anaphora is abundant, both in the Bible and in the sermon.
Grapes, Bread, The Devil, And The Cross: Biblical Images That Preach -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
Why Don't We Use Them More?
I Love To Live The Story: Imaginative Elaboration -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
What Imaginative Elaboration Is
Other Biblical Lessons For Creating Words Fitly Spoken -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
This final chapter discusses several literary devices that demand a brief but incisive mention, beca
The Bible As Homiletics Professor -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
Literary Devices
Parallelism For Preaching Without Parallel -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
What It Is And Its Different Forms
Nothing In The World Better Than Hyperbole -- David Von Schlichten -- 2008
In Preaching the Psalms, J. Clinton McCann Jr. and James C.
Did You Hear What Jesus Said? -- Matthew 21:33-46 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2007
Did you hear what Jesus said?
Party Time -- Matthew 22:1-14 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
What kind of story was that? The one Jesus told about the wedding reception?
What We Have Left Undone -- Matthew 25:1-13 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
There is a mistake in my Bible. Actually, I found two mistakes in the gospel reading this week.
Faith Like Fanny's -- Matthew 25:14-30 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
I have a little book titled, You Are What You Believe in my library.
Narrow Love? -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
Okay -- I confess.
Narrative Freedom -- James Ayers -- 2007
following Jesus' pattern of creativity when the preacher tells a story
The Scriptures And The Power Of God -- James Ayers -- 2007
encountering the presence of God when the preacher tells a story
Love Songs And Love Stories -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching psalms of praise as a story
Hurl Their Babies Against The Rocks -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching imprecatory psalms as a story
To Make A Long Story Short -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching multi-chapter texts as a story
What Do These Words Mean? -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching ancient Hebrew and Greek root words as a story
Once Before There Was A Time -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching the doctrine of predestination as a story
If Only You Had Been Here -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching the doctrine of death and eternal life as a story
I Am Sending You -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching the doctrine of resurrection and mission as a story
Once Upon A Christmas -- James Ayers -- 2007
preaching the doctrine of incarnation as a story
Salt And Light -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Sometimes I think preachers would do best by getting out of Jesus' way.

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Ambassadors Of The Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
There is an ancient Christian story that speaks of a fourth wise man, Artaban, in his pursuit of the
No ... On -- Luke 22:14--23:56 -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2009
I've tried to get a handle on this Holy Week thing.
How Can One Be Three? -- John 3:1-17 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Jesus spoke to Nicodemus about the interactive Spirit of God the creator.
Sold! -- Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2009
As we conclude several weeks of readings in the book of the prophet Jeremiah and next week look at t
Tradition Can Be Changed -- Luke 2:41-52 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2009
Tradition is defined as an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought or action.
Joshua's New Diet -- Joshua 5:9-12 -- David Kalas -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
What do you or your family pray at mealtime?
Living With Integrity -- Galatians 2:15-21 -- April Yamasaki -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
"Justification by faith" -- to a theologian these words express one of the most basic principles of
Can't Stay Away -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2009
What a bunch of ingrates, those guys -- all nine of them!
How To Treat Your Enemies -- Matthew 5:43-47 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to
Responsibility Comes With Privilege -- Acts 8:14-17 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
Once upon a time there was a good king who ruled wisely and well over his people, who loved him very
Holy Ground -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
The Bible -- under $10 if you do a little shopping.
Betting On Foolish Pleasure -- Matthew 7:21-29 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one wh
The ABC's Of Grief -- Lamentations 1:1-6 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2009
Grief is one of the universal experiences of humankind.
Fire! Fire! -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2009
After this second Sunday of Christmas, the church will enter the season of Epiphany.
Our Journey Begins Again -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- David H. Webb -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2009
Once upon a time, tragedy struck a small church family where an eighteen-year-old boy took his own l
Heisman In The Hudson -- Isaiah 43:16-21 -- David Kalas -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
In December of every year, the Downtown Athletic Club in New York City awards the coveted Heisman Tr
Thicker Than Blood -- Galatians 3:23-29 -- April Yamasaki -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
In the classic movie, Mary Poppins, Julie Andrews plays a no-nonsense, yet delightful, nanny
Will He Find Faith? -- Luke 18:1-8 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2009
It's that last line that's the hard part.
Is Pacifism Biblical? -- Matthew 5:39 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Do not resist one who is evil.-- Matthew 5:39Love your enemies.
Strength Through Diversity -- 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2009
Recently on a British Airways flight from Johannesburg, South Africa, a middle-aged and apparently q
You Are Here -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - C -- 2009
Maybe you've seen the drawing on a T-shirt or poster.
What's In Your Wallet? -- Isaiah 44:21-25, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23-28 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Out of darkness the light shall shine! God's glory shining in the face of Christ.
Making Ourselves At Home -- Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2009
In a scene from the romantic comedy, While You Were Sleeping, "Ox" Callaghan is waxing eloque
Jesus Makes All The Difference -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
Our gospel reading for this Epiphany Sunday is a marvelous story about confrontation.
Relentless Grace -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- David H. Webb -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2009
The story of old Noah and his ark has been told to children and adults for centuries.

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Taming The Tongue -- James 3:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
Taming The Tongue
Sunday Dinner -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2005
Sunday Dinner
The Path Of Happy Living -- Psalm 1 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2005
The Path Of Happy Living
Humbled For Love -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2005
Humbled For Love
Congregational Care -- James 5:13-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2005
Congregational Care
Risky Spirituality -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2005
Risky Spirituality
We Are Family -- John 3:1-7 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
We Are Family
Listening To The Instructor -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2005
Listening To The Instructor
Diamonds In The Rough -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2005
Diamonds In The Rough
Love In Action -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Love In Action
Linus Syndrome -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2005
Linus Syndrome
Mothers, Brothers, And Sisters Of God -- Mark 3:20-35 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2005
Mothers, Brothers, And Sisters Of God
Bearing The Fruit Of Christ's Love -- John 15:1-8 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Bearing The Fruit Of Christ's Love
Good Service -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2005
Good Service
A Taste Of The Good Life -- Psalm 34:1-10 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2005
O taste and see that the LORD is good; happy are those who take refuge in him.
What's Your Standard? -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2005
What's Your Standard?
Living In Love -- John 15:9-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Living In Love
The Tale Of Two Farmers -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
The Tale Of Two Farmers
Miracle -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2005
Miracle
Getting Some Batteries -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2005
Getting Some Batteries
Sharing From Poverty -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2005
Sharing From Poverty
You Can't Out Give Grace -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2005
You Can't Out Give Grace
The Untouchables -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2005
The Untouchables
Closing Heaven's Gate -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
Closing Heaven's Gate
Don't Know What You've Got -- Mark 6:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2005
Don't Know What You've Got

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Pentecost -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts.
Proper 4 -- Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Matthew 7:21-29 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Be still!
Bulletin Insert for First Sunday in Advent for Year A -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44, Psalm 122 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
First Sunday In AdventAdvent Wreath ServiceReader A: Reader B:
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,
Proper 5 / Ordinary Time 10 -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Psalm 50:7-15 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
Confession And Absolution
Worldwide Communion -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 5 -- Genesis 12:1-9, Romans 4:13-25, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: The sinners, the saints; the broken, the whole:
Bulletin Insert for Second Sunday in Advent for Year A -- Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-13, Matthew 3:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 17-19 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Second Sunday In AdventAdvent Wreath Service Reader A:
Lent 3 -- Exodus 17:1-7, Romans 5:1-11, John 4:5-42 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come, our souls thirsting for God,
Proper 6 / Pentecost 3 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Exodus 19:2-8a, Romans 5:1-8, Psalm 100 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Confession And Absolution
Thanksgiving Sunday -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
This prayer focuses on food and God's gifts to us so while appropriate for Thanksgiving, this mig
Proper 6 -- Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Romans 5:1-8, Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23) -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: On an ordinary Sunday, we come to worship God.
Bulletin Insert for Third Sunday in Advent for Year A -- Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Third Sunday In AdventAdvent Wreath Service Reader A:
Lent 4 -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Here, in this place, with these people
Proper 7/Pentecost 5/Ordinary Time 12 -- Matthew 10:24-39, Jeremiah 20:7-13, Romans 6:1b-11 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christ The King (A) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
These prayers are specifically written for the last Sunday of the church year.
Proper 7 -- Genesis 21:8-21, Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: There is no one like you, God of Abraham and Sarah.
Bulletin Insert for Fourth Sunday in Advent for Year A -- Isaiah 7:10-16, Romans 1:1-7, Matthew 1:18-25, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Fourth Sunday In AdventAdvent Wreath Service Reader A:
Lent 5 -- Ezekiel 37:1-14, Romans 8:6-11, John 11:1-45 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Here, we gather to worship God;
Proper 8/Pentecost 6/Ordinary Time 13 -- Matthew 10:40-42, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Romans 6:12-23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Greeting Of Peace P: From every land and nation, every city and home,
Christ The King (B) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 9 / Ordinary Time 14 / Pentecost 6 -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Romans 7:15-25a -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
Confession And Forgiveness
Christ The King (C) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 8 -- Genesis 22:1-14, Romans 6:12-23, Matthew 10:40-42 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: With joy and celebration,
Bulletin Insert for Christmas Eve for Year A -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Psalm 96 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
Christmas EveService For The Christ Candle Reader A:

Worship Service

Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Baptism of Our Lord
29 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
40 – Children's Sermons / Resources
25 – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
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Epiphany 3 | OT 3
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120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

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The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 25, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus called Simon and Andrew, James and John, to follow him. They immediately made their decision and dropped everything, for they knew the importance of their call. When Jesus calls us, do we hear him and do we respond?

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when I'm busy I find it difficult to hear you.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy, I find it difficult to respond to you.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy I'm not sure whether I want to follow you.
Lord, have mercy.
Janice B. Scott
I remember years ago watching an old film, which I think was "The Nun's Story." The young nun who was the heroine of the story had all sorts of difficulties in relationships with the other nuns. The problem was that she was super-intelligent, and the other nuns resented her. In the end the young nun went to the Mother Superior for advice, and was told that as a sign of humility she should fail her coming exams!

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
A Story to Live By: "Angel of Mercy"
Shining Moments: "A Dog's Life" by David Michael Smith
Good Stories: "God's Call" by Stephen Groves
Scrap Pile: "The Way Less Taken" by Garry Deverell


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

C. David Mckirachan
Sandra Herrmann
Contents
"Ordinary Time" by C. David McKirachan
"Who's the Fool?" by C. David McKirachan
"Sharing the Light" by Sandra Herrmann


* * * * * * *


Ordinary Time
by C. David McKirachan
Isaiah 9:1-4

SermonStudio

John N. Brittain
How familiar Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1 sound! Chloe's people had reported quarreling among the believers. Imagine that -- disagreements in a church! There were rivalries and backstabbing even in the very earliest days of the Christian community.
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
A few years ago, I was on a retreat in northern Michigan, and I knew that some of our friends from home were sailing in the vicinity. One evening I went to the local boat dock, and walked through the lines of boats calling out the names of our friends, hopeful that they might be there. I remember the joy I felt when I yelled their names, and they answered! They were actually there, and they responded to my call!
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: In Christ's Name
Message: What on earth will bring us together, God? Lauds, KDM

How long must we wait, God,
for people to stop fighting
nations and nations
buyers and sellers
big ones and little ones
in-laws and relatives
husbands and wives
sisters and brothers
for me to stop fighting with me?
How long must we wait, God,
before we let the Christ Child come here?1
William B. Kincaid, III
In some parts of the country it doesn't matter, but in many areas the snow which falls during this time of the year can bring things to a decisive halt. Schools close. Events are canceled. Travel becomes tricky. If the conditions become severe enough, the decision may be made that not everybody should try to get to work. Only those who are absolutely necessary should report.
R. Glen Miles
"There will be no more gloom." That is how our text begins today. For the ones who were in anguish, glory will replace the gloom. Light will shine in darkness. Celebration will replace oppression. A new day will dawn.

In one sense these verses offer a summary of the overall message of the scriptures, "The darkness will pass. The light of a new day is dawning and there will be joy once again." At the end of the Bible, almost as if the original collectors of these sacred texts intended to remind us again of this word of hope, the Revelation of John tells us:
Robert A. Beringer
After a service of ordination to the Christian ministry, a sad-faced woman came up to the newly-ordained pastor and said, "It's a grand thing you are doing as a young man - giving up the joys of life to serve the Lord." That woman's attitude reflects a commonly held belief that to be serious about our faith means that we expect all joy to be taken out of living. For many, Christianity appears to be a depressing faith, with unwelcome disciplines, that cramps our lifestyle and crushes our spirits.
John T. Ball
All religions offer salvation. Eastern religions offer salvation from the illusion of being separated from ultimate reality - as in Hinduism, or from the pains of desire, as in Buddhism. Nature religions preach a salvation by calling us to realize we are linked to the natural world. Humanistic religions offer a salvation tied to the call to live in dignity and justice without divine aid. The biblical religions - Judaism, Islam, and Christianity - describe salvation in somewhat different ways. Judaism sees salvation primarily as an earthly and corporate affair.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Discord, dissention, strife,
C: anger, violence, hatred;
P: we confess to you, O God,
C: our schemes, our willful rebellion,
our hidden hostilities toward your children.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our lack of trust in your presence,
our need to control, our insatiable appetite for praise.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our fear of speaking the truth in love,
our self-hatred, our moments of utter despair
when we no longer believe you are at work in us.
Wayne H. Keller
Adoration And Praise

Invitation to the Celebration
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
Canticle Of Light And Darkness (UM205)
To Us A Child Of Hope Is Born (CBH189)
God Of Our Strength (CBH36)
Beneath The Cross Of Jesus (CBH250, UM297, NCH190, PH92)
In The Cross Of Christ I Glory (CBH566, UM295, NCH193--194, PH84)
Lord, You Have Come To The Lakeshore (CBH229, NCH173, PH377, UM344)
Where Cross The Crowded Ways Of Life (PH408, CBH405, UM42, NCH543)
Jesus Calls Us, O'er The Tumult (UM398, NCH171--172, CBH398)

Anthems

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wayne Brouwer
In 1882 George MacDonald wrote a fascinating story that powerfully illumines the thought behind today's lectionary passages. MacDonald called his tale "The Day Boy and the Night Girl: the Romance of Photogen and Nycteris" (it is available online at http://www.ccel.org/m/macdonald/daynight/daynight.html). In MacDonald's fable a witch steals a newborn girl and raises her in the total darkness of a cave. The witch experiences both light and darkness, but not the girl. She is completely immersed in the black world.
Wayne Brouwer
"Politics are almost as exciting as war, and quite as dangerous!" said Winston Churchill. "In war you can only be killed once, but in politics many times."

In one of his essays, Albert Camus describes a powerful scene. John Huss, the great Czech reformer of the church, is on trial. His accusers twist all his ideas out of shape. They refuse to give him a hearing. They maneuver the political machine against him and incite popular passion to a lynch-mob frenzy. Finally, Huss is condemned to be burned at
David Kalas
Schuyler Rhodes
I was in the home of a church member the other day where I saw a marvelous family portrait. The picture had been taken on the occasion of a fiftieth wedding anniversary, and the entire family had gathered for the occasion. The celebrating husband and wife were seated in the center of the picture, flanked by their adult children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. It was a magnificent full-color illustration of God's design.

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