Login / Signup

SermonStudio

Advent Sale - Save $131!
Hold down Ctrl (Windows) / Command (Mac) for multiple selections (scroll list to see all options)

Adult study

African-American History

Bible Study

Biblical Studies

Biblical Study

Candlelighting service

Children's program

Children's Resources

Children's sermon

SermonStudio

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.
Ant -- Proverbs 6:6-8 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
The Wise Worker
Fishers Of Men -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The evangelistic nature of Christianity.
Bear -- Proverbs 17:12 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Diligent Provider For Family
The Upside Down Cup -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: The priorities of Kingdom living.
Camel -- Mark 10:25, 27 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Prepared For Storms
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.
Cattle Or Oxen -- Psalm 50:10-11 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
The Ox Knows Its Owner
Great Expectations -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Growing up and fulfilling a calling.Props: None.
Coney -- Proverbs 30:26 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
Life Can Be Fragile
Wine Into Water -- John 2:1-11 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Miracles do not make a Messiah; the Messiah made miracles.
Crow Or Raven -- Luke 12:24 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Purpose In Common Things
Be One -- John 17:20-26 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter -- 2000
Exegetical Aim: Christian Unity.
Deer -- Psalm 42:1-2 -- Samuel J. Hahn, Scott Patton, Illustrator -- 2000
A Longing For God
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
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
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
"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
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
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

O Lord, Who May Abide In Your Tent? -- Psalm 15 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Those who walk blamelessly and do what is right
The Day Of Pentecost -- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
Bless the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord!-- Psalm 104:35b
Proper 22 / Pentecost 20 / OT 27 -- Matthew 21:33-46 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2007
...
O Sing To The LORD A New Song -- Psalm 98 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things.
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!
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,
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
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.
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,
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.
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.
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
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;
Happy Are Those Whose Way Is Blameless -- Psalm 119 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Happy are those ... who seek him with their whole heart ...
Protect Me, O God -- Psalm 16 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I keep the LORD always before 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.
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 ...
Make A Joyful Noise To The LORD -- Psalm 100 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing ...
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
...
Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Psalm 15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Who may dwell on your holy hill? -- Psalm 15:1
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / OT 20 -- Psalm 133 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!
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
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;
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

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 promise of the Son, the pedagogy of the Spirit -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Dennis Koch -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This portion of Jesus' "paraclete sayings" in John's Gospel
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-
Let the end come! -- Dennis Koch -- 1993
Gospel Note: When the universe falls apart, Christ will soon return to
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
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
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
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 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
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
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 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
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
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,
The astonishing event of resurrection -- John 20:1-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Easter Day - B -- 1993
Gospel Note:
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 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
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
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
A different kind of King -- John 18:33-37 -- Dennis Koch -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The conversation about kingship between Pilate and Jesus

Preaching

SermonStudio

All Saints -- Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- All Saints Day - A -- 2006
The writer of this psalm begins with an assertion and an invitation to the gathered company of worsh
Christ The King/Proper 29 -- Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2006
This psalm is a poem of public worship, celebrating the Davidic kingship.
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
Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4 -- Psalm 15 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2006
"There's Jackson, standing like a stone wall." Those words, spoken at the First Battle of Bull Run (
Proper 23/Pentecost 21/Ordinary Time 28 -- Psalm 66:1-12 -- James Evans -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
(See Easter 6, Cycle A for an alternative approach to vv. 8-20.)
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
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Thanksgiving Day -- Psalm 126 -- James Evans -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2006
There is perhaps no greater challenge to the life of faith than suffering.
Epiphany 9 / Ordinary 9 -- Psalm 81:1-10 -- Carlos Wilton -- 2006
This song, written in call-and-response style, summons the people to worship, then treats them to an
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 24 / Pentecost 19 / Ordinary Time 29 -- Psalm 119:97-104 -- James Evans -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2006
Psalm 119 is well-known as the longest chapter in the Bible.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 93 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Ascension Of Our Lord, Cycles A and B for
On Being Ready -- Matthew 24:36-44 -- 2006
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Fa
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 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.
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
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.
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
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

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Just Deal With It -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2009
He entered Jericho and was passing through it.
Low-Carb Christians -- John 21:1-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
It was over thirty years ago that someone handed me a book that seemed to have the answer to the gre
Put Within Us -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2009
Note: This text was also dealt with earlier in the exposition of the first reading for Proper
Love Walked Across The Field -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2009
The ministry of Jesus was on a roll.
It's Called Forgiveness ... And It's On Your Exam! -- Matthew 6:12, Matthew 6:14 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.-- Matthew 6:12
The Gospel According To Pronouns -- Acts 10:34-43 -- David Kalas -- Easter Day - C -- 2009
The gospel of Jesus Christ is personal.
Sing Praise -- Colossians 1:15-28 -- April Yamasaki -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
Theologian Karl Barth was once asked to sum up his life's work.
Lift High The Cross -- Numbers 21:4-9 -- David H. Webb -- 2009
In our story today, the children of Israel are simply tired and worn out.
Zoom Lens -- Mark 6:14-29 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known.
Raised To New Life Today -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
William Wilberforce was a privileged man.
Trick Questions, Big Answers -- Luke 20:27-38 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2009
Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him and asked him a question, "Te
How Much Of An Honor? -- John 10:22-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Whether you are in school, hanging around the water cooler at work, or just talking around the table
Oh, By The Way ... -- Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- All Saints Day - C -- 2009
The book of Daniel presents us with the words and visions of the prophet Daniel, who lived and worke
Fit The Picture -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
It was the History Day Parade at James T. Jones Elementary School.
Are You Going To(o) Fast? -- Matthew 6:16-18 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that t
A Tale Of Two Peters -- Acts 5:27-32 -- David Kalas -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
When the curtain opens on Scene Two, we see a familiar scene.
When God Adds Insult To Injury -- Colossians 2:6-15 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
So many things separate Christians into groups: denominations, different ways of practicing the sacr
Planted In Our Hearts -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- David H. Webb -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2009
Once upon a time, at a pastor and teacher's conference the group leader asked everyone present to id
Coney Island -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "
Formula For Eternal Life -- 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2009
George lives in Fort Portal, a town on the western front of Uganda, some fifty miles from the Congo.
Forecast -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedi
Simple Enough? -- John 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
In the fall of 1862, the United States was reeling from one defeat after another at the hands of the
Help From Habakkuk? -- Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2009
It can be really depressing to listen to the news anymore.
The Ashes Of Our Lives -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
When she was a teenager, Cindy worked for her father.
Is Your Reward Waiting? -- Matthew 6:2, 1 Corinthians 15:58 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
... they have received their reward.-- Matthew 6:2

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
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;
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
Praying: Even When You Can't -- Romans 8:26-39 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
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!
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.
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
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.
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
Rest For The Weary -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
We Have The Majority -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2004
God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Call To Worship -- Luke 23:43 -- 2006
Leader: We come here today with breaking hearts;
Christmas Day -- John 1:1-14 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas DayFor John 1:1-14
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
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
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 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
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
The Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 2:1-21Theme: Clarity!
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 In Advent -- Philippians 1:3-11 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Second Sunday In AdventFor Philippians 1:3-11
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
Call To Worship -- Lamentations 3:23 -- 2006
Leader: We loved him,People: And now he is gone.
Is This the Road to Bethlehem?: A Children's Liturgy for Advent -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2006
Order of Service PreludeWelcomeProcession Of Acolytes
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
Second Sunday Of Advent -- Malachi 3:1-4 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Malachi 3:1-4Theme: My Messenger
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 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
Ash Wednesday -- 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10Theme: Hit Me With Your Best Shot
The Day Of Pentecost -- Romans 8:14-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Romans 8:14-17Theme: No Fear
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
Second Sunday In Advent -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Second Sunday In AdventFor Luke 3:1-6
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
Call To Worship -- John 11 -- 2006
"I am the resurrection and the life," said Jesus to his friend, Martha, whose brother had died.
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering Music
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

Worship Service

Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Christ the King Sunday
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Thanksgiving
14 – Sermons
80+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 1
30 – Sermons
90+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
George Reed
For November 30, 2025:
  • Time Change by Chris Keating. The First Sunday of Advent invites God’s people to tell time differently. While the secular Christmas machine keeps rolling, the church is called to a time of waiting and remaining alert.
  • Second Thoughts: What Time Is It? by Tom Willadsen based on Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
According to Martin Luther our thanksgiving is brought about only by justification by grace:

But bringing of tithes denotes that we are wholly given to the service of the neighbor through love…  This, however, does not happen unless, being first justified by faith. (Luther’s Works, Vol.9, p.255)

The Reformer also wants us to be happy, what with all the generous gifts we have been given.  He wrote:
Wayne Brouwer
A schoolteacher asked her students to make a list of the things for which they were thankful. Right at the top of Chad’s list was the word “glasses.” Some children resent having to wear glasses, but evidently not Chad! She asked him about it. Why was he thankful that he wore glasses?

“Well,” he said, “my glasses keep the boys from hitting me and the girls from kissing me.”

The philosopher Eric Hoffer says, “The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings!” That’s true, isn’t it?
William H. Shepherd
Christianity is, among other things, an intellectual quest. The curriculum to know God truly. The lesson plans interact creatively with other aspects of faith: worship is vain if not grounded in truth, while service is misguided if based on faulty premises. While faith certainly cannot be reduced to knowledge, it cannot be divorced from it, either.

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (v. 6)

We just received word about the passing of our friend, Rosmarie Trapp. We had lost touch with her in recent years, so I was shocked when I stumbled onto her obituary in The New York Times from May 18, 2022.
David E. Leininger
John Jamison
Contents
What's Up This Week
"The Reason for the Season" by David Leininger
"Time's Up" by John Jamison


What's Up This Week

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: The activity for this message is the Be Thank You! game.

* * *

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Rosemary was 33 years old. She'd been married to James for four years and they had two children, Sam who was two and the baby, Elizabeth, who was just three weeks old. Apart from the baby blues and extreme fatigue, both of which got her down a bit when James was at work, Rosemary was happy. They had recently moved to the London suburbs and James commuted each day by train.

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
This brief psalm is among the most familiar in the psalter, but that is primarily because its verses have been excerpted in so many hymns and liturgical texts. There is something to be gained from looking at Psalm 100 in its entirety, and trying to recover its ancient liturgical context.

James Evans
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (v. 6). What better way could there be for us to begin the Advent season than by focusing our prayers on peace? The word, shalom, translated "peace," means much more than the mere absence of conflict. And of course, it is not only Jerusalem that is in need of peace; the whole world needs the shalom that the psalmist dreams about. So perhaps we should expand the breadth of this prayer, and deepen it with our awareness of the various meanings of the Hebrew idea of peace.

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 2:1--5 (C, RC, E)
Tony S. Everett
A popular skit at church camps involves about a dozen folks lined up side-by-side, looking anxious and frustrated facing the audience. Each person rests a left elbow on the right shoulder of their neighbor. Then, from left to right, each member asks, "Is it time yet?" When the question arrives at the end of the line, the last person looks at his/her wristwatch and responds, "No." This reply is passed, one-by-one each with bored sighs, back to the first questioner. After a few moments, the same question is passed down the line (left elbows remaining on the right shoulders).
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
Just a few days before writing this message, I conducted a memorial service for a 60-year-old man who was the picture of health until three months before his death. He was active, vibrant, only recently retired, and looking forward to years of good life with his wife and family and friends. Nonetheless, pancreatic cancer had done its work, and quickly, and he was gone. It was the general consensus that it was too soon for his life to end; he was too young to die.
John W. Clarke
In this the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, Jesus begins to withdraw to the east side of the Sea of Galilee. He has fed the 5,000, and he has walked on water. The press of the crowds had become all consuming and he needs some solitude to prepare himself for what lay ahead. Considering that the crowds that followed him more than likely knew of the feeding of the 5,000, and some may even have heard of the miraculous walking on water, it is difficult to explain why in these verses, they would doubt anything he had to say -- but they do.
Robert R. Kopp
My favorite eighth grader just confessed his aspiration for becoming President of the United States.

When I foolishly asked the inspiration of his lofty goal, he replied, "Bill Clinton." Then my hormone-raging adolescent proceeded to list perceived presidential perks that have nothing to do with God or country.

My prayer list has been altered.

And my attitude about prayer in public schools has changed too.

I used to be against prayer in public schools.
John E. Berger
Thanksgiving, according to one newspaper columnist, has kept its original meaning better than any other holiday. That original meaning, he wrote, was family reunions around large dinner tables.

In contrast, Christmas has changed into Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Easter has come to emphasize new spring clothes and the Easter bunny. Even our national holidays -- Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day -- have become cook-outs and summer travel get-aways.
Mark Ellingson
Thanksgiving: How do we say thanks authentically and not lapse into the platitudes so often associated with this holiday? There are several dangers associated with the holiday. Ever since it was instituted as a national holiday by Abraham Lincoln, and even before when various state governors instituted it in their states, Thanksgiving has not been a strictly Christian holiday. There has been a lot of nationalism and self-congratulations associated with this day. What is the distinctively Christian way to give thanks to God for all the good things that we have?

Special Occasion

Wildcard SSL