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Worship

SermonStudio

Easter 4 -- Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.
Lent 4 -- Joshua 5:9-12, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Psalm 32 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
You shall pass judgment on yourself. That is the hardest thing of all ...
Epiphany 5 / Ordinary Time 5 -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11, Psalm 138 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
A single song is being inflected through all the colorations of the human choir.
Palm Sunday / Sunday Of The Passion -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Luke 22:14--23:56, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2009
Call To Worship
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, John 20:1-18, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Easter Day - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.
Proper 9 / Ordinary Time 14 / Pentecost 4 -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Psalm 30 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
A sacred teaching must be examined from at least three points of view:
Proper 8 / Ordinary Time 13 / Pentecost 6 -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
Zoos are no longer in people's good graces. Religion faces the same problem.
Proper 11 / Ordinary Time 16 / Pentecost 6 -- Amos 8:1-12, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42, Psalm 52 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
Zoos are no longer in people's good graces. Religion faces the same problem.
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
The light of truth is in the skies. Or it may be only a shadow.
Lent 5 -- Isaiah 43:16-21, Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Psalm 126 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
You shall pass judgment on yourself. That is the hardest thing of all ...

Drama

SermonStudio

Moneybag -- Luke 13:31-35 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Character Moneybag (offstage voice) Props Table
Simon, Brother Of Jesus -- Matthew 13:10-17 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Character Simon -- young adult male Props None required
Centurion Darius And His Sister, Cassia -- Matthew 8:5-14, 27-54 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Characters Darius Cassia Props Table and chair
Two Blind Men -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Characters Aaron -- middle-aged man Jacob -- middle-aged man
Ewe's Clues: A Christmas Story -- Keith Hewitt -- 2007
Characters (in order of appearance) Narrator (offstage)
The Bee Attitudes -- Frank Ramirez -- 2007
Cast Crystal Doris Garrison Vanessa Olivia Taylor
Witnesses To The Light: Mary of Magdala -- I Have Seen The Lord! -- Luke 8:1-3 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2007
Characters Angels Fantastic Marvelous Wonderful Gabriel
Holy Water -- Frank Ramirez -- 2007
Characters Youth Group: Ernie Errol Earl Emmett
Holy Ground -- Frank Ramirez -- 2007
Cast Sunday School Teacher Sunday School Students: Chris Wilson
CSI: Bethlehem -- Keith Hewitt -- 2007
Characters (in order of appearance) Guardsman Captain Of The Guard

Sermon

SermonStudio

Joy On An Elephant -- Philippians 4:4-7 -- Mary Austin -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
On this third Sunday of Advent, we hear again from Paul’s letter to the believers at Philippi.
A Commitment To Righteousness -- Luke 3:7-18 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Moline, Illinois, September, 1977 was the place and date for a special gift that Terry Schafer purch
The Best Gifts -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Mary Austin -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2018
Our Christmas Eve reading takes a different turn this year, as we read from the letter to Titus.
A Commitment To Hope -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
The story is told of young boy in a church Christmas program who had one line to remember.
Why Did Jesus Come? -- Luke 21:25-36, Luke 2:23-56 -- Derl G. Keefer -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
My parents did not attend church when I was a child.
But What of Lazarus? -- John 11:1-45 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
There is a cave. It is a tomb. There is a stone. It must be rolled away.
Loving Made Real -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2017
The lectionary gives us two types of traditional texts for our Maundy Thursday services over the spa
I've Seen the Lord -- John 20:1-18 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
You and I come here for a variety of different reasons this Easter morning.
Learning to Walk in the Dark -- Matthew 26:14--27:66 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
If we take away nothing new from the Passion story this year let us take away this: through it we ca
Friday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- Good Friday - A -- 2017
It doesn’t matter how many times I read, listen to, or watch a biography of Abraham Lincoln I am alw

Children's sermon

SermonStudio

What's In A Name? -- Acts 11:26b -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Together -- Matthew 6:19-20 -- Joy Gee -- 2007
Scripture: Matthew 6:19-20
Having Or Doing? -- Matthew 6:19-21 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Symbols We Wear -- James 2:18b -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference ... and I by my works will show you my faith.
Following -- Exodus 23:2 -- Joy Gee -- 2007
Scripture: Exodus 23:2
Change For Better Or For Worse -- 1 Corinthians 15:33 -- Joy Gee -- 2007
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:33
Does God Have Fun? -- Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Football Versus Love -- 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
(for a Sunday between the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day)
The Eye Of Faith -- Hebrews 11:1 -- Joy Gee -- 2007
Scripture: Hebrews 11:1
What We Do, We Do to Others, Too -- Matthew 18:6 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference

Worship Service

Preaching

SermonStudio

Easter 3 -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Advent 4 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Our Savior is coming! Collect of the Day
Lent 4 -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 21 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 26 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Baptizing worldly wisdom. Collect of the Day
Proper 19 / Pentecost 16 / Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Only by the grace of God. Collect of the Day
Proper 16 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 21 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day An almighty, caring God who dwells among us.
Proper 11 / Pentecost 8 / Ordinary Time 16 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day All are one. Collect of the Day
Lent 2 -- Genesis 17:1-7, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Remembering the spiritual roots of grace.
Proper 9 / Pentecost 6 / Ordinary Time 14 -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day God and His people get in the trenches.
Proper 6 / Pentecost 3 / Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day A way out of no way. Collect of the Day

Stories

SermonStudio

Life After Life -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
In an ever-lengthening pastoral ministry, I have had occasion to officiate more funerals than I can
Silly Goose -- Colossians 3:12-17 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2009
Great words -- as succinct a description as can be found anywhere of what we are called to be and do
The Fig Tree -- Luke 13:1-9 -- David E. Leininger -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
An intriguing text.
Dorcas -- Acts 9:36-43 -- David E. Leininger -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Women have always been uniquely important in the life of the church, whether or not men want to admi
A Time To Laugh -- John 20:19-31 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Easter is a time of surprises.
The Church Should Go To Hell! -- Luke 4:1-13 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Many churches, as part of their routine of worship, engage in the "passing of the peace." The practi
Water Into Wine -- John 2:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2009
Weddings are special.
The Good Samaritan -- Luke 10:25-37 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2009
This is a familiar story.
Lust -- Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
Remember the furor that arose a few years ago when Jimmy Carter was interviewed by Playboy ma
The Legacy Of Jesus -- John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- David E. Leininger -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
A certain widow expected to inherit all her late husband's wealth.

Prayer

SermonStudio

Autumn (1) -- 2003
Great God of autumn splendor, flashing color, and
All Seasons (1) -- 2003
Tender and Merciful Creator,the seasons of our lives are ever-changing and
Prayers For The Journey (1) -- 2003
Like dormant seeds in winter soil, we wait for your
Prayers About Time And Work (1) -- 2003
O God who is with us even in our darkest hour,
Sundays in Lent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O Creator, it isn't easy going back twenty centuries to a small desert-like province of the Roman Em
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, we bow before you this day in praise of your generosity.
Sundays in Lent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Sometimes, O God our Creator, we seem so inadequate and so ineffective.
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, our Savior, we praise your name.
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our Redeemer, how we need you. There's something unfinished within us that only you can complete.
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
When we were younger, O God, we could easily tell the difference between right and wrong.

Devotional

SermonStudio

The Day of Pentecost -- John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows
The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago.
The Holy Trinity -- Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! -- Psalm 8:1a
The Holy Trinity -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings.... -- Romans 5:3a
The Holy Trinity -- John 16:12-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Luke 7:36--8:3 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
And Ahab said to Naboth, "Give me your vineyard, so that I may have it for a vegetable garden, be
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Psalm 5:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I plead my case to you, and watch.
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Galatians 2:15-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
...
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- Psalm 42 and 43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God.

Poems

SermonStudio

Palm Sunday -- Matthew 26:14-66 -- Andrew Daughters -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1990
Whoever first put up a crossand hung a man thereon,was in the devil’s service
Proper 28 -- Mark 13:14-23 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1990
Come follow the Fuhrerand learn to saluteand to march with a flag and a gun
Proper 12 -- Mark 6:45-52 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1990
Jesus came across the wateras th’ apostles rowed in vain,
Palm Sunday -- Mark 1:1-11 -- Andrew Daughters -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1990
When trave’ling to Jerusalemthey came to Bethany.Th’ apostles were instructed
Advent 3 -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Andrew Daughters -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
There are many men seek powerand pursue it all their lives,
Christmas 1 -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Andrew Daughters -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1990
Rejoice! To us a child is born.Behold, a son is given.We hail a new beginning
Christmas Eve -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Andrew Daughters -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1990
It was dark in the hills of Judeawhere the shepherds were guarding their sheep.
Christmas 2 -- John 1:1-18 -- Andrew Daughters -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1990
In the beginning,Before the beginning,Within all beginning,
Christmas Day -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Andrew Daughters -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1990
Love to us at Christmas cameto live with us on earth.Jesus was the infant’s name
Christmas Day -- Luke 2:15-20 -- Andrew Daughters -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1990
What a night of great excitement!(Shepherds lead a quiet life.

Pastoral Resources

SermonStudio

The Inverse Insight Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
Most of the time, in the world of the church, things are not what they appear to be.

Children's program

Pageant

Adult study

SermonStudio

Philip: Look Before You Leap -- John 1:43-51 -- 2004
I know of an incident that happened a few years ago in New York City.
Simon: The Daring Gamble -- Luke 6:15 -- 2004
Charles was a mover and shaker at one time in Washington, D. C.
Thaddaeus: A Rose By Any Other Name -- John 14:19-24 -- 2004
One evening when the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey, was here, he wanted to get a Texas stea
Peter: Taking The First Step -- Matthew 14:22-32 -- 2004
Recently, I had a very important meeting with my brother at The Ballpark in Arlington.
James: The Unknown Disciple -- Matthew 10:3 -- 2004
It is fascinating to visit some of our historical landmarks in Washington, D.C., like the Lincoln Me
Nathanael: Do You Need An Alias? -- John 1:43-51; 21:2 -- 2004
Several years ago, we were on a short vacation and went to one of the theme parks.
Thomas: The Disciple From Missouri -- John 20:24-29 -- 2004
In the Broadway play, My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle sings "Don't talk of stars burning above,
Matthew: When Others Reject You -- Matthew 9:9-13 -- 2004
A few years ago, I had an unusual thing happen in my church.
From Who's Out To Who's In -- Andre Papineau -- 2004
Objective:
From Being Helpless To Healing -- Andre Papineau -- 2004
Objective:

Youth Resources

Monologues

SermonStudio

A Slave, A Jailer, A Child Of God -- Acts 16:11-40 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
We have only a bare-bones mention of the Philippian jailer.
Silent Silas -- Acts 15:22, 30-41 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
There was a man named Silas. We read of him in Acts and in several of the Epistles.
The Other Shepherd Speaks -- Luke 2:8-20 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
The shepherds came to the manger, actors who play one brief scene and then vanish.
Mary Magdalene: Liberated Woman -- Luke 8:1-3 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
Medieval legends confused three women: the sinful "woman of the city" in Luke 7, Mary of Bethany, an
Service -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"As Saints Of Old"
Faith -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus"
Commitment -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"Take My Life, That I May Be"
Humility -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"Rock Of Ages, Cleft For Me"
Sacrifice -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Lent 2Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"Jesus, Refuge Of The Weary"
Repentance -- Martha L. Leach -- 1996
Order Of ServiceOpening Hymn:"Out Of The Depths I Cry To You"Luther

Church Programs

Meditations

Candlelighting service

Biblical Studies

Humor

SermonStudio

I'd Rather Have Jesus Than Silver Or Gold -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
In the years of the Great Depression in America, the 1930s, a popular network radio program was "Hym
Give Me This Mountain -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
Only two men, over twenty years of age, outlived the long forty years of the Israelites wandering in
Can The Master Use Your Instrument? -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
The young organist in a European city church became aware that there was a visitor in the church san
Take Me To The Cross, And I Can Find My Way Home -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
A little boy stood crying at a busy street intersection.
The Cross In A Man's Pocket -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
When Don Rummel opened his welding and repair shop in Wapakoneta, Ohio, in the 1960s, God led him to
The Charred Cross Of Coventry -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
One of the most bombed cities of England during World War II was Coventry.
The Compost Pile -- A Miracle -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
What about the compost pile in the backyard? It's almost a secret.
Handicapped Charlie -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
Our last dog was a Boston terrier named Charlie.
Use What You Have -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
It is a striking fact that God has different ideas from us on how to accomplish a difficult task.
Dustpan -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
In Africa, in a missionary's house, a native boy was helping clean the floors of dust and dirt.

Faith Development

Bible Study

SermonStudio

A Voice Of Triumph -- Luke 23:44-46, John 19:30 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while
Humanity Revealed -- John 19:28-29 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished, he said (in order to fulfill the scripture
Cry Of The Forsaken -- Mark 15:33-34 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
A Last-Minute Reprieve -- Luke 23:39-43 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah
An Island In A Sea Of Hate -- John 19:26-27 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his moth
A Rose Among Thorns -- Luke 23:32-34 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him.
What Changed Because He Lives? -- Mark 16:1-8 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices
What Am I Worth To Him? -- Mark 15:33-41 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
Hope And The Power Of God's Presence -- John W. Clarke -- 2008
We must all come to terms with the reality that we can never understand the meaning of hope if that
Our Hope Is A Forever Thing! -- John W. Clarke -- 2008
A little girl lived near a cemetery and often had to walk through it after dark.

Children's Resources

SermonStudio

A Kind Hand -- Romans 15:2 -- Lily Erlic -- 2005
Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
When Moses Was A Baby -- Exodus 2:3-10 -- Lily Erlic -- 2005
When Moses was a baby,(rock arms back and forth)
The Bible -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
As we begin our journey in the mystery of God we have a powerful first clue; a book to accompany us
The Lord Gives Me Strength -- Philippians 4:13 -- Lily Erlic -- 2005
Tom: I can't play basketball like the other kids. I wish I could play well.
Jesus And The Shepherds Of Bethlehem -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorLukeMary
Jesus Preaches In Nazareth -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorMan 2Man 1Woman
Jesus And The Ten Lepers -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorMan 1Man 2Man 3
Jesus And Simon The Pharisee -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorWifeSimonWoman
Jesus' Parable Of The Prodigal Son -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorPhariseeJesusProdigal Son
Jesus And Mary And Martha -- Robert Lakey -- 2005
CharactersNarratorJesusMarthaMary

Self Help

Liturgy

Illustration

Spirituality

Biblical Study

Inspirational

SermonStudio

A two-edged sword -- Revelation 1:16 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: A two-edged sword Location: Revelation 1:16
Vanity, all is vanity -- Ecclesiastes 1:2 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Vanity, all is vanity Location: Ecclesiastes 1:2
Vengeance is the Lord's -- Romans 12:19 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Vengeance is the Lord's Location: Romans 12:19
Wash my hands of the whole thing -- Matthew 27:24 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Wash my hands of the whole thing
We came in with nothing -- 1 Timothy 6:7 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: We came in with nothing Location: 1 Timothy 6:7
Whatever you do, do it the best you can -- Ecclesiastes 9:10 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Whatever you do, do it the best you can
When the ox is in the ditch -- Luke 14:5 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: When the ox is in the ditch Location: Luke 14:5
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also -- Matthew 6:21 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also
A whisperer separates the best of friends -- Proverbs 16:28 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: A whisperer separates the best of friends
You will have to give account for every idle word you speak -- Matthew 12:36 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: You will have to give account for every idle word you speak

Christian Life

Easter

Lent/Easter

Church Growth

Sacrament

Healing

Death

Funeral

Memorial

Observance

Christian

African-American History

Thanksgiving Day

Marriage Ceremony

Wedding Vow

Home Blessing

Church Anniversary

Women's Day

Men's Day

Church Leaders

Mother's Day

Gathering Prayer

Unison Prayer

Thanksgiving Prayer

Intercession

Fellowship

Christian Faith

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Easter 2
30+ – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30+ – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 3
26 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
30+ – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
28 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 4
27 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
Nazish Naseem
For April 26, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
During World War II, a number of British regiments from this part of East Anglia were sent to the Far East. Many young men were taken prisoner by the Japanese, and were incarcerated in Japanese prisoner of war camps.

Their treatment in these camps was brutal, and many lost their lives. Those who survived until the end of the War emerged emaciated, beaten, traumatised and often cowed.

StoryShare

David O. Bales
Larry Winebrenner
Contents
"These Christians and Their Money" by David O. Bales
"Shepherds and Thieves" by Larry Winebrenner
"The Cry and the Answer" by Larry Winebrenner


* * * * * * * *


These Christians and Their Money
by David O. Bales
Acts 2:42-47
C. David Mckirachan
Keith Hewitt
Contents
"Tea and Crumpets Committee" by C. David McKirachan
"Too Good to Be True" by Keith Hewitt


* * * * * * *


Tea and Crumpets Committee
by C. David McKirachan
Acts 2:42-47

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycles B and C, for alternative approaches.)

It is one of the best-known and best-loved passages of the Bible. Generations have memorized it, in Sunday school or at the knee of parents or grandparents. It is one of the first Bible passages we learn, and -- as common as it is at funerals -- it is among the last words said over us when we die. Psalm 23 has been a source of strength and comfort for many.
William E. Keeney
"Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Acts 2:42--47 (C); Acts 2:14, 36--41 (RC)
(Look at Lesson 1 for Easter 3)

Lesson 1: Acts 6:1--9; 7:2a, 51--60 (E, L)
Tony S. Everett
The week before classes began, Harold, a high school history teacher, fell off a step ladder and injured his back. For the next three months he was forced to wear a plaster cast around the entire upper part of his body. The cast fit so well underneath his shirt and sport coat that it was not at all noticeable.
David O. Bales
Last summer my wife and I enjoyed visiting our friends Dick and Mary in Montana. They have about 45 quarter horses and they were thrilled to show us the herd and take us along one evening to feed them. That evening we also helped get a three-month-old filly into the barn in order to medicate a cut on her face. The filly was a little skittish, but we got her into the barn and into a large stall and then Dick tried to get a halter on her head to hold her still in order to clean and medicate the cut.
Robert J. Elder
Now here is what I often think of as a passage of scripture with high potential for use as a brick--bat. At least it is often employed that way by folks who think the way the church moves ahead is by making people feel guilty and bad about things that are not their fault. Sometimes preachers read this and find it almost too tempting to stand before their congregations and extol the glories of the church in the New Testament version of the "good old days," so that everyone pretty much feels extra lousy that the good old days appear to be long--gone enough as to be well nigh unrecoverable.
Albert G. Butzer, III
I know a woman who says that her husband has a listening problem. Incidentally, this is not autobiographical. To be sure, he does have a hearing problem and wears hearing aids to compensate, but his real problem - at least according to his wife - is not a hearing problem but a listening problem. She says to him, "I'm going to the store, so would you please turn the oven to 350 degrees at 5:30 and put in the casserole." "Sure," he replies, "no problem." But when she comes home, the dinner is still cold. By the way, did I remember to tell you that this is not autobiographical!
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
Once upon a time, a great and loving king ruled over a vast territory. There was something very strange about this kingdom, however. Everything was the same. The people ate the same food, drank the same drink, wore the same clothes, and lived in the same type of homes. The people even did all the same work. There was another oddity about this place. Everything was gray - the food, the drink, the clothes, the houses; there were no other colors.
Wayne H. Keller
A Celebration Of Resurrection

Invitation to the Easter Celebration
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Prayer Of The Day
P: Gracious Father, you sent your Son so that we might have life and have it abundantly. May we seek such goodness in our lives and desire it for others, so that gathered as one flock, all people would find their rest in our great shepherd, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever.
C: Amen.

Intercessory Prayers
Begin each new petition with:
Shepherd of our hearts ...
Shepherd of our communities ...
Shepherd of our nations ...
Shepherd of our churches ...

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wayne Brouwer
There are two themes that run through the passages for today. On the one hand there is the "Call of the Wild" (like Jack London's 1903 novel), in which we are commanded to follow our Shepherd Jesus through what might be trackless wastes and difficult places in responding to the great challenge of faith. On the other hand, there is the "Call of the Safe" (like Larry Crabb's great book on small groups, The Safest Place on Earth [Word, 1999]), which places us in the middle of a community of care and grace.
R. Craig Maccreary
People have all sorts of travel styles. I am constantly amazed at those who can just pick up and go on their journeys with minimal amounts of preparation and packing. For me, even the simplest of journeys requires hours of preparation. When recent security concerns required the average traveler to show up at the airport hours before their planned flight I remained largely unaffected. I had been doing that for years. You never know when a mix up might land you at the wrong place or the wrong time. It is best to allow time just in case.

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Good morning! Do you like stories? (get responses) Jesus told stories like this a lot. Sometimes when he wanted to teach people about things that were complicated, he would tell them a story about something they already knew about. Talking about something familiar to them helped them understand something unfamiliar.
When he has brought out all of his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. (v. 4)

Good morning, boys and girls. Jesus thought of himself as a shepherd. Do you know what a shepherd does? (let them answer) That's right, a shepherd watches and protects sheep. Jesus must have known a lot about shepherds because he taught us that sheep trust the shepherd with their lives. When a shepherd speaks, the sheep listen. The sheep know the shepherd's voice and follow him to safety.

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