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Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Untethering Jesus From the Interests Of the Empire -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2026
For February 8, 2026:
Jesus' Feedback Sandwich -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
For February 5, 2023:
Phoning In Our Faith? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
For February 9, 2020:
Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah

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A Light On the Hill! -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
Object: A flashlight or other light, and something to put it under.
Take the Light with You -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
Light was an important commodity in Jesus’ world.
Snack Time -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Mary Kay Eichelman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
It's snack time!  (Divide your group in half and give salty items to one group and unsalted items to
Let Your Light Shine -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
First Thoughts Teaching On Y
Words -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Leah Thompson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in
Lamp -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Leah Thompson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and giv
The spirit reveals -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Good morning! How many of you own your own Bible? (Let them
How good are you? -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Good morning! Once Jesus told a whole crowd of people who
Simple words -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Good morning, boys and girls. Have you ever tried to describe God or Jesus to someone?
Salt of the earth -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought some salt with me this morning.

Children's Activity

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Lamp -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Leah Thompson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
How good are you? -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Teachers and Parents: The most common false doctrine, even
Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A
Teachers: Jesus made a great compliment to people when he called them "the salt of the earth." In th

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

What the Choir Needs to Hear -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- David Kalas -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
We have an idiom in our day that was born in the church but has worked its way into the broader cult
Lifestyle Evangelism -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Wayne Brouwer -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
Fred Craddock told of a vacation encounter in the Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee that moved hi
The Expectations And Mercy Of God -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
Immanuel. God with Us. We have celebrated his birth.
Fasting, faith, and focus -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
Bernarr Macfadden, who once had a wide following in North America, said that everybody should fast n
Internal medicine -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Wayne Brouwer, Schuyler Rhodes -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Some years ago Europa Times carried a story in which Mussa Zoabi of Israel claimed to be the
Are your lights on? -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1999
One of the difficulties that confronts us who drive our vehicles is forgetting to turn off the light
Choose life -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1996

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Untethering Jesus From the Interests Of the Empire -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2026
For February 8, 2026:
Jesus' Feedback Sandwich -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
For February 5, 2023:
Phoning In Our Faith? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
For February 9, 2020:
Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 5 (2023) -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 5 (2020) -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 5 (2017) -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
Isaiah realized... -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
Isaiah realized that the people of God had lost their impact upon society because they had misplaced
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 5 (2014) -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Ron Love, Derl G. Keefer, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
This is a text... -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
This is a text that links the quest for social justice with worship (vv. 6-7).
During the Crimean War... -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
During the Crimean War (1854-1856), Florence Nightingale organized a corps of nurses to tend to the
We got our... -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Bob Ove -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
We got our highfalutin' words of wisdom from seminary, but we had to translate them for the people i
With the advancement... -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
With the advancement of higher education and the need to specialize, the age of "professionalism" be
Jesus wants his... -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
Jesus wants his disciples to be the salt of the earth (v. 13).
Disciples influence the world... -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2013
Disciples influence the world as salt affects food.
NULL -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
This object lesson will emphasize the Epiphany passage, "You are the salt of the earth.
NULL -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
NULL -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Is it so wrong to be the Charlie Browns' of the community?
NULL -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Leah Thompson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Her family and friends keep pressuring her to quit smoking, but Cynthia can't bring herself to do it
NULL -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Craig Kelly -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Many preachers and evangelists have to go through extensive training and seminary study before ascen

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A Salt of the Earth Christian -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored
Salt of the Earth -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
Maxine tapped her pen on the table as she looked at the open Bible in front of her.
The Way To God -- Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Peter Andrew Smith, David O. Bales -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
Contents "The Way to God" by Peter Andrew Smith

Pages

Worship

The Immediate Word

Untethering Jesus From the Interests Of the Empire -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2026
For February 8, 2026:
Jesus' Feedback Sandwich -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
For February 5, 2023:
Phoning In Our Faith? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
For February 9, 2020:
Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah

SermonStudio

Epiphany 5 -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: To a society that lives in the shadowed recesses
Epiphany 5/Ordinary Time 5 -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Order For Confession And Forgiveness
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
HymnsHail To The Lord's Anointed (LBW87, CBH185, NCH104, UM203)
Ancient Ruins Rebuilt -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
Call To Worship (Isaiah 58:10-11)
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Theme: True Worship Call To Worship
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Theme: True Wisdom Of God Call To Worship
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Theme: Discipleship Call To Worship
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- Psalm 112 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Words Of Assurance
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)Theme: Draw NearCall To Worship
Salt, Light, Righteousness -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Wayne H. Keller -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
Adoration And PraiseInvitation to the Celebration
FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Two Sayings Of Jesus: Salt Of The Earth And Light Of The World -- Matthew 5:13-16 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1992
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Ritual versus righteousness -- Isaiah 58:3-9a, Psalm 112, Matthew 5:13-16 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: Trito-Isaiah, writing in the context of the early days of the return of the exiles
EPIPHANY 5 -- Psalm 112:4-9, Isaiah 58:3-9a, Matthew 5:13-16 -- Norman A. Beck -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1986
Within three of the four texts appointed for next Sunday, the central, unifying theme is "the righte
True worship is sharing with the needy -- Isaiah 58:3-9a -- Heth H. Corl -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1986
Call to WorshipPastor:We worship God by giving ourselves in devotion to him.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Untethering Jesus From the Interests Of the Empire -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2026
For February 8, 2026:
Jesus' Feedback Sandwich -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
For February 5, 2023:
Phoning In Our Faith? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
For February 9, 2020:
Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah

The Village Shepherd

Being Christian -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
An abiding memory of my childhood is of my father in the garden.
Let Sleeping Dogmas Awake! -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
There are many doctrines in the Bible that receive light billing today.
God, Please Send Some Lofty Thoughts -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
E-mail From: KDM To: God Subject: Truly Human, Truly God's

SermonStudio

Discerning in Love -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Many people have come to rely on Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to travel from one place to anothe
What Did The Turkey Say? (Or Contentious Communities) -- Isaiah 58:3-9a (9b-12) -- Tony S. Everett -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Here is a story that has been told for many years. Some of you may have heard it.
Hidden In Plain Sight -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- John N. Brittain -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
I had a much-loved professor in seminary who confessed to some of us over coffee one day that he fre
Scaring The Church, So It Will Be The Church -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Sometimes when we read a passage of scripture, we may need to pay careful attention to who in the te
How Does It Work? -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
There is a very nice book for children that is titled, The Way Things Work.
Lite -- Or Light? -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Susan R. Andrews -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
There is, in this congregation, a running conversation as to what to call this structural wonder tha
The Healing Power Of Doing Good -- Isaiah 58:3-9a (9b-12) -- John T. Ball -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
When pastors retire they have a chance to check out some of the Sunday morning religious television
Let Your Light Shine -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Linda Schiphorst Mccoy -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
I heard a story some years ago about some neighborhood children who were playing in the front yard w
Let Sleeping Dogmas Awake! -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
There are many doctrines in the Bible that receive light billing today.
God, Please Send Some Lofty Thoughts -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
E-mail From: KDM To: God Subject: Truly Human, Truly God's
Getting It Right For All Of The Wrong Reasons -- Isaiah 58:3-9a (9b-12) -- R. Glen Miles -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
The young basketball player, who had just been removed from the game, looked at his coach with exasp
How Much Sin Is Too Much? -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- William B. Kincaid, III -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
Of all the pressing questions of the day, a sign on one person's desk asks, "How much can I sin and
Moving At The Speed Of Light: Athens: Unknown Apostles -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Frank Luchsinger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
How many people are helpful to us in a given stretch of time?
Cultivating Our Lenten Garden -- Isaiah 58:3-12 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1995
I remember a news program which showed the release of a number of wild turkeys into the wilderness o
Salt And Light -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1995
I was on a bit of a tight schedule that day, so on my way from one hospital to another, I stopped of

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God, Please Send Some Lofty Thoughts -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
E-mail From: KDM To: God Subject: Truly Human, Truly God's

Pages

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Untethering Jesus From the Interests Of the Empire -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2026
For February 8, 2026:
Jesus' Feedback Sandwich -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
For February 5, 2023:
Phoning In Our Faith? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
For February 9, 2020:
Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah

SermonStudio

Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany / Fifth Sunday In Ordinary Time -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12, Matthew 5:13-20 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day Christians are meant to be the salt of the earth.
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.
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.
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
In the church, we speak often of "salvation." But what do we mean by that term?
Salt And Light -- Matthew 5:13-16 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
1. Text
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
THE LESSONSLesson 1: Isaiah 58:1--9a (9b--12) (C); Isaiah 58:7--10 (RC)
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) (C), Isaiah 58:7-10 (RC)
Illuminating God's Message To The World -- Matthew 5:13-16 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
Images of salt and light hold center stage in this short pericope at the outset of the Sermon on the
Seasoning And Illumination -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- William E. Keeney -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1995
"You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored
God's Illuminating Spirit -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1992
Lesson 1: Habakkuk 3:1-6, 17-19 (E)
Salt and Light -- Matthew 5:13-16 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1989
On this Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, we begin the series of parables in Leationary Cycle A with
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany -- Isaiah 58:3-9a, Matthew 5:13-20 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1989
The church year theological clue

Stories

StoryShare

A Salt of the Earth Christian -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2023
You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored
Salt of the Earth -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2020
Maxine tapped her pen on the table as she looked at the open Bible in front of her.
Resolutions -- Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- C. David Mckirachan, Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
Contents "Resolutions" by C. David McKirachan
The Salt Tax And The Light Of The World -- Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Sandra Herrmann -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
Contents "The Salt Tax and the Light of the World" by Sandra Herrmann
The Way To God -- Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Peter Andrew Smith, David O. Bales -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
Contents "The Way to God" by Peter Andrew Smith

SermonStudio

The Problem Of Hunger -- Isaiah 58:3-9a (9b-12) -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
The problem of hunger in the world never seems to go away.
The Horse Whisperer -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
William Lee Rand
An Act Of Obedience -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2004
"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.
Sweet/Salty Love -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
While waiting at the beauty salon, I was captivated by an article in People magazine (January
TALK The Walk -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
A group of mothers has been meeting once a month to pray for their children, as well as for other st

Drama

SermonStudio

The Lord Of The Way I Feel -- Matthew 5:13-20, Psalm 27 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
You And The Law -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
Theme

Devotional

SermonStudio

Epiphany 5 / OT 5 -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Yet day after day they seek me and delight to know my ways, as if they were a nation that practic
Epiphany 5 / OT 5 -- Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice.
Epiphany 5 / OT 5 -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
So that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God.
Epiphany 5 / OT 5 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

Praxis Sees The Light -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
Praxis, the pixie whose skin changes colour according to his mood, was bright, bright blue.

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Praxis Sees The Light -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
Praxis, the pixie whose skin changes colour according to his mood, was bright, bright blue.
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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20 – Worship Resources
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160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Christopher Keating
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
Dean Feldmeyer
For March 8, 2026:

SermonStudio

Marian R. Plant
David G. Plant
Somewhere in my life I heard someone say something like, “The challenge with John (the gospel writer) is he is better at theatre than at writing.” The implications of this comment were about passages such as this one about Jesus and the woman of Samaria.
Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
Jesus reaches across every racial and cultural barrier, offering salvation to all.

Old Testament Lesson
Exodus 17:1-7
Water From A Rock
Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Exodus 17:1--7 (C, E); Exodus 17:3--7 (RC)
Lee Griess
Streams of living water ... That's what the Son of God offered the Samaritan woman at the well, and that's what he offers us as well -- streams of living water -- life-giving, life-renewing, life-refreshing water that can satisfy those who drink so that we will never thirst again. We are offered water that satisfies our longings in life, water that nourishes our innermost selves, and water that comes from an active, living trust in God and a passionate faith in Christ.
Frank Luchsinger
Enter your password -- flashed up on the computer screen. The pastor was trying to show some of his parishioners the church's new web page. With pride he had gathered them into his office after the Christian Education Committee meeting. He paused. "I don't do this very often ... We may have to try this another time," he said disappointed. "Try 'church,' " someone says, looking over his shoulder. The pastor types c - h - u - r - c - h. Amazingly the internet connection pops up on the screen. A password is a secret word given to gain entry. It can mean security.
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
Knowledge that water is an integral ingredient of life was a concept not lost on the ancients. The great civilizations of the world located themselves near water and used it in most every aspect of their daily lives. The Egyptians built the world's first great empire along the Nile. In the midst of the desert a flourishing community existed and grew in size and strength. The water of the river provided the source of life for the people then as it does today. On both sides of the Nile a rich and fertile area exists for farming and grazing of livestock.
Mark Ellingsen
Jesus and his weather-beaten band of wandering disciples were still heading north and had been for some days. To some extent Jesus had decided to get out of Judea, where he had been working, in order to avoid competition with John the Baptist in that region.
Harry N. Huxhold
One of the most colorful, exciting, and stirring scenes in all of the scriptures is the call of the prophet Isaiah. The account is dated in the year that King Uzziah died. That does not necessarily mean Uzziah was already dead. This scene could have taken place in the temple during a religious festival such as New Year's Day. At such a festival, the cultic ceremonies honored the divine king being enthroned as conqueror of all the enemies of the people.
Dallas A. Brauninger
First Lesson: Exodus 17:1-7
Theme: With Us Or Not?

Call To Worship

Two sides comprise every journey: the found side during which we trust in God's care, and the lost side where we fear that alone we will not make it through. At the worst, we scuffle and fuss within the confines of confusion, then shout, "Are you here with us or not, God?" At the best, we quiet down, hear God's voice in the silence, and proceed with hope. Wherever you are on your present journey, know that, here, you are welcome.

Collect
Wayne H. Keller
The Community Gathers

Invitation to the Celebration

Why have you come to worship today? Out of habit? To see your friends? To enjoy the singing? To hear the sermon? To learn something? To get help for the coming week? To restore your sense of values? For 100 other reasons? (Pause.) And, now that we're here, let us worship, in the Name of God the Parent, God the Child, God the Spirit. And all the people said, "Right on!"

Response

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus said, "The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him." Let us pray that we may be true worshippers today.
Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when we try to hide from you, forgive us.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when we fail to worship in spirit and in truth, forgive us.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when we neglect to reveal you to others, forgive us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
Sermon Starters: "Crossing Lines" / "Meeting a Prophet"
Shining Moments: "Water Sign" by Anne Sunday
Scrap Pile: "Healing the Soul" by John Sumwalt


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt
Keith Hewitt
Timothy Smith
Contents

What's Up This Week
"Testing One, Two, Three..." by Keith Hewitt
"The Account" by Keith Hewitt
"Set Free" by Timothy Smith


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

After the bombing of a building in Oklahoma City, an earthquake or a department store implosion in Japan, rescuers hurry. They do so to alleviate the pain of the survivors, to certify the hopes and fears of those who are related to victims of the disaster, and ...
Wayne Brouwer
Schuyler Rhodes
Here's a parable by a cartoonist named Saxon. It's about a fellow who has just reached retirement. Now he wonders about his place in society. He begins to spend much of his weekend time walking alone in the woods. One day he finds himself on an unfamiliar path that leads him to a small pond. As he stands beside the pond, the water begins to stir and bubble until there is a lovely little fountain. Astonishingly, a voice calls out to him: "Arnold Flagler! This is the Fountain of Youth!"

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