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Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C

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Children's Activity

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Pleasing the crowd -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:
Familiarity breeds contempt -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Teachers or Parents: There is a possibility that we can become so
Love never fails -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Teachers: Please note that this activity centers on today's
Words and the Word -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Teachers or Parents: Words are powerful.

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Ages 8-10 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Ages 5-7 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C

Free Access

Words and the Word -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Teachers or Parents: Words are powerful.

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Messenger's Message -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- David Coffin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Imagine an aging church leader or preacher who has seen one technology tool after another change the
On the Road to Find Out -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
Road trip.
At the Heart of God's Plan Is Love -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
Jeremiah is appointed to pluck up and call out nations. Serious change. Not popular.
Called and known and sent -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
Our readings this week are joined by a sense of calling.
Which words get drowned out? -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- David Coffin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
In our small town, the local printed newspaper is struggling to survive.
Blocking and tackling -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30, Psalm 71:1-6 -- David Kalas -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
On a typical NFL football team, there are some players who get all the attention and
Life's fundamentals -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2001
Erik Erikson, noted American psychiatrist, has observed that there are two basic needs in all of hum
The prophet's task -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1998
The theme for today may be designated "The Prophetic Task." The first lesson records the commission
Sounds like a job for Superman or Wonder Woman -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1995
See, today I appoint you overnations and over kingdoms,
Prophets -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Unfortunately for us the word "prophet" has come to be a kind of category word that embraces a
Challenging the Status Quo -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
I never cease to be amazed at those Christians who are shocked to discover that they are not the mos
The year of the Lord's favor -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
If you had to pick one image from the scriptures to sum up the significance of Jesus' ministry, what
Rejection -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-32 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
The debilitating effects of rejection may be felt by the unemployed and the homeless, by deserted or

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Ages 8-10 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Ages 5-7 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

Little Lester -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Call to worship:

Children's sermon

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The Greatest And The Least! -- Luke 4:21-30 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Object: A sign that says, “The Home of Jesus!” (
Awards! -- Luke 4:21-30 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
Coloring a Story -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
“all spoke well of him....they were filled with rage.” (vs. 22, 28)
Tell The Truth -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
The Point: Telling the truth doesn’t mean that it will be easy or fun
Jesus' Hometown Crisis -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
First Thoughts
Speak kindly -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a
Pleasing the crowd -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
And he [Jesus] said, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the
Agape -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Good morning! I want to ask you some questions this morning
Familiarity breeds contempt -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Good morning! Here is a newspaper clipping about
Growing -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Good morning! As we grow, we change. When you were very
Words and the Word -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Probably every word you know is in this book. What is this
Tale of two families -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you wipe your feet
Telling the truth -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like to play in

The Immediate Word

Love Notes To The Powerful -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
For February 2, 2025:
Bait and Switch -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
For January 30, 2022:
Allowance for New Ideas -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
For February 3, 2019:
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Over The Top And Over A Cliff -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

Anna's Story -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
The story of the presentation of Jesus in the temple is strong on two 'bit-part' characters, Sim

Devotional

SermonStudio

Epiphany 4 / Ordinary Time 4 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you....-- Jeremiah 1:5
Epiphany 4 / Ordinary Time 4 -- Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame.-- Psalm 71:1
Epiphany 4 / Ordinary Time 4 -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
... if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Epiphany 4 / Ordinary Time 4 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.

Drama

SermonStudio

So, You Wanta Be A Prophet, Huh? -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Jesus? Where? -- Luke 4:21-32 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1997
Theme Why do we come to church?Summary

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2025) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2022) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2019) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Sermon illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2016) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, R. Robert Cueni, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Sermon illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2013) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Mark J. Molldrem -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Mother Teresa, in her acceptance speech for the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
Let us both see and believe in the message of the triumph of God.
The 17th-century French intellectual Blaise Pascal powerfully describes... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
The 17th-century French intellectual Blaise Pascal powerfully describes our miserable condition on t
There is a land of the living and a land of the dead... -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
"There is a land of the living and a land of the dead and the bridge is love, the only survival, the
This is almost everyone's favorite passage... -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Bob Ove -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
This is almost everyone's favorite passage whether we live it or not, and it should be embroidered a
Jesus identifies the focus of his ministry... -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
How interesting that while apparently being rejected in his hometown, Jesus identifies the focus of
Seeing what you believe is not always the same as believing... -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
Seeing what you believe is not always the same as believing what you see, and it took fifty years fo
It is a marvelous thing... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
It is a marvelous thing to be known -- not "known" in the way a casual acquaintance can
In many communist countries today... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
In many communist countries today, gifted young people are identified early, then
It was difficult to find... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
It was difficult to find anyone willing to direct vacation Bible school. There had been a
I can't tell you how... -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
I can't tell you how many times over the years that I've excused my silence like Jeremiah
If people recognize 1 Corinthians... -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
If people recognize 1 Corinthians 13, they know it as the love chapter. Many people think
I remember my first real... -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
I remember my first real kiss when I was "in love." It was at church camp, a young lady
A Wycliffe Bible translator who... -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
A Wycliffe Bible translator who came as a missionary to Brazil's Fulnio Indians was first

The Immediate Word

Love Notes To The Powerful -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
For February 2, 2025:
Bait and Switch -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
For January 30, 2022:
Allowance for New Ideas -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
For February 3, 2019:
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti

StoryShare

Love Never Ends -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Love never ends.
Clone of Love Never Ends -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Love never ends.

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

All-Seeing God -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

Prayer

SermonStudio

Human desires versus divine destinies -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Human desires versus divine destiniesGospel Note:
FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Love Notes To The Powerful -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
For February 2, 2025:
Bait and Switch -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
For January 30, 2022:
Allowance for New Ideas -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
For February 3, 2019:
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Over The Top And Over A Cliff -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?

SermonStudio

Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4 -- Psalm 71:1-6 -- James Evans -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
(See Proper 16/Pentecost 14/Ordinary Time 21, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
We modern-day Christians are not called to be prophets in the Old Testament sense of the term.
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1991
The Church Year Theological Clue
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1991
The Church Year Theological Clue
Epiphany 4 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Perry H. Biddle, Jr. -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1988
Comments on the Lessons

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Love Notes To The Powerful -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
For February 2, 2025:
Bait and Switch -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
For January 30, 2022:
Allowance for New Ideas -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
For February 3, 2019:
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Over The Top And Over A Cliff -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?

SermonStudio

The Call Of God -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
Jeremiah had a task, a vision, and a promise from God.
Love -- The Basic Christian Call -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
During the 56 years of his life, Adolf Hitler did incredible harm and was responsible for the death
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.
When They Are Gathered At The Chancel -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John T. Ball -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
We have all witnessed this scene: the bride and groom are standing at the altar of the church surrou
The Bible: Head And Heart -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Gary L. Carver -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
"With Jesus in your heart, you just can't hate anybody." That is our destination, but sometimes the
The Cure -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
"The land of the free and the home of the brave." So ends our national anthem sung today at many lar
Epiphany: The Tragedy Of Rejection -- Luke 4:21-30 -- J. Ellsworth Kalas, David Kalas -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
In the church, most of us think of Epiphany simply as a season on the church calendar, and sometimes
Losing That Loving Feeling -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Robert S. Crilley -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
The thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians is not only the most memorable passage that the Apostle
The Light Touch -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Harry N. Huxhold -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
Robert Bly has given us a painful and scathing analysis of our present American society.
When The Sermon Turns Sour -- Luke 4:21-30 -- William G. Carter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
I want to let you in on an industry secret. Ready?
Old Favorite -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
Most of us play favorites, whether we admit it or not.
Jesus Is Rejected -- Luke 4:21-30 -- James T. Garrett -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1991
Jesus is in the synagogue on the Sabbath day at Nazareth.
Dispelling Ministry Illusions -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Ron Lavin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1991
Jeremiah is often regarded as a Christ-figure, a prophet like Jesus, who suffered at the hands of hi
Epiphany: The Tragedy of Rejection -- Luke 4:21-30 -- J. Ellsworth Kalas -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1988
In the church, most of us think of Epiphany simply as a season on the church calendar, and sometimes
Encounter -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Robert G. Tuttle -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1988
To meet the Living God is the ultimate of all human experience.
I'll Be Listening For My Name -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- James H. Bailey -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1985
Does God speak to you today just as he spoke to Abraham, Moses, Samuel, Isaiah, John, Jesus, and Pau
A Prophet Without Honor -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Roy C. Nichols -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1985
After Jesus had made his messianac proclamation someone audibly inquired in the congregation: "Is no

The Village Shepherd

Different Kinds Of Love -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
With most young couples, the first baby to be born produces incredible feelings of love and tender

Stories

StoryShare

Love Never Ends -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Love never ends.
Clone of Love Never Ends -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Love never ends.
Love Language That Hurts -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Argile Smith, C. David Mckirachan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
Note: This installment was originally published in 2007.Contents
First Corinthians Thirteen One Way Or The Other -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- David O. Bales -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
Contents
All You Need Is Love -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Keith Wagner -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
Contents "All You Need is Love" by Keith Wagner
Chosen By God -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
Contents"Chosen by God" by Peter Andrew Smith
Mystery -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
ContentsA Story To Live By:"Mystery"

SermonStudio

The Call Of God -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
If you were to ask a group of people to take pencil and paper and sketch a portrait of an Old Testam
The Gift Of The Love -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a
The English Garden -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
Allan Metcalf, executive secretary of the American Dialect Society, likes to think of language as a
How Can I Do This? -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kai M. Mcclinton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
In 1995, at the age of 25, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not ... -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
Wow! First they love Jesus just from what he has to say.
The Greatest Of These -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Richard A. Jensen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1994
In the midwest the summer of 1993 was the summer of the "great flood." The rains, it seemed, would n
Epiphany 4 -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- John Steward -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Andre Malraux, the French author, tells in his book Lazarus of being with the troops that liberated

Worship

The Immediate Word

Love Notes To The Powerful -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
For February 2, 2025:
Bait and Switch -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
For January 30, 2022:
Allowance for New Ideas -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2019
For February 3, 2019:
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Over The Top And Over A Cliff -- Luke 4:21-30, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?

SermonStudio

Epiphany 4 / Ordinary Time 4 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
A single song is being inflected through all the colorations of the human choir.
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 1:4-10Theme: The Call Is For You
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13Theme: The Antidote
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 4:21-30Theme: Jesus Speaks NowCall To Worship
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
Theme: The Call Of JeremiahCall To Worship
With You In Mind -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
Call To Worship Leader: From where does our confidence arise?
Epiphany 4 -- Luke 4:21-30 -- Wayne H. Keller -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2000
Liturgical Color: GreenGospel: Luke 4:21-30
The Lord is our strength -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- James R. Wilson -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1997
Call To WorshipLeader: Let all who would serve the Lord enter God's house for worship!
Epiphany 4 -- Psalm 71:1-6 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 1991
In you, O Lord, I take my refuge;let me never be put to shame.
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

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What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

Special Occasion

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