God In The Manger: REPENTANCE

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "God In The Manger: REPENTANCE"

Transcription

1 God In The Manger: REPENTANCE Matthew 3:1-12 John s message turns our mind to Christ. A sermon preached by Rev. Dr. William O. (Bud) Reeves First United Methodist Church Fort Smith, Arkansas December 4, 2016

2 With all the shopping going on this time of year, stores have to take extra precautions about shoplifting. Still, some shoplifters get away with stolen merchandise. I heard about one department store that received a note a few weeks after Christmas. The note said, I stole from your store, but I know it s wrong. I am a Christian, and I can t sleep at night because I feel guilty. Inside the envelope with the anonymous note was $50. Then the P.S. at the bottom of the note said, If I still can t sleep, I ll send you the rest of the money. That shoplifter came clean almost. Advent is a time to come clean before God. Not just almost, but all the way clean. Christians for centuries have designated Advent as a time to prepare our lives spiritually for the birthday of Jesus, to make room in our hearts for him to dwell. It s part of the plan that God has put together for our salvation. God s plan starts with a radical act of love and grace that we are calling God in the Manger. Jesus was born as God in flesh, Emmanuel, God with us. This gift of God fulfills our hope for a Savior. We shared the good news of hope last week. Today our response to God s grace involves REPENTANCE. That s where the grown-up John the Baptist comes into the Advent story. Last week we told the story of John s birth, when his father Zechariah spoke the prophetic word of hope. When John grew up, he called the people of God to repentance because the Messiah was on his way. Jesus was already alive, of course; he was almost as old as John. But before Jesus could begin his public ministry, John had to prepare the way. And he did, like this: Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven has come near. 1 John the Baptist was an eccentric character, wearing the rough clothing and eating the simple diet of the desert. He lived that way because that was how the prophet Elijah in the Old Testament lived, and John was self-consciously fulfilling the role of Elijah. Why? Because the Jews believed that a prophet like Elijah would arise before the advent of the Messiah. Everything about John pointed to the dawning of a new age his appearance, his baptism of people for

3 the forgiveness of their sins, his challenge of the religious authorities. Something big was about to happen! John saved his most passionate proclamation for the religious leaders of the day. When the Sadducees and Pharisees came out into the wilderness to hear him preach, he said to them, You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, We have Abraham as our ancestor ; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 2 Having the proper family background or even having the right religion is of no help before God if your heart is not right with him. You need to repent. Why bring up something like repentance in the middle of the holiday season? This is the feel good time of year; we don t need to be reminded of our sins and shortcomings. We ve got parties to attend, decorations to put up, gifts to buy. Who has time for repentance? Repentance comes in January, after we have overindulged at Christmas. I m not trying to dampen anybody s holiday celebration. But you know as well as I do that our celebration of the coming of Christ has gotten way off base. How can we find an authentic celebration of Advent and Christmas? How can we make it real again? How can we get beyond the shallow trappings of the cultural Christmas and approach God in the manger of Bethlehem? I think it has to do with repentance. So let s look today at what John the Baptist called fruits worthy of repentance. I d like to call them the positive practices of Advent. Doesn t that sound better? I believe these positive practices will make your Christmas fuller, deeper, and better. The first positive practice of Advent is to center on Christ. The whole point of repentance is not just to feel bad or guilty or to turn away from something. The Greek word in the New Testament is metanoia; it means to turn your mind around. It really means to turn

4 toward something more than away from it. Repentance means to turn away from sin, but even more to turn toward Christ to center our lives, to focus on him. Arin Ahmed was 20 years old when she got on a crowded bus in Jerusalem a few years ago. She looked like a typical teenager tight blue jeans, short shirt, backpack except Arin knew she would never make her destination, because her backpack was filled with explosives. She was on a suicide mission, until she got cold feet and a warmed heart. She began to look at the other passengers on the bus, and she could see that they were more than just hateful Jews. They were grandmothers and children and fellow students and fathers returning home from work. Suddenly she thought, How can I do such a thing? She got off the bus and ran back to the car where two of her accomplices were waiting and told them she was canceling the suicide mission. They were furious, but they let her in the car and drove back to their hometown of Bethlehem. (Isn t that ironic?) A few days later Arin and her accomplices were arrested by Israeli police. But because she had changed her mind, she got a visit from the Defense Minister himself. He wanted to find out more about her. Why did she change? How many want to change, but can t? How could more suicide bombings be prevented? In their interview, Arin begged for the mercy of the Israelis. She said, Mr. Minister, what will become of me? I have no future. I don t want my whole life to be ruined because of this. I m at the beginning of life. I changed my mind. 3 That s what repentance is changing your mind, a mental revolution, turning from sin and toward Christ. It is a battle in which the powers of sin are deposed and Christ is put on the throne of our heart. It is the inauguration of the Kingdom of God in our lives. We can t totally separate ourselves from the culture of Christmas that has grown up around us, but we can keep ourselves from getting caught up in the frenzy by keeping our focus on Christ.

5 Once we are centered, then we can simplify our celebration. That s the second positive practice of Advent, the second fruit of repentance. Christmas has become so commercial and so complicated and so important to the economy that we cannot even do it in four weeks any more. Christmas has to start early in November to allow the proper promotion to take place. In the Christian year, the season of Advent ends and Christmas begins on Christmas Eve and lasts for twelve days until Epiphany. But because we have been promoting Christmas since Halloween, when the time really comes to celebrate Christmas, we are sick of it. If we hear Little Drummer Boy one more time, somebody is going to get hurt! This is not a new problem, of course. Charlie Brown lamented the commercialization of Christmas way back in the 1960 s in the Peanuts TV special. Even his dog Snoopy entered the commercialized Christmas decorating contest. Eventually the Peanuts gang found the true meaning of Christmas when Linus stepped to the center of a bare stage and under the light of a single spotlight began to tell the story, In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed Just because it s not a new problem does not mean that we don t need to deal with it. We can simplify our celebration of Christmas. It s not that complicated, or else it wouldn t be called simplifying. Try this: Don t buy so much stuff that you spend half a year paying off your credit balances. Show some restraint in your personal consumption of food and beverages. Use the old Christmas decorations instead of buying the newest trend in outdoor lighting. Carve out some time for family time, devotional reading and prayer as we approach the Christmas miracle. These are ways we can center and simplify and show the fruit of our repentance. The third positive practice or fruit of repentance is to serve somebody. One of the most powerful ways we can center on Christ and simplify our celebration is to serve someone in need. Do something for someone else. This is a season of good will, and we are

6 right on target with activities in the church like helping needy families and many other things we do. In serving God s children, we are serving Christ. This is a great way to repent of the materialism and self-absorption that create a barrier between us and God. If we get used to doing that during Christmas, it can become part of our yearround discipleship. What better witness to the love of God can there be than to help a child of God who needs it? I read a great story several years ago by a woman who found a new way to celebrate Christmas. Her husband Mike hated Christmas not the true meaning of Christmas, but all the commercial aspects of it: the overspending, the overeating, the frantic rush of the holidays. So she was looking for something unique to give him that wouldn t be just another gift bought in desperation. Their son was a wrestler, and his school team had a non-league match in December against a wrestling group from an inner-city church. These kids had no uniforms, no wrestling shoes, no protective headgear nothing. The school team from the suburbs in their spiffy uniforms just demolished the kids from the ghetto. Mike told his wife that he wished at least one of the church team kids could have won. He was afraid that such a poor showing would destroy their confidence even to try to compete. That s when Mike s wife got the idea for his Christmas present. That afternoon, she went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner-city church. On Christmas Eve, she placed an envelope on the tree, with a note inside telling Mike what she had done for him. He loved it! His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas. Each Christmas from then on, Mike s wife would give that kind of gift, helping someone in difficulty and putting the envelope on the tree for Mike. It was always the last gift opened, and their three kids looked forward to that moment as much as their own presents. I can witness to the power of that kind of gift. One of the few Christmas gifts that ever made me cry was the year my daughter-in-

7 law, who is an optometrist, wrapped up a card telling me that my gift was an exam and treatment and a new set of glasses for a little boy whose family couldn t afford the eye care. It was the best Christmas present I got that year. But Mike s story doesn't end there. A few years later he developed cancer and died. When Christmas rolled around that year, his wife was so wrapped up in grief that she barely got the tree up. Her three kids, who were now young adults, were all home, and after they had all gone to bed, she still placed the envelope on the tree in Mike s memory. On Christmas morning, when she saw the tree, next to her envelope there were three more. She said, Each of our children had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad. The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wideeyed anticipation watching as their fathers take down the envelopes. Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us. 4 As you come to the Lord s Table today, think about these positive practices of Advent. Center on Christ. Simplify your celebration. Serve somebody. These are the fruits worthy of repentance. This is the true spirit of Christmas. Let this mental revolution take place in you. Practice a positive Advent. And you will know that the Kingdom of heaven has come near. You will see God in the manger. 1 Matthew 3:2. 2 Matthew 3: Suzanne Fields, When a Suicide Bomber Fails, July 1, Charles Middleton, PreachingToday.com.

Advent. Wreath. Prayers and Readings. for Lighting your. with children

Advent. Wreath. Prayers and Readings. for Lighting your. with children Advent Prayers and Readings Wreath for Lighting your with children The Story of the Advent Wreath Advent wreaths were originally part of folk traditions of Northern Europe. Wreaths of evergreens were decorated

More information

Joyful Repentance Luke 3: /10/17. Advent is an odd sort of season on the church calendar. With its

Joyful Repentance Luke 3: /10/17. Advent is an odd sort of season on the church calendar. With its 1 Joyful Repentance Luke 3:1-14 12/10/17 Advent is an odd sort of season on the church calendar. With its emphasis on the first and second coming of Jesus and the ministry of John the Baptist, it is totally

More information

A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING January 3, 2016 Dr. Stephen D. Jones, preaching Text: Luke 2:1-2 and John 4:19 First Baptist Church, Kansas City, MO Had it not been for the Wise Sages from the East, we may

More information

OBC: Baptism Service Matt Gordon - Sunday 4 November The Ordinary and the EXTRA-Ordinary

OBC: Baptism Service Matt Gordon - Sunday 4 November The Ordinary and the EXTRA-Ordinary OBC: Baptism Service Matt Gordon - Sunday 4 November 2018 The Ordinary and the EXTRA-Ordinary I don t know about you, but sometimes it can feel like life is pretty ordinary. A typical, ordinary day for

More information

Je s u s as a Yo u n g Boy

Je s u s as a Yo u n g Boy Prayer Dear God, Thank you that everyone is important to you, even little children. Help me to remember this whenever I feel small and unimportant. In Jesus name, Amen. 17 Then the shepherds told everyone

More information

Life of Christ. Beginnings to Baptism. NT111 LESSON 02 of 07. An Angel Brings Good News

Life of Christ. Beginnings to Baptism. NT111 LESSON 02 of 07. An Angel Brings Good News Life of Christ NT111 LESSON 02 of 07 An Angel Brings Good News Christian University This course was developed by Christian University & Our Daily Bread Ministries. But the angel said to him, Do not be

More information

The Relevance of Repentance

The Relevance of Repentance May 10, 2009 College Park Church The Relevance of Repentance Matthew 3:1-12 Mark Vroegop 3 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven

More information

Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a

Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them. (Isaiah 11:6) Second Sunday

More information

Luke 3: John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, You brood of vipers!

Luke 3: John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, You brood of vipers! Luke 3:7-18 7 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to

More information

God In The Manger: PEACE

God In The Manger: PEACE God In The Manger: PEACE Luke 2:1-20 The angels message of peace is a message for us tonight. A sermon preached by Rev. Dr. William O. (Bud) Reeves First United Methodist Church Fort Smith, Arkansas December

More information

The Voice of God. John s message was stern and powerful! To the impenitent Jewish leaders, he said,

The Voice of God. John s message was stern and powerful! To the impenitent Jewish leaders, he said, December 4, 2016 Advent 2 Text: Matthew 3:1-10 1 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 3 For this is he who was spoken

More information

Grace mercy and peace to you from God our Father and from our Lord. and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Just wait til your father comes home.

Grace mercy and peace to you from God our Father and from our Lord. and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Just wait til your father comes home. Grace mercy and peace to you from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Just wait til your father comes home. Some of you probably remember hearing those words when you were little.

More information

Prescription for Life Lesson 2 Luke 1:57-2:20

Prescription for Life Lesson 2 Luke 1:57-2:20 Luke 1:57-66 The Birth of John the Baptist 57 When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and

More information

Long Unexpected Jesus Page 1 of 8

Long Unexpected Jesus Page 1 of 8 Long Unexpected Jesus Page 1 of 8 Long Unexpected Jesus Matthew 2:1-12 Today is January 6, the church holiday called Epiphany, and it s the official end of the Christmas season. You know the song, The

More information

Today is Rose Sunday, the third Sunday in Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. And Gaudete is the Latin word for rejoice. So happy Joy Sunday.

Today is Rose Sunday, the third Sunday in Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. And Gaudete is the Latin word for rejoice. So happy Joy Sunday. 1 Sermon: Preparation / Rose Sunday Third Sunday in Advent, Dec. 16, 2018 Susan Clinkenbeard Luke 3:7-18 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you

More information

Go Tell It On The Mountain Luke ,16-18 December 1, 2013 Rev. D2

Go Tell It On The Mountain Luke ,16-18 December 1, 2013 Rev. D2 Go Tell It On The Mountain Luke 2.8-11,16-18 December 1, 2013 Rev. D2 I love this time of the year. When I was young, it was fun when my parents would take us shopping and there d be those mechanical toys

More information

Second Sunday of Epiphany January 13, 2019 Sunday Worship at 10:30am NO SWIMMING.

Second Sunday of Epiphany January 13, 2019 Sunday Worship at 10:30am NO SWIMMING. Bummer seat Bulletin and/or Music-Reader Bulletin: This seat is NOT reserved. Go ahead sit here! You may have a partially blocked seat, so use this bulletin if you can t see the screen. You re welcome.

More information

The Road to Bethlehem. Luke 3:1-9. Today we find ourselves in our second service of Advent. I don t know

The Road to Bethlehem. Luke 3:1-9. Today we find ourselves in our second service of Advent. I don t know Page 1 of 12 The Road to Bethlehem Luke 3:1-9 Today we find ourselves in our second service of Advent. I don t know about you, but for me, the Christmas feeling is beginning to set in. Christmas lights

More information

God s Word, My Voice A Lectionary for Children

God s Word, My Voice A Lectionary for Children God s Word, My Voice A Lectionary for Children The First Sunday of Advent A Reading from the Book of Jeremiah [33:14 16] Soon I will make good on the promises I made to you. When I do, a branch will grow

More information

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year C Third Sunday of Advent: Joy Scripture: Luke 3:7 18 NRSV Gathering Welcome Advent is a season of waiting for the coming of light into a darkened

More information

In the new TV show "Samantha Who?" Samantha is a 30-something year old

In the new TV show Samantha Who? Samantha is a 30-something year old 1 I m Soorryy!! (sermon on Matthew 3:1-12) In the new TV show "Samantha Who?" Samantha is a 30-something year old woman who has awaken from a 2 week coma after a car accident and she discovers that she

More information

Scandal: The Wild Guy By Jason Huff December 27, 2014 Deuteronomy 18:17-19; Acts 3:11-12,16-26; Matthew 3:1-12

Scandal: The Wild Guy By Jason Huff December 27, 2014 Deuteronomy 18:17-19; Acts 3:11-12,16-26; Matthew 3:1-12 Scandal: The Wild Guy By Jason Huff December 27, 2014 Deuteronomy 18:17-19; Acts 3:11-12,16-26; Matthew 3:1-12 Friends, our final Scripture reading this evening comes from Matthew 3:1-12. I invite you

More information

Scripture Luke 3:7-18

Scripture Luke 3:7-18 Rev. Chandler Stokes & Mr. John Molhoek Luke 3:7-18 The Third Sunday of Advent December 13, 2015 Scripture Introduction Today I am sharing the message with the choir, who will sing stanzas of Hymn 158

More information

for this Sunday has a distinct apocalyptic flavor, especially with the judgment of the ax and

for this Sunday has a distinct apocalyptic flavor, especially with the judgment of the ax and Advent 3, Luke 3:7-18, John the Baptist, Part 2 The John we hear today isn t quite the same as last Sunday, is he? You brood of vipers! isn t as endearing as the promises of the crooked being made straight.

More information

This coming Wednesday evening our Advent Theme is about seeing. Where and how do you see Jesus in your life?

This coming Wednesday evening our Advent Theme is about seeing. Where and how do you see Jesus in your life? 1 December 8, 2013 at Advent Lutheran Church in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Second Sunday of Advent. Matthew 3:1-12. The massive paradigm shift and the homeless Jesus! What is your question for me this morning?

More information

THE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST

THE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST THE BIRTH & EARLY LIFE OF JESUS & JOHN THE BAPTIST The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold The Birth of Jesus Foretold Luke 1 5. In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who

More information

election year, about politics. During the season of Advent, however, I would guess that another kind of

election year, about politics. During the season of Advent, however, I would guess that another kind of SERMON TITLE: Prepare the Way SERMON TEXT: Matthew 3:1-12 PREACHER: Rev. Kim James OCCASION: December 4, 2016, at First UMC INTRODUCTION If you did a study where you categorized and quantified people s

More information

1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL SUMMARIZE IT

1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL SUMMARIZE IT 1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL The people of Israel had waited a very long time for their Messiah (or A LOOK AHEAD During the month of December there will be about 10 devotionals focusing on the birth of Jesus

More information

What will you bring to the manger?: Repentance GPPC Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19, Matthew 3:1-12

What will you bring to the manger?: Repentance GPPC Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19, Matthew 3:1-12 What will you bring to the manger?: Repentance GPPC 12-4-16 Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19, Matthew 3:1-12 1 Dr. Bob Welch had been part of the music faculty and director of bands at Western Carolina University for

More information

Until John. the violent take it by force. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John,

Until John. the violent take it by force. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, The following is a direct script of a teaching that is intended to be presented via video, incorporating relevant text, slides, media, and graphics to assist in illustration, thus facilitating the presentation

More information

A voice of one calling in the wilderness. Luke 3:1-22

A voice of one calling in the wilderness. Luke 3:1-22 A voice of one calling in the wilderness Luke 3:1-22 A voice of one calling in the wilderness Luke 3:1-2 1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea,

More information

Advent and Christmas Festival of Worship and Music 9:00 and 10:30 December 20, 2015 Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND

Advent and Christmas Festival of Worship and Music 9:00 and 10:30 December 20, 2015 Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND Advent and Christmas Festival of Worship and Music 9:00 and 10:30 December 20, 2015 Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND Prelude Welcome Welcome to this special service of worship in which with music

More information

The Sower FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN. December 2014 Newsletter for Washington Farm United Methodist Church. Mark Your Calendar

The Sower FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN. December 2014 Newsletter for Washington Farm United Methodist Church. Mark Your Calendar The Sower December 2014 Newsletter for Washington Farm United Methodist Church Mark Your Calendar December 1-19 Christmas Tree Project December 6 Breakfast in Bethlehem December 9 UMW Christmas Dinner

More information

Though you may feel at the end of your rope and discarded forever, there is nothing too great for God s saving grace.

Though you may feel at the end of your rope and discarded forever, there is nothing too great for God s saving grace. First Reading Zephaniah 3:14-20 Though you may feel at the end of your rope and discarded forever, there is nothing too great for God s saving grace. A Reading from the book of the prophet Zephaniah. Sing

More information

15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,

15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, 1 Rejoice, You Brood of Vipers December 13, 2015 First Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee, Florida Rev. Frank Allen Philippians 4:4-6 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your gentleness

More information

The Christmas Story. Zechariah and Elizabeth. From Luke 1:1-25

The Christmas Story. Zechariah and Elizabeth. From Luke 1:1-25 The Christmas Story Zechariah and Elizabeth From Luke 1:1-25 In the days when Herod was king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah. His wife s name was Elizabeth and they were both honorable and

More information

Middle/High School Sunday School Lessons by. r four.org

Middle/High School Sunday School Lessons by. r four.org Middle/High School Sunday School Lessons by r four.org Year 2: Session 4 Advent and Jesus Class 11: Luke 3:1-14, 21-22 Baptism CONCEPTS that will be covered in the lesson Read and discuss the story of

More information

Luke 21:5-8. When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, he said,

Luke 21:5-8. When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, he said, ADVENT General Observations Advent Texts Year C Preaching Preparation Southwestern PA Synod ELCA 7 November 2009 Mark Vitalis Hoffman Lutheran Theological Seminary Gettysburg ADVENT General Observations

More information

John 1:14-28 Like Father, Like Son Review Read V:1-14 John s nativity story Divinity of Christ JESUS is THE CHRIST THE SON OF GOD

John 1:14-28 Like Father, Like Son Review Read V:1-14 John s nativity story Divinity of Christ JESUS is THE CHRIST THE SON OF GOD John 1:14-28 Like Father, Like Son Review: We covered up to V:14 (Read V:1-14) John s nativity story John is writing, as an old man now covering things the other Gospel writers did not cover By now the

More information

John The Baptist Luke 3:1-9 & The Voice In The Wilderness let us go Seeking An Alternative City Seeking An Alternative City

John The Baptist Luke 3:1-9 & The Voice In The Wilderness let us go Seeking An Alternative City Seeking An Alternative City John The Baptist Luke 3:1-9 & 15-22 Luke 3:2 says, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. [4] As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, The voice of

More information

Survey of Luke. by Duane L. Anderson

Survey of Luke. by Duane L. Anderson Survey of Luke by Duane L. Anderson Survey of Luke A study of the book of Luke for Small Group or Personal Bible Study AIBI Resources Box 511 Norwalk, California 90651-0511 www.aibi.org Copyright 1971,

More information

Matthew 3: The Ministry of John the Baptist, and our Lord s Baptism

Matthew 3: The Ministry of John the Baptist, and our Lord s Baptism TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS TRANSCRIPT Matthew 3: The Ministry of John the Baptist, and our Lord s Baptism Matthew 3:1-17 - In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2

More information

Pray More Advent Retreat - Transcript. Jesus and the Call of Discipleship Scott Powell

Pray More Advent Retreat - Transcript. Jesus and the Call of Discipleship Scott Powell Hello everyone, my name is Scott. Pray More Advent Retreat - Transcript Jesus and the Call of Discipleship Scott Powell Today we re going to be talking about Jesus and the call of discipleship. You know,

More information

the Lamb of God John 1:19-34

the Lamb of God John 1:19-34 John 1:19-34 John 1:19-22 19 Now this was John s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. 20 He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, I am

More information

Cultivating a Spirit of Newness

Cultivating a Spirit of Newness I. Introductory Remarks. Cultivating a Spirit of Newness Let s face it, we all desire new things. They inspire us until the newness begins to wear off. God s desire for our lives is to give us a new heart

More information

Lessons from St. John the Baptist that will change your life

Lessons from St. John the Baptist that will change your life Lessons from St. John the Baptist that will change your life integratedcatholiclife.org /2014/12/deacon-bickerstaff-what-we-can-learn-from-the-catholic-witnessof-st-john-the-baptist/ Deacon Michael Bickerstaff

More information

TheThe Gifts of Christmas The Gift of Hope Titus 2:11-14 Pastor Pat Damiani November 27, 2016

TheThe Gifts of Christmas The Gift of Hope Titus 2:11-14 Pastor Pat Damiani November 27, 2016 TheThe Gifts of Christmas The Gift of Hope Titus 2:11-14 Pastor Pat Damiani November 27, 2016 Advent This morning is the first Sunday of Advent. Most of us are probably familiar with that concept, but

More information

SERMON 3 rd Sunday of Advent December 13, 2009

SERMON 3 rd Sunday of Advent December 13, 2009 SERMON 3 rd Sunday of Advent December 13, 2009 Zephaniah 3:14-20 Psalmody: Isaiah 12:2-6 Philippians 4:4-7 Luke 3:7-18 As some of you already know, before I went to seminary, I worked in the Jewelry business.

More information

Daily Morning Prayer: Rite Two

Daily Morning Prayer: Rite Two Daily Morning Prayer: Rite Two Sunday, December 8, 2013 In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Isaiah 40:3 Let us confess our sins against God

More information

And yet slowly, and steadily the Blacksmith goes to work.

And yet slowly, and steadily the Blacksmith goes to work. Advent 2016 Week 1: Scripture Isaiah 2:4-5 He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks;

More information

So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.

So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people. The Joy of No Luke 3:7-18 First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC Rev. Pen Peery December 13, 2015 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee

More information

LIFE OF CHRIST LESSON 10

LIFE OF CHRIST LESSON 10 Public Ministry Begins: Beginnings of the Gospel Ministry of John: Matthew 3:1-12, Mark 1:1-8, and Luke 3:1-20 In this week s questions, which begin on page 7, we will continue our study of the life of

More information

Joy: The Shepherds Candle Luke 2:8 20

Joy: The Shepherds Candle Luke 2:8 20 CORNERSTONE BIBLE CHURCH December 14, 2014 Joy: The Shepherds Candle Luke 2:8 20 Introduction: Birth Announcements This past Monday night, we received news that some of our good friends from our church

More information

Teaching Resource Items for GSI: Gospel Story Investigator (Luke)

Teaching Resource Items for GSI: Gospel Story Investigator (Luke) Teaching Resource Items for GSI: Gospel Story Investigator (Luke) These items are selected from Teaching Plans in They are provided to make lesson preparation easier and faster for handouts and similar

More information

Week 1: Jesus Beginnings (Matthew 3:1-17) Discussion Questions

Week 1: Jesus Beginnings (Matthew 3:1-17) Discussion Questions Week 1: Jesus Beginnings (Matthew 3:1-17) Discussion Questions 1. How do feel about repentance? Why do you think a lot of people think it s a bad word or unpleasant topic? Read Matthew 3:1-12 2. As you

More information

T H E G R E A T E S T G I F T ( N I V T R A N S L A T I O N )

T H E G R E A T E S T G I F T ( N I V T R A N S L A T I O N ) C H R I S T M A S P A G E A N T S C R I P T T H E G R E A T E S T G I F T ( N I V T R A N S L A T I O N ) C H A R A C T E R S N a r r a t o r M a r y J o s e p h K i n g H e r o d D o v e S h e p a r d

More information

What s the Matter with Misfits? John 1:1-14. Series: The Promise of Christmas I Will Make You My Child. The Rev. Dr. Douglas C.

What s the Matter with Misfits? John 1:1-14. Series: The Promise of Christmas I Will Make You My Child. The Rev. Dr. Douglas C. What s the Matter with Misfits? John 1:1-14 Series: The Promise of Christmas I Will Make You My Child The Rev. Dr. Douglas C. Hoglund The Woodside Church Christmas Day, December 25, 2016 The highest-selling

More information

Luke 3A. And the end of Chapter 2, Luke gave us a fleeting picture of how Jesus lived as a boy

Luke 3A. And the end of Chapter 2, Luke gave us a fleeting picture of how Jesus lived as a boy Luke 3A And the end of Chapter 2, Luke gave us a fleeting picture of how Jesus lived as a boy o And especially how he came to live as both a man, in submission to earthly parents o And yet also as the

More information

The Prince Of Peace. Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Prince Of Peace. Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Rev. William J. Shields St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lindenhurst, Illinois Christmas Eve December 24, 2014 Gospel Lesson Luke 2:1-20 1 The Prince Of Peace 1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

More information

Immanuel Lutheran Church Love Live Give. it s all about the relationships

Immanuel Lutheran Church Love Live Give. it s all about the relationships Immanuel Lutheran Church Love Live Give it s all about the relationships Warm Christian greetings to all who chose to worship together today. May the Lord accept our worship. May each of us find our burdens

More information

Luke 3:1-15. Dramatic Reading

Luke 3:1-15. Dramatic Reading John 1: A Voice in the Wilderness: John the Baptist Sermon by: Silvia Purdie Verse for the day: John 1:6-8 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning

More information

About 18 years have passed since Jesus interacted with the teachers in the temple courts at the time of the Passover Feast

About 18 years have passed since Jesus interacted with the teachers in the temple courts at the time of the Passover Feast John The Baptist About 18 years have passed since Jesus interacted with the teachers in the temple courts at the time of the Passover Feast when we are told that John the Baptist has started his ministry.

More information

24 December 2018 St. Athanasius Lutheran Church. Jesu Juva. Glory to God in the Highest Text: Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14

24 December 2018 St. Athanasius Lutheran Church. Jesu Juva. Glory to God in the Highest Text: Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14 24 December 2018 St. Athanasius Lutheran Church Christmas Eve Vienna, VA Jesu Juva Glory to God in the Highest Text: Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14 (Note: Our Advent midweek meditations this

More information

Prelude & Welcome Entrance Hymn (Please stand on last verse) All People That on Earth Do Dwell LSB 791

Prelude & Welcome Entrance Hymn (Please stand on last verse) All People That on Earth Do Dwell LSB 791 THE NATIVITY OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST Saturday, June 23, 2018 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 24, 2018 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. As We Gather Did you notice that today is a birthday? Very few birthdays are remembered on

More information

SESSION 1. The Way Prepared. Jesus came to earth as the promised King who provides salvation for those who trust Him. DATE OF MY BIBLE STUDY: 11

SESSION 1. The Way Prepared. Jesus came to earth as the promised King who provides salvation for those who trust Him. DATE OF MY BIBLE STUDY: 11 SESSION 1 The Way Prepared Jesus came to earth as the promised King who provides salvation for those who trust Him. DATE OF MY BIBLE STUDY: 11 HE DECIDED THAT HE WOULD SEND HIS SON INTO THE WORLD TO PROVIDE

More information

Good Questions Come, O long expected Jesus, born to set all people free.

Good Questions Come, O long expected Jesus, born to set all people free. GOOD QUESTIONS Luke 3.7-18 Advent III, December 16, 2018 Tim Phillips, Seattle First Baptist Church Lesson: Luke 3.7-18 7 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, You brood of vipers!

More information

COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS

COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS YOUTH 27 NOVEMBER 2016 1 JANUARY 2017 COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS Lifelong Disciple Formation in Community of Christ is the shaping of persons in the likeness of Christ at all

More information

Jacob s Blessing The God Who Blesses Pastor Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church

Jacob s Blessing The God Who Blesses Pastor Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church Jacob s Blessing The God Who Blesses Pastor Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church Date: 2018-05-06 Have you ever had a time when you just needed a hug? I had a morning like this recently. I had

More information

SENT: Jesus Reconciles

SENT: Jesus Reconciles Rev. Joan Pell Sierra Pines United Methodist Church Sermon Series: Sent Sermon: 11/29/2015 Scripture: Luke 2:8-18 SENT: Jesus Reconciles NOTE: This sermon is mainly a summary of the ideas in the book by

More information

(1) Joy to a Broken World Luke 2:1-12 Dec 13, 2015, Adrian Moskal

(1) Joy to a Broken World Luke 2:1-12 Dec 13, 2015, Adrian Moskal (1) Joy to a Broken World Luke 2:1-12 Dec 13, 2015, Adrian Moskal Let s Pray: Heavenly Father, we want to hear from you this morning, I pray that we will be changed this morning by your word, through the

More information

THE WONDER OF A MANGER by Rom A. Pegram

THE WONDER OF A MANGER by Rom A. Pegram THE WONDER OF A MANGER by Rom A. Pegram In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius

More information

Now, we all know the one song of Simeon its Latin name is the Nunc Dimittis after the opening words Simeon sings let your servant depart in peace.

Now, we all know the one song of Simeon its Latin name is the Nunc Dimittis after the opening words Simeon sings let your servant depart in peace. The Song of Simeon Luke 2:25-35 Now, we all know the one song of Simeon its Latin name is the Nunc Dimittis after the opening words Simeon sings let your servant depart in peace. But I ve always wondered

More information

Advent. Prayers and Readings for Lighting your. Wreath

Advent. Prayers and Readings for Lighting your. Wreath Advent Prayers and Readings for Lighting your Wreath The Story of the Advent Wreath Advent wreaths were originally part of folk traditions of Northern Europe. Wreaths of evergreens were decorated with

More information

Now let me ask you a question should that be our attitude? Is baptism really that important? Should we say, Oh well to each his on

Now let me ask you a question should that be our attitude? Is baptism really that important? Should we say, Oh well to each his on Baptism Mat. 3:13-17 JOKE - Son of a Baptist Pastor was watching his dad baptize some people and he decided he wanted to be a preacher also. So he went home and decided to practice. He found an old tom

More information

So here we are, it is Advent. Thanksgiving has passed, black Friday has already happened and the Christmas season is now in full swing.

So here we are, it is Advent. Thanksgiving has passed, black Friday has already happened and the Christmas season is now in full swing. So here we are, it is Advent. Thanksgiving has passed, black Friday has already happened and the Christmas season is now in full swing. It s our Christian holiday that our culture has taken by storm and

More information

All Roads Lead Here: Blessed By Jason Huff March 19, 2017 Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Luke 24:46-48; Romans 4:5-12

All Roads Lead Here: Blessed By Jason Huff March 19, 2017 Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Luke 24:46-48; Romans 4:5-12 All Roads Lead Here: Blessed By Jason Huff March 19, 2017 Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Luke 24:46-48; Romans 4:5-12 Our final Scripture reading today comes from Romans 4:5-12. Hear now the Word of the Lord. However,

More information

Can. Can. Christmas? you tell me the story of. All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) by Bethany Tapp

Can. Can. Christmas? you tell me the story of. All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) by Bethany Tapp Can you tell me the story of Christmas? by Bethany Tapp All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) Can you tell me the story of Christmas? All Scriptures quoted from the NIV (1984) by Bethany Tapp Jesus

More information

WAITING WITH HOPE. Psalm 72:1-7, December 4, 2016

WAITING WITH HOPE. Psalm 72:1-7, December 4, 2016 WAITING WITH HOPE Advent 2, Year A: Isaiah 11:1-10 Rainey Gamble Dankel Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 December 4, 2016 Matthew 3:1-12 Trinity Church Key Passages: The wolf shall live with the lamb. (Isaiah 11:6a)

More information

Introduction. Greatest Prophet of the OT

Introduction. Greatest Prophet of the OT Matt. 3:112 True Repentance Sunday, 04 January 2009 18:45 Introduction Greatest Prophet of the OT Who was the greatest prophet in the Old Testament? God said Moses was greater than other prophets because

More information

Good News of Great Joy! An Advent Chain Activity Book

Good News of Great Joy! An Advent Chain Activity Book Good News of Great Joy! An Advent Chain Activity Book Scripture taken from the Good News Translation Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission. Good News of Great Joy!

More information

Touched By an Angel?

Touched By an Angel? Christmas Eve December 24, 2012 The National Presbyterian Church Touched By an Angel? Matthew 1:18-24; Isaiah 6:1-8 Dr. David Renwick There are three passages of scripture in which, when telling the Christmas

More information

John the Baptist John 1:19-34, Matthew 3:1-17, Mark 1:1-11, Luke 3:1-11

John the Baptist John 1:19-34, Matthew 3:1-17, Mark 1:1-11, Luke 3:1-11 John the Baptist John 1:19-34, Matthew 3:1-17, Mark 1:1-11, Luke 3:1-11 2 Before John was born God told his parents, John would do great things. But that didn t mean he was going to be rich. John didn

More information

COUNTED WORTHY Luke 2:1-10 Pastor Joyce Reed/Crossroads/December 22, 2013

COUNTED WORTHY Luke 2:1-10 Pastor Joyce Reed/Crossroads/December 22, 2013 COUNTED WORTHY Luke 2:1-10 Pastor Joyce Reed/Crossroads/December 22, 2013 I want my life to count. Have you ever said that? I want my life to count. I want my life to mean something.... To be more than

More information

Trinity Lutheran Church

Trinity Lutheran Church COMMUNION SONG All Who Hunger, Gather Gladly ELW #461 Trinity Lutheran Church *COMMUNION BLESSING* P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in God s grace. C: January

More information

Ruth & Luke Study Guides

Ruth & Luke Study Guides Ruth & Luke Study Guides Compiled by Ryan Benbow & Mark Colgan This set of Study Guides is arranged with the following divisions: Material covered... Page Ruth 1:1-2:3... 1 Ruth 2:4-3:13... 2 Ruth 3:14-4:22...

More information

Candle Christmas. God, grant me... the courage to change the things I can...

Candle Christmas. God, grant me... the courage to change the things I can... 1 st Candle Challenged @ Christmas God, grant me... the courage to change the things I can... Trust and Obey Verse 1 When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word, what a glory he sheds on our way!

More information

From Roots to Fruits Luke 3:7-14 (Parallel Passages: Matthew 3:5-10; Mark 1:5) Sermon Pastor Joe Davis Union Baptist Church October 8, 2017

From Roots to Fruits Luke 3:7-14 (Parallel Passages: Matthew 3:5-10; Mark 1:5) Sermon Pastor Joe Davis Union Baptist Church October 8, 2017 From Roots to Fruits Luke 3:7-14 (Parallel Passages: Matthew 3:5-10; Mark 1:5) Sermon Pastor Joe Davis Union Baptist Church October 8, 2017 I. INTRODUCTION How many of you enjoy gardening or growing things?

More information

SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT SEEDS TO BRANCHES CELEBRATION!

SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT SEEDS TO BRANCHES CELEBRATION! SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT SEEDS TO BRANCHES CELEBRATION! Peace Lutheran Church Saginaw, Michigan December 4, 2016 9:00 am Scripture of the Week Then Jesus asked, What is the kingdom of God like? What shall

More information

ADVENT 3C 12/16/18 We Are All Family (Luke 3:7-18)

ADVENT 3C 12/16/18 We Are All Family (Luke 3:7-18) ADVENT 3C 12/16/18 We Are All Family (Luke 3:7-18) I have a confession to make. I can t keep it a secret any longer. I can t deny it. It s simply this I m a sucker for inspirational movies about football.

More information

The Top 10 Lesson I Learned From Charlie Brown

The Top 10 Lesson I Learned From Charlie Brown Name: Date: The Top 10 Lesson I Learned From Charlie Brown 1. It s okay to be afraid... just don t let your fears control you. Charlie Brown often sat in bed and spoke of his fears, but no matter how scared

More information

Baptism, the Spirit and the Kingdom of God

Baptism, the Spirit and the Kingdom of God Baptism, the Spirit and the Kingdom of God By Wayne Conrad Good Shepherd Community Church Dallas, Texas In our efforts to understand the biblical doctrines of baptism, both water baptism and Spirit baptism,

More information

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM LESSON SNAPSHOT BOTTOM LINE: Jesus came for everyone. OBJECTIVE: Kids will learn that Jesus loves everyone. KEY PASSAGE: Luke 2:1-20, The Shepherds Visit Baby Jesus. MEMORY VERSE: But the angel said to

More information

Lesson 51-John the Baptist What to say-blue; What to read-black (Bible verse/s)

Lesson 51-John the Baptist What to say-blue; What to read-black (Bible verse/s) Lesson 51-John the Baptist ALMOST A THOUSAND YEARS BEFORE JESUS WAS BORN, THE PROPHET ISAIAH PREDICTED that a man would come and preach to the people of Israel and tell them that Jesus was coming, and

More information

FATHERS DAY For just a moment this morning I want us to go back to the beginning

FATHERS DAY For just a moment this morning I want us to go back to the beginning I. Opening Words FATHERS DAY 2018 On this Father s Day, I want to speak to all of us, but particularly to those of us who are male II. Origin of Man For just a moment this morning I want us to go back

More information

Glory to God in the Highest

Glory to God in the Highest FOCAL TEXT Luke 2:1 20 BACKGROUND Luke 2:1 20 Christmas Lesson Glory to God in the Highest MAIN IDEA Jesus birth brought peace and is worthy of the highest praise. QUESTION TO EXPLORE How can we praise

More information

Slides 1-4 Play "Mary Did You Know" with the words displayed on the screen. Next Slide Christmas Is About Family Luke 2:1-18

Slides 1-4 Play Mary Did You Know with the words displayed on the screen. Next Slide Christmas Is About Family Luke 2:1-18 1 Slides 1-4 Play "Mary Did You Know" with the words displayed on the screen. Next Slide Christmas Is About Family Luke 2:1-18 Please open your Bible to Luke 2. Read Luke 2:1-18. Christmas is about family.

More information

A NEW BEGINNING. Mark 1:1-8. Advent begins with a call to repentance and faith.

A NEW BEGINNING. Mark 1:1-8. Advent begins with a call to repentance and faith. A NEW BEGINNING Mark 1:1-8 Advent begins with a call to repentance and faith. A sermon preached by Rev. Dr. William O. (Bud) Reeves First United Methodist Church Fort Smith, Arkansas December 3, 2017 I

More information

Four In One Gospel (Part Four) Ministry of John the Baptist

Four In One Gospel (Part Four) Ministry of John the Baptist Four In One Gospel (Part Four) Ministry of John the Baptist Compiled by Gary T. Panell (Words that are identical are only given usually once, and the repetition is shown by three dots, such as "...".)

More information

Advent Devotional Do Not Be Afraid: Defeating Fear with Hope, Peace, Love, Joy and a Wholehearted Life

Advent Devotional Do Not Be Afraid: Defeating Fear with Hope, Peace, Love, Joy and a Wholehearted Life Advent Devotional Do Not Be Afraid: Defeating Fear with Hope, Peace, Love, Joy and a Wholehearted Life Introduction We re glad you are delving deeper into our Advent season together with this devotion!

More information

Intergenerational Worship

Intergenerational Worship Intergenerational Worship Bible Reading - Matthew 3:1-12 Year A Advent 2 Dec 4 2016 Matthew 3:1-12 What is this: Intergenerational Bible Reading, Skit and Art Observation Where it s used: In any intergenerational

More information