A SERMON PREACHED AT BETHANY BEACH CHRISTIAN CHURCH, BETHANY BEACH, DE, ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2017
|
|
- Augustus Anthony
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 A SERMON PREACHED AT BETHANY BEACH CHRISTIAN CHURCH, BETHANY BEACH, DE, ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2017 A young seminarian was chiding his wife on her spending habits. We have very little, and we need to be saving for what s ahead, so please, only buy what is essential, he told her. Later that day he came home to find his wife in a stylish new red dress, admiring herself in the mirror. I thought we agreed that you would not be purchasing anything new, he bellowed. We did, his wife said. But when I saw this I was sorely tempted. Red in the face, he retorted, when you were tempted, you should have said Get thee behind me Satan! That s what I did say, his wife replied. And he said, You know, it looks really good from the back! Ah, the words every fashionable woman wants to hear! We, however, are asked to listen and learn so many things in the lessons for today that it s difficult to know where to begin. We ended last week s reading from the gospel of Matthew with Jesus telling Peter that he is the rock upon which the church is to be built, undoubtedly bolstering Peter s confidence and setting him apart from all the other disciples when it comes to expectation levels. Now comes the hard part, where the disciples have to face the reality that by giving over so much responsibility to Peter, Jesus is, in effect, trying to prepare the disciples for his own death, and the manner in which it will take place. Peter will hear none of it. Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you! he exclaims. Jesus once again has to be firm with Peter with the now infamous words Get behind me, Satan! reminding Peter that he should not be concerned with such earthly matters like suffering and death, and that God has a greater plan in store for Jesus and the disciples. And then Jesus tells all of them about the cost of discipleship: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. We, as hearers of God s word, can make up all sorts of excuses, even through valid reasoning, to try to give this admonition some other meaning than its plain sense. But in the end, it is what it is, and that is a call to action (once again) that we, as Christians, must be willing to do whatever is possible, even if it
2 be life-threatening, to take up the cross, as did Jesus, in order help bring about God s kingdom, the beloved community of Christ. If what Jesus had to say to the disciples is not just metaphor, that he expects them, and by extension, us to be true bearers of the cross, just what would that mean? What would it look like for us to take up the cross? The book, The Cost of Discipleship, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a Lutheran minister who was imprisoned and executed by the Nazis in his native Germany, comes to mind. Bonhoeffer had a very strong opinion about how the notion of bearing the cross holds little meaning for those of us living in modern times. That is because we have gotten used to cheap grace, which, according to Wikipedia, is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, communion without confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ. Cheap grace, Bonhoeffer says, is to hear the gospel preached as follows: Of course you have sinned, but now everything is forgiven, so you can stay as you are and enjoy the consolations of forgiveness. The main defect of such a proclamation is that it contains no demand for discipleship. In contrast to cheap grace, costly grace confronts us as a gracious call to follow Jesus; it comes as a word of forgiveness to the broken spirit and the contrite heart. It is costly because it compels a man to submit to the yoke of Christ and follow him; it is grace because Jesus says: My yoke is easy and my burden is light. " Bonhoeffer uses a lot of terminology that makes us feel uncomfortable, such as repentance, forgiveness, cheap, costly, yoke, burden, discipline. We here are, I dare say, a church that intentionally requires little of our members, other than a confession to being Christian. What if our words and actions were really costly to us in some significant way? Or as the old saying goes, If we were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict us? Which brings us back to how it is that we are responding to our call to be Christian. What does that mean to you? How do you see Christ working in your daily lives? Several ways come to mind when I consider the membership of Bethany Beach Christian Church and what we are about in our worship of Christ. The first is prayer, an essential part of who we are as a community of believers. It is important that we pray for the well-being of others; prayers for our nation, for our President and Members of Congress should be always on our mind. This
3 week we should hold up in our prayers all those affected by Hurricane Harvey and the areas in which they live. When the rains stop, the worst continues while receding flood waters leave behind incredible devastation. May local governments and FEMA and the National Guard be able to provide solace to those who have already experienced so much loss! We should always be praying for peace in the world. Outside of our domestic problems there is an entire world at war. The Council on Foreign Relations daily publishes and updates a map of Global Conflict that lists the top ten hot spots of continually unresolved strife, naming The Balkans, Uzbekistan, Kashmir, The Philippines, Burundi, Indonesia, Angola, Zimbabwe, Venezuela, and Colombia. To that we can add what we already know about troubles in the Middle East and the Ukraine, plus domestic terrorism concerns throughout the countries of Europe. Add to that our BBCC prayer list with its ongoing best wishes and prayers for health and a happy issue of all afflictions for those we know and love best. Praying could be a full-time vocation at this rate! And prayer can take on many forms. Sending a card to a shut-in is a prayer. Calling someone to see how they are faring is a prayer. Posting a happy birthday message on Facebook is a prayer. Taking a friend or a colleague to lunch is a prayer. Sending a check to PAWS or Habitat for Humanity is a prayer. In fact, there are so many ways to pray that we really have no excuse to have it not be part of our daily routine. Prayer is just one of the ways to respond to our call as both disciples of Jesus and as Disciples of Christ. A second way to demonstrate our willingness to be disicples of Jesus is through intentionality. This is not a word that appears often in our dialogue with one another, but it is crucial, in every sense of the word, that we seek to be intentional about opening our minds and our hearts in our dealings with one another. If we say we welcome folks regardless of their economic or refugee status, race, creed, sexual orientation, married or not, then it cannot be lip service; it must be real, or our dishonesty will further divide us. And it is important that we invite those with whom we disagree to our table. Being an open congregation means that we must be open to all points of view. It is not possible to have diversity if it does not include those who hold different opinions than our own. Close mindedness is an affront to Christ s welcome at his table that we offer every Sunday. One cannot be a Christian with a heart that is hardened against another. That is part of what lead us not into temptation means - - the temptation of believing we are always right and that the other is always wrong. That s why it is so important to read and know Scripture - - not just pick and choose portions of it that support our way of thinking. To be frank,
4 as my father used to say, one can use the bible to support any point of view one wishes to hold. But in our hearts we understand the nuances and what is right. And what is always right is Jesus love for, respect for, and care for the downtrodden and repressed. There is no getting around that reality. So wherever there is hurt, wherever there is disclusion, wherever there is isolation, Jesus is there. And he stands before us in our dreams and in the encounters of real life to remind us that whoever oppresses others must answer to him, for they have injured the body of Christ as well. We are asked, therefore, and reminded daily by Christ s presence in our lives, to be intentionally kind, inclusive, loving, intuitively aware of the pain that others suffer, and of course to treat people as we would like to be treated. And as St. Paul writes in his Letter to the Romans, love must be the unflagging standard of our behavior. Our call as both disciples of Jesus and as Disciples of Christ depends on our understanding of these norms. Finally, but not in and of itself the totality of discipleship, is to understand and live by the way of the cross. All that I have mentioned before is part of the work to be done. But in order to do so, one has to set aside the time and energy to take the cross seriously, which to my way of thinking implies self-denial. Now I m not talking about giving up some kinds of food or gambling or drinking, although these actions could be beneficial to us in the long run. I m speaking about the kind of living that takes us outside of ourselves. It does not take any smarts to realize that when we are so concerned about ourselves, how we should live and what clothes we should wear and what club we should belong to, there is very little room for the needs and concerns of others. It is important, therefore, to remember that God s kingdom breaks through, in small but significant ways, every time we get out of our own way, and make it not about us but about Christ and what he would do. I dare say that the Lamb of God is often embarrassed, if not humiliated, by those who speak in his name. How is the beloved community of God to make its way into our world? An extended hand, a hug, a check, a call, a kind letter, an invitation to join, a smile, an acknowledgement, a reassuring comment, the passing of the peace. Disciples of Jesus and Disciples of Christ must take on these commitments to one another as part of our call. In conclusion, I d like to tell you the story about a friend of mine who pastors a small church from whence I came back in New York. Pastor Paul had been advised by his doctor to lose 30 pounds or risk serious health consequences. The good pastor took his new diet seriously, even changing his driving route to the church
5 building to avoid his favorite bakery. One morning, however, he arrived for Bible study carrying a gigantic devil s food cake. The class chuckled and chided him, but the good pastor s smile remained cherubic. This is a very special cake, he explained. I accidentally drove by the bakery this morning and there in the window were a host of goodies. I felt this was no accident, so I prayed, Lord, if you want me to have one of those delicious cakes, let me have a parking place directly in front of the bakery. And sure enough, he continued, the eighth time around the block, there it was! All of which is to say, let us not put off until tomorrow that what must be done today. Christ has called us, and not too soon at that, to a new way of living with one another. May we answer his call, and truly be D(d)isciples of Christ. Amen. The Rev. Dr. Rayner W. Hesse, Jr., Pastor, BBCC
A SERMON PREACHED AT BETHANY BEACH CHRISTIAN CHURCH, BETHANY BEACH, DE, ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2018 A couple had two little boys, ages 8 and 10,
A SERMON PREACHED AT BETHANY BEACH CHRISTIAN CHURCH, BETHANY BEACH, DE, ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2018 A couple had two little boys, ages 8 and 10, who were excessively mischievous. The two were always
More informationThe Cost of Discipleship Luke 9:51-62
June 30, 2013 The Cost of Discipleship Luke 9:51-62 READ Luke 9:51-62 Do you imagine that Jesus ever rolled his eyes at the disciples? Maybe even just took a deep breath before He responded to something
More information*BREAKING ADDICTIONS 2 Peter 2:19
*BREAKING ADDICTIONS 2 Peter 2:19 Addiction in our country and in our community is a major problem. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Alcohol is the most commonly used
More information1 2 Ibid
Message: Unity in Diversity What s a principle? I m not talking about the leader of a school. That s spelled differently. Dictionary.com defines a principle as a guiding sense of the requirements and obligations
More informationFor The Love of God For the Love of the World
Sermon for September 3, 2017 Church of Reconciliation, San Antonio The Rev. Judith L. Rhodes, Associate Rector For The Love of God For the Love of the World My dear friends and fellow Reconcilers, I want
More informationThe Glory of Suffering 1 Peter 4:12-19 November 5, 2017
The Glory of Suffering 1 Peter 4:12-19 November 5, 2017 Introduction This morning my message is about the topic of suffering. As I was looking back on the last few times I preached, I realized that my
More informationTrigger warning: domestic violence
Trigger warning: domestic violence This is a long post, but it includes thoughts I ve held in for years. Everything in this post I ve written and thought deeply about. I absolutely believe it is all necessary
More informationLuke, The coming of the gospel
I. The temptation of Jesus Luke, The coming of the gospel (Luke 4:1-13) Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, 2 where for forty days he was tempted
More informationIt doesn t point to something bigger than itself (like a metaphor does)
Happiness Habits of the Heart: Compassionate of heart, clear in word, gracious in awareness, courageous in thought, generous in love. It s Simple Sweet Heart! Mathew 21: 33-42, Exodus 20: 1-4. 7-10. 12-20
More informationFaithful & Afire LCMS Circuit Bible Studies
Faithful & Afire LCMS Circuit Bible Studies 2011-2012 The Under-Shepherd Under the Cross 1. Focus of This Study THE SHEPHERD WITH EARS TO HEAR The Shepherd Under the Law, Under the Gospel Read the excerpts
More informationWhat from Matt s session deepened your understanding of the background and content of the psalm?
Session 1: Psalm 119:1 16 DISCUSS How familiar are you with Psalm 119? What from Matt s session deepened your understanding of the background and content of the psalm? What are the two categories Matt
More informationLet us pray to live temperately, justly, and devoutly, as we await the glory of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ:
THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD [CHRISTMAS] A5 Let us pray to live temperately, justly, and devoutly, as we await the glory of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Deacon/Cantor/Priest For the baptized and the ordained;
More informationWere You There When Jesus Was Denied? Luke 22: The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Were You There
Lenten Vespers Sermon 2 ( Were You There? Series) Were You There When Jesus Was Denied? Luke 22:60-62 The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Were You There When Jesus Was Denied?, is Luke 22:60-62
More informationWeek 12 Guard the Gospel! 1,2 Timothy, Titus and Jude
Week 12 Guard the Gospel! 1,2 Timothy, Titus and Jude 1 Timothy: A Case Study in the Corruption and Disorder of a Church The Letter of 1 Timothy was written by Paul to give Timothy instruction about dealing
More informationthem is that you are not of God. The worst thing for a person to do is to reject God s
1 Sermon Judica John 8:46-59 The Benefits of God s Word Pastor James Preus Trinity Lutheran Church Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.
More informationSuggested Fasting Options
A 21 day prayer guide for the people of God longing for Christ s power and presence in their lives, and for reconciliation, redemption and renewal in their community. Suggested Fasting Options www.whole30.com
More informationThe Revolutionary Disciple: Obedient Matthew 7:15-29
September 14, 2014 Pastor Mark Toone Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church The Revolutionary Disciple: Obedient Matthew 7:15-29 Last week in worship I introduced my mother-in-law and her four friends who were
More informationSection A- Statement of Faith
Constitution of Eternity Christian Fellowship as of 05/08/06 updated 1/16/2019 Section A- Statement of Faith We believe: 1. In Jesus Christ as risen Lord, Savior, and Son of God as stated in the historic
More informationThe Purpose of Church Membership Various passages March 9, 2014
The Purpose of Church Membership Various passages March 9, 2014 Introduction: This morning we continue with our second message in our special sermon series entitled Church Membership Matters. Last week
More informationGolden Text: Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able (Luke 13:24).
Sunday, July 22, 2018 Lesson: Luke 13:22-30; Time of Action: 29 A.D.; Place of Action: Perea Golden Text: Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall
More informationBecome Like Jesus Philippians 2:1-13. Why am I here? So far we have discovered that our purpose is to know and love God and to
Become Like Jesus Philippians 2:1-13 Why Am I Here? God made us to love us and that means we have purpose and value. Why am I here? So far we have discovered that our purpose is to know and love God and
More informationThe Columns. Calvary Baptist Church. 608 Campbell, Avenue, S.W. Roanoke, VA (540)
The Columns Calvary Baptist Church 608 Campbell, Avenue, S.W. Roanoke, VA 24018 (540) 344-9237 http://www.calvaryroanoke.org Dr. Steven W. Pollard, Pastor Jared Martin, Minister of Music Donna de Simone,
More informationRadical Community Luke 14:25-33 Rev. Emily Peck-McClain
Radical Community Luke 14:25-33 Rev. Emily Peck-McClain People are often afraid of commitment. We live in a multi-tasking over-stimulated world. Sometimes it s hard to commit to being somewhere 24 hours
More informationThe Churchʼs Great Need
E.G. White The Churchʼs Great Need The Review and Herald, March 22, 1887 A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our needs. To seek this should be our first work. There
More informationSee, today I appoint you over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.
The First Reading is from the Prophet Jeremiah 1:4-10: 4 Now the word of the LORD came to me saying, 5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed
More informationFor 12 weeks, you will walk with this New Believer on what it means to be a Christian. You and your disciple will need three materials:
At Grace Life, we are committed to making Jesus-centered disciples for God s glory. We believe every follower of Jesus is called to go and make disciples by baptizing them and teaching them the commands
More informationJude THE FINAL COMMAND TO THE FAITHFUL (II) III. Rescue the ungodly (vs.22-23) IV. Remain in divine security (24-25) INTRODUCTION
Jude 17-25 THE FINAL COMMAND TO THE FAITHFUL (II) III. Rescue the ungodly (vs.22-23) IV. Remain in divine security (24-25) INTRODUCTION Someone once uttered these words, & maybe you are familiar with them:
More information6. Excretion: Getting Rid of the Junk Pastor David Flowers
6. Excretion: Getting Rid of the Junk Pastor David Flowers Sermon Series Focus In biology we learn that there are seven processes of life that identify all living organisms. We could also view these as
More informationWhy Did Jesus Have To Die?
Why Did Jesus Have To Die? This is a portion of a chapter entitled The (True) Story of the Cross in Tim Keller s book, The Reason for God. I could accept Jesus as a martyr, and embodiment of sacrifice,
More informationLet God Do a New Thing!
PRE-FAST PREPARATION Let God Do a New Thing! Y ou may be wondering, What is Celeste up to now? I m not up to anything, it s God. In the next few days He will call you to do something you hadn t considered
More informationWalking the Journey to Justice with Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Walking the Journey to Justice with Dietrich Bonhoeffer Dietrich Bonhoeffer was executed by hanging April 9, 1945, at the Flossenbürg concentration camp, just two weeks before its liberation. He was one
More informationBlessed Are The Meek A Sermon by Rev. Frank Rose
Blessed Are The Meek A Sermon by Rev. Frank Rose Do you sometimes feel that your life is out of control, or that you wished you had more mastery over yourself and over your world? The Lord was talking
More informationSermon for Transfiguration of our Lord Year A 2017 We have heard but are we listening?
Sermon for Transfiguration of our Lord Year A 2017 We have heard but are we listening? We have been sitting at the feet of Jesus for the past four Sundays hearing him preach his Sermon on the Mount. Today,
More informationCIRCLES OF INQUIRY: ANNUAL GATHERING, 2014 RADICAL INCLUSIVENESS: GA RESOLUTION 1327: BECOMING A PEOPLE OF GRACE AND WELCOME TO ALL
CIRCLES OF INQUIRY: ANNUAL GATHERING, 2014 RADICAL INCLUSIVENESS: GA RESOLUTION 1327: BECOMING A PEOPLE OF GRACE AND WELCOME TO ALL The resolution passed at GA 2013 resolving that: The CC (DOC) recognize
More informationJames 5: The Power of Confession and Prayer Sign Title: The Power of Confession and Prayer
November 6, 2011 James 5:16-20 - The Power of Confession and Prayer Sign Title: The Power of Confession and Prayer Good morning Faith family. We began studying James on March 13th. Today is our last message
More informationBelieve Chapter 27: Kindness / Goodness
Key Verse: Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 Goodness (Amos 5:15; Prov. 25:22; Matthew 7:12;
More informationHow To Offer A Living Sacrifice
How To Offer A Living Sacrifice I am sure all of us have experienced the situation in which we wanted to do something, but did not know how to do it, whether it was baking a cake, or tuning your car, or
More informationPrayer Praying for Yourself - 3 February 06, 2011
Prayer Praying for Yourself - 3 February 06, 2011 I. Review of Previous Teaching on Prayer A. Prayer Quotes 1. Some people pray just to pray and some people pray to know God. (Andrew Murray) 2. There is
More informationReligion Curriculum Curriculum Objectives. Grade 1
Kindergarten By the end of Kindergarten, students will be able to: Relationships with God *Grow in faith *Know that God sent Jesus as a baby *Know that Jesus died and lives again for them *Celebrate God
More informationThe BUILD text study for Thursday, January 21 st, 2016 Shiloh Baptist Church
The BUILD text study for Thursday, January 21 st, 2016 Shiloh Baptist Church Colleagues: Luke 4:14-21 will be the text under discussion at our BUILD Clergy Text Study on Thursday, January 21 st. I invite
More informationYOUR FIRST FORTY (40) DAYS
YOUR FIRST FORTY (40) DAYS In all probability someone has shared this study guide with you immediately following your decision to die with Jesus Christ in baptism. You have just come forth from the water
More informationJames 1 How To Be Sure
James 1 How To Be Sure Introduction Both the Greek and Hebrew words for faith can also be translated faithfulness. This helps tremendously to understand the true context of what James is talking about,
More informationQuestions Every Christian Asks 4. What About When I Die?
Charles Blaisdell, Senior Pastor First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Colorado Springs, Colorado March 26, 2017 2017 Questions Every Christian Asks 4. What About When I Die? Psalm 139:7-12 NRSV
More informationNeed Some Help? John 15: The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Need Some Help?, is
Pentecost B Need Some Help? John 15:26-27 The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Need Some Help?, is John 15:26-27. These are the word of Jesus: When the Helper comes, Whom I will send to you
More informationCalvary Chapel South Bay Women s Ministry. Precious. Eyes. in the. Part 1. This Homework Belongs To: Phone Number. My Group Leader is: Group Number
Calvary Chapel South Bay Women s Ministry Precious Eyes of God in the Part 1 This Homework Belongs To: Phone Number My Group Leader is: Group Number Calvary Chapel South Bay Women s Bible Study Precious
More informationThe Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments The First Commandment You shall have no other gods. We should fear, love and trust in God above all things. The Second Commandment You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.
More informationLuke 9:23-26 The Cost of Discipleship
Luke 9:23-26 The Cost of Discipleship That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which amounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and
More informationThe Second Commandment
The First Commandment You shall have no other gods. 1979 Northwestern Publishing House under auspices of Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod 1 The First Commandment We should fear, love and trust in God
More informationHe Is Out of His Mind; crazy! Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church Second Sunday After Pentecost June 7, 2015
He Is Out of His Mind; crazy! Message by DD Adams Providence United Methodist Church Second Sunday After Pentecost June 7, 2015 Today s gospel lesson is from the third chapter of Mark, verses 20 through
More informationII PETER Grace and Peace in Abundance October 20, 2013
II PETER Grace and Peace in Abundance October 20, 2013 I. His Divine power has granted us everything necessary for life and godliness A. II Peter 1:1-4... Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus
More informationWesley United Methodist Church Rev. Beverly E Stenmark Title: Stepping Out in Faith Text: Romans 10:5-15 Matthew 14:22-33
Wesley United Methodist Church Rev. Beverly E Stenmark Title: Stepping Out in Faith Text: Romans 10:5-15 Matthew 14:22-33 I had a sermon written for today a decent one. It was faithful to the scriptures.
More informationGrace in Our Town Devotional Book of James Recap
Grace in Our Town Devotional Book of James Recap -Group Study Leader- This recap brings us to the end of our James devotional study, and I cannot tell you how grateful I am for your dedication to your
More informationHow Far Would You Go? Mark 1: ) In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
How Far Would You Go? Mark 1:9-15 9) In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10) And when he had come up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens
More informationLOVE THE ONE YOU RE WITH BLC B. HULL SOMERS Genesis 2:18-24, Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16
1 LOVE THE ONE YOU RE WITH BLC B. HULL SOMERS 10.7.18 Genesis 2:18-24, Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 You would think that after last week s text with hell and cutting off hands and feet we might
More informationGod bless the reading, the hearing, the singing, and the speaking of the Word today. In Jesus name, Amen.
God bless the reading, the hearing, the singing, and the speaking of the Word today. In Jesus name, Amen. We ve all heard the proverb: Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.
More informationBishop Eddie L. Long Senior Pastor
Father God, Thank You for this year of Jubilee; the year of liberty throughout our generations! We receive restoration of everything the devil has snatched and stolen from us and our bloodlines. We receive
More informationMEMORIZING SCRIPTURE
THE L.I.F.E. PLAN MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE BLOCK 6 THEME 6 - YOUR DEVOTIONAL LIFE LESSON 3 (203 of 216) BLOCK 6 THEME 6: YOUR DEVOTIONAL LIFE LESSON 3 (203 OF 216): MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE LESSON AIM: Share important
More informationJames The World s Wisdom vs. God s Wisdom - Part 1 January 8, 2012
James The World s Wisdom vs. God s Wisdom - Part 1 January 8, 2012 I. Introduction A. James 3:13-18... Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness
More informationANCHORS IN TROUBLED TIMES
LET THE BIBLE SPEAK SERIES ANCHORS IN TROUBLED TIMES Hebrews 6:17-19 Ronny F. Wade, Speaker Introduction 1. Anchors are not a luxury; they are a necessity. 2. They guard the safety and survival of the
More informationAre You A True Disciple?
Are You A True Disciple? John 8:30-36 30 As he was saying these things, many believed in him. 31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
More informationv o i c e A Document for Dialogue and Study Report of the Task Force on Human Sexuality The Alliance of Baptists
The Alliance of Baptists Aclear v o i c e A Document for Dialogue and Study The Alliance of Baptists 1328 16th Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 Telephone: 202.745.7609 Toll-free: 866.745.7609 Fax: 202.745.0023
More informationa video companion study guide a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the united states and canada
a video companion study guide a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the united states and canada about this course This study guide and its accompanying
More informationKEEP THY HEART. (Discourse below by Brother Russell to the Interested, 1909 Convention Report, Spokane, Wash. Page 77.)
KEEP THY HEART (Discourse below by Brother Russell to the Interested, 1909 Convention Report, Spokane, Wash. Page 77.) Text: Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. If
More informationTHE CONFESSION OF BELHAR A WORKSHOP DESIGN
THE CONFESSION OF BELHAR A WORKSHOP DESIGN Produced by the Special Committee on the Belhar Confession Come Join Us in Community Based on the Confession of Belhar, Article 2. Suggested tune: McKee, CM By
More informationGive thanks to God for smiles and laughter and pray for the gift of happiness Pray about the world-wide efforts to curb national debt
Philippians 2:1-4 No: 4 Week: 254 Wednesday 21/07/10 Prayer God Almighty, You have come to earth in Jesus Christ to reveal the mysteries of Your glory, Your love and Your Redeeming power. Our minds cannot
More informationMorning Worship Services Sunday, August 12, 2007 Jesus Teaching on Prayer - 2 Matthew 6:1-18 Dean K. Wilson
Morning Worship Services Sunday, August 12, 2007 Jesus Teaching on Prayer - 2 Matthew 6:1-18 Dean K. Wilson Today we will spend the second of two weeks working our way through this extremely important
More informationHealing the Wounds of Ethnic Conflict By Dr Rhiannon Lloyd, Joseph Nyamutera and Anastase Sabamungu. February 2010
Healing the Wounds of Ethnic Conflict By Dr Rhiannon Lloyd, Joseph Nyamutera and Anastase Sabamungu. February 2010 In 1994, generations of unresolved ethnic division and injustice erupted as a genocide
More informationPr 18C Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Luke 14:25-33
Pr 18C Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Luke 14:25-33 If you are still recovering from whiplash after hearing the gospel lesson for today, I am sure that you are not alone! Some of you must have been silently muttering,
More informationVs12 12 No one has ever seen God; if we LOVE one another, God lives in us, and his LOVE is perfected in us.
1May 14, 2006 There was a little girl drawing a picture. Her mother looked at her efforts and with the wisdom of a mother asked, what are you drawing sweetheart? I'm drawing a picture of God. Careful not
More informationI Corinthians 15:58 Keeping our eyes on the goal
I Corinthians 15:58 Keeping our eyes on the goal Introduction At the start of each New Year many people commence with a resolution to make some kind of change to their lives. In my local gym I overheard
More informationPortofolio Transcript
Certificate of Theology The Certificate of Theology (C.Th.) is granted for demonstration of initial competencies associated with doing biblical theology and theology in culture. A Portfolio System is used
More informationSession 4. God s Friday
Session 4 God s Friday Scripture Mark 15:16 41 In this passage, Mark s Gospel reports the crucifixion of Jesus the description of six fateful hours, from nine o clock in the morning until three o clock
More informationBellaire Community UMC Repenting March 24 th, 2019 Eric Falker Page 1. Repenting. Lent With All Your Heart part #3
Eric Falker Page 1 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Repenting Lent 2019 - With All Your Heart part #3 I like to think that my parents raised me well. I have never had my leg broken because a hay wagon ran over me.
More informationMAJOR THEMES FROM THE MINOR PROPHETS: MALACHI. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church September 16, 2012, 6:00PM
MAJOR THEMES FROM THE MINOR PROPHETS: MALACHI. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church September 16, 2012, 6:00PM Sermon Texts: Malachi 2:10-16 Introduction. We have been away from Malachi
More informationSeptember 7, 2014 Luke 18:35-43 Hope Lutheran Church Pastor Wayne Puls & Pastor Lew Upchurch. Conversation Between Two Pastors
September 7, 2014 Luke 18:35-43 Hope Lutheran Church Pastor Wayne Puls & Pastor Lew Upchurch Conversation Between Two Pastors 5,355,649 followers. Can you believe that? This guy from Brazil named Wellington
More informationFrom the ELCA s Draft Social Statement on Women and Justice
From the ELCA s Draft Social Statement on Women and Justice NOTE: This document includes only the Core Convictions, Analysis of Patriarchy and Sexism, Resources for Resisting Patriarchy and Sexism, and
More informationThe Text, St. Matthew 4:1-11 (v. 1). 1 Then Jesus was led up into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
Sermon #1,250: St. Matthew 4:1-11 (Historic Gospel) 3-5-17, Lent 1, Bethany-Princeton MN (Hymns: 302, 430.1-4, 559; comm. 252, 249, 165.6-9) THE CHURCH IS THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE TEMPTED The Text, St. Matthew
More informationHebrews Hebrews 12:15-17 Guard Against the Enemies of Holiness March 14, 2010
Hebrews Hebrews 12:15-17 Guard Against the Enemies of Holiness March 14, 2010 I. The Christian s Wise Response to God s Discipline A. Hebrews 12:15-17... See to it that no one comes short of the grace
More informationCome, Let us Reason Together Isaiah 1:1-20 (text: vs. 18) by Rev. Keith Davis on a.m. Trinity PH Songs:
Come, Let us Reason Together Isaiah 1:1-20 (text: vs. 18) by Rev. Keith Davis on 3-17-19 a.m. Trinity PH Songs: Beloved congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ, of all the illustrations and expressions which
More informationParish Kit. the 2015 challenge.
Parish Kit International Women s Day 2010 Sunday 7 March International Women s Day has been observed since 1911 as the day connecting all women around the world. The theme this year is Empowering women
More information12 Priceless: finding your value in god 2015 LifeWay
12 P r i c e l e s s: f i n d i n g yo u r va l u e i n g o d What gives you value? Your value is determined by God. Remember those credit card commercials that went something like this? Two tickets to
More informationIt was near the end of a very hectic week several years ago. I was. still laboring over a sermon for that Sunday. I had a wedding to do, along
1 Knowing vs. Doing James 1:19-27 7/10/16 It was near the end of a very hectic week several years ago. I was still laboring over a sermon for that Sunday. I had a wedding to do, along with several meetings,
More informationHOMILY GIVEN BY BISHOP KEVIN C. RHOADES, BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AT THE RED MASS HELD IN SAINT PATRICK S
HOMILY GIVEN BY BISHOP KEVIN C. RHOADES, BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AT THE RED MASS HELD IN SAINT PATRICK S CATHEDRAL, HARRISBURG, PA, ON OCTOBER 19, 2015, SPONSORED BY THE
More informationRest for the Weary Matthew 11:25-30
Rest for the Weary Matthew 11:25-30 One thing that often characterizes our lives is weariness. We become weary for many different reasons: Busyness. We go non-stop from the time we get up until the head
More informationCling to Your Bible*
Cling to Your Bible* Unless we are intelligent in the Scriptures,* may we not, when this mighty miracle-working power of Satan is manifested in our world, be deceived and call it the workings of God; for
More informationIN NOMINE JESU. Grace be unto you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ
IN NOMINE JESU GOD S PEOPLES AFFLICTIONS AND GOD S COVENANTAL PROMISES Hear again the Word of the Lord to His Church on this seventh day of Christmas, as God speaks His enduring Promise of mercy in faithfulness:
More informationTHIRD SUNDAY IN LENT - OCULI March 19, 2017 Seeing His reflection in our mirror!
THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT - OCULI March 19, 2017 Seeing His reflection in our mirror! INTROIT Ps. 84:1-4; antiphon: Ps. 84:5 Blessed are those whose strength is in You,* in whose heart are the highways to Zion.
More informationSermon Luke th S af Epiphany Series C
Sermon Luke 4 31 44 4th S af Epiphany Series C Sermon: 4 th Sunday after Epiphany Text: Luke 4:31-44 (v. 32): They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority. Theme: Jesus authority
More informationThe Commands of Jesus
The Commands of Jesus The Story of the Commands of Jesus Study In a quest to find a small group Bible Study for committed Followers of Jesus who want to mature in their faith a search was made of existing
More informationThe Seven Deadly Sins and Godly Virtues
The Seven Deadly Sins and Godly Virtues Sunday 22 March 2015 Self-centred God-centred and available to others Pride Brittle self importance Assuming I matter more Greed Give me give me! wanting too much
More informationWe are Thankful November 23, 2011
We are Thankful November 23, 2011 Thankful for Blessings: 615 We Thank You for Your Blessings Invocation: In the name of the Father and of the (+) Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Cong: AMEN Confession of
More informationService of Worship. Christ the King. November 25, :30 am
Service of Worship Christ the King November 25, 2018 10:30 am Welcome to Ebenezer! We hope you are blessed by your time in worship today. Please complete the Welcome insert and place it in the offering
More informationDaily Devotion Guide
Daily Devotion Guide Year 2: Day 1 7 Life Together Series Five-Year Plan www.totalgrowth.org Introduction: We have just finished the first year of our Five-year Devotional Guide. Allow me to refresh your
More informationFace the Radical Nature of Discipleship. Further Instructions on Genuine Discipleship. Matthew 8: Matthew 8:16 22
FOCAL TEXT Matthew 8:18 22 BACKGROUND Matthew 8:16 22 MAIN IDEA Jesus demands that his disciples place him over the most legitimate and precious of human concerns, even shelter and family, as well as cultural
More information"Listen to Jesus Pray" John 17:1-11 May 12, Easter A Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"Listen to Jesus Pray" John 17:1-11 May 12, 2002 7 Easter A Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls Listen closely, dear hearers in Christ: Our Lord is praying. It is the night of the
More informationCome, Follow me! Feeling Wronged. It's easy to treat people well when they treat you well. The real test comes when they treat you badly!
1 Come, Follow me! Feeling Wronged Passages: Galatians 2:11-16 Matthew 18:15-35 It's easy to treat people well when they treat you well. The real test comes when they treat you badly! Think of a time when
More informationHow to pray: How to pray: Prepare: close your eyes, breath, clear your mind. How to pray: How to pray:
How to pray: Prepare: close your eyes, breath, clear your mind Lectio (read): Open your eyes and scan the scripture or an image. Note what draws your interest, but continue to scan the whole scripture.
More informationThe Mind Is the Battlefield
The Mind Is the Battlefield Chapter 1 From this Scripture we see that we are in a war. A careful study of this verse informs us that our warfare is not with other human beings but with the devil and his
More information5. End your FIFTEEN in prayer by asking God to heighten your awareness of spiritual realities.
Growing Deeper Stranger Things Week One: A Glimpse of Heaven Luke 16:19-31 Spend FIFTEEN Day One 1. It s obvious humans are physical creatures, but not always clear that we are spiritual beings as well.
More informationSo in summary, Faith, simply put, is trusting God... enough to live out in our life what Jesus teaches.
The Heart of Jesus' Message Welcome, friends, and may the Peace of God be with you. I'm hoping you are here because you Love God, and are interested in keeping yourselves and your lives nourished with
More information