O Come, Thou Wisdom from on High Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 7, 2018 The Baptism of the Lord Mark 1:4-11

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "O Come, Thou Wisdom from on High Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 7, 2018 The Baptism of the Lord Mark 1:4-11"

Transcription

1 O Come, Thou Wisdom from on High Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 7, 2018 The Baptism of the Lord Mark 1:4-11 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased. Well, here we are, gathered for worship at the beginning of a new year. It seems like the perfect time to do something new, to start something new. So, I m going to start a new sermon series called, O Come, Thou Wisdom from on High. It was my friend Don Flowers idea. Don noticed that on the church calendar we always finish out the old year with a big Christmas celebration and the story of Jesus birth, but often begin the new year with the story of the Wise Men, who saw that star in the east and came plodding toward Bethlehem on their camels, not arriving until sometime well after the shepherds had gone back to their flocks. January 6 is the Day of Epiphany, and when it falls on a Sunday we always tell that story. The Sundays after January 6 are called the Sundays after the Epiphany, and there are usually four or five of them depending on when Easter comes that year. Don was fascinated by the story of the Wise Men. He wondered why we call them wise. It doesn t say that in the text. In the best translations of Matthew 2:1-12, they are referred to only as magi. So, why do we call them wise? Don wondered. What do we mean by wisdom? Do we even care about it anymore? And finally, What would wisdom look like in 2018? Don should be asking these questions. He s a pastor, and he s just left a church in Charleston, South Carolina, for a church in 1

2 Wolfville, Nova Scotia. At this very moment he is probably wondering if that was a wise move. But back in the summer, when we were planning our preaching for the year, he thought it might be interesting to spend the Sundays after Epiphany thinking about what makes us wise and looking for clues in the Bible and I agreed. So, that s what we re going to do for the next few weeks: we re going to talk about wisdom. And a good place to start might be with the story of the Wise Men themselves. As I mentioned, Matthew never calls them that. Your Bible may have translated it that way but the word in Greek is magi, from which we get magician. Scholars think these magi may have been Zoroastrian priests from the region east of the Mediterranean, practitioners of astrology and magic, mysterious figures about whom Matthew s readers may have only heard rumors. We don t really know who they were, or how many there were. We often assume there were three of them, because they brought three gifts, or because of the hymn We Three Kings which is based on the legends that have evolved from this story and not on the Bible itself. No, Matthew only says they were magi, plural: there might have been two, there might have been twenty. But whoever they were, they don t appear to be very wise, not in this story. Or maybe just not very smart. Because they come to Jerusalem, to the king s palace, and ask Herod: Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage. In their defense, they may have assumed that the new king of the Jews was the son of the old king. That s often how it works, isn t it? But not in Herod s case. He, himself, was not born king of the Jews. He was appointed by the Roman Senate and had to throw the old king off the throne in order to take his place. Later he had two of his own sons murdered out of fear that they might 2

3 try to succeed him. When the Wise Men asked, Where is the one who was born king? it s as if they were asking, Where is the real king of the Jews? Herod was troubled, Matthew says, and all of Jerusalem with him because, as I ve told you before: When Herod ain t happy ain t nobody happy. Those Wise Men weren t so smart, but Herod was. Or maybe the word is shrewd. He called the chief priests and scribes together to find out where the Messiah (the true king of the Jews) was supposed to be born. In Bethlehem, they said, referring to an old prophecy from the Book of Micah. And then he called in the Wise Men to find out when they first saw this star, and they told him. And then, having found out when and where his rival was born, he told the Wise Men: Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage. In other words, Identify my rival for me. Come back with a name and a street address. Do you see what I mean? Herod is shrewd! He puts this newborn king in the crosshairs by asking where, and when, and who. So, the Wise Men went off to Bethlehem, none the wiser, and somewhere along the way they saw that star again, right over the house were Jesus was. When they saw it, Matthew says, they were overwhelmed with joy, maybe because their long journey had finally come to an end, or maybe because they had finally found what they were looking for, Jesus, although he couldn t have been what they expected. They were looking for a king, and instead they found a toddler with grubby cheeks. Still they fell down and worshiped him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Can you imagine how much humility that took? How open-minded they had to be, looking at that little kid and 3

4 mouthing the word king? But that s what they did. And then, Matthew says, being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went home by another way. They weren t all that smart, but they were wise, and what made them wise I think was this: when they saw that star burst into existence like a firework over Bethlehem they said, Let s go. They probably didn t say it right away. They had to spend some time figuring out what it was and what it meant. And once they did they probably spent some more time thinking about what a trip like that would require: weeks and weeks of travel in less than favorable circumstances to an unknown destination and an uncertain goal. They probably had the same kinds of conversations Lewis and Clark had before starting out on their expedition. But eventually they said to each other, Let s just do it; let s go! They packed their provisions, climbed on their camels, and started off with no idea where this journey would lead them, or that they would come home not only a different way, but different people. They went as magi; they returned as Wise Men. Let me suggest to you that wisdom begins with an open mind, with a willingness to go and see something you ve never seen, to encounter something you have never encountered, and to learn something you have never learned. There is no place among the wise for those whose minds are already made up, for those who have put their thoughts into logic-tight compartments in their brains where they can t be contested or contradicted. We don t call such people wise; we call them stubborn and opinionated, unwilling to hear anybody else s point of view. What I love about these Wise Men is this: that they see that star and say, Let s go! Let s go see what that is! Let s go find out more! There is a childlike wonder in that response, an insatiable curiosity. In that 4

5 respect they are just like the shepherds in Luke s version of the Christmas story, who hear the good news that unto them is born this day in the city of David a savior, who is Christ the Lord, and instead of rolling over and going back to sleep they say to each other, Let s go! Let s go and see this thing that has been made known to us! And just like that they jump up from the ground, leave their sheep behind, and go racing off toward Bethlehem, tripping over roots and rocks on the way. When they get to the stable they find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, just as the angel said. But it must have taken some humility, some open-mindedness, for them to see in that poor peasant child the savior of the world. They, too, are wise men: wise because when they sense that God is up to something in the world they are willing to go and see. Just like the people in today s Gospel lesson from Mark 1:4-11. When they heard that there was a man named John out there in the wilderness, wearing camel s hair with a leather belt around his waist, snacking on locusts and wild honey and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins they said, Let s go! Let s go and hear more! Let s go and see who this crazy Baptist is and what he s up to! And so they did, Mark says. They went by the hundreds, by the thousands, and if we can trust Matthew s account (and I think we can) what they heard was this: John the Baptist saying, Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven has come near. As I ve told you before, there are two Greek words that are translated repent: one is epistrephein, which means to turn around, and the other is metanoia, which means to change one s mind. Can you guess which one John uses here? Metanoia! Change your mind! he says. Stop thinking that you know everything about who God is and how God works. Give him a little room to do something new and different! And the wise among them did exactly that: they repented. 5

6 They opened up their closed minds to make some room for God, to allow him to do a new thing in a new way, and he did. I baptize you with water, John said, but someone who is more powerful than I is coming, someone who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. I am not worthy to untie his sandals. And, sure enough, Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan, and as soon as he came up out of the water he saw the sky torn open like the top of a circus tent, and the Holy Spirit fluttering down like a dove, and a voice from heaven saying, You are my Son, the Beloved; in you I am well pleased. I m sure there were some there who said, That couldn t be God s beloved Son. That s Jesus, the carpenter, from Nazareth. Everybody knows the Messiah will be a descendant of David, from Bethlehem, the city of David. That couldn t be him. But there must have been others who said, Maybe God knows better than you who is, or isn t, his Beloved Son. Maybe we should trust him with that decision. It s true: Jesus probably wasn t what they expected; he probably didn t look like the Messiah they had in mind. But they were doing what John had suggested: they were changing their minds; they were letting God have his way, in the world and in their lives. They humbled themselves and waded out into the waters of baptism saying, Whatever you want, Lord. Whatever you say. And I think this is how you get wisdom. I was telling someone just last week that it s hard for people who have it all together to experience God s grace. Their life is like an uncracked egg: it s smooth and beautiful, but nothing can get in. But once their lives have been broken open by tragedy, or heartbreak, or repentance the grace can get in, and when it does it changes everything. The same is true for wisdom, and especially the wisdom from on high. If we think we 6

7 already know it all, if our minds are already made up, then how will God s wisdom get in? We ve got to have some humility about this. We ve got to be willing to find out that we were one hundred percent wrong about everything, and then repent, turn around, And go home another way. Jim Somerville

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

Euangelion PART 2: PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS

Euangelion PART 2: PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS PART 2: PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS MARK 1:1-11 (NRSV) Now John was clothed with camel s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, The one who is more powerful

More information

Using God s Revealed Knowledge Matthew 2:1-6. The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Using God s Revealed

Using God s Revealed Knowledge Matthew 2:1-6. The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Using God s Revealed Epiphany A,B,C Using God s Revealed Knowledge Matthew 2:1-6 The text for this sermon, the theme of which is, Using God s Revealed Knowledge, is Matthew 2:1-6 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea

More information

Epiphany January 6, 2019

Epiphany January 6, 2019 Epiphany January 6, 2019 Today is the day that we celebrate the Wise Men coming to visit Jesus. At first, I thought that it was kind of a shame that we had to take down our Christmas putz before today

More information

S e e the Sa vior? Communications. Creative. Sample. Devotions, Rhymes, and Seek-and-Find Puzzles for LENT

S e e the Sa vior? Communications. Creative. Sample. Devotions, Rhymes, and Seek-and-Find Puzzles for LENT Do You S e e the Sa vior? Devotions, Rhymes, and Seek-and-Find Puzzles for LENT Born in a Barn Do you see the Savior? The search has just begun. His star is rising in the east, bright as the shining sun.

More information

Catechism Bible Mega Quiz 2018 Question Bank: Class 1 Jesus Christ - Birth

Catechism Bible Mega Quiz 2018 Question Bank: Class 1 Jesus Christ - Birth Catechism Bible Mega Quiz 2018 Question Bank: Class 1 Jesus Christ - Birth CHARACTERS & REFERENCES Jesus Christ Birth Narrative o Mathew Chapters 1 to 2 o Luke: Chapters 1 to 2 Page 2 of 35 MATTHEW & LUKE:

More information

Sermon Matthew 2:1-12 January 7, Sermon Title: The Humble Search of the Magi

Sermon Matthew 2:1-12 January 7, Sermon Title: The Humble Search of the Magi Sermon Matthew 2:1-12 January 7, 2018 Matthew 2:1-12 HPMF Sermon Title: The Humble Search of the Magi Matthew 2:1-12 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from

More information

THE FEDERATED CHURCH OF HYANNIS

THE FEDERATED CHURCH OF HYANNIS THE FEDERATED CHURCH OF HYANNIS 320 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601 Office Phone (508) 775-0298 www.federatedchurch.org January 7, 2018 10:00 a.m. First Sunday after Epiphany ORDER OF SERVICE WE GATHER

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

O Lord, we pray, speak in this place, in the calming of our minds and in the longing of our

O Lord, we pray, speak in this place, in the calming of our minds and in the longing of our Sermon-1 Epiphany B-Jan. 11, 2015 Mark 1:4-11 4John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5And people from the whole Judean countryside

More information

John the Baptist: Preparing for Jesus

John the Baptist: Preparing for Jesus FOCAL TEXT Mark 1:1 11 BACKGROUND Mark 1:1 15; 6:14 29; 11:27 33 MAIN IDEA John the Baptist proclaimed the message of preparing for Jesus coming by repenting of sin, seeking God s forgiveness. LESSON ONE

More information

Matt. 2: When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising,

Matt. 2: When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, Matt. 2: 1-12 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed

More information

The Christmas Story. Illustrated with Ornaments. By Clay Jones

The Christmas Story. Illustrated with Ornaments. By Clay Jones The Christmas Story Illustrated with Ornaments By Clay Jones How to turn your hri$tma$ tree into a CHRISTmas tree My niece recently asked me if I had some Christmas ornaments that were more centered on

More information

JESUS BIRTH AND BAPTISM

JESUS BIRTH AND BAPTISM JESUS BIRTH AND BAPTISM LESSON 10 caring for PEOPLE for PEOPLE matter to God Romans 5:8 We now begin a study of the life of the greatest man who ever lived. Jesus Christ was much more than a man. He was

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

PUPPET SCRIPTS WINTER

PUPPET SCRIPTS WINTER PUPPET SCRIPTS WINTER 2013-2014 Sunday, December 1, 2013 Leaper Says: The Bible story today is about a prophet (a person who speaks for God) who tells what is going to happen in the future. Isaiah says

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

Our questions: 1. What is the Style of Writing of 2 Samuel 7?

Our questions: 1. What is the Style of Writing of 2 Samuel 7? Introduction The purpose of this unit is to: Understand deeper the nature of the Kingdom of God and the King of God s Kingdom. We ll specifically look at 2 Samuel 7:1-17. This passage is foundational to

More information

DON T MISS THE POINT

DON T MISS THE POINT DON T MISS THE POINT By Neil Smith at Christmas Day Service at King of Kings 09:00 INTRODUCTION Right Let s do a poll by show of hands... Who was up the earliest this morning? Anyone before 7am? 6am? 5am?

More information

Jesus is the Reason for the Season!

Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Jesus is the Reason for the Season! So what do we do now? Hello, everyone! In place of a January Sunday School, we are implementing a winter break until we meet again on February 3rd! The days after Christmas

More information

INVESTIGATING GOD S WORD... MARK YEAR TWO SUMMER QUARTER SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM FOR YOUNG ELEMENTARY CHILDREN SS02SU-E

INVESTIGATING GOD S WORD... MARK YEAR TWO SUMMER QUARTER SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM FOR YOUNG ELEMENTARY CHILDREN SS02SU-E INVESTIGATING GOD S WORD... MARK YEAR TWO SUMMER QUARTER SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM FOR YOUNG ELEMENTARY CHILDREN SS02SU-E LESSON SEQUENCE SUMMER QUARTER The Lesson Sequence gives the teacher an overview

More information

AN EPIPHANY PAGEANT OF LESSONS AND CAROLS

AN EPIPHANY PAGEANT OF LESSONS AND CAROLS AN EPIPHANY PAGEANT OF LESSONS AND CAROLS This is a short pageant designed to be used during worship in late Advent, Christmas or early Epiphany. This pageant serves as the liturgy of the word during worship.

More information

Four Lessons for January 2019

Four Lessons for January 2019 Four Lessons for January 2019 January 6, 2019 The Epiphany of the Lord January 13, 2019 The Baptism of the Lord January 20, 2019 The Second Sunday in Ordinary Time January 27, 2019 The Third Sunday in

More information

GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) UPPER ELEMENTARY LESSON 2. The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:1 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON

GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) UPPER ELEMENTARY LESSON 2. The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:1 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) UPPER ELEMENTARY LESSON 2 The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:1 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON l e s s o n snapshot 1. OPENING REVIEW.... 5 MIN Use last

More information

TIM CHESTER. Preparing for BAPTISM. sessions. Exploring what the Bible says about baptism

TIM CHESTER. Preparing for BAPTISM. sessions. Exploring what the Bible says about baptism TIM CHESTER Preparing for BAPTISM 3 sessions Exploring what the Bible says about baptism Preparing for Baptism Exploring what the Bible says about baptism Published by The Good Book Company Tel (UK): 0333

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

Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born.

Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born. The Birth of Jesus How Many Inaccuracies Can You Find? Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born. LUKE 2:4 4 So Joseph also went up from

More information

Wisdom: You Know what You Don t Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 21, 2018 The Third Sunday after the Epiphany John 1:43-51

Wisdom: You Know what You Don t Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 21, 2018 The Third Sunday after the Epiphany John 1:43-51 Wisdom: You Know what You Don t Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 21, 2018 The Third Sunday after the Epiphany John 1:43-51 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, We have found him about whom

More information

Sarah Jo Sarchet once pastored at a Presbyterian church in Chicago. She told this story in a sermon.

Sarah Jo Sarchet once pastored at a Presbyterian church in Chicago. She told this story in a sermon. Title: Here Comes the Spirit Let us pray. Most holy, Lord God, today we remember the baptism of your son and the gift that baptism gives us, the Holy Spirit; empower and renew us to do your work in the

More information

Helpful Elements: Water pitcher (unbreakable) with water in it Shallow bowl River stones. Please pray with me as we open our time together.

Helpful Elements: Water pitcher (unbreakable) with water in it Shallow bowl River stones. Please pray with me as we open our time together. Worship Service Sunday after Epiphany: LORD S BAPTISM / WATER Helpful Elements: Water pitcher (unbreakable) with water in it Shallow bowl River stones Welcome: Welcome! It s so good to be together to celebrate

More information

FIRST (SCOTS) SERMONS OUR SPIRITUAL ADOPTION

FIRST (SCOTS) SERMONS OUR SPIRITUAL ADOPTION FIRST (SCOTS) SERMONS OUR SPIRITUAL ADOPTION Scripture Lessons: Genesis 21:1-7; Mark 1:4-11 This sermon was preached by Dr. L. Holton Siegling, Jr. on Sunday, January 7, 2018 at First (Scots) Presbyterian

More information

If that isn t enough, some scholars, including Martin Luther, believed that since the

If that isn t enough, some scholars, including Martin Luther, believed that since the George A. Mason Epiphany Sunday Wilshire Baptist Church 6 January 2019 Dallas, Texas The Gifts We Give Matthew 2:1-12 Happy New Year, church. Six days into the new year, we can still say that. We re done

More information

Sunday School Curriculum Summer Quarter

Sunday School Curriculum Summer Quarter Sunday School Curriculum Summer Quarter One Story Ministries SS02SU Lesson Sequence Summer Quarter The Lesson Sequence gives the teacher an overview of the entire quarter. The central goal of the Investigating

More information

Inspired to Follow: Art and the Bible Story Session 8: The Birth of Jesus

Inspired to Follow: Art and the Bible Story Session 8: The Birth of Jesus Luke 2: 1-20 Inspired to Follow: Art and the Bible Story Session 8: The Birth of Jesus 1 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first

More information

Christmas Eve. St. Luke s United Methodist Church. December 24, o clock in the Evening. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692

Christmas Eve. St. Luke s United Methodist Church. December 24, o clock in the Evening. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692 St. Luke s United Methodist Church 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692 Christmas Eve December 24, 2016 5 o clock in the Evening Telephone (757) 898-3017 www.stlukesyorktown.org The Order of

More information

And It Happened Sermon by Rev. Katherine Raley First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Colorado Springs, CO January 11, 2015

And It Happened Sermon by Rev. Katherine Raley First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Colorado Springs, CO January 11, 2015 And It Happened Sermon by Rev. Katherine Raley First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Colorado Springs, CO January 11, 2015 Mark 1:4-11 (Mark as Story translation) 1 [The messenger] was John baptizing

More information

COMING OF GOD S SON, JESUS

COMING OF GOD S SON, JESUS Bible Stories for Young Children part of a curriculum prepared for young children NEW TESTAMENT BOOK 1 COMING OF GOD S SON, JESUS by Chris Thorpe & people from Coromandel Baptist Church Illustrated by

More information

TEACHER BIBLE STUDY Wise Men Visited Jesus Matthew 2:1-21

TEACHER BIBLE STUDY Wise Men Visited Jesus Matthew 2:1-21 TEACHER BIBLE STUDY Wise Men Visited Jesus Matthew 2:1-21 The wise men were magi. Their study of the stars led them to Judea to find and worship Jesus, the newborn King. Before they found Jesus, though,

More information

Program: Come Let Us Adore Him Summary

Program: Come Let Us Adore Him Summary Program: Come Let Us Adore Him Summary Opening Prayer : Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful verses 1 & 2 (Hymns, no. 202) Scripture: Matthew 1:18 23 : Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful verse 3 Scripture: Luke 2:1 7 : O

More information

St. Luke s United Methodist Church. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia Christmas Eve. December 24, o clock in the Evening

St. Luke s United Methodist Church. 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia Christmas Eve. December 24, o clock in the Evening St. Luke s United Methodist Church 300 E lla Taylor Road Yorkt own, Virginia 23692 Christmas Eve December 24, 2015 5 o clock in the Evening Telephone (757) 898-3017; Fax (757) 898-4304 www.stlukesyorktown.org

More information

The Feast of the Baptism of our Lord Service Booklet for Families

The Feast of the Baptism of our Lord Service Booklet for Families The Feast of the Baptism of our Lord Service Booklet for Families Dear Families, What a joy it is to celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord as a church family and welcome four children into the

More information

Why Jesus Came Give. Caesar Augustus gave a decree -- an imperial edict

Why Jesus Came Give. Caesar Augustus gave a decree -- an imperial edict 1 Jesus came to teach us to give. Why Jesus Came Give One of the great things about Christmas is giving. At the end of our celebration we watched the movie, Little Women. In her book, Little Women, Louisa

More information

The Light of Identity Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 8, 2017 Baptism of the Lord Matthew 3:13-17

The Light of Identity Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 8, 2017 Baptism of the Lord Matthew 3:13-17 The Light of Identity Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 8, 2017 Baptism of the Lord Matthew 3:13-17 And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were

More information

The Work of St. Joseph. A Bright New Star

The Work of St. Joseph. A Bright New Star The Work of St. Joseph Read Matthew 1:19- An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her

More information

Day 204. Angels help God s people. They bring messages from God.

Day 204. Angels help God s people. They bring messages from God. The angel said to him, I am Gabriel. I serve God. I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. Luke 1:19 Day 204 Angels help God s people. They bring messages from God. Gabriel was

More information

Preschool. November 30, :15am

Preschool. November 30, :15am Preschool November 30, 2014 10:15am Leader BIBLE STUDY Use Week of:november 30, 2014 Zechariah s son, John, lived in the wilderness. John s ministry began when God s word came to him, and he began preaching

More information

Christmas I.Q. Test. 1. T or F: As long as Christmas has been celebrated, it has been on December 25.

Christmas I.Q. Test. 1. T or F: As long as Christmas has been celebrated, it has been on December 25. Christmas I.Q. Test 1. T or F: As long as Christmas has been celebrated, it has been on December 25. 2. Joseph was from: a. Bethlehem b. Jerusalem c. Nazareth d. Egypt 3. Which gospel traces the genealogy

More information

Saved by faith alone Mark 1:4-11

Saved by faith alone Mark 1:4-11 Saved by faith alone Mark 1:4-11 John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going

More information

Opening Sentence Versicle and Response Invitatory Psalms Psalm 4

Opening Sentence Versicle and Response Invitatory Psalms Psalm 4 Monday of Epiphany 1 Evening Prayer Opening Sentence Let my prayer be set forth in your sight as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Psalm 141:2 Versicle and Response O God, make

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

Revealed Mark 1:1-11 Baptism of the Lord (January 13, 2013)

Revealed Mark 1:1-11 Baptism of the Lord (January 13, 2013) First Presbyterian Church January 13, 2013 Rev. Pen Peery Revealed Mark 1:1-11 Baptism of the Lord (January 13, 2013) The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in

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 most common statement rendered as a definition for water baptism is that this act is an outward expression of an inward experience.

The most common statement rendered as a definition for water baptism is that this act is an outward expression of an inward experience. Believers Baptism Vine s Expository Dictionary gives dual meaning to the term baptism. To submerge totally underwater the physical act or outward expression. To be overwhelmed. The spiritual result or

More information

On Christmas we sang the hymn Joy to the World. What a great hymn and

On Christmas we sang the hymn Joy to the World. What a great hymn and 1 SERMON FOR JANUARY 6, 2019 TEXT: MATTHEW 2: 1-11 THEME: THE MYSTERY OF THE EPIPHANY 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests

More information

A Christmas Quiz: Separated Version

A Christmas Quiz: Separated Version A Christmas Quiz: Separated Version Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective. The quiz with questions and answers together can be found here. 1.

More information

Lesson Plans that Work Year B First Sunday after the Epiphany Lesson Plans for Younger Children

Lesson Plans that Work Year B First Sunday after the Epiphany Lesson Plans for Younger Children Lesson Plans that Work Year B First Sunday after the Epiphany Lesson Plans for Younger Children Scripture: Mark 1:4-11 Background Epiphany means several things: a gift is received; the gift must be shared.

More information

The Shepherd s Candle - Week Four (Today you can begin lighting 4 candles, then pray, and say the key verse together.)

The Shepherd s Candle - Week Four (Today you can begin lighting 4 candles, then pray, and say the key verse together.) 43 The Shepherd s Candle - Week Four (Today you can begin lighting 4 candles, then pray, and say the key verse together.) Sunday and Monday, December 21 and 22 If we were going to plan the birth of the

More information

Sermon Epiphany Sunday January 7, 2018

Sermon Epiphany Sunday January 7, 2018 Sermon Epiphany Sunday January 7, 2018 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. They asked, Where is the newborn

More information

Christmas Eve 2017 Pastors Dave Hoffman and Mark Hoffman Foothills Christian Church December 24, 2017

Christmas Eve 2017 Pastors Dave Hoffman and Mark Hoffman Foothills Christian Church December 24, 2017 Christmas Eve 2017 Pastors Dave Hoffman and Mark Hoffman Foothills Christian Church December 24, 2017 Dave: What we re going to do now is we re going to read through the Christmas story. The birth of Jesus.

More information

Diocese of South-West America Sunday School. Kindergarten Jesus Loves Me

Diocese of South-West America Sunday School. Kindergarten Jesus Loves Me Diocese of South-West America Sunday School Kindergarten Jesus Loves Me Table of Contents Lessons 1-8 (before Dec/Jan) Lessons 9-15 (before May/June) There are no written examinations at this level LESSON

More information

Crib Service 2. Order of service. Welcome. Opening Responses Tonight we are excited Bless us with wonder

Crib Service 2. Order of service. Welcome. Opening Responses Tonight we are excited Bless us with wonder Crib Service 2 An outline for a Crib Service narrated by the inn keeper and his wife Samuel and Sarah. Contains other readings and prayers With suggestions for carols Order of service Welcome Opening Responses

More information

CONVERSATIONS Advent: Isaiah. Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV)

CONVERSATIONS Advent: Isaiah. Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV) Advent: Isaiah Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV) 1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will

More information

Believer s Baptism. I. Obedience: Jesus set the example for us to follow even He was baptized.

Believer s Baptism. I. Obedience: Jesus set the example for us to follow even He was baptized. Dear Parents: We are excited to give your children an opportunity to take this important step in their relationship with Christ. Here is information for you to discuss with your child before the baptism

More information

Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective.

Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective. A Christmas Quiz Dr. Dale Taliaferro s 38-question quiz concerning the Christmas story from a biblical perspective. Take the quiz yourself: click here for a format with the questions and answers separated.

More information

HIS CHRISTMAS Matthew 2:1-12 after Jesus was born East came to Jerusalem Where is He worship Then secretly star young Child worship star young Child

HIS CHRISTMAS Matthew 2:1-12 after Jesus was born East came to Jerusalem Where is He worship Then secretly star young Child worship star young Child HIS CHRISTMAS Matthew 2:1-12 Now after Jesus was born (not before) in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East (probably Persia) came to Jerusalem, (not Bethlehem

More information

1. The Revelation (1-6) A. To the Gentiles

1. The Revelation (1-6) A. To the Gentiles Title: 2 Kings and 2 Kingdoms Text: Matthew 2.1-12 Theme: The threat of truth Series: Matthew #3 Prop Stmnt: The true King threatens all false kings with exposure and defeat. This week, the media has attempted

More information

God s Hand in our Lives Teacher s Notes NT John the Baptist

God s Hand in our Lives Teacher s Notes NT John the Baptist STORY 7/23/2003 The Ministry of John and Baptism of Jesus - Matthew 3:1-17 (Note: the focus is on the baptism of Jesus and less so on the work of John the Baptist) (Also see for John's ministry: Mark 1:1-8,

More information

Sermon for Epiphany. Guided by the Light

Sermon for Epiphany. Guided by the Light 1 Sermon for Epiphany Text: Matthew 2:1-3 Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the time when Herod was king. Soon afterward, some men who studied the stars came from the East to Jerusalem

More information

Shepherds December 20, 2015 Luke 2:8-20. For hundreds of years before His birth, prophets foretold the coming of the Anointed One from

Shepherds December 20, 2015 Luke 2:8-20. For hundreds of years before His birth, prophets foretold the coming of the Anointed One from I. Introduction Shepherds December 20, 2015 Luke 2:8-20 For hundreds of years before His birth, prophets foretold the coming of the Anointed One from God the Messiah or, as He is called in Greek, the Christ.

More information

Exegetical Notes, Matthew 2:1-12 The Visitation of the Magi Matthew 2:1-12

Exegetical Notes, Matthew 2:1-12 The Visitation of the Magi Matthew 2:1-12 Exegetical Notes, Matthew 2:1-12 The Visitation of the Magi Prepared by Charles H. Jensen, Pastor, Cornerstone Fellowship 101 Kylies Road, Coatesville, PA 19329 610-384-1375 charleshjensen@aol.com Matthew

More information

For our shared or personal reflection: After a brief pause for silent reflection share your answers, ideas or feelings.

For our shared or personal reflection: After a brief pause for silent reflection share your answers, ideas or feelings. December 7, 2008 2 nd Sunday of Advent (Cycle B) Gospel reading Mark 1:1-8 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: Behold, I am sending my messenger

More information

Leader Prep & Bible Study

Leader Prep & Bible Study Leader Prep & Bible Study BIBLE STUDY The wise men were magi. Their study of the stars led them to Judea to find and worship Jesus, the newborn King. Before they found Jesus, though, the wise men met King

More information

Wisdom: You Don t Know What You Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 28, 2018 The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Mark 1:14-20

Wisdom: You Don t Know What You Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 28, 2018 The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Mark 1:14-20 Wisdom: You Don t Know What You Know Richmond s First Baptist Church, January 28, 2018 The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Mark 1:14-20 As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother

More information

The Birth of Jesus in Matthew. Matthew 1-2

The Birth of Jesus in Matthew. Matthew 1-2 The Birth of Jesus in Matthew Matthew 1-2 Focus on what is here Matthew A Jewish Christian Convinced that Jesus has come to be Savior of the Jews and the world Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,

More information

Christmas Quiz Answers

Christmas Quiz Answers Christmas Quiz Answers 1. The name of the mother of Jesus was: Martha Mary Eve Deborah Answer: Mary Matthew 1:18 18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married

More information

GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) PRESCHOOL LESSON 2. The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:4 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON

GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) PRESCHOOL LESSON 2. The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:4 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON GOSPEL STORY CURRICULUM (NT) PRESCHOOL LESSON 2 The Birth of Jesus LUKE 2:4 20 BIBLE TRUTH IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON l e s s o n snapshot 1. OPENING ACTIVITY AND INTRODUCTION....

More information

Off by Nine Miles The Reverend Pen Peery

Off by Nine Miles The Reverend Pen Peery Off by Nine Miles The Reverend Pen Peery Isaiah 60:1-6 Matthew 2:1-12 I do welcome you to First Presbyterian Church and to this service of worship in a new year. Particularly, I welcome those who are visiting

More information

Lesson One A New Beginning Mark 1:1-20

Lesson One A New Beginning Mark 1:1-20 Lesson One A New Beginning Mark 1:1-20 Men s Inductive Study Knowing the Scriptures Studies in the Gospel of Mark Introduction: Welcome, brothers, to this year s inductive study program. We pray that this

More information

we re only at chapter 3. Here is His first step and He says, Now, I m going to fulfill the Law as the Messiah. The Messiah means anointed one.

we re only at chapter 3. Here is His first step and He says, Now, I m going to fulfill the Law as the Messiah. The Messiah means anointed one. Matthew in Biblical Perspective A Biography of Jesus of Nazareth the Christ Seeing Jesus: The Ordination, Affirmation, And Inauguration Of Jesus The Messiah Matthew 3:13-17 By: Dr. Harry Reeder February

More information

The Magi s (a Christmas stories)

The Magi s (a Christmas stories) The Magi s (a Christmas stories) Introduction: This is a great story about the journey of the three Magi from the East, which can either be told or enacted. Themes: The meaning of the Christmas, the journey

More information

First Baptist Church December 30, Sermon: What Are You Looking For? Rev. Jayne Davis

First Baptist Church December 30, Sermon: What Are You Looking For? Rev. Jayne Davis Matthew 2.1-12 (NRSV) First Baptist Church December 30, 2018 Sermon: What Are You Looking For? Rev. Jayne Davis In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the

More information

Message The Aftermath 01/15/2017

Message The Aftermath 01/15/2017 Message The Aftermath 01/15/2017 Good Morning Church! I am Glad you are all here today. I pray that God is going to reveal something to all of us today as we enter His Word! AMEN! I have entitled my message

More information

LAS POSADAS CHRISTMAS SOCIAL LIFE NIGHT OUTLINE GATHER

LAS POSADAS CHRISTMAS SOCIAL LIFE NIGHT OUTLINE GATHER LAS POSADAS CHRISTMAS SOCIAL LIFE NIGHT OUTLINE GOAL The goal of this Social Night is for the teens to grow in community by celebrating Christmas together. They will also learn about the Mexican tradition

More information

Sample: GUESS WHO S COMING FOR CHRISTMAS?

Sample: GUESS WHO S COMING FOR CHRISTMAS? Sample: GUESS WHO S COMING FOR CHRISTMAS? PART 6 Host: It is time for the next exciting episode of Guess Who s Coming for Christmas? (Slide 17 theme music and question marks, same as slide 2) Are you contestants

More information

Go!!! The Three Wise Gentiles Matthew Chapter 2

Go!!!  The Three Wise Gentiles Matthew Chapter 2 The Three Wise Gentiles Matthew Chapter 2 Our title for this chapter is a little play on words, just to draw our attention to a really interesting tidbit from the Bible. Most of us know the story of the

More information

Lesson #53: We Have Seen His Star Part 2

Lesson #53: We Have Seen His Star Part 2 Children Sabbath School Lesson #53 for 12-7-2013 Song for opening the Sabbath School: Make a Joyful Noise unto the Lord (A Psalms of Praise 100:1-2) Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve

More information

Journey to Bethlehem Labyrinth

Journey to Bethlehem Labyrinth Journey to Bethlehem Labyrinth This shows positions for 25 stops for Dec 1 st to 25 th. For starting on Advent Sunday, follow the table below. If starting on Advent Sunday, adjust the number of stops to

More information

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

Follow That Star. Script for Chard s Walking Nativity

Follow That Star. Script for Chard s Walking Nativity Follow That Star Script for Chard s Walking Nativity Town Crier? Carol Joy to the world Location: Actors use the raised area as a stage opposite Boots. Chard Brass and Carol singers near by Narrator: welcome

More information

Birth of Jesus. The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony

Birth of Jesus. The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony Birth of Jesus The Life of Jesus 3 years that change the world forever Chronology and Harmony Luke 1:26 33 (NIV) 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth,

More information

LESSON OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE

LESSON OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE TEACHER BIBLE STUDY 4 th -6 th Grade Kids Bible Study Guide Zechariah s son, John, lived in the wilderness. John s ministry began when God s word came to him, and he began preaching near the Jordan River.

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

Jesus Was Baptized. Leader BIBLE STUDY. John 1: fully man.

Jesus Was Baptized. Leader BIBLE STUDY. John 1: fully man. UNIT 19 Session 5 Use Week of: Jesus Was Baptized BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-11; Luke 3:21-22; John 1:19-34 MAIN POINT: Jesus obeyed God by being baptized. KEY PASSAGE: 1 Timothy 1:15 BIG

More information

Witnesses to Jesus Identity January 17, 2016 Mark 1:1-11

Witnesses to Jesus Identity January 17, 2016 Mark 1:1-11 I. Introduction Witnesses to Jesus Identity January 17, 2016 Mark 1:1-11 Mark made a rather bold statement with his opening sentence: The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This

More information

Sermon for Second Sunday of Advent

Sermon for Second Sunday of Advent Sermon for Second Sunday of Advent Text: Mark 1:4-8 John appeared in the desert, baptizing and preaching. "Turn away from your sins and be baptized," he told the people, "and God will forgive your sins".

More information

Thank you for visiting and experiencing the Walk Through Nativity! What follows are the words of the presentation for each scene you have just

Thank you for visiting and experiencing the Walk Through Nativity! What follows are the words of the presentation for each scene you have just Thank you for visiting and experiencing the Walk Through Nativity! What follows are the words of the presentation for each scene you have just witnessed and a brief note from Pastor Reeder. SCENE 1 Family

More information

d. Have you ever wondered where is everyone else?

d. Have you ever wondered where is everyone else? The People Who Missed Christmas Luke 2:7 I. INTRODUCTION- a. Probably this Christmas you will receive at least one Christmas Card featuring the manger scene. b. Surrounding the manger with the baby Jesus

More information

Bellaire Community UMC Find January 6, 2019 Eric Falker Page 1. Find. Epiphany 2019

Bellaire Community UMC Find January 6, 2019 Eric Falker Page 1. Find. Epiphany 2019 Eric Falker Page 1 Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12 Find Epiphany 2019 Christmas and New Year s really flew by this year, didn t they? I really appreciate all of those who make this church and community such

More information

A Journey with Christ the Messiah The Birth of the Messiah

A Journey with Christ the Messiah The Birth of the Messiah A Journey with Christ the Messiah The Birth of the Messiah Luke 2:4-20, Luke 3:23-38, Matt. 1:1-25 December 25, 2016 This morning we are continuing a new series that I have entitled A Journey with Christ

More information

Preschool 2-3 December 2018 Creativity Plan December 2 5 Lesson: An Angel Visits Mary Luke 1:37, Nothing is impossible for God.

Preschool 2-3 December 2018 Creativity Plan December 2 5 Lesson: An Angel Visits Mary Luke 1:37, Nothing is impossible for God. December 2 5 Lesson: An Angel Visits Mary Luke 1:37, Nothing is impossible for God. DATE/SERVICE LESSONSs STATIONS CRAFTS December 2 December 2 December 5 Felt An Angel Visits Mary FAMILY SUNDAY Angel

More information