SERMON Pastor Michael McAllister John 13:31-35; Acts 11:1-18 April 28, 2013
|
|
- Elinor Pierce
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 SERMON Pastor Michael McAllister John 13:31-35; Acts 11:1-18 April 28, 2013 We re now in the 5 th Sunday of the liturgical season of Easter, and perhaps our bold and joyful responses of Alleluia! have lost a bit of their shiny newness since Resurrection Sunday when we broke the Lenten fast of 40 days without a single Alleluia! Now, though, the bright dawn of Easter Sunday has passed, and the news of our Lord s triumphant resurrection continues to settle into our hearts and minds. But, as was the case with the first Christians, the full magnitude of Easter takes more than just a day or two to settle in. Christians like us who follow the liturgical church calendar observe the season of Easter for 50 whole days. Fifty days to spread the Easter News; 50 days to proclaim resurrection to the world and declare that God is doing a new thing in and through Jesus the risen Lord. It was during the first Easter season some 2,000 years ago when the disciples discovered that the rumors were true that Jesus had in fact been raised from the dead. And so, they wasted no time spreading the Good News. The appropriately named book in our Bibles, The Acts of the Apostles, reports how the first Christians spread the Easter message to the world by teaching and preaching, and baptizing many into the faith. 1
2 But as modern- day Christians know all too well, and as many of us in this church family know, growth cannot happen without at least a few growing pains, detours and road blocks. And as we heard in our reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Peter was no stranger to growing pains, detours and the like. There was perhaps no more passionate a believer in the early church than Peter. He had been teaching and preaching about Jesus among the gentiles in Caesarea with great effect. In the book of Acts, from the chapter just before today s reading, it s reported that the Holy Spirit came into their midst and they began extolling God. But even before the days of e- mail, Facebook and Twitter, rumors still traveled fast. Soon, the news of Peter s work among the gentiles reached the religious leaders in Jerusalem. So, they knew that Peter had been teaching and preaching, but now they had gotten wind that Peter was also eating with the gentiles people who were different, unclean and unworthy in the eyes of the religious establishment. And so they summoned Peter to defend his actions saying: Teaching the gentiles? Fine. 2
3 Preaching to the gentiles? Fine. But eating with gentiles? Absolutely unacceptable! For Jews of that time including Peter and even for other surrounding cultures, eating with another person was a very personal, meaningful and even intimate experience. Plus, the observance of strict Jewish dietary laws was not simply a matter of ritual piety or cultural observance; it was a matter of essential identity and worship. In the midst of an empire that was not only non- Jewish, but also often hostile to the Jewish people, dietary observances served as a reminder to Jew and gentile alike of the distinction between those who were included in God s covenant with Abraham, and those who were not. And so the religious leaders in Jerusalem, with a mixture of anger and fear, received the news that Peter had been sharing meals with the gentiles; that is, people who were not Jewish (and remember, this is now the Christian Church, post- resurrection we re talking about). For them, Peter was not only blurring the lines between those who were God s people and those who were not God s people, but he was also forsaking God s laws, according to their still OT Jewish understanding. But Peter didn t see it that way at least not anymore. He had been converted by the Holy Spirit in both his way thinking and his approach 3
4 to faith and life. And he tells the authorities in Jerusalem the same story he had told others several times before. He had a vision in which all sorts of animals appeared before him. He heard God s voice telling him, Get up, Peter; kill and eat. But as one would expect from an observant Jew, Peter replied, By no means, Lord; for nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth. But then the voice of God spoke again and said, What God has made clean, you must not call profane. In the midst of that vision, Peter himself must have questioned, Did I hear that correctly? Surely God didn t mean that the gentiles, who eat un- kosher, unblessed food, are to be treated the same as we are. But then he remembered the words of Christ, reminding the faithful that one day soon, they would be baptized, not with water, but with the Holy Spirit, ushering in a new age, a new Church. And then, Peter asked himself one final question. If God is willing and capable of giving anyone, even gentiles, the same gift of grace that God gave me when I believed Who am I that I could hinder God? Now, once Peter arrived in Jerusalem, the religious leaders who had summoned him didn t respond with a long, carefully articulated theological treatise as to why Peter was in error. They didn t rebuke 4
5 Peter for his actions or label him a heretic. And they didn t make a motion to enter executive session to discuss what they had just heard so they could render a verdict. Instead, they fell silent for a moment they basked in awe of what God was doing in their midst. And then they rejoiced, praising God for extending to the gentiles that repentance that leads to life. Now, how often do you see that happen in the ranks of staunch institutional leadership, whether it be in the church or any other organization? Not often I m thinking, if ever for some of us; and when we do, far too often, it s that last part that s forgotten; that part about engaging in the repentance that leads to life. Every now and then, even the church forgets that the only worthy response to what God is doing in our midst comes not in the form of a theological treatise, not in an official church- sanctioned rebuke, not through deliberations or verdicts or forming a special committee or task force... Sometimes, the only worthy response is silence, accompanied by awe and praise. And so, now that Easter has settled into our own hearts and Alleluias can be found on our lips once more, perhaps our ongoing Easter mission is to keep watch for the places and people in our midst who 5
6 have been written off or excluded, perhaps even of their own accord. These are the people in urgent need of hearing the news that Easter has come. These are the people who desperately need to hear that there is a repentance that leads to life. These are the people who need to be told that there s a place for them at God s Welcome Table (which is what our first communion students have been learning about this past week); we each can have an honored place as part of God s own family. As the Apostle Peter reminds us, every time we exclude or label someone or something as an outsider, or too different, that we run the risk of trying to hinder God. Peter gives us a glimpse of a world in which the news of the resurrection shatters earthly boundaries of clean and unclean, accepted and excluded, insider and outsider. Peter s Easter witness is lived through preaching and teaching and baptizing and building relationships with everyone who yearns for the repentance and forgiveness that leads to life. And if we will allow it, our own Easter witness can reach to the ends of the earth and to the ends of time, proclaiming the miraculous news that in Christ, God is making all things, all thoughts, all visions, all relationships, and all people, new! AMEN 6
Copyright 2016 Reverend Dr. Daris Bultena Page 1 of 5
April 24, 2016 5 th Sunday in Ordinary Time Acts 11:1-18 1Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem,
More informationThe Easter Vigil. THE LIGHTING OF THE FIRE The people gather in the dark. The following words are spoken.
The Easter Vigil THE LIGHTING OF THE FIRE The people gather in the dark. The following words are spoken. Brothers and sisters! We have gathered in the darkness of the night because the Lord willingly entered
More informationMay 2, Acts 11:1-18 (NRSV) - Theological Scandal
May 2, 2010 - Acts 11:1-18 (NRSV) - Theological Scandal 1 Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem,
More informationPastoral Council Faith Sharing Sessions
Pastoral Council Faith Sharing Sessions 7th Sunday of Easter through the 13 th Sunday in Ordinary Time 2009 2009 Office of Pastoral Planning, Diocese of Rochester Courage in the Spirit 7 th Sunday of Easter
More informationSESSION 9. Faith Demonstrated. Jesus has authority over all His creation. DATE OF MY BIBLE STUDY: 91
SESSION 9 Faith Demonstrated Jesus has authority over all His creation. DATE OF MY BIBLE STUDY: 91 A CLEARLY RECOGNIZED CHAIN OF COMMAND LIES AT THE ORGANIZATIONAL HEART OF MILITARY LIFE. JUST AS GOD S
More informationRoasting Sacred Cows First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee, Florida Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/24/16. Acts 11:1-18
1 Roasting Sacred Cows First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee, Florida Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/24/16 Acts 11:1-18 Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also
More informationUNIVERSAL PRAYER OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS
UNIVERSAL PRAYER OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS Monday, January 1, 2018 O: On this day that we celebrate Mary, Mother of God, who with trust said yes to God s plan, let us bring our petitions to the Lord, trusting
More informationThe Marks of a True Christian. Romans: 12: 1-21
The Marks of a True Christian Romans: 12: 1-21 Today, we have a familiar text from the Book of Romans and just by simply hearing and reading these very words from Paul, we know that this text has something
More informationThe Continual Fellowship of Worship Scripture Text: Acts 2:42-47
Delivered Date: Sunday, December 13, 2015 1 The Continual Fellowship of Worship Scripture Text: Acts 2:42-47 Introduction What is worship? That is the question we have been answering for the last few weeks.
More informationThe Basic Teachings of a Strong Disciple By Doug Hamilton
Jesus call to make disciples of the nations Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them
More informationJewish-Muslim Social Experiment
Jewish-Muslim Social Experiment Pitt Street Uniting Church, 24 April 2016 A Contemporary Reflection by Rev Dr Margaret Mayman Easter 5C Blessing by The Buddha; The Rainbow Seder by Rabbi Arthur Waskow;
More informationThe gospel was taught to the Gentiles living in Antioch too.
Lesson 6 for August 11, 2018 Jesus told Peter, just before his denial, When you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren (Luke 22:32) Peter fulfilled that request by travelling to different places
More informationThe Parish of Pentyrch with Capel Llanilltern. Family Eucharist Cymun Teuluol
The Parish of Pentyrch with Capel Llanilltern Family Eucharist Cymun Teuluol 1 We Gather in the Lord s Name [STAND] A song of praise or joy will be sung. I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people
More informationJohn 18:33-37 Christ the King SMAS ( )
John 18:33-37 Christ the King SMAS (25-11-12) Next week marks the beginning of a new church year. The church has a lectionary which takes us through an annual cycle of Bible readings that teach us about
More informationHow Jesus Uses the Law on Us
How Jesus Uses the Law on Us 20 th Sunday after Pentecost [Proper 22, b] October 7, 2018 Mark 10:2-16 2 And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 11:1-18 English Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, October 25, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 11:1-18 English Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, October 25, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School
More informationThe Rest of the Story
The Rest of the Story Studies in the Book of Acts We will move the world not by criticism of it, nor conformity to it but by combustion within it of lives ignited by the Spirit of God Vance Havner Text
More informationThe Anglican Parish of Holy Cross Service of Holy Eucharist (BAS 185)
The Anglican Parish of Holy Cross Service of Holy Eucharist (BAS 185) May 6, 2018 6 th Sunday of Easter NOTE: Please make sure your device is on MUTE or VIBRATE (Congregation responds with words in Bold
More informationActs 11:1-18. This is the Word of the Lord, (Thanks be to God) John 13:31-35
Acts 11:1-18 Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him,
More informationTuesday of Epiphany 1 Morning Prayer
Tuesday of Epiphany 1 Morning Prayer Opening Sentence Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60:3 Versicle and Response Lord, open our lips. And our mouth
More informationThe Church Becoming The Church. The Heart of the Matter Acts 2: The Story of The Book of Acts
The Church Becoming The Church The Heart of the Matter Acts 2:42-47 The Story of The Book of Acts Acts 2:40,41 Last Week s Conclusion 40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them,
More informationCELEBRATING EPIPHANY: THE MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST
CELEBRATING EPIPHANY: THE MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us. Luke 1:78 The day of Epiphany directs our attention to the manifestation or appearance
More informationGod Loves Mankind. When a Jew, any Jew, became a Christian, much less a priest, there was a certain amount of religious baggage that came with them.
God Loves Mankind Acts 10 & 11 Sunday, April 8, 2018 Most of Acts 10 and 11 are the same. Chapter 10 is the event that takes place at a Gentile s house in Caesarea. Before Peter could get back to Jerusalem,
More informationTHE DIVINE SERVICE January 6, The Epiphany of Our Lord. In Preparation
THE DIVINE SERVICE January 6, 2016 The Epiphany of Our Lord In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, this church opens wide her doors and offers welcome to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are spiritually
More informationTransfigured Faith Luke 9:28-36 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC March 3, 2019
Transfigured Faith Luke 9:28-36 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC March 3, 2019 This past week, the United Methodist Church held a Special Session of the General Conference. The called purpose
More informationListening Guide. Developing Your Spiritual Life. Developing Your Spiritual Life. SF104 Lesson 03 of 05
Developing Your Spiritual Life Developing Your Spiritual Life SF104 Lesson 03 of 05 Listening Guide [1] Since prayer is part of a relationship with God that has some similarities to our relationship with
More informationCommon Worship. Holy Communion St James s Day 1 July with Rev Ben Lovell
Common Worship Holy Communion St James s Day 1 July 2018 with Rev Ben Lovell 1 The Gathering Introit O Sing Joyfully (A Batten) Hymn Praise, my soul, the King of heaven, to his feet thy tribute bring;
More informationThis Message The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
Series Kingdom Parables This Message The Parable of the Wedding Banquet Scripture Matthew 22:1-14 The two previous parables are closely connected with the Parable of the Wedding Banquet. All three of the
More informationEvangelii Gaudium Catholic Diocese of Richmond Office for Evangelization Permission required for duplication
Evangelii Gaudium 112 Sunday of the Seventh Week of Easter Glorify Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over
More informationHOLY BAPTISM TWO. Holy Baptism Two when used as a stand alone service 357
HOLY BAPTISM TWO Pastoral Introduction Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God s love. For all involved, particularly
More informationSaint Aloysius Parish, Advent Discussion Group
Saint Aloysius Parish, Advent Discussion Group 1 ST SUNDAY OF ADVENT 2017 Chosen So stay awake, because you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow,
More informationRomans 15:10+11 are quotes from Deuteronomy 32:43 and Psalm 117:1.
There was a man who lived in Scotland who had to make an important journey to make a business deal. So he decided to telephone an airline office for some information. After a few minutes of waiting for
More informationSOME EXPLAINING TO DO Acts 11:1-18 April 24 th, 2016 When was the last time you were in a situation where you had to explain yourself?
SOME EXPLAINING TO DO Acts 11:1-18 April 24 th, 2016 When was the last time you were in a situation where you had to explain yourself? It does happen once in a while, doesn t it? At least to most of us
More informationContemplative Eucharist May 5, Opening Song Let Us Praise Your Name
Contemplative Eucharist May 5, 2018 Opening Song Let Us Praise Your Name Silence Let us praise your name, God our Savoir Alleluia, Alleluia Praise and bless your name. Alleluia In Lent and on other penitential
More informationVANTAGE POINT: ROMANS
INTRODUCTION: Chapter 8 describes the life of grace no condemnation, no separation from God s love and life in the Spirit Chapter 12 describes the work of grace transformation and a life governed by love
More informationActs Chapter 10 Part 2 Peters Dream Of The Sheet Full Of Animals
Pastor Scott Velain Acts Chapter 10 Part 2 Peters Dream Of The Sheet Full Of Animals Moving into Acts Chapter ten part 2 of our study on the book of Acts, we'll be studying the true meaning of Peters dream
More informationGathering of the Community : Seasonal Option for Lent (Option 1)
Gathering Rites for the Paschal Cycle Approved by the Council of General Synod for Trial Use and Evaluation, November 2018 FWM continues to act on the conviction that a robust approach to Christian Initiation
More informationActs: Seeing the Spirit at Work Sunday Morning Bible Study Lesson Six Acts 8:1-40 Philip the Evangelist
Acts: Seeing the Spirit at Work Sunday Morning Bible Study Lesson Six Acts 8:1-40 Philip the Evangelist In his continued warfare against the church the devil finally overreached himself. His attack had
More informationPastor Kevin Clark. July 5 & 6, st Lutheran Church, Manhattan KS. Scripture: Acts 8:26-40
P a g e 1 Pastor Kevin Clark July 5 & 6, 2014 1 st Lutheran Church, Manhattan KS Scripture: Acts 8:26-40 Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Get up and go toward the south to the road that goes
More information2009 VOLUME 3 MAY/JUNE, 2011 ISSUE
Prayerwalking Taking Your Faith Into The Real World Copyright 2009 VOLUME 3 MAY/JUNE, 2011 ISSUE 3 Praying Outside The Box You may be wondering what praying outside the box means. This means learning to
More informationThe Gospel of Matthew. Lesson 11 Matthew 17:1 Matthew 18:35
The Gospel of Matthew Lesson 11 Matthew 17:1 Matthew 18:35 The Transfiguration Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36 Matthew 17: 1 And six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his
More informationHOLY BAPTISM TWO IN HOLY COMMUNION TWO
HOLY BAPTISM TWO IN HOLY COMMUNION TWO Pastoral Introduction Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God s love. For all
More informationWhat Does the Bible Say?
Teachings of the Bible In Mennonite Perspective Diocese-Based Leadership Training Program Mennonite Churches of East Africa (KMC/KMT) Joseph and Gloria Bontrager Theological Education Coordinators, 2015
More informationThe Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage
The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage with the Holy Eucharist The Gathering of the Community The people stand. The bride and bridegroom stand before the celebrant. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
More informationLuke Memory Verses In Alphabetical Order (prejumps in bold underline)
Luke Memory Verses In Alphabetical Order (prejumps in bold underline) 6:45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored
More informationDOWN TO EARTH TO PARENTING INSIGHTS ON DISCIPLINE. As your group time begins, use this section to introduce the topic of discussion.
DOWN TO EARTH TO PARENTING INSIGHTS ON DISCIPLINE LUKE 15:11-24 01/28/2018 MAIN POINT The father in Luke 15 models many things great parents do well. INTRODUCTION As your group time begins, use this section
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 15:1-12 New International Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, November 8, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 15:1-12 New International Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, November 8, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School
More informationREACHING OUT TO THE LOST
TEACHING PLAN JANUARY 13, 2019 REACHING OUT TO THE LOST LUKE 15:4-7 JANUARY 13, 2019 TEACHING PLAN PREPARATION > Spend the week reading through and studying Luke 15:4-7. Consult the commentary provided
More informationCONNECTED TO GOD, IS REVEALED IN A WALK OF REVERENCE
CONNECTED TO GOD, IS REVEALED IN A WALK OF REVERENCE August 2017 We meet here today to seek to please God in our worship. We often hear that people talk of being Holy, of living in awe of God. We are told
More informationThe Third Week of End Time
The Third Week of End Time Saints Triumphant November 15, 2010 After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing
More information6 th Sunday Year B 2018 Sunday before Lent Fr Peter Groves
6 th Sunday Year B 2018 Sunday before Lent Fr Peter Groves Mark 1.40-45 Years after the disease ceased to be a danger in this country, the word leprosy retains its stigma. Despite the fact that Leprosy
More informationDoctrine of Conversion and Repentance. 1. The Bible has much to say about the subject of conversion.
1 Doctrine of Conversion and Repentance 1. The Bible has much to say about the subject of conversion. Psalms 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure,
More informationSt. Mark s Lutheran Church Growing Together in Christ. Holy Communion Liturgy Sundays of Lent
St. Mark s Lutheran Church Growing Together in Christ INVITATION TO LENT Friends in Christ, with the whole church we have entered the time of remembering Jesus' passover from death to life, through which
More informationI. Introduction. Let s read what happens next, Acts 21:40-22:22. II. Scripture Reading (Acts 21:40-22:22, NIV, 1984)
Osaka International Church Pastor Daniel Ellrick August 4 th, 2013 Series: Acts # 56 Scripture: Acts 21:40-22:22 Key Verse: Acts 22:16 Title: Paul s Testimony to the Jews Special Events: Communion I. Introduction
More informationSERMON FOR APRIL 28, 2013
SERMON FOR APRIL 28, 2013 The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawai i (UCC) 5 th Sunday of Easter 7:45 & 10:30 Worship Services Scripture: Acts 11:1-18 (Focus); John 1:31-35 Message: Easter 5: When the
More informationForge True Friendship
2 Forge True Friendship What have you enjoyed most about your friendships over the years? QUESTION 1 #BSFLrelationships BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 21 THE POINT Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.
More informationSt. Episcopal Church. Worship Booklet For the Season after Pentecost Rite II
St. Episcopal Church Worship Booklet For the Season after Pentecost Rite II This version of Rite II includes descriptions of different parts of the Eucharist helpful to both, long-time members and newcomers
More informationHYMN SUGGESTIONS FOR SUNDAYS AND SOLEMNITIES
HYMN SUGGESTIONS FOR SUNDAYS AND SOLEMNITIES 182 The following hymn suggestions are offered to assist those respon - sible for the selection of music for the eucharist on Sundays, solemnities and feasts
More informationThe Parable of the Wedding Feast
October 12, 2014 Pentecost 18/Proper 23 Text: Matthew 22:1-14 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son,
More informationHow to use Explore. Find a time you can read the Bible each day
How to use Explore In this issue The 91 daily readings in this issue of Explore are designed to help you understand and apply the Bible as you read it each day. It s serious! We suggest that you allow
More informationLiturgy of the Hours Liturgy of the Hours
Liturgy of the Hours Liturgy of the Hours Office of Readings April 1, 2018 { Easter Sunday } The Easter Vigil takes the place of the Office of Readings. Those, therefore, who do not participate in the
More informationCONFIRMATION. The Gathering of God s People
The Gathering of God s People CONFIRMATION THE GREETING The bishop greets the people in these or other suitable words: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all
More information1 DiscipleNowCurriculum.Com
ROOTED LESSON 1 PRAYER MATTHEW 6:5-13 INTRO: We live in a world where a lot of changes happen every day. List five things that were created or that have changed in your lifetime. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. These are
More informationA Study in Romans Study Five Romans 5:1-6:4
A Study in Romans Study Five Romans 5:1-6:4 Day One 1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by
More informationThe Ground of the Unity
The Ground of the Unity A doctrinal statement adopted by the Unity Synod of the Unitas Fratrum, or Moravian Church, held at Dar es Salaam, Tanzania August 13 to 25, 1995 This publication 2014, 2017 Interprovincial
More informationThe Good News to the Gentiles a 7 scene drama. 1 Scene s. v1-8 Cornelius s Vision Cornelius a gentile, a Roman army officer commanding 100 men
Acts 10 The Good News to the Gentiles a 7 scene drama. 1 Scene s. v1-8 Cornelius s Vision Cornelius a gentile, a Roman army officer commanding 100 men devout, God-fearing. He gave alms and prayed to God.
More informationJohn 20: Here we are-and we can tell this Sunday s a little different from last week.
On the 8 th Day, God commissioned John 20: 19-31 Here we are-and we can tell this Sunday s a little different from last week. Traditionally, this Sunday has been known as Low Sunday. I ve always wondered
More informationIncluded in God s Love
May 6, 2018 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 10:44 48 Ps. 98 1 John 5:1 6 John 15:9 17 Included in God s Love Goal for the Session Children will follow the amazing work of the Holy Spirit in the story of Peter
More informationHe Himself. Ephesians 2:14-18 Pastor Jason Van Bemmel
1 He Himself Ephesians 2:14-18 Pastor Jason Van Bemmel For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of
More informationPOSITIVE RITES. Celebrating the Lord s Supper with people living with HIV
POSITIVE RITES Celebrating the Lord s Supper with people living with HIV Some Christian communities have a formal celebration of the Lord s Supper. This is often referred to as the Eucharist, Holy Communion
More informationOr has it ALWAYS been a gift given by grace to those who believe
Galatians 3:6-9 The Example of Abraham 1 Gal 3:6-9 (NASB) Even so Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. 7 Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons
More informationAM An Inductive Study of Acts 8
5-24-15 AM An Inductive Study of Acts 8 Scripture Reading: Acts 8:4-8 How to Study Your Bible Someone recently asked me, What is the best way to get to the most solid food out of a study of the Word? How
More informationHoly Week Liturgies at Church of the Redeemer
Introduction to Holy Week Liturgies Most American Christians, including many Episcopalians, have come to expect the Church to commemorate the events of the last week of Jesus life with a Palm Sunday worship
More informationRenewed by Christ in Word, water, bread & wine we serve the community and the world.
Third Sunday of Easter April 14, 2013 + 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. First Lutheran Church + St. Peter, Minnesota Pastor Alan Bray Pastor Don Holmstrom Chad Winterfeldt, Director of Music Renewed by Christ
More informationLectio Divina. for the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. Praise the Lord, for God is good! God s mercy endures forever.
Lectio Divina for the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy Praise the Lord, for God is good! God s mercy endures forever. (Ps 136:1) New American Bible 2015 by Benet A. Fonck OFM Methodology for the Lectio
More informationBIBLE FELLOWSHIP TEACHING PLANS
BIBLE FELLOWSHIP TEACHING PLANS MARCH 25, 2018 PREPARATION At this point you will have become familiar with the things that we have asked you to do each week. Answer some of these questions, pray for your
More informationThe Outpouring of the Spirit and the Salvation of Israel
The Outpouring of the Spirit and the Salvation of Israel I. INTRODUCTION 1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty
More informationWelcome to Saint David s United Church
Welcome to Saint David s United Church Lighting of the Christ Candle Leader: A keeper of the Law walked up to Jesus and asked him, Teacher, what is the greatest commandment? Jesus replied, Love God with
More informationGod s Plus One May 31, 2015
God s Plus One May 31, 2015 Isaiah 6:1-8 6:1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. 6:2 Seraphs were in attendance
More informationTHEME 4 Jesus. This theme includes Unit 7: The Light of Christ Has Come, and Unit 8: Jesus Has Risen! Theme 4 / Jesus: Theme Introduction 196
THEME 4 Jesus Jesus baptism helped him to prepare for his mission on earth. Students will learn about some of the healings of Jesus and how he was a light to the world. This study begins with Lent and
More information1. All Nations (Rev 7:9) Practice Hospitality (Rom 12:13) Welcome & invite others (Luke 14:23) Accept others (Rom 15:7)
Part 3: COVENANT (V a rious V er ses) I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior (Acts 16:31) and have been baptized (Mk 16:16), and being in agreement with UCM s statements, strategy, and structure
More informationThe Model Servant of God
The Model Servant of God Text: I Thessalonians 2:1-20 Introduction: The word Salvation could be written over the first chapter like a large banner. Many today are religious, but lost. The Thessalonians
More informationCALL TO WORSHIP / PROCESSIONAL - 10,000 Reasons
Fifth Sunday of Lent April 2, 2017 THE WORK OF THE PEOPLE Welcome to Luminous Parish, we are glad you are here. The word we often use to talk about our worship is liturgy, which historically has meant
More informationFIRST STEPS Karen F. Bunnell Elkton United Methodist Church March 1, 2017 Ash Wednesday. Amos 7:7-8 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
FIRST STEPS Karen F. Bunnell Elkton United Methodist Church March 1, 2017 Ash Wednesday Amos 7:7-8 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 A few weeks ago, Steve turned thirty and when I was talking to him that day I offered
More informationMatthew 10:1-15 Jesus Sends 2 nd Apr Jesus Sends
Jesus Sends 1. Introduction Academic and sociologist Rodney Stark has written numerous books on religion including - The Rise of Christianity and Discovering God He s not a Christian so writes objectively
More informationDear Friend, In Jesus Christ and Mary Immaculate, Fr. John Madigan, O.M.I. oblatesusa.org 2
oblatesusa.org 1 Dear Friend, You hold in your hand a special prayer book that will guide you spiritually through the 40 days of Lent. When many people think of Lent, they automatically think of giving
More information3rd Sunday of Epiphany (Church of England) 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Roman Catholic) Year A Green
3rd Sunday of Epiphany (Church of England) 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Roman Catholic) Year A Green First Reading Isaiah 9.1 4 The Righteous Reign of the Coming King But there will be no gloom for those
More informationTHE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST April 1, 2018 THE HOLY EUCHARIST, RITE II 8:00 A.M. AND 10:30 A.M. THE WORD OF GOD
THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST April 1, 2018 THE HOLY EUCHARIST, RITE II 8:00 A.M. AND 10:30 A.M. THE WORD OF GOD Opening Hymn Welcome, happy morning! Blue Hymnal 179 Alleluia. Christ is risen.
More informationTHIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST June 10, 2018 THE HOLY EUCHARIST, RITE II 10:30 A.M. THE WORD OF GOD
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST June 10, 2018 THE HOLY EUCHARIST, RITE II 10:30 A.M. THE WORD OF GOD Opening Hymn God of grace and God of gloryblue Hymnal 594 Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
More informationYear Three Religion In the Spirit We Belong
Year Three Religion In the Spirit We Belong CATEGORY SUB-CATEGORY KEY LEARNER OUTCOME CRITERIA Unit One We Welcome and Gather In The Spirit Welcome Demonstrates the meaning of gathering as God s people
More informationJanuary 1, 2012 SERVICE OF WORSHIP 10:30 am Liturgical Color: White
January 1, 2012 SERVICE OF WORSHIP 10:30 am Liturgical Color: White WELCOME CHIMING OF THE TRINITY Schuyler McGinnis PRELUDE Come, All Christians, Be Committed arr. Mark Hayes *CALL TO WORSHIP Larry Moore
More informationThe Mystery Explained
9/30/2018 The Mystery Explained Intro: Having just finished explaining to the gentile believers at Ephesus how great their salvation was in relationship to the Jews, Paul now goes into the details of this
More informationThe Covenant of Grace and Infant Baptism
The Covenant of Grace and Infant Baptism I. Key Components of the Covenant of Grace 1 A. Meaning and Duration of the Covenant of Grace 1. In the Covenant of Grace (or era of salvific grace), God promises
More informationFOR ALL OF US! Acts 10 & Easter
FOR ALL OF US! Acts 10 & Easter Pastor Brad March 27, 2016 P a g e 1 A florist mixed up a couple of orders one busy day. One was supposed to go to a business grand opening, while the other was for a funeral.
More informationThank you for writing us at Christian Questions Radio. You asked us several questions. We will try to answer them as precisely as possible.
Dear Larry, Thank you for writing us at Christian Questions Radio. You asked us several questions. We will try to answer them as precisely as possible. Question #1: You wanted to know why God would test
More informationTHE REAL JESUS: WHO S WHO
THE REAL JESUS: WHO S WHO Week Four April 29, 2018 Meet John the Baptist GETTING READY Before your group meets next time, spend some time alone in God s Word reading through this week s text, Luke 3:1
More informationIt Is a Supernatural,
THE LIFE and TIMES of JESUS CHRIST MEDIA REFERENCE NUMBER SM-352 NOVEMBER 7, 1999 THE TITLE OF THE MESSAGE: Christ and the Church A Unique Relationship Between Jesus and His Bride THE THEME OF THIS SERIES:
More informationTuesday of Epiphany 1 Evening Prayer
Tuesday of Epiphany 1 Evening Prayer Opening Sentence Grace to you and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:2 Versicle and Response O God, make speed to save us. O Lord,
More informationRight Division 101. Learning How to Study God s Word in God s Way
Right Division 101 Learning How to Study God s Word in God s Way Three Principles of Bible Study Literal Reading--the Bible must be interpreted literally. The words on the page say what they mean and mean
More informationActs 11:1-18 (NIV) 1 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received
Power Hour Lesson Summary for October 25, 2015 Peter Defends His Actions Lesson Text: Acts 11:1-18 Background Scripture: Acts 11:1-18 Devotional Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-7 Acts 11:1-18 (NIV) 1 The
More information