Seeing is believing, or is it? Readings: 1 Peter 1:3-9, John 20:19-31; Acts 2:14a,22-32
|
|
- Justina Stephens
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 The Sutton Methodist Circuit is very fortunate to have a number of extremely gifted local preachers those who have been accredited to preach and lead worship although not ordained. And as is Methodist tradition they are regularly scheduled to preach at churches around the Circuit. Nick White is another of Sutton's very experienced local preachers, and as he demonstrates in this sermon one of our most compelling. It was delivered at Cheam Methodist Church on Sunday 27 April 2014, the second Sunday after Easter, and is published here with Nick's kind permission. Seeing is believing, or is it? Readings: 1 Peter 1:3-9, John 20:19-31; Acts 2:14a,22-32 Last Sunday we celebrated the historical event which is the foundation of our faith: the resurrection of Jesus Christ; His rising from death after His crucifixion. For most of us it has become a given, which we almost take for granted. But can you remember the first time you heard about it? Perhaps it was at Sunday School, or maybe it was in Junior Church. Perhaps it was from a believing parent, or a friend, or a youth leader. Perhaps you heard it said, or you read about it in the Bible first. But however it came to your consciousness, I want to ask you a question. When you first heard what had happened, did you believe it was true? This is not a trick question, nor is there any shame attached to the answer. For I suspect that for many of us, if not all of us, there was at least an element of doubt. Rose from the dead? What really? You mean bodily, as if He was alive again? No, sorry, not as if, so that He WAS alive again. Really? How? How do you know? I suspect like many, at some point you wished you had actually been there to see it. Then you would have had no doubts, for you would have known for sure. Or would you? Because there were some there at the time who still didn t believe it. Sometimes, things just seem to be too good to be true, so good that we can t believe it. We might call it healthy scepticism, natural caution or simply pessimistic doubt. Nevertheless the saying goes: Seeing is believing - seeing it with our own eyes. Perhaps you have missed seeing something unexpected happening at an event. Something so extraordinary it was hard to believe it happened. You are driven to exclaim, like Victor Meldrew: I don't believe it! And so to dispel your doubts you try to find someone who was there. But then you wonder if you can trust them - perhaps they are making it up? But eventually, as the facts begin to take shape and are corroborated, you accept it. Yes, I believe it is as you say - it did happen.
2 But of course, you don t have to see things to believe they exist Electricity, bank balance, bacteria, wind. Why do you believe an aeroplane flies when it goes fast enough? The challenge of Easter is to decide if what we are told happened is true. Christians are described as believers, because we believe it is true. Those who follow the moral values of our faith, but no more, are not believers. Not believers in the resurrection, just belief that a Christian lifestyle is a good idea. A topic which has been exercising politicians and commentators, as they debate whether the United Kingdom is a Christian country or not. For me at least, a Christian is someone who believes that Christ rose from the dead. So let us explore the challenge of belief, and what it means, from the viewpoint of the world s best known doubter, Thomas. Poor old Thomas missed an event, where something unexpected happened. And so he said, I don t believe it, simply because he hadn't seen it. Even when his friends and fellow disciples told him it was true, he still doubted. Now when we first heard of the events of Easter, we may have had doubts. Doubts about the truth of the resurrection, about Jesus rising bodily form the grave. Perhaps we still do harbour some doubts in our hearts and minds at times. This is nothing to feel guilty about - it is worth reassuring ourselves from time to time. For when we do, our belief grows, as we eliminate all other alternative explanations. In the days following Christ s crucifixion, Thomas went through three stages of faith. First through the witness of friends, and then through a personal experience of Christ. Today we will look at these three stages in the context of our own faith. and ask, Where am I on this journey? Where are my family, friends and neighbours? 1 The "Maybe" Christian The first stage is Thomas between Good Friday and Easter Sunday - the maybe stage. Many people in a nominally Christian country like Britain are "maybe" Christians. If you were to ask them whether they believe in God, they would probably say, "Yes". They may put C of E down as a religion on a form, or Catholic, if not Christian. They may even accept that Christ lived and died pretty much as recorded in the Bible, But if they are asked to say whether He rose again bodily, they will say, Maybe. "We can't know for sure, but I believe in God, and if I am in trouble I pray to Him. I try to lead a good life, to love and help other people, to live like Jesus."
3 I don't wish in any way to demean this attitude. Christian values are a fine thing. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like that. And that's how Thomas would have reacted in that first weekend after Christ's death. "He was a good man. He did wonderful things. Was He the Son of God? Maybe." When the followers of Jesus gathered in the upper room that Sunday, was Thomas? It seems he thought he didn t need to be there. Like many believers today who say they don t need to attend church to be a Christian. They don t need the encouragement and fellowship of regular worship and prayer. They don t need regular scripture reading, or meeting in groups, to develop their faith. "I'm just fine as I am, they say - I don t need my spiritual batteries charged, thank you. When you belong to a club, you may not go every week. You may miss something special which happens when you aren t there. People can and do maintain a living Christian faith without meeting together for worship. Some can t attend because of work, or imprisonment, or being housebound. Some are persecuted in a foreign land where collective Christian worship is banned. But for those who can, the absence of regular worship and fellowship, runs the risk of sliding away from God, and needlessly feeding doubt. We do need a regular spiritual health check, almost like going to the dentist. We need to confess our sins and get right with God like a spiritual cavity filling! How many do we know today who regularly attended Sunday school in their youth, but who no longer feel the need for regular worship and fellowship? Who are just too busy, except perhaps at Christmas and Easter, though they may be even busier then. Thomas was a maybe Christian. He wasn t there. He missed seeing the risen Lord. I'm not saying that regular church attendance earns you a ticket to Heaven. But regular fellowship with Jesus and those who believe in Him sustains our faith, makes our relationship with Him more alive and more second nature. When one meets someone only rarely, even talking to them can be quite difficult, There is no regular basis context within which to build the conversation. That's why daily prayer and scripture reading help bridge the gap between Sundays. We can tell God how we are doing in resisting the temptations we confessed before. although I m not suggesting we make Sunday mornings a kind of Sinwatchers Anonymous. The "maybe" Christian misses so much of what it means to have a relationship with Jesus. They remain stuck in the Doubting Thomas state.
4 2 The "Probably" Christian (the "Almost Christian") But Thomas moved on when he heard what the disciples said. He trusted them. In the week that followed he became a Probably Christian. But only probably. He had missed Christ's appearance to His other disciples in the upper room. But his friends kept reassuring him: "Jesus is alive, He is risen from the dead. Everything He said has come true. He is the Son of God. Despite the crucifixion, it is still possible to meet Him." There are many folk today like Thomas in that state. Probably Christians. They worship regularly (most weeks). They belong to Christian fellowships. They're close to people who ve met Christ personally. But they re still filled with doubt. Could it really be true, they wonder? I've never actually seen a miracle, after all. Those claims of healing always seem to have other plausible explanations. Perhaps they ve read books and concluded there is insufficient evidence to prove it. Like juries in Scotland, when the accused is probably guilty, but the evidence is insufficient, they return a verdict of "Not proven". They worship Jesus as a great man, a hero, a prophet, a role model. But not as a personal Saviour and friend, because they lack proof beyond doubt. Do you know people like that? Church attenders who say they believe in Jesus, but who retain doubts about the reality of His resurrection from the grave. People who pray earnestly when in need, just in case it works, but who lack the confidence to spread the good news to others, because they are not sufficiently sure of it themselves. I don t wish to demean this position either. I ve been in that state at times. But the "probably" Christians are missing so much too. Have you ever attended a club or society or regular activity, but not "joined"? I've done this. After a while you are granted some sort of "special visitor" status, which gives you a degree of acceptance, and some sense of belonging. The Methodist church has a word for it - adherents - people on the community roll. They are only temporarily attached, like a post-it note. Not really belonging. Then, you are like a standby passenger in the airport with no guarantee of a seat, One will probably be available for you, so you wait in hope. You may be all right. People sell themselves short of Christ s gift if they limit themselves to probably. In John Wesley s Sermon Number 2, entitled the "Almost Christian", he uses as a text Acts 26:28: "You almost persuade me to be a Christian". He
5 describes this Almost Christian, my "probably Christian, as a person who is honest, truthful, charitable, outwardly religious, temperate, devout, church going, sincere. But, here s the crunch, someone who doesn t really know Jesus as a friend and Saviour 3 The "Definitely" Christian - Believing is seeing And then, after the second appearance, Thomas becomes the definitely" Christian. He was there, because of what he had heard about the previous occasion. Just in case it happened again, he didn't want to miss it this time. Why? What did the disciples say that convinced Thomas to be there the next time? "We had a nice service last week Thomas, good sermon, sung some great hymns, had a great time of fellowship, and the coffee and biscuits were really great!". Would that have convinced Thomas to come? Maybe? Probably? Not definitely. But they said much more. Wouldn't you have said more, if you had been them? "Jesus was there. We met with the risen Christ. We spoke to Him. He spoke to us. He is alive. Come, and you can meet Him too!" When we invite others to church, I wonder what we say to them? Do we say: "Do come and join us, it's a lovely fellowship, nice people, warm and welcoming, we sing some lovely songs, there are lots of other activities that we can offer. It only lasts an hour, and we've got a nice local preacher coming next week". Or do we say, "You must come because last week I met Jesus there. I spoke to Him. He spoke to me. He is alive. Come, and you can meet Him too!" When they said that to Thomas, wild horses wouldn't have kept him away. Something was going to happen. He was going to be there to meet the risen Lord. Many folk today attend church each week confident that nothing is going to happen. At least not to them where they are. But don t be too sure - Jesus is a God of surprises. Thomas did meet the risen Lord that second Sunday. He saw and he believed. He moved from "probably" to "definitely". He declared: "My Lord and my God". He had all the evidence he needed. He knew Jesus had risen from the dead, He knew he was saved from his sins. He knew he had the promise of eternal life. You may say, that's OK for Thomas, he saw Jesus. How can we offer that to others today? We can t see Jesus - but we can see the effect He has. We can experience Him. We don t have to see Him to believe in Him. We believe in lots of things we can t see. Perhaps you know friends who are reliable, and
6 don't let you down. If they promise something, and they say: You have my word for it, you trust them. So it is with Jesus. He promises us eternal life, saved from the consequences of our sins. We can believe in those promises because we have God s word for it. We have the Bible. But how do we know it s all definitely true? How can we be as sure as Thomas was? I find it harder to believe that the world in which we live is a chance occurrence, than to believe it is the wonderful work of a unique all powerful Creator God. Paradoxically, not only is seeing believing, but believing is seeing. When you believe in Jesus, you see things more clearly - life makes more sense. When I die, I want to go to a place where there is no sin, but I know that if I go there as I am, there will be sin there because of me. I therefore need a Saviour to remove my sin so I can go there, and not spoil it for everyone. That feeling inside which makes us uncomfortable when we do something wrong, Is a reminder of the sins we commit, and of the Saviour who can get rid of them for us. One final point. Would we all be sitting here today, hearing the Word of God, worshipping Him, praying to Him, singing to Him, if He had not risen from death? Would this service be happening today, without the resurrection? Our presence here in this service is a witness that Jesus is risen, and is alive. No other religious leader claimed to be the Son of God. No other religious leader demonstrated victory over death. No other religious leader offers free forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Peter said to the crowd after the resurrection: "God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses to the fact." Jesus said, "Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet believe." That s us. We need not be Maybe Christians. We need not even be Probably Christians. We need not be doubting Thomases. We can be Definitely Christians. Seeing may be believing, but believing is seeing the Risen Lord. Why don't we meet Him today, like Thomas, and proclaim: "My Lord and My God! And why don t we tell more people we have met Him, and they can meet Him too? Amen.
but some of those events of childhood leave a lasting impression that shapes our understanding
SERMON TITLE: "Promises" SERMON TEXT: Genesis 15:1-18 PREACHER: Rev. Kim James OCCASION: February 24, 2013, at Wesley UMC INTRODUCTION There are a lot of things that happen to us as kids. Most of them
More informationFirst John Chapter 5 John Karmelich
First John Chapter 5 John Karmelich 1. I was seriously considering calling this lesson "nike", but I don't want you to think this is a lesson about sports equipment. "Nike" is a Greek word that's usually
More informationFirst John Chapter 4 John Karmelich
First John Chapter 4 John Karmelich 1. In the scientific community today, there is almost an unexplainable hatred of the concept of God in that world. Part of the reason is they only deal with things that
More informationBBC LEARNING ENGLISH 6 Minute English Have you got too much stuff?
BBC LEARNING ENGLISH 6 Minute English Have you got too much stuff? NB: This is not a word-for-word transcript Hello and welcome to 6 Minute English. I'm And I'm. Now,, what did you get up to at the weekend?
More informationGetting Things Settled in Our Hearts
Getting Things Settled in Our Hearts Dear Daily Devotional Reader, James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. My brethren, count it
More informationPresident Obama's favorite philosopher is a 20 th century. Lutheran theologian by the name of Reinhold Niebuhr. For more
WGUMC March 22, 2015 "Happy Song" Mark 8:31-38 President Obama's favorite philosopher is a 20 th century Lutheran theologian by the name of Reinhold Niebuhr. For more than thirty years, Niebuhr was a professor
More information"The Lamb of God Goes Willingly" Luke 13:31-35 March 7, Lent C Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"The Lamb of God Goes Willingly" Luke 13:31-35 March 7, 2004 2 Lent C Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I. The Third Day Your antennas should be twitching when the Pharisees are
More informationLiving the Love of Jesus
Living the Love of Jesus April 22, 2018 Pastor Scott Austin artisanchurch.com [Music Intro] [Male voice] The following is a presentation of Artisan Church in Rochester, New York. [Voice of Pastor Scott]
More informationStep 1 Pick an unwanted emotion. Step 2 Identify the thoughts behind your unwanted emotion
Step 1 Pick an unwanted emotion Pick an emotion you don t want to have anymore. You should pick an emotion that is specific to a certain time, situation, or circumstance. You may want to lose your anger
More informationyou get convicted of a crime and that means you are found guilty of having committed that crime.
The Book of Acts: A Spirit-Fueled Adventure! Two Portraits of Conviction Sermon on selected verses of Acts 8:4-40 (6/18 & 6/19/16) Pastor Jenny Hallenbeck Orr As I've already said, it's good to be back
More informationOnce again, recognizing and accepting their fear, Jesus said to them, Peace be with you. Then Jesus offered Thomas the very proof that he thought he
Wesley United Methodist Church Rev. Beverly E Stenmark April 8, 2018 A Place to Call Home Title: All Are Welcome Scripture: Acts 4:32-35 1 John 1:1-2:2 John 20:19-31 Today s Gospel reading is probably
More information"Just Wait. You'll See" John 20:19-31 April 27, Easter B Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"Just Wait. You'll See" John 20:19-31 April 27, 2003 -- 2 Easter B Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I. The Problem with Thomas So How hard should we be on Thomas? Apparently,
More informationEarly this summer here at McCabe United Methodist Church, we began a yearlong sermon- and worship-related focus on generosity.
The Prodigal Son, Part 2: A Heavenly Party Parables Series: Stories About God's Generosity Sermon on Luke 15:1-2, 11-32 (7/18 & 7/19/15) Jennifer M. Hallenbeck Early this summer here at McCabe United Methodist
More information"The Signs and Works of God" John 6:24-35 August 24, 2003 Pentecost 11 B Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"The Signs and Works of God" John 6:24-35 August 24, 2003 Pentecost 11 B Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I. Moses 2.0? When it comes to religion, people want signs and people
More informationMatthew The Rock and the Roll (TJP) page 1
"The Rock and the Roll" Matthew 16:13-19 January 18, 2004 The Confession of St. Peter -- Epiphany 2 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I am no construction expert. But having
More informationI. Life Isn't Fair. Behold the ranting of the Old Adam: It just isn't fair, so why bother?
"Musings on the Rat Race of Vanity" Ecclesiastes 1:1, 2:18-26 August 19, 2001 11 Pentecost C Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I. Life Isn't Fair Behold the ranting of the Old
More informationA parable is a dangerous thing.
A parable is a dangerous thing. If you were here last Sunday and you heard Lester Mackenzie preach about Jesus' parable of the fig tree, you know that already. You know from Lester's sermon last Sunday
More informationAugust 28, 2016 Blessed are The Persecuted John Wesley United Methodist Church John 15:18-21, Matthew 5:10-12 Rev. Rebecca Mincieli,
August 28, 2016 Blessed are The Persecuted John Wesley United Methodist Church John 15:18-21, Matthew 5:10-12 Rev. Rebecca Mincieli, 508-548-3050 How many of you know the Super Lube oil change place at
More informationPastor's Notes. Hello
Pastor's Notes Hello We're focusing on how we fail in life and the importance of God's mercy in the light of our failures. So we need to understand that all human beings have failures. We like to think,
More informationUnder Construction. ** Along the road from Denver to the Winter Park ski area in Colorado, is a tiny town
(Luke 6:46-49) ** Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are
More informationGalatians Chapter 2 John Karmelich
Galatians Chapter 2 John Karmelich 1. My title is the expression, "Getting us out of the way, so God can work in our lives". There, that is a mouthful. This message is strictly written to those who already
More informationPastor's Notes. Hello
Pastor's Notes Hello We're going to look at an aspect of mercy that promises to bring freedom to every corner of your life. It's the truth that mercy forgives. God's mercy brings forgiveness into your
More information"Your Sins Are Forgiven You" Mark 2:1-12 February 23, 2003 Epiphany 7 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
I. The Divine Service in Capernaum "Your Sins Are Forgiven You" Mark 2:1-12 February 23, 2003 Epiphany 7 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls The house is packed, because they know
More informationThe Gift of the Holy Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Sermon Transcript by Rev. Ernest O'Neill
The Gift of the Holy Spirit 1 Thessalonians 5:23 Sermon Transcript by Rev. Ernest O'Neill We've been discussing, loved ones, the question the past few weeks: Why are we alive? The real problem, in trying
More informationThe Low Road Sermon by Rev. Glenn Brumbaugh Pentecost 22, Year B 21 st October, 2018 Hebrews 5:1-10 NSRV / Mark 10:35-45 NIV
1 The Low Road Sermon by Rev. Glenn Brumbaugh Pentecost 22, Year B 21 st October, 2018 Hebrews 5:1-10 NSRV / Mark 10:35-45 NIV Donald Meichenbaum, one of the magazine American Psychologist's ten most influential
More informationJohn s Gospel is written probably around 3 generations after Jesus crucifixion.
Sermon on John 20: 19-31 God Believes in You John s Gospel is written probably around 3 generations after Jesus crucifixion. And it s written for a struggling and doubting church which is grappling with
More informationMisidentifying Jesus
Misidentifying Jesus John 6:14 ESV When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world! 15 Perceiving then that they were about to come and
More informationLuke Chapter 24 John Karmelich
Luke Chapter 24 John Karmelich 1. As I stated in the last lesson, my title for my final lesson on Luke is "Sunday's coming". That title to me is kind of like saying, "Things will be better soon" or the
More informationRemember His Miracles at the Cross: The Dead Were Raised to Life
June 2, 2013 Matthew 27:45-54 Pastor Larry Adams Remember His Miracles at the Cross: The Dead Were Raised to Life If you have your Bibles today, I'd like you to turn with me if you would to Matthew 27.
More informationBridging the Divide. One night tested the commitment of two churches - one black, one white to pierce racial barriers
Bridging the Divide One night tested the commitment of two churches - one black, one white to pierce racial barriers By Jennifer Garza December 24, 2006 The Sacramento Bee (www.sacbee.com), reprinted with
More informationSunday, 3 April "doubting" Thomas
Sunday, 3 April 2016 "doubting" Thomas John 20:19-31 {Note: you may notice a portion of this sermon as being very similar to last week's Easter sermon. I serve two congregations and I'm not at both each
More informationGetting Theological: Eucharist I John 6:51-58 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC August 19, 2018
Getting Theological: Eucharist I John 6:51-58 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC August 19, 2018 As people of faith, we often engage in practices and traditions with little understanding of the
More informationTogether in Unity: Wisdom September 2, Human wisdom - that s easy to dismiss - really it s conventional wisdom, logical wisdom
Together in Unity: Wisdom September 2, 2018 Series, Gospel Community Pastor Kyle Belden 1 Corinthians 2 Human wisdom - that s easy to dismiss - really it s conventional wisdom, logical wisdom Not better
More informationTHE EASTER STORY 4: THE RESURRECTION!
Bible Story Transcript THE EASTER STORY 4: THE RESURRECTION! Memory Verse He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: The Son of Man must be delivered
More informationThe Command Most Baptist Disobey Chap. 17 James 4:11-12
The Command Most Baptist Disobey Chap. 17 James 4:11-12 James has more to say about the tongue its use and its abuse- than any other epistle in all the N.T. 1:19 let every man be swift to hear, slow to
More informationThe Testimony Cultivating Authentic Christian Community 1 John 5:6-12 Pastor Bryan Clark
December 10/11, 2011 The Testimony Cultivating Authentic Christian Community 1 John 5:6-12 Pastor Bryan Clark So do you think it takes more faith to believe the story of Jesus or to reject the story of
More information"The Final Lie: The Resurrection Never Happened'" 1 Corinthians 15:12-20
"The Final Lie: The Resurrection Never Happened'" 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 April 24, 2011 Easter Sunday During Lent, we had special worship services. Our theme was "Lenten Lies". We considered lies from
More informationAll Sermon Content Copyright 2018 by JR. Forasteros All Rights Reserved
1 C atalyst Together Week 3 - Discipleship I was in high school when the What Would Jesus Do? phenomenon swept across the nation. A youth leader in Michigan took the phrase, which is actually pretty old,
More informationOctober 24, 2010 You Might Be A Methodist Matthew 25: You Might Be A Methodist Rev. Michael Love October 24, 2010 Text: Matthew 25:31-40
You Might Be A Methodist Rev. Michael Love October 24, 2010 Text: Matthew 25:31-40 I've been inviting people to come to church this morning to see if they Might Be a Methodist. Asking people to consider
More informationHabits Healthy Practices to LIVE By Worship Giving Praise John 4:19-26
1 Habits Healthy Practices to LIVE By Worship Giving Praise John 4:19-26 Romania greetings Black lives matter Marshawn McCarroll Prayer We are a product of what we sew or is sewn into our lives. If we
More informationBible Story Songs. By Joelee Chamberlain
1 Bible Story Songs By Joelee Chamberlain I thought that today we'd do something a little different. I'm going to sing you some songs. What are these songs going to be about? Well, they're going to be
More informationChoosing What Matters Most Ecclesiastes 4:4-16 NKJV I N T R O D U C T I O N
Message for THE LORD'S DAY MORNING, August 16, 2015 Christian Hope Church of Christ, Plymouth, North Carolina by Reggie A. Braziel, Minister MESSAGE 6 in Ecclesiastes Sermon Series Choosing What Matters
More informationPeter and Cornelius. The unexpected gospel
Peter and Cornelius The unexpected gospel First of all I'd like to thank you all for generously letting me stand here and share this part of God's word with you. We re looking forward to getting to know
More informationEASTER (DOES THE RESURRECTION MATTER?)
EASTER (DOES THE RESURRECTION MATTER?) SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS CONNECT (from last week): As we celebrate Easter this week, spend some time thinking about how you can be serving your sisters and
More information"What It Takes to Be a Saint" Matthew 5:1-12 November 3, 2002 All Saints Day (Observed) Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"What It Takes to Be a Saint" Matthew 5:1-12 November 3, 2002 All Saints Day (Observed) Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls On this first Sunday of November, we celebrate the Festival
More informationName: The Make Up Packet and the Parent Report Form should both be completed and returned to the teachers at the next scheduled class session.
Confirmation Session 5 - January 2017 Sacrament of Baptism Make Up Packet Name: This packet has been designed for the student, with the aid and supervision of a parent, to complete at home when he/she
More informationDID THE RESURRECTION REALLY HAPPEN?
DID THE RESURRECTION REALLY HAPPEN? The resurrection of Jesus forms the startling climax to each of the first accounts of Jesus' life. The resurrection challenges us to see Jesus as more than just a teacher
More informationKaren Liebenguth: Mindfulness in nature
Karen Liebenguth: Mindfulness in nature Active Pause November 2016 Karen is a qualified coach, a Focusing practitioner and an accredited mindfulness teacher. She works with individuals and organisations
More informationSID: How would you like God to tell you that, "I can't use you yet." And then two weeks later, God spoke to you again.
1 Is there a supernatural dimension, a world beyond the one we know? Is there life after death? Do angels exist? Can our dreams contain messages from Heaven? Can we tap into ancient secrets of the supernatural?
More informationStations of the Resurrection
Stations of the Resurrection INTRODUCTION Sign of the Cross 'If in union with Christ we have imitated His death, we shall also imitate Him in His resurrection.we believe that having died with Christ we
More informationHOW COME? So why do the prayers of so many of God s children seem like they are falling on deaf ears? What is the problem?
PRAYER THAT GETS RESULTS: The Prayer Of Faith "Therefore I say unto you, whatever things you desire, when ye pray, believe that you receive them, and ye shall have them. [Mark 11:24] WHEN YOUR PRAYERS
More informationI got a right! By Tim Sprod
I got a right! By Tim Sprod I got a right! Sam and Pete stopped. The voice from over the fence bellowed so loudly that they just stood there and looked at each other, intrigued. What's that all about?
More informationTRANSCRIPT OUTSIDE THE CAMP WITH CHIP BROGDEN
TRANSCRIPT EPISODE 5: Forsaking the Assembly, Part 1 Audio File Location: http://www.chipbrogden.com/otc-05-forsaking-assembly-part-1 ANNOUNCER: Support for this program comes from listeners like you.
More informationWalk a Mile in His Shoes by Rev. Kathy Sides (Preached at Fort Des Moines UMC )
Walk a Mile in His Shoes by Rev. Kathy Sides (Preached at Fort Des Moines UMC 4-12-2015) In 1970 Joe South wrote and sang a song entitled Walk a Mile in My Shoes. How many of you remember it? It was basically
More informationExperiencinq God. Small Group
Experiencinq God in the Small Group HOW TO RELEASE THE HOLY SPIRIT IN YOUR GROUP A GROUP ORIENTED STUDY MANUAL AND DYNAMIC DISCUSSION GUIDE By Mark Virkler Ph.D Volume One My Story Discovering Lamad Lifelong
More informationEpisode 109: I m Attracted to the Same Sex, What Do I Do? (with Sam Allberry) February 12, 2018
Episode 109: I m Attracted to the Same Sex, What Do I Do? (with Sam Allberry) February 12, 2018 With me today is Sam Allberry. Sam is an editor for The Gospel Coalition, a global speaker for Ravi Zacharias
More informationFaith Bumps 2: Obstacles to Growth January 24, 2014
Faith Bumps 2: Obstacles to Growth January 24, 2014 Let's play a little game. If you could, would you choose TV #1, TV #2, or TV#3? Now unless you are weird, you picked TV #3. Why would you settle for
More informationDUKE UNIVERSITY CHAPEL
DUKE UNIVERSITY CHAPEL William H. Willimon, Minister to the University and Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry "GOOD-BYE" John 17:20-27 May7, 1989 THE LAST SUNDAY OF EASTER My wife and I have
More informationTHE FIFTY FRUITS OF PRIDE
THE FIFTY FRUITS OF PRIDE Five Things to Know About Pride & Humility 1. Pride Is the Root of All Evil (Genesis 3:5; 1 Timothy 3:6; 1 John 2:15-17) 2. God Hates Pride (Proverbs 8:13; 16:5; Isaiah 23:9;
More informationSTUDY TO SHOW YOURSELF APPROVED. By Ron Foust
STUDY TO SHOW YOURSELF APPROVED By Ron Foust 1. WE SELDOM HEAR SERMONS ON USING OUR BRAINS TO MAKE CHOICES, TO MEDITATE ON GOD S WORDS; PEOPLE DON T WANT TO WORK FOR SALVATION, WE WOULD RATHER HAVE SOMEONE
More information12 Foundation Stones Class 2A Acts 1 4 The Holy Spirit, Part 1
12 Foundation Stones Class 2A Acts 1 4 The Holy Spirit, Part 1 Prayer: Dear Jesus, we thank You for Your Word that You've given us a yardstick by which we can measure all things, and a guidebook that we
More informationHOMILY A Challenge To Intimacy
HOMILY A Challenge To Intimacy Father Larry Richards Moderator, Bread of Life Community Homily for Third Sunday of Easter Cycle A Father Larry's 10th Anniversary as a Priest READINGS: Acts 2:14,22-28;
More informationSecret Rapture 3 Days of Darkness, Our Discernment Process, True or False?
Secret Rapture 3 Days of Darkness, Our Discernment Process, True or False? December 14, 2014 Secret Rapture, Three Days of Darkness, Our Discernment Process, True or False? December 14, 2014 I've been
More informationChrist, the Risen Lord Acts 2: 22-24
Christ, the Risen Lord Acts 2: 22-24 Consider for a moment, the intense emotion Peter and the other disciples must have felt at this moment in life. For some three and a half years they had walked with
More informationWhat comes to your mind when
L O O K I N G A T L I F E 1 SO WHAT IS EASTER ALL ABOUT? An explanation of the Easter story What comes to your mind when you think about Easter? Fluffy chicks? Chocolate eggs? The start of spring? For
More informationThe Resurrection and the Skeptic John 20: Thomas, a skeptic convinced
The Resurrection and the Skeptic John 20: 24-29 Thomas, a skeptic convinced Intro John Ortberg in his book, The Empty Tomb, relates a very humorous story. He writes, A friend of mine used to work as a
More informationrelevance, the significance of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ that will have our attention this morning. We listen to God s instruction on
Lord s Day 17 Dear children of God, brothers and sisters in Christ, and guests, He has risen from the dead and He is king! That s our conviction, that s the truth. And yet, right after it happened, it
More informationWhat Are You Saying To You About You? Erika T. Kendrick
What Are You Saying To You About You? Erika T. Kendrick Copyright 2016 Erika T. Kendrick. All rights reserved. The contents of this document may not be used without the expressed permission of the author.
More informationIf you get it you get it, if you don t, you don t. Like literally, that s how it ended. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.
1 Easter 2018 I don t like Easter much. I know you do. I get it. Its the bunnies and chocolate and hiding and cute gifts and new dresses and seeing family. Alright, I like all that stuff too. But man,
More informationAppearance Of The Lord A sermon by Rev. Grant R. Schnarr
Appearance Of The Lord A sermon by Rev. Grant R. Schnarr The Lord had appeared before His disciples, most of them rejoiced that they had seen Him again. But He was alive. All the times that He had spoken
More information--II-- 4. First of all, Holy Communion is a PARTICIPATION in the past life & death of Jesus.
"THE HOLY MYSTERY" (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) 2017 Rev. Dr. Brian E. Germano [HOLY COMMUNION SUNDAY] [LaGrange First U.M.C.; 5-7-17] --I--!1 1. Read Text 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 and Pray. 2. [POINT TO COMMUNION
More informationI can't be with someone who doesn't understand the importance of. Favorite Advent traditions include
Favorite Advent traditions include I can't be with someone who doesn't understand the importance of When the family discussions get out of control and people start talking about Yes, my belief in is consistent
More informationRadical Birth In the year 0 AD a teenage virgin gave birth to God in the flesh. She was instructed by angels to
Name: RADICAL 1. Radical Birth A teenage virgin gives birth to God in the flesh. 2. Radical Beginning The sky opens as God declares Jesus to be his precious Son. He is then forced to endure severe temptation
More informationSpiritual Gifts Inventory
Spiritual Gifts Inventory What are Spiritual Gifts? A Spiritual Gift is an ability, skill or talent given through the activity of the Holy Spirit working in the life of each individual Christian. Collectively,
More informationA Gospel Treasure Hunt
1 A Gospel Treasure Hunt By Joelee Chamberlain Do you like treasures? That's sort of a silly question, isn't it!? I think everyone likes treasures, don't they?! But just what is a treasure? A treasure
More informationSermon for Easter 2 Year B 2015 Before and After, Doubt and Faith
Sermon for Easter 2 Year B 2015 Before and After, Doubt and Faith The big Easter celebration has come... and gone. Perhaps you are asking yourself, what now? What s next? Is there life... after Easter?
More information25. Motivated by Trust How's the Climate? A Way of Escape You Would Understand Insight on the Subway
CHAPTER Contents PAGE L One Thing We Can Never Escape 9 2. What Good Expectations Can Do for You 11 3. The Part Your Job Plays 14 4. When They Talk All the Time 16 5. Validating the Trust 19 6. Coupling
More information(Run through table of possibilities, and since the other three are pretty bad, you might as well be Christian)
Why are you a Christian? Or perhaps if you aren t one, why do you think people are Christians? Is the choice to become a Christian one that has been thought out? Sometimes Christians are accused that they
More informationAchievement Picnic 2017 Lyrics
Achievement Picnic 2017 Lyrics Alive in You by Jesus Culture: From beginning to the end All my life is in Your hands This whole world may hold me down But it can never drown You out I'm not merely flesh
More informationBACKGROUND NOTES FOR TEACHERS THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION
BACKGROUND NOTES FOR TEACHERS THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION To help us understand this Sacrament we need to know a little bit about a Sacrament. A sacrament is something that uses signs usually a combination
More informationLiving in God's Kingdom Lesson 8: Prayer
Living in God's Kingdom Lesson 8: Prayer Notes for the leader: This is the eighth in a series of lessons about "Living in the Kingdom. This lesson focuses on several things Jesus taught his disciples about
More informationNeedless to say, the game dissolved pretty quickly after that, and dinner was way more awkward than usual. At least for me.
1 E m p a t h y f o r t h e D e v i l W e e k 4 - H e r o d i a s Welcome Anyone else ever have awkward family reunions? Growing up, my dad's family got together every Thanksgiving at my grandpa's church.
More informationI love Easter. Easter is glorious! The music is good. Even mediocre preachers find something uplifting to say! (Bible) The material is good!
Easter, March 31, 2013 Page 1 of 5 V is for Victory: Victory over Death Biblical Text: John 20:1-8 Dr. Michael F. Gardner, Senior Pastor Old Mission United Methodist Church, Fairway, Kansas For two thousand
More informationGod, but also gives us help for today and hope for tomorrow.
Luke 24:1-12 The Story Don t Forget The Rest of The Story i 1 Rev. Brian North Easter: April 1 st, 2018 It s been said that you shouldn t begin a public address of any kind with a joke. But I came across
More informationThe Crisis of Conviction In the Life of the Lost John 16:7-14
The Crisis of Conviction In the Life of the Lost John 16:7-14 Before Reading the Passage: We have come to the eve of our Lord s crucifixion. It is 10:30 or 11:00 pm. on Thursday night. - Judas has already
More informationPerfect Defender Hebrews 7
Perfect Defender Hebrews 7 When I was in college, I sold produce in Fergus Falls, MN, which was a 90-minute drive from home. Half of it was on interstate; half was on regular highways. One day I was returning
More informationUNIT 3#3 THE GALATIAN CHURCH K/1 ST GRADES GRACE GOD S GIFT. Non-Christian students will learn that God s grace is a free gift available to everyone.
UNIT 3#3 THE GALATIAN CHURCH K/1 ST GRADES CONCEPT GOAL GRACE GOD S GIFT Grace is God s free gift of forgiveness and acceptance paid for by Christ s death on the cross and available to everyone who accepts
More informationPastor's Notes. Hello
Pastor's Notes Hello We're looking at the ways you need to see God's mercy in your life. There are three emotions; shame, anger, and fear. God does not want you living your life filled with shame from
More informationThe Real Miracle of Easter By R. Larry Snow April 16, 2017
The Real Miracle of Easter By R. Larry Snow April 16, 2017 Matthew 28:1-10 As you know, for Lent, I ve been inviting people to come watch and then discuss The Story of God with Morgan Freeman. It s been
More information(Slide 1) Jesus Prayed for Himself
(Slide 1) Jesus Prayed for Himself John 17:1-5 Please turn to the Gospel of John, Chapter 17. The author of the Gospel of John is John. No surprise there. John was the son of Zebedee and Salome. Many scholars
More informationLife Change: Where to Go When Change is Needed Mark 5:21-24, 35-42
Life Change: Where to Go When Change is Needed Mark 5:21-24, 35-42 To most people, change is a dirty word. There's just something about 'changing' that doesn't sound appealing to us. Most of the time,
More informationSkits. Come On, Fatima! Six Vignettes about Refugees and Sponsors
Skits Come On, Fatima! Six Vignettes about Refugees and Sponsors These vignettes are based on a United Church handout which outlined a number of different uncomfortable interactions that refugees (anonymously)
More informationHow God really speaks today
How God really speaks today by Philipp Cary Editor s Note: From time to time we run across other publications that reflect the high value we place on Scripture as God s revelation. The following article
More informationFirst John Chapter 2 John Karmelich
First John Chapter 2 John Karmelich 1. If you study the book of First John carefully, you may notice that the word "know" appears about 50 times in this short five-chapter book. John's purpose for writing
More informationI Have Never Used the Forgetting Pill. Marianne Cosnard
I Have Never Used the Forgetting Pill Marianne Cosnard Spring 2016 1 Breaking news: a man suspected of killing two people in London last week has been found at the airport this morning. So far, he has
More information[John : The wedding at Cana]
JOHN 2.1-11: THE WEDDING AT CANA [Chelmsford Baptismal Service: 6 February 2011] Weddings are expensive. The cost of the average UK wedding is now over 20,000. The most expensive item is the wedding reception
More informationThe Implications of the Resurrection of Jesus 2 of 2 Salvation Series By Gregory A. Miller
The Implications of the Resurrection of Jesus 2 of 2 Salvation Series By Gregory A. Miller Bible Text: 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Preached on: Sunday, April 5, 2015 Bible Believers Baptist Fellowship Sharon
More informationCommon Questions. Does God exist?
Common Questions Many people are open to believing in something spiritual or religious and even in Christianity, but they have questions. Maybe they wonder if God exists or if Jesus Christ is the only
More informationDidn t his followers experience the transforming power of his message before the resurrection?
"The thing that disappoints me about the Southern white church is that it spends all of its time dealing with Jesus after the cross, instead of dealing with Jesus before the cross. You didn't do a thing
More informationLESSON 16: CHRISTIANS BELIEVE THAT YOU MUST BE BORN-AGAIN. (Part 1)
LESSON 16: CHRISTIANS BELIEVE THAT YOU MUST BE BORN-AGAIN (Part 1) Together read the Gospel of John Chapter 3, find where Jesus talks about being born-again and discuss it together. HOW TO RECEIVE JESUS
More information