All You Need is Love? John 15: with them. This text from John s gospel is from a section known as the Farewell Discourse.
|
|
- Giles McLaughlin
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 1 All You Need is Love? John 15: 9-17 But I have called you friends. 1 That s what Jesus said to his disciples on that last night with them. This text from John s gospel is from a section known as the Farewell Discourse. It is comprised of Jesus parting words to those who had followed him through three tumultuous, exciting, life-changing years and a beautiful prayer for those whom he loved, the ones he now called friends. Friends. For a while now there has been a popular expression, BFF, best friends forever. Yet in most cases these friendships are fragile indeed, temporary and transient, lasting only until the next, new BFF comes along. Then there is the Facebook definition of friend, which can include people we will never meet. I recently received a friend request from a clergy colleague in Texas. We have had some most interesting discussions, and I find his writings intriguing. Friends, however, might be a bit of a stretch. I did respond, though, because we share much in common, providing resources for one another as we walk our vastly different ministries together. However, when I clicked on the accept request button, it was rejected because he had exceeded his friend quota. With 752 friends I doubt he would miss my presence greatly. Still, to be excluded from his ever-wide friendship circle was disheartening. Friends they come in all ages, sizes, shapes. There are friends for a lifetime, a season, particular circumstances, and yes, even FB friends. Friends a blanket term that encompasses much territory. But what did Jesus mean when he called his disciples friends? In this text Jesus did call his disciples friends, moving them from an inferior status in a master-servant relationship to an even keel as equals, peers. It must have been quite astonishing to hear Jesus, the one they referred to as Rabbi or Teacher, say they were his friends. For Jesus, friends were not the ever-changing BFFs of pop culture or a button on FB. This relationship of friendship formed the very foundation for his ministry on earth and now for the task he laid before the disciples, one they were to continue well after he was no longer 1 John 15: 15b NRSV
2 2 present on earth. It is a command we are to live out ourselves over 2000 years later. These things I command you, so that you will love one another. 2 Who are our friends? Sometimes it can be difficult to tell. Even as Jesus spoke to the twelve, calling them his friends, there was one among them who would in a very short time not act like a friend at all. Judas Iscariot would betray Jesus, turning him over to the ones who would later kill him. Also present was Peter who would betray Jesus in a few short hours by denying he even knew him. All of them, these Jesus called friends, would run away in fear. Yet they broken, messed-up, very fallible folks they were were still his friends. All of them. Friends can hurt, terribly wound us, and still be our friends. That certainly complicates our definition of friendship when we prefer relationships that never grieve us and always support us, adding layers of complexity and nuances that can be difficult to comprehend, even more challenging to live. Jesus announced this gift of friendship as one found at the intersection of the holy and the sometimes messy reality of living. The depth of friendship Jesus extended to the disciples that night would survive even the shock and terror of the events that would soon transpire. Judas would sell out Jesus, Peter would pretend he never even knew him, Jesus would indeed die leaving them all bereft and adrift. But the relationship Jesus had with them would not only continue on but find a new graceful richness and a surprising strength. For Jesus friendship was not simply social interaction or opportunities for entertainment and shared activities, times when life was easy and fun. The nature of friendship, these personal relationships Jesus so treasured that formed the core of his ministry, were shaped by the love and grace of God, carrying with them a joy found deep in their hearts, finding purpose in mutual love and service, and rippling out into a world hungry for true, deep, meaningful relationship. Friendship, with all its challenges and pain, offered a window for God s grace to flourish. 2 John 15:17 NRSV
3 3 Jesus did say, however, that loving one another is a commandment, an order, not an option or convenience. Even as I say that, I am struck by the daunting nature of that command. I certainly fail, time and time again. We all do. How can one force love? How can love be commanded, even legislated? All the laws in the world cannot turn people into those who love others. We have witnessed that in our culture with anti-discrimination laws protecting race, gender, religion. We know of programs developed to help the hurting and vulnerable. Yet hatred s voice is loud, tearing us into sharply divided factions, volleying its venom at those least able to respond. Love one another seems impossible. This past week my son and I toured the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Site in Atlanta. We stood on the steps of the Ebenezer Baptist church where he began his work. We walked the Freedom Walk to the Center for Nonviolence. We stood before his grave. And we watched and listened as, through film and words, through displays and art, the story of Martin Luther King, Jr. was powerfully and movingly relayed. Watching scenes from Selma, Montgomery, Memphis, the March on Washington brought back so many memories. I had watched these very clips on the TV in my living room, I read of the incidents in my local papers. I witnessed them unfolding in the schools I attended, the theatres I frequented, in the stores where I shopped, even in my family. This was no history lesson for me. Though in so many ways it was not my story in that by genetics I was on the side of the oppressor, it was my life as I recalled the pain and turmoil of that time, as I struggled to put together what I believed deep in my soul and what I had learned from the culture in which I lived. We all struggled to make sense of the confusion, the fear, the hatred that collided with the work and words of this one man whose voice gave birth to a movement grounded in God s precious love for all creation. As I stood there, not too many blocks from where my mother had been born and not far at all from where my family had been for generations, I cried. I discovered a friend there, one I most likely will never see again, but a friend. We cried together she, the descendant of slaves from that area and me, the descendent of slave owners from that same region heartbroken over all the pain.
4 4 For Dr. King it was never his personal agenda but his faith in the love of God, a love that few actually wanted, no one expected, but a love demanded by God. King believed in the power of relationships, of friendships, of people coming together as one, to change the world into one defined by love, grace, and justice. Jesus said, And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last. 3 That was King s goal not to merely enact laws creating an artificial justice but to transform hearts and souls so that God s love would be seen, felt, and experienced by all. We are called to be friends, we are called to love one another, we are called to impact the lives of those around us. As I listened to a sermon from Dr. King s funeral, one he had delivered two months earlier right across the street at Ebenezer, I thought of this text from John and what it meant that Jesus has called us friends. In his own words, this is how King wanted to be remembered: I d like somebody to mention that day, that Martin Luther King, Jr., tried to give his life serving others. I d like for somebody to say that day, that Martin Luther King, Jr., tried to love somebody.. I want you to be able to say that day, that I did try to feed the hungry. And I want you to be able to say that day, that I did try, in my life, to clothe those who were naked. I want you to say, on that day, that I did try, in my life, to visit those who were in prison. I want you to say that I tried to love and serve humanity. Yes, Jesus, I want to be on your right side or your left side, not for any selfish reason. I want to be on your right or your best side, not in terms of some political kingdom or ambition, but I just want to be there in love and in justice and in truth and in commitment to others, so that we can make of this old world a new world. 4 What a beautifully amazing description of that very friendship of which Jesus spoke. A friendship whose goal is to create and reflect a world of God s love and justice. A world that finds hope in the waters of grace and forgiveness that rain upon us all. That was the legacy Dr. King wanted to leave, that was the mission of Jesus Christ, that is the claim God has placed on each one of us. We are called to be, as German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, Christ 3 John 15: 16a NRSV 4 From The Drum Major Instinct in A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings of Martin Luther King, Jr. Edited by James Melvin Washington. Harper One Coretta Scott King, Executrix of the Estate of Martin Luther King, Jr.
5 5 taking form in a body of believers. 5 That is true friendship, one that finds its life force in the Church, the Body of Christ, in communities of faith like this one who seek to follow God, in all our relationships. Through this friendship we share we find that the love of God instills in us all that, not only can we do this together, it is the very reason we live. We follow this life knowing there will be times of heartache and trouble, even betrayal and death. Holding our friendship together, though, is the gentle power of God s love, the healing breath of forgiveness, and the Spirit of grace that enables us to begin anew time and time again. The communion we will soon share is just such an expression of the gift of friendship, one defined by the grace of God that weaves us all together as one in this wonderfully difficult and amazing journey we call life. When we eat this bread and drink this cup, it s not a memory of Jesus who died but an announcement of the present belief that we do not go through this world alone. This act tells of the future hope that God s love can and will become a reality. So let us share today in this beautiful sacrament, and let us remember Jesus words, This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 6 It is a love flowing freely from God to us, from us to one another, out into all the world. It s a love that finds joy in who we are and in who we can become. It s a love that finds its life purpose in working together side by side as together we become God s love in the world. It s what it means to be called friends. Now to God who is able to do far more than anything we can ask or imagine to God be the glory. Amen. Rev. Melodie Long United Presbyterian Church Sackets Harbor, New York May 1, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. A Life Together John 15: 12 NRSV
THE DRUM MAJOR PROJECT Commemorative Unity Wreaths
THE DRUM MAJOR PROJECT Commemorative Unity Wreaths Wreath workshop design by Zipporah Camille Thompson Concept by and created in collaboration with Rachel Parish http://firehousecreativeproductions.com
More informationDr. King and the Pledge of Nonviolence A Mini-Unit for Junior/Senior High Students
Dr. King and the Pledge of Nonviolence A Mini-Unit for Junior/Senior High Students Introduction 1. Ice-breaker - We Shall Overcome As the students come in, hum, play on a recorder, or show on a video the
More informationProphets of a Future Not Our Own
Prophets of a Future Not Our Own Rev. Dr. Michal Piazza Children s Sabbath, Sunday, October 21, 2018 Mark 10:35-45 We all get songs stuck in our heads now and then, but it may be only preachers and professors
More informationWeek 1. Number of candles lit prior to service: 6. Introduction: Scripture reading: Matthew Reflection: Prayer:
Week 1 Number of candles lit prior to service: 6 Scripture reading: Matthew 4.-11 We extinguish the first candle (EXTINGUISH CANDLE), as we remember Jesus lonely trial in the desert. This account reveals
More informationDREAM KEEPERS WORKSHOP
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. DREAM KEEPERS WORKSHOP Southeast District First Episcopal District CME CHURCH MONDAY, JANUARY 16, 2017 Reverend Ronald M. Powe, Ed.D. Presiding Elder Bishop Henry M.
More informationTake Up Your Cross, FPC Marshfield, Pentecost 13, Sept. 3, 2017
Take Up Your Cross, FPC Marshfield, Pentecost 13, Sept. 3, 2017 Texts: Ex. 3:1-15, Ps. 105:1-6, 23-26, Rom.12:9-21, Matthew 16:21-28 For the last few weeks, our guests have been presenting some of their
More informationAbandoned by God A Sermon on Phil 2:5-11, Matt 26:36-46; 27:45-46 Palm/Passion Sunday April 9, 2017
Abandoned by God A Sermon on Phil 2:5-11, Matt 26:36-46; 27:45-46 Palm/Passion Sunday April 9, 2017 Introduction Today s text brings us face to face with the cross. What does the cross mean to you? Progressive
More informationIsaiah 61:1-4 and John 1:6-8 3 rd Sunday of Advent (B) Sermon given at Friedens UCC December 17, Living the Longing
1 Isaiah 61:1-4 and John 1:6-8 3 rd Sunday of Advent (B) Sermon given at Friedens UCC December 17, 2017 Living the Longing Every year the town where I live sponsors a Christmas decorating contest. The
More informationSermon Mark 10:35-45, the greatest October 18, Title: Servant to all
Sermon Mark 10:35-45, the greatest October 18, 2015 HPMF Title: Servant to all Mark 10:35-45 35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to him, Teacher, we want you to do for
More informationby Holly Wagner STUDY GUIDE Riverside Drive Suite 200, Valley, Village, CA telephone:
T H O U G H T S O N A M I S H G R A C E by Holly Wagner STUDY GUIDE 12800 Riverside Drive Suite 200, Valley, Village, CA 91607 telephone: 877.526.2747 www.godchicks.com Thoughts for GodChicks From the
More informationFAITH & FAMILY DISCUSSION GUIDE
FAITH & FAMILY DISCUSSION GUIDE ORDINARY MAN, EXTRAORDINARY FOCUS So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds
More informationLoving the Person Next To You: Loving Our Enemies
Loving the Person Next To You: Loving Our Enemies Matthew 5:43-48, 10 April 2011 Jim Zazzera, Faith Presbyterian Church Sunday afternoon, June 2 nd, [1996] mourners had gathered on the steps to watch seven
More informationThe Authority of Jesus Word, even over death
1 Lent 5, 2011A 420 Christ the Light of All the Living *430 My Song is Love Unknown 756 Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me The Authority of Jesus Word, even over death 1 Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus
More informationSERMON. "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life that you may live." Deuteronomy 30: 19.
SERMON "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life that you may live." Deuteronomy 30: 19. This is, when you think about it, a rather curious choice to set before anyone.
More informationFRIENDSHIP A SCHOOL OF CHRISTIAN LOVE. Jesus said, I no longer call you servants but friends.
Sunday May 6 th Preacher: Jennifer Potter HYMNS: 277 My song is love unknown 595 Lord we have come at your own invitation 503 Love, divine, all loves excelling 569 An Upper Room did our Lord prepare 531
More informationCommunity Service Facilitator Guide
Community Service Facilitator Guide Purpose To help individuals, families, and organizations use JustServe.org to find opportunities to serve, build relationships with others, and help build unity in their
More informationand glory. 27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
P a g e 1 Mark 13:24-37 24 But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens
More informationand carried our sorrows; (Isaiah 53:4, RSV)
Pastor Gregory P. Fryer Immanuel Lutheran Church, New York, NY 10/18/2015, Pentecost 21B, Lectionary 29 Isaiah 53:4-12, Mark 10:35-45 In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit.
More informationMartin Luther King Jr.
calemrice@gmail.com Mrs. Rice Writing 6 December 5, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Many people are inspired by a man who was courageous, successful, and had intentions for people to live in peace. He also
More informationNew Beginnings: Spiritual Friendship Acts 10:44-48 John 15:9-18. Bloomfield Presbyterian Church on the Green May 10, 2015
New Beginnings: Spiritual Friendship Acts 10:44-48 John 15:9-18 Bloomfield Presbyterian Church on the Green May 10, 2015 My sermons during the month of May are my contribution to the discernment phase
More informationThis morning s Gospel [John 6:56-69] gives us one of the strangest and saddest
1 Gary Hall Trinity, Santa Barbara August 26, 2018. [14 Pentecost] This morning s Gospel [John 6:56-69] gives us one of the strangest and saddest incidents in the New Testament. At the close of Jesus s
More informationMenifee United Church of Christ
Menifee United Church of Christ Established in 1962 by God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit SERMON FOR March 8, 2015 You Are The Glory Of God Reverend Bill Freeman: Senior Minister Eckart Seeber: Music Minister
More informationLIVING IN THE VICTORY THAT GOD GAVE US
LIVING IN THE VICTORY THAT GOD GAVE US Copyright @ 28 August 2004 Living in the victory that God gave us Most of us feel at times that we are living in defeat not victory and that victory seems very far
More informationBEING RIGHTEOUS IN GOD S EYES
Philippians 3:4b-14 BEING RIGHTEOUS IN GOD S EYES In about another month I ll be 58 years old. To some people, I m still a spring chicken. To others, my life has peaked. My best years are over. It s all
More informationOpening Worship, Thursday, 28 June
Opening Worship, Thursday, 28 June Liturgist: Ms Cheryl Philip, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America We open with the sound of a gong Liberated, for freedom, Christ has set us free. Liberated by God
More informationRestoration: Leaders Guide
Restoration: Leaders Guide INTRO AND CAST VISION: (3 min) Reminder of ground rules of engagement. DEBRIEF THE WEEK: (5 min) How did it go telling your story? Hard? Easy? How do you feel about committing
More informationTHE LORD S SUPPER. Mark 14:12-26 Key Verse: 24. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,' he said to them.'
THE LORD S SUPPER Mark 14:12-26 Key Verse: 24 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,' he said to them.' Last Sunday we learned the beautiful story of a woman who poured her perfume
More informationWe have gathered together today, in this place, in a spirit of sharing and supporting, because we have experienced the loss of a baby or child.
We have gathered together today, in this place, in a spirit of sharing and supporting, because we have experienced the loss of a baby or child. For some it may have been through miscarriage, or stillbirth,
More informationSermon for Pentecost X Year B 2015 Crying Out to God The Psalms of Lament
Sermon for Pentecost X Year B 2015 Crying Out to God The Psalms of Lament If you could only have three books of the bible with you on a desert island, which would you choose? This was a favorite thought
More informationIII. Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.
What Would Henry Do? May 26, 2013 Readings Law never made men a whit more just [and so it] is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right. The only obligation which I have
More informationMatthew 5: 1 12 Gone Where? November 2, 2014 (All Saints Day) Rev. Lou Nyiri
Matthew 5: 1 12 Gone Where? November 2, 2014 (All Saints Day) Rev. Lou Nyiri Read Scripture [9:30 a.m. Lou introduces the video clip Matthew 5 & we watch it ] On this Sunday closest to All Saints Day,
More informationBig Idea: Purpose: to feel the relief of sin forgiven Jesus carried humanity s sin
He bore the sin of many Isaiah 53:10-12 Big Idea: Purpose: to feel the relief of sin forgiven Jesus carried humanity s sin Prayer: Father What a blessed relief to not have to carry that which is my due;
More informationA Prayer For Community John 17: Sunday, September 20, 2015 Rev. Heike Werder The Congregational Church of Needham
A Prayer For Community John 17: 20-26 Sunday, September 20, 2015 Rev. Heike Werder The Congregational Church of Needham God never intended for any of us to live the Christian life alone. That is why we
More informationPassover Part VII of the Lenten Sermon Series, Into the Wild.
Roanoke, Virginia Palm Sunday, April 14, 2019 Passover Part VII of the Lenten Sermon Series, Into the Wild. Exodus 12, Matthew 26:17-30 George C. Anderson We have been on a journey. During Lent, we have
More informationI, Judas ~John 13:18-30~
I, Judas ~John 13:18-30~ 01/14/18 Hey, Good morning. If you ve got a Bible and I hope you do, flip to John 13. This morning we have the fun task of thinking on the topic of betrayal. I could ask you who
More informationThe Bread of Life. Louie Giglio. I am not but I know I AM
1 Sunday A.M. 11/13/16 Beaverton Foursquare Faith (Part 4) Pastor Randy Remington The Bread of Life Are you named after someone famous or maybe someone in your family? Maybe you were given a nickname by
More informationTHE CENTURION AND THE SOLDIERS
THE HIGH PRIEST PILATE S WIFE PETER JUDAS THE CENTURION AND THE SOLDIERS Introduction This year, the account of Jesus arrest, trial and Passion, read in full on Palm Sunday, comes from St Matthew s Gospel.
More informationEVANGELISM & MISSION EQUIPPING. For this edition of Equipping for Evangelism. A Guidebook for Congregations Looking to Connect with Neighbours
EQUIPPING FOR EVANGELISM & MISSION A Guidebook for Congregations Looking to Connect with Neighbours Zoë Say and Robert Massey, United & Presbyterian Campus Ministry, Calgary For this edition of Equipping
More informationGenesis 50 : Matthew 18 : Sermon
Genesis 50 : 15 20 Matthew 18 : 21-35 Sermon I feel that I may have to apologise for this sermon, even though it isn t actually my fault. You will know that I try to be careful in my use of language, and
More informationThe passion of our Lord Jesus Christ According to Mark. Chief Priest: Not during the festival, or there may be a riot among the people.
The passion of our Lord Jesus Christ According to Mark. It was two days before the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. The chief priests and the scribes were looking for a way to arrest Jesus
More informationAnointed with Love Matthew 26:6-13
Anointed with Love Matthew 26:6-13 I have a homework assignment for you. I want you to read Mark 14:3-9 and also John 12:1-8. Reading those passages will broaden your perspective of what we re going to
More informationO n T h e Wa y To T h e C r o s s How Jesus Dealt With Betrayal. March 25, 2018
March 25, 2018 In Life We Can Be Betrayed By Things Or By People BETRAYAL IS: The treacherous exposing or deceiving of people by those they formerly trusted. It is usually associated with an enemy masquerading
More informationThe First Step. God shows up in big and small miraculous ways.
The First Step The first step of anything seems to be the most difficult. The first step to the gym, a baby s first step, the first step to others after loss. Yet, those first steps are celebrated as they
More informationMatthew In the Garden
Matthew 26-28 In the Garden Introduction Everything in Jesus life is the fulfillment of God s Word and plan; even what appear to be the smallest details reported in the Gospels teach not only of His authority
More informationEphesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
HOW I LIVE 6. THE NEW WAY OF LIVING: Truly Kind Ephesians 4:30-32 Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. There s so much here in such
More informationIn the Habit session for use with devozine meditations for February 22 29, 2016.
WORLD CHANGERS Darren Wright In the Habit session for use with devozine meditations for February 22 29, 2016. MAKING THE CONNECTION It can be a little daunting the idea that we can change the world when
More informationWhat Are You Looking For? John 1:29-42 Sunday, January 19, 2014 The Rev. Sharon Snapp-Kolas, preaching
What Are You Looking For? John 1:29-42 Sunday, January 19, 2014 The Rev. Sharon Snapp-Kolas, preaching Scripture. Prayer. Opening. William B. Kincaid, III, tells this story about a Children s Moments experience:
More informationThe Death of the Messiah. Jesus Prays and Is Arrested in Gethsemane
The Death of the Messiah Jesus Prays and Is Arrested in Gethsemane Series Outline! 1. Jesus prays and is arrested in Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, Across the Kidron! Mark 14:26-52; Matt 26:30-56;
More informationGrief Work. Rev. Mark A. Medina May 7, 2017
Grief Work Rev. Mark A. Medina May 7, 2017 There is an intensely moving story in scripture that reveals the very depth of death and grief. It is a story that resonates with raw feelings and open emotions
More informationTreated Like Royalty
June 23, 20133 The National Presbyterian Church Treated Like Royalty Matthew 25:31-46 Dr. David Renwick In our sermons through the spring and summer we re looking together at the teaching of Jesus, especially
More informationFour Disciples: What s In a Name?
September 25, 2011 The National Presbyterian Church Four Disciples: What s In a Name? John 1:29-51 Dr. David Renwick In our sermons through the coming year we are looking together at the story of Jesus
More informationGod is at Work in You! Meditation on Philippians 2:1-13 Oct. 1, 2017 World Communion Sunday Merritt Island Presbyterian Church ***
God is at Work in You! Meditation on Philippians 2:1-13 Oct. 1, 2017 World Communion Sunday Merritt Island Presbyterian Church If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any
More informationLOVE FOR HUMANITY: 50 ACTS OF SERVICE OR KINDNESS CAMPAIGN MONDAY, JANUARY 15, TUESDAY, AUGUST 28TH, 2018
TOOLKIT 1. Welcome and Overview 2. How do I Participate? 3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) including EXAMPLES of kindness and service 4. Sponsors and Partners 5. The March Information Welcome and Overview
More informationHaydenville Congregational Church The Rev. Dr. Andrea Ayvazian September 23, 2012 Mark 9:30-37
Haydenville Congregational Church The Rev. Dr. Andrea Ayvazian September 23, 2012 Mark 9:30-37 whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of all
More informationBaptist Heritage Series: Scripture and Ordinances Ephesians 4:1-6; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 November 11, 2007
Sermon/11112007 1 Baptist Heritage Series: Scripture and Ordinances Ephesians 4:1-6; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 November 11, 2007 NRS Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a
More informationIt s Palm Sunday, and somehow we are supposed to wrap our brains around the fact that
A Cold and Broken Hallelujah Matthew 21:1-11; 27:15-23 Dr. Baron Mullis Morningside Presbyterian Church It s Palm Sunday, and somehow we are supposed to wrap our brains around the fact that we have the
More informationThe Betrayal Of Jesus (Mark 14:1-24)
The Betrayal Of Jesus (Mark 14:1-24) It was now two days before Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. The leading priests and the teachers of religious law were still looking for an opportunity
More informationTHE NEW COVENANT IN JESUS BLOOD
THE NEW COVENANT IN JESUS BLOOD Luke 22:1-23 Key Verse: 22:20 In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. Today s passage
More informationThe Power of the Beloved Meditation on Mark 9:2-9 Feb. 11, 2018 Merritt Island Presbyterian Church
The Power of the Beloved Meditation on Mark 9:2-9 Feb. 11, 2018 Merritt Island Presbyterian Church 2 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart,
More informationMatthew 26:47-56 No: 25 Week: 236 Wednesday 23/03/10. Prayer. Bible passage Matthew 26: Prayer Suggestions. Meditation
Matthew 26:47-56 No: 25 Week: 236 Wednesday 23/03/10 Prayer We turn to You, awesome God of heaven and earth. You are the great artist who paints myriad pictures in the sky You are the wonderful parent
More informationThe first in a series of six Lent Addresses on Discipleship given by the Dean of Melbourne, the Very Revd Dr Andreas Loewe, during Lent 2019:
Christ s Insistent Call: Walk with me 10th March 2019 The first in a series of six Lent Addresses on Discipleship given by the Dean of Melbourne, the Very Revd Dr Andreas Loewe, during Lent 2019: Prior
More informationMessage: Beginning the journey Have you been baptized? Baptism is one of the two sacraments, or means of grace, recognized by the modern church.
Message: Beginning the journey Have you been baptized? Baptism is one of the two sacraments, or means of grace, recognized by the modern church. Our passage from Matthew 3:13-17 is the narrative of what
More informationDecember 31, Christmas Living Rev. Louise Rogers
December 31, 2017 Christmas Living Rev. Louise Rogers Christmas Living Rev. Louise Rogers 2017 by Rev. Louise Rogers and Westminster Presbyterian Church. All rights reserved. No part of this sermon may
More informationLeadership and Ethics It s s a Matter of Attitude. Barbara Clemenson, CPA, CFRE
Leadership and Ethics It s s a Matter of Attitude Barbara Clemenson, CPA, CFRE Be like-minded, Having the same love, Being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit,
More informationSermon Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY. Three Tiers One Faith
Sermon 6-24-18 Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Three Tiers One Faith Faith always has an object. It always confesses something something a person believes to be true. Daily
More informationJesus Brings Peace. 2. Where do we find it? 1. What is peace? Emily Carpenter
Jesus Brings Peace Emily Carpenter Sermon audio and text available at www.waitaraanglican.com.au 1. What is peace? Isaiah 9:1-7 and Ephesians 2:11-22 VIDEO: Miss Congeniality World Peace clip (P) Peace
More information8/30/09 The Importance of Paying Attention Acts 20:7-12 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church The novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte is a
8/30/09 The Importance of Paying Attention Acts 20:7-12 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church The novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte is a classic, which means it is a book everyone should read and
More informationCourage That Overcomes Our Fear 2 Timothy 1:1-7 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church In the New Testament there are books and letters
7.15.07 Courage That Overcomes Our Fear 2 Timothy 1:1-7 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church In the New Testament there are books and letters written for a church or churches to be read publicly in
More informationNATURE OF TRUE WORSHIP. Mark 11:12-19
NATURE OF TRUE WORSHIP Mark 11:12-19 The Fig Tree MARK 11:12-14 The next day when they came out from Bethany, He was hungry. After seeing in the distance a fig tree with leaves, He went to find out if
More informationHymn: God and Man At Table Are Sat Down
REMEMBERING THE NIGHT BEFORE THE MASTER DIED Why is this night different from all other nights? This is the day, this is the night when we remember the love of the Father through Jesus His Son, Who gave
More informationTending the Flock John 21:1-19
Matthew Broyles Third Sunday of Easter Wilshire Baptist Church April 10, 2016 8:30 service Dallas, Texas Tending the Flock John 21:1-19 One of my and many other peoples favorite character to imitate is
More informationJudas Agrees to Betray Christ
http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 1 Matthew 26:14-16 Mark 14:10, 11 Luke 22:3-6 http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 2 Texts: Matthew 26:14-16, 14. Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto
More informationThe Cost of Discipleship Luke 9:51-62
June 30, 2013 The Cost of Discipleship Luke 9:51-62 READ Luke 9:51-62 Do you imagine that Jesus ever rolled his eyes at the disciples? Maybe even just took a deep breath before He responded to something
More informationLiberty s Believers Enrichment Program. Keys of the Kingdom I. SESSION 1 (v )
Liberty s Believers Enrichment Program Keys of the Kingdom I SESSION 1 (v.7.12.8) This ebook is in pdf format. If you are reading this page, your computer already has the free Adobe Reader installed, and
More informationThe answer to the first question is easy. Doubters are everywhere.
1 First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee, Florida Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/19/2009 A Sermon for Doubters John 20:19-31 (NRSV) [19] When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors
More informationDes Moines November 26, Memory and Hope
Psalm 126 Matt Mardis-LeCroy Des Moines November 26, 2015 I. Memory and Hope Good morning! Welcome to the worship of God here at Plymouth Church. No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life
More informationThe Radical Center 6. The Goal of Spiritual Maturity Hebrews 5: 11-1; Philippians 3: Sid Batts
The Radical Center 6. The Goal of Spiritual Maturity Hebrews 5: 11-1; Philippians 3: 12-15 Sid Batts First Presbyterian Church Greensboro, North Carolina October 7, 2012 I am not the same person I used
More informationGod is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. (Jn. 4:24)
Scripture Lesson: John 4:1-42 PEOPLE OF THE BIBLE THE SAMARITAN WOMAN AT THE WELL (08/17/14) God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. (Jn. 4:24) Let me begin with a question.
More informationThe Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ According to Mark.
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ According to Mark. CHIEF PRIESTS: DISCIPLES: The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark. It was two days before the Passover and the festival of Unleavened
More informationFifth Sunday in Lent, Year C Midway Presbyterian Church April 7, Anointing at Bethany. Introduction to the Old Testament Lesson
1 Psalm 126 John 12:1-8 Fifth Sunday in Lent, Year C Midway Presbyterian Church April 7, 2019 Anointing at Bethany Introduction to the Old Testament Lesson As one of the Songs of Ascents, our Psalm for
More informationSerSM26nv17.doc Life s Biggest Challenge -1- November 26, Lection: Matthew 25:31-46
SerSM26nv17.doc Life s Biggest Challenge -1- November 26, 2017 Lection: Matthew 25:31-46 Today I would like to invite you to consider a simple question that I hope might stimulate a little thought and
More informationRobert W. Courtney II 1
Robert W. Courtney II 1 Proper 10, Year C 7/10/2016 Deuteronomy 30:9-14 Psalm 25:1-9 Colossians 1:1-14 Luke 10:25-37 Who is My Neighbor? Who is my neighbor? In the basement of the District Courts Building
More informationLearning to Modulate Our Praise Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost September 17, 2017 Jill R. Russell
Learning to Modulate Our Praise Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost September 17, 2017 Jill R. Russell Texts: Exodus 14.19-15.1; Psalm 114; Romans 14. 1-12; Matthew 18. 21-35 I put something together for
More informationA Crucified and Risen Christ. The Passion According to John
A Crucified and Risen Christ The Passion According to John Our Heavenly Father, Thank you for bringing us together this day in fellowship and learning; Bless this assembly; and send your Holy Spirit to
More informationWalt Gable Comments on Martin Luther King Day January 19, 2009
Walt Gable Comments on Martin Luther King Day January 19, 2009 History is indeed made up of significant events which shape our future and outstanding leaders who influence our destiny. The Reverend Martin
More information255 a man who had previously had leprosy. While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence o
Chapter 14. It was now two days before Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. The leading priests and the teachers of religious law were still looking for an opportunity to capture Jesus secretly
More informationHUMILITY Mark 9:30-37
HUMILITY Mark 9:30-37 MARK 9:30 30 Then they left that place and made their way through Galilee, but He did not want anyone to know it. For He was teaching His disciples WHAT WAS JESUS TEACHING HIS DISCIPLES?
More informationMay People Blossom in the Cities *
A sermon delivered by the Rev. Timothy C. Ahrens, senior minister at the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio at Trinity Episcopal Church, Capitol Square, Columbus, July
More informationWhat I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch! (Mark 13:37).
Watching, Not Waiting: A Sermon for the First Sunday of Advent 1 Catherine Gilliard, co-pastor, New Life Covenant Church, Atlanta, Georgia What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch! (Mark 13:37). Today
More informationThat is an excerpt from a letter written by a guy called John. John was a follower of Jesus and one of his friends.
WARNING:TERMS AND CONDITIONS DO NOT APPLY Series: God Is Love November 4, 2018 Edgar King Unconditional Love John 21:15-17 My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God.
More informationThe Passion According to Mark
The Passion According to Mark The congregation remaining seated, the Passion Gospel is read in parts led by a narrator. NARRATOR: The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark. It was two
More informationBeyond These Walls: Commandment Matthew 22:34-40
June 10-11, 2017 Pastor Megan Hackman Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church Beyond These Walls: Commandment Matthew 22:34-40 This is the second to the last weekend of Beyond These Walls, and we are on page 52
More informationMatthew 26: Introduction
Matthew 26:36-46 Introduction We ve seen very powerfully in every part of Matthew s Gospel that Jesus lived His life with a very clear sense of purpose and meaning. In Luke, we can even see this when He
More informationJohn 4:35b (New Revised Standard Version). 3
Sermon God Speaks With Those People? Sunday, March 9, 207 Scripture Readings: Exodus 7:-7, John 4:-42 Trajan McGill Westminster Presbyterian Church Springfield, Illinois Today s first reading tells of
More informationIn other historical writings there are some very brief fragments about Jesus, and the movement that formed around him after his death.
Lamb of God, I look to Thee; Thou shalt my example be; Thou art gentle, meek, and mild; Thou wast once a little child. Charles Wesley For all the respect, admiration and even adoration that s been offered
More informationWednesday with the Word
Wednesday with the Word Wheat Street Baptist Church Rev. Ralph Basui Watkins, MFA, DMin, PhD Servant Pastor / Teacher Lesson #3: January 23, 2019 The Judas Factor: Judas is REAL! Acts 1:12-26 Acts:1:12-22
More informationa. As Jesus contemplates His imminent departure, what is His heart for His disciples? (John 13:1)
Week 13 John chapter 13 Jesus Prepares His Disciples to Serve In chapter 13-17, we have Jesus final instructions to His beloved disciples. The Jewish authorities have determined to arrest and kill Jesus.
More informationMatthew 4:1-11 January 19, 2019 Sermon Title: Remember Who You Are
Matthew 4:1-11 January 19, 2019 Sermon Title: Remember Who You Are HPMF Matthew 4:1-11 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 He fasted forty days and forty
More informationVital Spark. January 2019 The. Dear Community, This coming Monday, as a nation, we celebrate and honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
January 2019 The Vital Spark Dear Community, This coming Monday, as a nation, we celebrate and honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. You may remember how several years ago, drawing on one
More informationORDER OF WORSHIP October 5, 2014 World Communion Sunday 17 th Sunday after Pentecost ~ Proper th Sunday in Ordinary Time
ORDER OF WORSHIP October 5, 2014 World Communion Sunday 17 th Sunday after Pentecost ~ Proper 22 27 th Sunday in Ordinary Time *Congregation Stands (If you prefer, It is acceptable to remain seated.) Welcome
More information