A Sermon In Light of Sandy

A Sermon In Light of Sandy - Calvary ~ St. George's Sermon Podcast

When Our Sentamentalism Comes to an End

When Our Sentamentalism Comes to an End - Calvary ~ St. George's Sermon Podcast

Have A Hot Pocket!

I'm home for a few weeks recovering from tendinitis, so I thought I would post a few good sermons I listened to while hiking the CDT. I plan to return to the trail when my ankle heals but for new it's time to be patient and let it heal.

Below is a sermon I really enjoyed. I'd love to hear your comments.

Have A Hot Pocket - Calvary ~ St. George's Sermon Podcast

Bible Gateway passage: Luke 10:38-42 - English Standard Version

The Good News When You Can’t Hold Fast

Most of there sermons on my blog are podcasts, so as a change of pace, here is a video. It's from a conference in 2016, and I found it both thoughtful and passionate in the presentation of the gospel. It's almost 42 minutes long, but I think it's worth it! This is the sixty third and final post while I hike, so enjoy and feel free to check out the FAVORITES page where you'll find the podcasts I listen to on a regular basis.

The Good News When You Can't Hold Fast | Daniel Emery Price from ChristHoldFast on Vimeo.

Below is a link to my hiking blog. I begin hiking the Continental Divide Trail on Monday, May 8, 2017. Check out the blog and subscribe. You never know when I might throw in a good sermon or a theological reflection.

CDT Thru-Hike 2017

A blog of my 2017 thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail.

Turn Down For What? by RJ Grunewald

This is a blog post that includes some quotes from one of my favorite writers: Robert Capon. Grunewald reminds us to drink deeply in the pure, undiluted message of grace alone.

Turn Down For What?

BY RJ GRUNEWALD Crunk rap artist Lil Jon and DJ Snake have a top 10 single dedicated to the hook, "Turn down for what." Since I was a bit out of touch with the language, I embarrassingly asked some teenagers what it meant.

Below is a link to my hiking blog. Check it out and subscribe. You never know when I might throw in a good sermon or a theological reflection.

Loren's Hiking Blog

Until We Meet Again

Thank you to everyone who is following this blog. It has been a blessing for me to share and I appreciate the positive feedback. I also love to hike! Below is a link to my hiking blog.

Loren's Hiking Blog

If you are enjoying the blog and want to continue listening while I hike, I have created a page with some of my FAVORITE PODCASTS. The links will take you to the podcast feeds starting with the newest podcast. Most of these podcasts can also be found on iTunes by searching for the podcast title. You will NOT agree with everything you hear, and neither do I, but these podcasters care deeply about the Bible and the good news of the Gospel. They have helped me to seriously think about what I believe and I hope the same for you. Enjoy!

Here is this week's sermon! This sermon is based on Jesus' first miracle and there is plenty of talk about wine as a symbol God's abundant grace. For anyone who can't imagine wine as a positive symbol, you might want to skip this sermon, otherwise it is a smart, contemporary and passionate sermon that reminds us of what it means to be the bride of Christ. For the rest of you, feel free to pour yourself a glass and enjoy the sermon.

A Date With Destiny - Zac G. Koons - The Mockingpulpit

podcast

Things Done and Left Undone

I was reminded of this passage as I listened to this teaching. I hope you are not too busy to listen...

Things Done and Left Undone - David Zahl - The Mockingpulpit

podcast

The Way of Exchange

This sermon is one of three messages preached by Malcolm Guite on Good Friday at St. Edward's Church in Cambridge, England. He is a poet, Anglican priest, and professor at Cambridge University. I find his sermons Biblical in content and artful in delivery. I hope you enjoy this sermon as we continue to reflect on the significance of Easter! I love how it begins with the story about doubting Thomas and Jesus' famous Words: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

The Way of Exchange

This is the first of my three Good Friday Talks on following the way of the cross, which draw on my sonnets sequence 'Stations' which can be found here: http://malcolmguite.wordpress.com/2012/04/04/good-friday-the-stations-of-the-cross/

Three Questions for Sermon Listening

How do you know you are hearing a biblical sermon? I like this writers suggestion on how to be discerning sermon listener. What do you think?Sermon

 

Three Questions to Ask Before Listening to Any Sermon

It's easy to become a passive sermon consumer. As a young Christian, I started to sense this tendency in my own listening, so one Sunday I brought a notebook to church and devised a simple little practice to get my discernment juices flowing before listening to sermons.

But Is It Enough

Happy Easter Sunday! Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed! This is a good Easter sermon that takes us all the way back to garden of Eden. I especially enjoy the references to Jesus being God's YES! Enjoy!

Easter Sunday "But Is It Enough?" - Calvary ~ St. George's Sermon Podcast

In this sermon the Rev Jacob Smith asks and answers the question "Is the resurrection of Jesus Enough?"

Fighting For The Faith

This is an example of a sermon review done on a podcast called Fighting For The Faith. I encourage you to check it out and see if it doesn't help you think about what you are listening to when you hear a sermon. When you click the link, it make take a few seconds to load since this sermon review is in the middle of a two hour podcast. Enjoy!

Hillsong's "Naked Cowboy" Twists Acts 16 - Fighting for the Faith

00:09:22 Katie Souza Thousandfold Con 00:24:33 Steve & Wendy Backlund Making Your Promise Your Identity 00:46:39 Ed Young No Word of God for Memorial Day 01:03:51 Jurgen Matthesius The Power Of A Vision Builder 01:18:27 Sermon Review: Jesus Doesn't Change by Diego Simila

The Treasure In The Field

Here is a great sermon on one of Jesus's shortest parables. I enjoy this interpretation...let me know what you think!

The Treasure In The Field - Sermons

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Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 13:44 - English Standard Version

The Parable of the Hidden Treasure - "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

7 Easy Steps-Bragging On Social Media

No need to thank me...I'm happy to help.

7 Easy Steps To Looking Humble While Bragging On Social Media | The Babylon Bee

When someone is as awesome as you, every once in a while you just need to let the world know about it, right? But-let's be honest-boasting about oneself is sort of frowned upon in most Christian circles. Here's where we can help. Courtesy of your friends at The Babylon Bee, here are 7 easy steps to ...

The Man In The Ditch

This is a great sermon! It takes a very familiar parable of Jesus and interprets it through the lens of LAW and GOSPEL, and suggests that the central figure of the parable is not US, but JESUS! Can you tell I'm EXCITED to share it with you? It might be worth listening to more than once.

Let's Talk About the Man in the Ditch - Jacob Smith - The Mockingpulpit

podcast

Bible Gateway passage: Luke 10:25-37 - New International Version

The Parable of the Good Samaritan - On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"

Donall and Conall meet Richard Dawkins

It's time for a video from Lutheran Satire. Enjoy!

Scandalons of Faith

It's time for another good sermon. (This sermon didn't have a title, so I made one up!) I encourage you to read the text before listening to the sermon. This sermon touches on the themes of forgiveness, faith, and works. What do you think of Cwirla's exegesis of the text and his conclusions?

Luke 17:1-10 / 6 October 2013 - Holy Trinity Lutheran Church " Sermons

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Bible Gateway passage: Luke 17:1-10 - English Standard Version

Temptations to Sin - And he said to his disciples, "Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin.

The Daily Fix: Little Faith is Real Faith

Warning, this video might make your head explode!

Mercy

This is a great sermon on the theme of Mercy and addresses a tragic current event in 2016. I hope you take time to listen!

Mercy - Luke 6:36-42 - Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO, Podcast

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Bible Gateway passage: Luke 6:36-42 - English Standard Version

Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. Judging Others - "Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.

YOUR Testimony

Since your testimony is about YOU and not about Jesus, here is something to help!

Tips For Spicing Up Your Testimony | The Babylon Bee

If you're like the majority of American Christians, your testimony's just plain boring. You were raised in a Christian home, accepted Christ at a young age, were made alive with Christ by the saving power of God, blah blah blah. What you need is a few extra details-"alternative facts," if you will-to spice up your ...

Signs and Faith

A great sermon on seeking signs... If you are reading this, it's a sign you are supposed to listen. Go ahead and click it...you know you want to!

Signs and Faith - John 4:46-54 - Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO, Podcast

Bible Gateway passage: John 4:46-54 - English Standard Version

Jesus Heals an Official's Son - So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death.

The Doctrine of Inerrancy

Last week I posted a video by Michael Horton and he is back! This is a lecture on the inerrancy of the Bible. I think it is an excellent introduction to the topic. Want to know why you can trust the Bible? It's just one click away! (You can thank me later.)

Stewardship Sunday

This is another great sermon on the theme of Christian stewardship. It is based on the parable of the unjust manager. This is traditionally a difficult parable to interpret and Pastor Wolfmueller's message is one of the best sermons I have heard on the parable. Enjoy!

Stewardship Sunday - Luke 16:19 - Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO, Podcast

Bible Gateway passage: Luke 16:1-13 - English Standard Version

The Parable of the Dishonest Manager - He also said to the disciples, "There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, 'What is this that I hear about you?

Moralistic & Therapeutic Deism

Here is a great video about the gospel and a different message that is being substituted for the gospel. This teaching will help you be more discerning in what you listen to and read! I'd love to hear your comments. The video was published in 2015, and just in case you didn't notice...that is the biggest pulpit I have ever seen! Wow!

The Widow’s Mite

Here is an interesting sermon on the topic of giving. Feel free to comment!

The Widow's Mite | a sermon on Mark 12:38-44 - saint benedict's table

Jamie Howison wonders if the conventional reading of the story of the "widow's mite" is getting us at the force of what Jesus was talking about

Bible Gateway passage: Mark 12:38-44 - English Standard Version

Beware of the Scribes - And in his teaching he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplaces and have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers.

We Refused to Practice Cunning

Here is a fascinating teaching that critiques both the methods and message of preaching that is common in many evangelical churches. It's almost an hour long, but definitely worth it. When you click on the link, you'll have the option of listening to audio or watching the video!

General Session 2

Grace Community Church's mission is to glorify God and extend His kingdom by living and proclaiming His truth in the world.

Bible Gateway passage: 2 Corinthians 4:1-5 - English Standard Version

The Light of the Gospel - Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.

The Feast of Michaelmas

This speaker is sometimes hard to understand and will require some concentration but this sermon blows my mind every time I listen to it. It begins with a poem and ends with a song. The audio isn't great, especially for the song, but the sermon is definitely worth the effort. I suggest listening to the poem again after the message.

Michaelmas | a sermon by Malcolm Guite - saint benedict's table Bible Gateway passage: Genesis 28:10-17, John 1:47-51 - English Standard Version

Two Words: Law and Gospel

This is a follow up on the previous sermon. These quotes focus on two words: law and gospel. Lutheran theologians read the entire Bible through the lens of these two words. I think it is a very helpful way of hearing God's Word. A word that kills and makes alive!

10 Thoughts on Law and Gospel

BY BRANDON HANSON Try not to let your head explode. Here's a little "devotional" for you; some thoughts on Law and Gospel from Gerhard Forde. Drink deep, drink full. These are rich streams of thought. 1. The Gospel does not tell me what to do to be saved.

For a more in-depth study of Law and Gospel, continue reading here!

The Trouble About Only

This is a fascinating sermon to consider regarding the sufficiency of Jesus to save us. The reason I consider "only" so important in our understanding of the Gospel is that the message of salvation "by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone," is what puts to death our old nature and raises up a new person. (If you didn't read this post, I recommend you read it before listening to this sermon.) Either my will is necessary for salvation or it's the very thing that most needs to be saved. And by saved I mean KILLED! Put to death, so a new person can be raised from the dead who believes and therefore bears the fruit of repentance and faith. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation.

Can you see it? Can you see that the death of Jesus Christ is your death? He has died in your place! He has done it. He is God happening to you. It is all over, finished, between you and God! He died in your place that death which you must die; he has done it in such a way as to save you. He has borne the whole thing! The fact that there is nothing left for you to do is the death of self and new birth of the new creature. He died to make a new creature of you...to raise you up to trust God alone. Gerhard O Forde

The Trouble about "Only" - Rm 3:21-28 - Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO, Podcast Bible Gateway passage: Romans 3:21-28 - English Standard Version

The Radical Gospel

The Radical Gospel

BY GERHARD FORDE The radical gospel of justification by faith alone simply does not fit, cannot be accepted by, and will not work with an anthropology which sees the human being as a continuously existing subject possessing ''free choice of will''...

On Trusting in Ourselves & Contempt

One of my favorite parables is the The Pharisee and the Tax Collector. I enjoy listening to sermons on this parable and I found another good one. (The first sermon on this blog was also on this same text and can be found HERE!)

On Trusting in Ourselves & Contempt (Luke 18:9-14) - Saint Matthias Anglican Church - Oakdale, CA

Bible Gateway passage: Luke 18:9-14 - English Standard Version

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector - He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.

To The Troubled In Conscience

To The Troubled In Conscience

BY ED ELLINGSTON This is a word to those with a troubled conscience. Those tormented by their failure to conquer that secret sin, or those who have screwed up so horrifically and publicly that they are in danger of losing all hope.

Clarifying “Righteousness”

Our pastor is preaching a series of sermons on the Sermon on the Mount and this is the third sermon in the series. I'm excited to share this sermon with you. Enjoy!

1-22-17 Clarifying "Righteousness" (Matthew 5:17-20) - Saint Matthias Anglican Church - Oakdale, CA

Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 5:17-20 - English Standard Version

Christ Came to Fulfill the Law - "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.

Laugh Out Loud!

For those of you who enjoy a bit satire...happy Wednesday!

Confirmed: Earliest Manuscripts Of Jeremiah Just Had Chapter 29 Verse 11 | The Babylon Bee

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL-Newly discovered manuscripts of the prophet Jeremiah's writings have confirmed that the prophet's original words were likely confined to just the eleventh verse of Chapter 29 found in modern Bible translations, with all other parts of the book being forgeries, Bible experts announced Wednesday.

Clarifying the Beatitudes

Below is a link to a great sermon about the Beatitudes. Unlike the other sermons on my blog, we didn't find it online, we heard it preached live and in person on a Sunday morning! (And it sounded pretty good because I just finished tweaking the sound system.) The church is Saint Matthias Anglican Church in Oakdale, California and the pastor is John Roberts. If you enjoy the sermon and want to visit, let me know and we'll save you a seat right next to us! You can find more sermons on the church website.  

Sermon Cloud 1/15/17 Clarifying the Beatitudes (Matthew 4:23-5:16) Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 4:23-5:16 - English Standard Version

Book Recommendation

Are there any avid readers following my blog? If you like what you are listening to and want a good book to read about the central massage of the Bible, I recommend this book. I found it to be interesting, thoughtful, and well written. Used copies are available for less than $3.00! Happy reading!

Law and Gospel: A Theology for Sinners (and Saints)

The Steadfast Love of the Lord Never Ceases

This is a wonderful sermon on the unpopular subjects of suffering and lamenting. The lexionary text is Lamentations 3:19-26, but Jamie Howison gives us a broader look at the entire book.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases? | Jeremiah's stubborn hope - saint benedict's table Bible Gateway passage: Lamentations 3:19-26 - English Standard Version

Blood On The Floor

I've been thinking a lot about forgiveness lately. Maybe it's because I need it more than I'd like to admit or that I struggle with giving it as freely as I have received it, but I also see so many hurting relationships around me that desperately cry out for forgiveness. I am reminded of this quote:

 In order for forgiveness to really happen, something has to die. Whether it's your expectations of a person, or your idea about who you are. There has to be a death for forgiveness to happen...where forgiveness is easy, and love is easy, there's not enough blood on the floor to make sense of that. -Brené Brown

In Christianity the blood on the floor is Jesus' blood, and after we receive His forgiveness for our sin, He says take up your cross and follow me. Apparently forgiving others is going to cost us something too. But any dying we do in forgiving others, serves to crucifies our flesh and reminds us we are already dead and Jesus is our life. The act of forgiving others is no less God's gift to us than the forgiveness He shows to us. Both are drawing us closer to Him and to each other.

Below is a link to a video interview with Brene' Brown that includes the above quote as part of her personal testimony. I think it's worth the time to listen to.

Brene' Brown Returns to Church (and Finds Jesus Weeping)

Government

Here is a good sermon appropriate for the season. It was preached in the fall of 2008 by William Cwirla. Below the audio player is a link to the Biblical text and a manuscript of the sermon.




Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

Laying Down The Law

Below is a blog post about the purpose of the law. It will give you an interesting perspective on those new year's resolutions you made and what can actually change your life...the Gospel! This isn't a one-off. Grunewald has a great blog and some other resources. Here is a link with some recommended reading from his blog. Happy New Years!

What We Want the Law to Do That It Can't Do

My Christmas Sermon

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. I wrote a short Christmas sermon and decided to post it here for your consideration. I enjoyed writing it and hope you find it a good read. Christmas Sermon 2016.pdf

A Christmas Mentality

This is a Christmas message that might catch you off guard. I encourage you to read the text before listening.

A Chirstmas Mentality Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 2:13-18 - English Standard Version

Merry Christmas!

Here is a little surprise for Christmas! May you and your family have a wonderful Christmas as you celebrate the gift of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In your Flesh Bible Gateway passage: John 1:1-14 - English Standard Version

Merry Christmas!

All Scripture Is God Breathed

This is an excellent sermon and teaching on inspiration, authority, meaning, and purpose of scripture. I hope you enjoy it and are encouraged!

All Scripture Is Breathed Out by God - 2 Tim. 3:14-4:5 - Sermons - Faith Free Lutheran Bible Gateway passage: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 - English Standard Version

Do Not Be Afraid Joseph

A short sermon on the person of Joseph and the message of the angels. Christmas is almost here!

Do not be afraid, Joseph - saint benedict's table Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 1:18-25 - English Standard Version

Wolves with Rotten Fruit

Does it matter what we believe? Is the message of the Bible clear? Are we like the believers Luke commends in Acts: "Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." Acts 17:11 Below is a good sermon that discusses these issues. I'd enjoy hearing what you think!

Wolves with Rotten Fruit Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 7:15-20 - English Standard Version

Jesus Is Ready For You!

Enjoy this short podcast that encourages us to keep our focus on Jesus's return during the Advent season. Following that is a short, interesting, and entertaining Advent sermon that shares a complementary message. Below that is the biblical text for the sermon. As always, I appreciate your comments. Enjoy!

I Hate The Mall | episode 3 in our series of Advent podcasts - saint benedict's table Don't Get Ready for Christmas, Get Ready for Jesus - Sarah Condon - The Mockingpulpit Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 24:36-44 - English Standard Version

Ten Commandment Diagnostic Questions

Below is the list of self-diagnostic questions discussed in the video. I find them to be a good tool for evaluating my love for God and neighbor and a reminder to daily repent of my sin.

1.  What am I afraid of?
2.  How are my prayers?
3.  What is my attitude toward worship?
4.  What is my attitude toward authority?
5.  Am I angry?
6.  Am I chaste/content with my spouse?
7.  Am I greedy/lazy?
8.  Am I bitter?
9 & 10. Am I content/happy?

If you like this video, you can find more here. There are videos on each commandment and many other Biblical texts. Grappling with the Text Videos Enjoy!

A Difficult But Necessary Advent Gift

Enjoy this advent message on John The Baptist!

A Difficult But Necessary Advent Gift - For You - The Podcast Page of Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard Bible Gateway passage: Mark 1:1-8 - English Standard Version
Below is a Advent hymn interspersed with poetry by Malcolm Guite that highlights the biblical themes expressed in the song. If you enjoy his poetry, you can find more here.

O Come, O Come Emmanuel | episode 2 in our series of Advent podcasts - saint benedict's table

Words that Will Not Pass Away

It's time for an Advent season sermon. Advent is the beginning of the church calendar/year and is the season we reflect on what it means to be the people of God as we wait for Christ's return. Here is an article that explains the Advent season.

Words that Will Not Pass Away - Luke 21:25-36 - Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO, Podcast Bible Gateway passage: Luke 21:25-36 - English Standard Version You might notice that I am playing around with the blog post formating and also using a new podcast streaming website. I'd enjoy your feedback!

Introducing Advent

If you grew up like me, attending an evangelical church, you might not know anything about the season of Advent. Advent begins four weeks before Christmas, which means this year it begins on Sunday, November 27, 2016. Advent is a time of preparation and expectation leading up to the celebration of Christ's birth. It also has themes that look forward with hope and anticipation to Christ's second coming. For churches that follow the liturgical calendar, Christmas season doesn't begin until Christmas Eve and continues for 12 days until Epiphany.

I have enjoyed learning about Advent and other seasons/celebrations of the liturgical church calendar. It reminds me that the Church isn't something we invented yesterday. The seasons and celebrations (feasts) of the Church are rich in theology, worship, and practical application.

This blog post includes links to two podcasts. The first is a short (5 minute) podcast that highlights a song written for Advent season. It is a beautiful song that focuses on the themes of promise, waiting, and hope. There are five more of these short podcasts, and I will post them over the next few weeks. The second link is a fourteen minute Christmas Eve message that does a good job of introducing the season of Advent and is a heart warming story as well. Both podcasts are from St. Benedict's Table in Manitoba, Canada.

Come Lord | Episode 5 in our series of Advent podcasts

A bit of holy mischief | A sermon for Christmas Eve

Over the next four weeks, I will be posting sermons that fit into the Advent theme. Thank you to those of you who are listening. I would appreciate hearing from you in the form of a blog comment or an email if you are enjoying this blog. Have a wonderful Advent season as we anticipate the coming of our Lord Jesus the Christ!

Thanksgiving

Below is a link to a thanksgiving sermon. Sorry for the broken link in the email share. Happy Thanksgiving!

Merciful Thanks 11/23/16 - Sermons

Christ: The Final Word

Is everyone ready for another good sermon? This sermon was preached by Timothy Keller in 2005, and is part of series on the book of Hebrews. The text from Hebrews is read aloud by an unnamed reader before the sermon and is worth the price of the entire sermon. If I ever write a book, I want him to read the audio version.

Christ: The Final Word

Rev. Timothy Keller / Redeemer Presbyterian Church

February 6, 2005 / Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:1-4

From Death's Pale Brow Forever

It's time for another sermon. I love this church because on their website "About Us" page, it says: "It's not about us. It's about Christ crucified for our sin. But if you really want to know about us, we're a bunch of sinners and we'd love to tell you about Christ's forgiveness." This is the first sermon I've ever heard on the theme of death except at a funeral. If you can survive the first 5 minutes and 20 seconds you are in for a big surprise!

From Death's Pale Brow Forever

Bible Gateway passage: Revelation 7:9-17 - English Standard Version

A Great Multitude from Every Nation - After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"

Theology as Child's Play

Here is an excellent sermon that highlights a game Martin Luther suggested parents and teachers play with children to teach the great themes of the Bible. Here is what Luther said about the game:

And let no man think himself too wise for such child’s play. Christ, to train men, had to become man himself. If we wish to train children, we must become children with them. Would to God such child’s play were widely practiced. In a short time we would have a wealth of Christian people whose souls would be so enriched in Scripture and in the knowledge of God that of their own accord they would add more pockets.

Enjoy the sermon and listen for the game! I have become fond of playing the game in my head when reading scripture and listening to sermons. Here is the text: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Not Surprised by Sufferiong - 1 Peter 4:12-19

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller / Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO

January 3, 2016 / 1 Peter 4:12-19

You Are The Body Of Christ

It's time for another great sermon. This one focuses on the Church as the Body of Christ. The text is 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. Enjoy!

You Are The Body of Christ

Jamie Howison / St. Benedict's Table Winnipeg, Canada

Date: January 24, 2016 / Text: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31

A Man Named Martin

Ready for some reformation history?

Below is a link to playlist of eight videos. I am currently in the process of watching them, so if you find anything "interesting" please comment!

A Man Named Martin

These videos are published by Lutheran Hour Ministries. The first five were produced in 2015, and focus on Martin Luther. The details of Luther's life including his childhood, education, decision to become a monk, protest of Catholic practices, his voluminous writings, his life in hiding, and his roles as husband and father are all considered in these videos.

The final three videos were produced in 2016, and focus on teachings of the late Medieval Church including purgatory, penance, celibacy, prayers for the dead, transubstantiation, the treasury of merits of Christ, devotion to Mary and the rosary, the institution of the papacy, and the one most often linked to the Reformation: the sale of indulgences.

Reformation Day 2016

Happy Reformation Day! Monday, October 31 is the 499th year of reformation, and to celebrate I'm sharing a link to a sermon preached in 2013, by Pastor William Cwirla. The text is Romans 3:17-28. Next year is the 500th year of the reformation, so I've got a whole year to plan! :) 

Reformation Sermon

Pastor William Cwirla / Holy Trinity Lutheran Church-Hacienda Heights, CA

Preached: October 27, 2013 Text: Romans 3:17-28

Later this week, I'll be posting a link to a six part series of short videos on Martin Luther and the Reformation. Three cheers for Youtube! If you are enjoying the blog and want to share it with someone else, please share a link. Some of the sermons are being listened to over 100 times! 

Dying to Self

Below is a link to something I found helpful in thinking about justification, sanctification and what it means to die to self. It's not an easy read, but I recommend it for your consideration. Happy reading!

Dying To Self by Gerhard O Forde

Jesus, Transfiguration, and the Bible

Click to learn about this image.

It's time for another great sermon! What I appreciate about this message is the quality of his exegesis, how he explains the meaning of the texts in the broader context of scripture, and the focus on the Bible as God's Word to us. I am impressed with Pastor Wolfmueller's ability to preach an articulate, engaging, and thoughtful sermon while staying close to the text. What do you hear? I'd love for you to share your thoughts. Here are the texts for the sermon: Matthew 17:1-13 and 2 Peter 1:16-21. 

Jesus, Transfiguration, and the Bible

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller / Hope Lutheran Church, Aurora CO

Sermon date: January 17, 2016 / Sermon text: Matthew 17:1-13 & 2 Peter 1:16-21

Interview with Eylse Fitzpatrick

This post is late, but since the message is about grace, I guess you'll just have to forgive me. This is not a sermon, but a podcast interview from Christ Hold Fast Cast. The podcast hosts are two pastors and this episode is an interview with author and conference speaker Eylse Fitpatrick. This isn't my favorite podcast, but this particular episode is interesting and helpful because we hear the testimony of someone discovering the Gospel and the impact it has on her life. This episode is long: one hour and sixteen minutes, but it is worth the time and is generally light enough to listen to while multitasking. I would enjoy hearing your comments on this podcast episode. Thank you to everyone who has subscribed!

Interview With Eylse Fitzpatrick

Law, Gospel, Books, Games and Loving Legalists with Eylse Fitzpatrick

Christ Hold Fast Cast Podcast

April 1, 2015

Washing Water To Wedding Wine

This is the first sermon I heard by William Cwirla. After listening to it several times, Eva and I came up with this phrase: "We've been Cwirla'd!" I will post additional sermons by Cwirla, but this one is an excellent introduction to his preaching. Lutherans divide scripture into two broad categories: law and gospel. You will hear the distinction between law and gospel in this sermon and how this distinction is helpful in understanding the Bible. I also keep these categories in mind when I listen to other sermons. Here is the text for the sermon: John 2:1-11. As always, I suggest you read the text and take a minute to reflect on it before listening to the sermon. Enjoy!

Pastor William Cwirla

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church-Hacienda Heights, CA

Preached: January 17, 2010

Text: John 2:1–11

Sermon Manuscript

I would love to hear your feedback on the sermon. What did you hear? What did you like or dislike? What is missing? For anyone interested in learning more about law and gospel, here is an excellent book. I have read it and found it very helpful! If you read the book, let me know what you think.

Danger Will Robinson, Danger!

Warning...this blog post might make you think, or get mad, or set you free. Feel free to comment!

"Not Feeling It"-The Gospel for Everyone Else

An Offering Of Spilled Purfume

Thank you to everyone who subscribed to the blog or visited from Facebook or Twitter. This week I'm excited to share another great sermon. In a few weeks, I plan to share more about what makes a sermon "great." But first I want to have a few examples for us to consider. Using the metaphor of cooking: before we study the recipe, lets simply enjoy some great food together. I pray these sermons create faith and love in your hearts.

An Offering of Spilled Perfume | a sermon for the 5th Sunday in Lent - saint benedict's table

This sermon is preached by an Anglican minister in Canada. I listened to many of his sermons as I hiked this summer and found this one to be especially thoughtful and passionate. He has a great Christmas message I can't wait to share! The text for this sermon is: John 12:1-8. I encourage you to read the text before listening to the sermon.

Jamie Howison / St. Benedict's Table Winnipeg, Canada

Preached: March 18, 2013 / Text: John 12:1-8

WHO Is The Bible About?

 

You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me. John 5:39

If we are going to understand how to read the Bible, a crucial question that we must answer is: Who is the Bible about? Jesus says the scriptures are about him. In the passage below, Jesus teaches us how to read the Bible.

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.  

He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”  

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” “What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”  

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.  Luke 24:13-27

We miss the point of the Bible if we read the Bible as if it is about us.

Here is a short video to consider:

Here are two brief articles that also makes the case that the Bible is about Jesus: 

The Bible Is Not About You by Byron Yawn

How Luther Taught Me to Read the Bible by Donavon Riley

I encourage your questions and comments!

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