A Mountain of Meaning Rev. Kim Graber March 2, 2014
|
|
- Barbara Lane
- 8 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 A Mountain of Meaning Rev. Kim Graber March 2, 2014 I don t know if this is still the case, because I haven t asked him in a while, but when he was younger, the story of the transfiguration was my son, Jacob s favorite Bible story - although he preferred the story from the gospel of Luke and we are looking at Matthew today. When I asked him why this was his favorite Bible story, he said, It s just so amazing. And that is what makes it challenging for a pastor. What can one say about the transfiguration that would do justice to the holiness of it? Today, we will consider the miracle and holiness of the moment. But I would also like to share with you a bit of the human-ness of the story. During this season of Lent, which begins Wednesday, we will be following the threads that run throughout the story of God s people, leading to Jesus and the resurrection. This morning I would like to share with you how this moment in Jesus life and in the life of the disciples, fits into the beginning of the journey which we now call Lent. The story of the transfiguration - at least in the gospel of Matthew - takes place outside a town called Caesarea Philippi. If we look back to the 15th and 16th chapters of Matthew s gospel, we see that Jesus has been traveling to many places, teaching and preaching. Most recently, he has been in his home town of Nazareth, then teaching and preaching along the Sea of Galilee, then back to his home base, Capernaum. From there we have a story in which Jesus and his disciples withdraw. The end was coming near and Jesus still had so much to teach his disciples - so much more to say to them. There were still many things they could not understand - things they could not yet bear to hear. 1
2 Perhaps that is why he took them to the district of Caesarea Philippi, about miles northeast of Capernaum. Caesarea Philippi was outside the domain of Herod, the ruler of Galilee, and inside the domain of Philip, one of the Roman governors. The population was primarily non-jewish, which would have allowed Jesus and the twelve some peace and quiet instead of the constant crowds closing in on them. The fact that his days in the flesh were short, was a paramount problem for Jesus. Was there anyone who understood him? Was there anyone who recognized Him for who he was? Was there anyone who, when he was gone from the flesh, would carry on His work and labor for His kingdom? What would happen to His people if there were no one who had even glimpsed the truth? So it is in Caesarea Philippi that Jesus asks the disciples who they believe him to be. It is a dramatic scene. There were very few districts with more religious associations than Caesarea Philippi. The area was literally filled with temples of the ancient Syrian Baal worship. There was a cavern which was said to have been the birthplace of the great god, Pan, the god of nature. In this district, there is also a place that is said to be where the Jordan River sprang to life. And finally, there was a great white marble temple, built by Herod the Great in honor of Caesar. In contrast, here is a homeless, penniless carpenter, with twelve very ordinary men around him. And while he is in this foreign district, the most orthodox of his people were planning to destroy him as a dangerous heretic. Yet, here he stands in the midst of the temples of the Syrian gods, where the Greek gods looked down, and the marble temple of Caesar loomed, and there, of all places, he asks them the question. 2
3 But he does not ask them directly. He begins by asking them what other people are saying about Him, and finally asking them, Who do you say that I am? And to Simon Peter s credit, he answers, You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. And this is the reason Jesus announces that he will build His church on the rock. This is a play on words, since the Greek word for Peter is Petros, and in Greek, Petros means rock. I have always said that if I were a disciple, I would be Simon Peter. He is deeply spiritual, but is also sort of a bumbler. This conversation with Jesus is one of the times Peter was deeply spiritual. So six days after arriving in Caesarea Philippi, and after some teaching about what he will going through, Jesus takes them to the top of a very high mountain. Scripture does not tell us which mountain he takes us to, but it is assumed he takes them to Mt. Hermon, which, at 14 miles away from Caesarea Philippi, was still the closest mountain. To imagine this distance, imagine walking from here to Southwest Plaza, and that is just to get to the base of the mountain. Mount Hermon was also a very high mountain. At 9,400 feet, it was 11,000 feet above sea level. So, it is unlikely that they went all the way to the top, but they might have. Matthew does not tell us why Jesus took the three to the mountain. After all, was the 14 mile hike really necessary? Couldn t he have done his teaching in town, in a comfortable inn? 3
4 Jesus often went up on a mountain to pray, but this time there was a more specific reason. He needed to be sure that he was on the right track. Before he set out on his final journey to Jerusalem, Jesus had to be sure beyond all doubt that he was doing what God wanted him to do. He had to make certain that it was indeed God s will that he go to the cross. So Jesus went up the mountain to listen for the voice of God. It was somewhere on the slopes of that majestic mountain, that the transfiguration happened. We don t know what time of day the transfiguration occurred, although the gospel of Luke indicates it must have happened at night because the disciples were almost overcome by sleep. And truly, if God were going to transfigure Jesus so that his face and clothing shone like the sun and were as white as light, wouldn t he do it at night when the effect would be most powerful and glorious? This is what we do know - there, on that mountain slope, as Jesus was transformed, two great figures appeared with him - Moses and Elijah. This is one of the things I love most about scripture. I could probably spend the rest of my life referencing one passage of scripture to another, and I would still not find all of the references. In this passage, let s look at why Moses and Elijah were the two who appeared with Jesus and spoke with him. Note the similarities in the stories. - Both Moses and Elijah had their most intimate experiences with God on a mountain top. Moses received the tablets of the law on Mt. Sinai. It was on Mt. Horeb that Elijah found God - not in the wind, not in the earthquake, but in the still, small voice. 4
5 - Both Moses and Elijah had the experience of shining like the sun. When Moses came down from the mountain of Sinai, he did not know that his face shone. Elijah was taken into heaven in a fiery chariot. - There was something unusual and awesome surrounding the deaths of both these men. When Moses died on Mt. Nebo, God was the one who buried this great leader, and no one ever knew the place of the burial. And, as I just mentioned, Elijah was taken into heaven in a chariot of fire. Both were considered transcendent figures who didn t die but were lifted into heaven. In Jewish history, Moses was the greatest of all law-givers. He was supremely and uniquely the man who brought God s law to the people. Elijah was the greatest of all the prophets. In him the voice of God spoke to the people with directness. It is as if these greatest figures in Israel s history rose up and pointed Jesus on his way. It has been a consistent Jewish belief that Elijah was to be the herald and forerunner of the Messiah, and that when the Messiah came, he would be accompanied by Moses. Jesus, Moses, and Elijah are in continuity with the fulfillment of God s work. Their appearance was the signal for Jesus to go on. 5
6 But this is not the end of the story. As magnificent as the transfiguration of Jesus, and the appearance of Moses and Elijah is, there is more. A cloud overshadows all of them and God s voice speaks from that cloud, saying, This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him! Again, notice the similarities. - In the book of Exodus, we read of many occasions in which God was in the cloud: The pillar of cloud that led the people out of Egypt The cloud that covered the tent of the tabernacle The cloud in which God appeared to give Moses the tablets of the law Jesus came to the mountain to affirm he was following God s path. He received that affirmation in the metamorphosis of his appearance, in the appearance of the greatest law giver and greatest prophet in history, and finally, in the voice of God, giving him clear approval. It was this experience which allowed Jesus to walk the way of the cross. And of course, this experience also changed the disciples who witnessed it. They must have been bewildered by Jesus insistence that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer and die. It must have seemed to them that there was nothing but darkness and shame ahead. Even though they did not completely understand this moment of glory, it, had to have confirmed for them that the cross was not all humiliation - that it was also tinged with glory. 6
7 Oh how Peter and all of us would rather stay in that moment of glory than to get on with the daily struggles of life. But this glimpse of glory is given to him and to us precisely so that we might be able to have the strength for daily ministry. It is given to us so that the common things - and yes, even the difficult things, might be covered in a radiance that we have never before seen. As we begin these serious and sometimes somber days of Lent, let us hold on to this glimpse of glory. And may this gift sustain us through the good times and the bad, and give us the strength for our daily ministry. 7
8 Matthew 17:1-9 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him! When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, Get up and do not be afraid. And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead. As we come to this time of communion, we are aware that Jesus - the One whose 8
9 holiness is shown to us in His transfiguration - gave himself for the world. As we come to this table, we celebrate a holy meal, as Jesus did with his disciples on the night he was betrayed. As we prepare our hearts to come to Christ s table, let us recognize who we are God s own - brothers and sisters in him. When Jesus sat at table and enjoyed a meal with tax collector and sinners, he proclaimed that God s love knows no bounds. We proclaim again that witness as we come to this table. This is an open communion. All who desire to draw closer to our Lord are invited now to share at God s table and be nourished by the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Great and wonderful are your deeds, Almighty God. You spread a table in the wilderness and give bread and drink to your people. We pray that you would bless these, the fruits of the earth, that as we partake of these common elements, they might become for us reminders of the amazing love of Christ. it is in his name we pray. Amen. Almighty God, we thank you for your deliverance, which moves us from despair to hope, from brokenness to wholeness, and from death to life. We thank you for the love of Jesus, a love that moved him to sacrifice himself for our redemption. We that you for the grace we experience as we receive these symbols of the life he gave. Make us worthy of this great love. Amen. 9
THEME: God has a calling on the lives of every one of His children!
Devotion NT298 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Paul s First Missionary Journey THEME: God has a calling on the lives of every one of His children! SCRIPTURE: Acts 12:25 13:52 Dear Parents
More informationHE DWELT AMONG US. THE GOSPEL OF JOHN LESSON 2 Chapter 1:19-51. The Beginning of Jesus Public Ministry
Lesson 2, page 1 HE DWELT AMONG US THE GOSPEL OF JOHN LESSON 2 Chapter 1:19-51 The Beginning of Jesus Public Ministry Very little is recorded about Jesus childhood in the scriptures. We are told, the Child
More information"God's Wisdom Revealed to All (Ephesians 3:7-20)
"God's Wisdom Revealed to All (Ephesians 3:7-20) by Rev. Jackie Stoneman Paul begins this chapter by reminding the Ephesians that he is in fact a prisoner. Because he has been preaching to the Gospel especially
More informationWhereas I was Blind, Now I See. John 9: 1-11; 25
Whereas I was Blind, Now I See John 9: 1-11; 25 We all know that great hymn well: Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me; I once was lost, but now I m found; was blind, but now
More informationAnd the Books Were Opened
JUDGMENT DAY And the Books Were Opened 1 And the Books Were Opened Hebrews 9:27 INTRODUCTION: A. Have you thought of the reality of the judgment day? 1. Judgment day is a real day! 2. Judgment day is a
More informationTHE ORDER OF THE MASS
THE ORDER OF THE MASS The first part of the Mass is about getting to know everyone and welcoming everyone to God s house. It s called the INTRODUCTORY RITES. Entrance Song We sing to celebrate that we
More informationTHE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM
BOOK 3, PART 1, LESSON 1 THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM THE BIBLE: Luke 19:29-40 THEME: We remember that Jesus taught about love and showed love in everything he did. During Lent and Easter, we remember and
More informationBible Study 70. The Mystery of God
The Mystery of God The word mystery means an unspoken secret. God had an unspoken secret that He kept to Himself for 4,000 years. It was the biggest and best secret of all time, and it s about you and
More informationTHEME: Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us.
Devotion NT285 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Day of Pentecost THEME: Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us. Dear Parents SCRIPTURE: Acts 2:1-41 Dear Parents, Welcome
More informationGUESS WHO CAME TO DINNER? (John 12:1-8)
GUESS WHO CAME TO DINNER? (John 12:1-8) Adapted from: www.sermonseeds.org/master%20index.htm For more downloadable teachings see: www.altogetherlovely.org (FREE TEACHINGS) Scripture taken from the HOLY
More informationTHEME: We should take every opportunity to tell others about Jesus.
Devotion NT307 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Paul Goes Before Agrippa THEME: We should take every opportunity to tell others about Jesus. SCRIPTURE: Acts 25:13 26:32 Dear Parents
More informationBible for Children. presents THE MAN OF FIRE
Bible for Children presents THE MAN OF FIRE Written by: Edward Hughes Illustrated by: Lazarus Adapted by: E. Frischbutter Produced by: Bible for Children www.m1914.org 2007 Bible for Children, Inc. License:
More informationWELCOME TO GOD S FAMILY
WELCOME TO GOD S FAMILY To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband
More informationEvangelism Bible Study Fishers of Men
Evangelism Bible Study Fishers of Men Introduction One picture Scripture uses to describe our role is fishers of men. Come, follow me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men (Mark 1:17, from the
More informationSchedule 3 Alternative Great Thanksgivings Alternative Great Thanksgiving A (alternative to Thanksgiving of the People of God)
The Lord is here. God s Spirit is with us. Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord. Schedule 3 Alternative Great Thanksgivings Alternative Great Thanksgiving A (alternative to Thanksgiving of the
More information_ Amen. Our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and
Funeral Service I *The ceremonies or tributes of social or fraternal societies have no place within the service. Baptized Christians should be buried from the Church. We begin in the name of the Father
More information7.1.1 The church is Christ together with his people called both to worship and to serve him in all of life.
Living Faith: Chapter 7 - "God's Church" Page 1 of 6 Living Faith - Chapter 7 - God's Church 7.1 The Church 7.1.1 The church is Christ together with his people called both to worship and to serve him in
More informationThe Pre-existence Of Christ
Champions and Women of Destiny LESSON 1 The Pre-existence Of Christ Passages to Read: Micah 5:2; John 1:1, 17:5, 24; Colossians 1:17; Revelation 22:13 A HISTORICAL VIEW OF JESUS About 2,000 years ago,
More informationJesus Inaugural Sermon Scripture: Luke 4:14-30
1 Jesus Inaugural Sermon Scripture: Luke 4:14-30 By Pastor John H. Noordhof Williamsburg Christian Reformed Church February 3, 2013 Morning Service People of God: When you are on vacation, as I was for
More informationUnity in Christ September 16, 2012 Ephesians 2:11-22
I. Introduction Unity in Christ September 16, 2012 Ephesians 2:11-22 Since, as a whole, the Jews in Ephesus wanted nothing to do with Paul and his so-called Messiah, the church in Ephesus was made up largely
More informationJoy Scripture Verses In The New Testament
Joy Scripture Verses In The New Testament (Matthew 13:20) The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. (Matthew 13:44) "The kingdom
More informationTHE BASICS: Lesson 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE BIBLE
THE BASICS: Lesson 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE BIBLE The Bible is the Word of God. It claims to be the truth, the message of God to man. 2 Peter 1:21 says that men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. The
More informationNATIONAL BIBLE INSTITUTE
NATIONAL BIBLE INSTITUTE NBI'S FREE QUIZ... "BIBLE: Basic Information Before Leaving Earth" Please answer all questions contained in the test. You will be contacted within a few days with your results.
More informationWorldview, Theology, & Culture
Worldview, Theology, & Culture First Baptist Church, McLoud Recap: 1. Every worldview answers the questions of Creation, Fall, and Redemption. In other words, every worldview asks the questions: Where
More informationCONFIRMATION VERSE SUGGESTIONS
Joshua 1:9b Psalm 23:1 Psalm 25:4-5 Psalm 27:1 Psalm 46:1 Psalm 46:10a Psalm 100:2 Psalm 100:1-3 Psalm 100:5 Psalm 118:1 Psalm 119:105 Psalm 121:1-2 OLD TESTAMENT READINGS Be strong and courageous. Do
More informationTHE REVELATION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
THE REVELATION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST Even though Lazarus came out from the tomb, he was still wrapped up in the bandages. God is changing us from within and the way we think and believe. In our hearts
More informationJesus Interprets the Scriptures Mark 10:2-16 Sunday, October 4, 2015 The Rev. Sharon Snapp-Kolas, preaching
Jesus Interprets the Scriptures Mark 10:2-16 Sunday, October 4, 2015 The Rev. Sharon Snapp-Kolas, preaching Scripture. Prayer. Opening. Some people seem to know the Bible really well. You know who I m
More informationThis booklet contains a message of love and hope. An exciting adventure awaits all who discover these life-changing truths.
This booklet contains a message of love and hope. An exciting adventure awaits all who discover these life-changing truths. The following four principles will help you discover how to know God personally
More informationLESSON TITLE: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus
Devotion NT257 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus THEME: Jesus always has time for us! SCRIPTURE: Mark 10:46-52 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!
More informationLESSON TITLE: The Last Supper. Maidens. THEME: Jesus is the Passover lamb. SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:7-10 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF:
Devotion NT269 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Maidens LESSON TITLE: The Last Supper THEME: Jesus is the Passover lamb. SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:7-10 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids. Bible
More informationTell me more about how I can find God s plan for my life.
Just as God has special ways to keep the sun, moon, and stars in place, He also wants you to know the four facts that will make you safe and keep you in a loving relationship with Him. FA N TA S T I C
More informationGreetings, Blessings, Scott DeWitt Director of Spiritual Outreach Casas por Cristo
Team Devotional Greetings, Welcome to Casas por Cristo! If you are reading this, then more than likely you are embarking on a week-long adventure serving our Lord and Savior along the U.S. / México border
More informationThe importance of Prayer life
The importance of Prayer life Prayer means communication with God. Prayer will lead us into dependence upon God. A person completely declared before God I am nothing and God is supreme. And declare without
More informationJesus and the Counsellor in John s Gospel
Jesus and the Counsellor in John s Gospel In Jesus farewell speech, recorded in John s Gospel (chapters 13-17) Jesus introduces the disciples to one he calls the Counsellor. This Counsellor (the name itself
More informationBaptism: Should I be Baptized?
Baptism: Should I be Baptized? The Lord Jesus mandated two ordinances, baptism and the Lord s Supper, which visibly and tangibly express the gospel. Though they are not the means of salvation, when celebrated
More information3] Compact Double Column All Texts [pg.4] Compact Triple Column All Texts [pgs.5-6] All Texts, Large Font [pgs.7-15]
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT February 21, 2016 Year C, Revised Common Lectionary [formatted version with line breaks and verse markers removed] Table of Contents All Texts, Enhanced Font, Psalm in Poem Format,
More informationKNOWING GOD NEW BELIEVERS STUDY
NEW BELIEVERS STUDY TABLE OF CONTENTS BIBLE STUDY 1: SALVATION 1 BIBLE STUDY 2: FAITH AND ASSURANCE 4 BIBLE STUDY 3: POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 7 BIBLE STUDY 4: TRIALS 10 BIBLE STUDY 1: SALVATION SCRIPTURE
More informationOdenton Baptist Bible Institute Life of Christ (Harmony) November 11, 2014 Fall 2014 Semester Lesson 6 - Ministry in Galilee, Part II Page 1
Fall 2014 Semester Lesson 6 - Ministry in Galilee, Part II Page 1 I. RETURN TO CAPERNAUM (Village of Nahum) (pages 61 to 108 in text) A. A Centurion s Servant is healed (Matt 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10) 1. The
More informationwater baptism contents
ABOUT WATER BAPTISM water baptism If you have received this booklet, chances are that you are interested in getting water baptized or you want to know what Crossroads Church believes about it. Either way,
More informationObjective: God has a Plan! Bible Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans THEME OVERVIEW
Miraculous Catches of Fish Scripture: Luke 5:1-11; John 21:1-6 Objective: God has a Plan! Bible Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you
More informationTHEME: We need to completely trust in Jesus.
Devotion NT238 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Jesus Walks on Water THEME: We need to completely trust in Jesus. SCRIPTURE: Mark 6:45-52 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!
More informationReligion. Christianity. vs. onetruth. Students should understand the theme of the beatitudes. Matthew 5:1-11. Lesson Overview:
Religion vs. Christianity Lesson Overview: Jesus begins the ministry of His first church with the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5-7 sets the stage for Jesus teaching ministry for the next three years. In
More information1 The Structure of the Bible
1 1 The Structure of the Bible MEMORIZE: 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: G od
More informationActs: Seeing the Spirit at Work Sunday Morning Bible Study Lesson Three Acts 3:1-4:31
Acts: Seeing the Spirit at Work Sunday Morning Bible Study Lesson Three Acts 3:1-4:31 Jesus has returned to heaven before the very eyes of the astounded disciples. Matthias has been chosen to replace Judas.
More informationII. HOW WERE PEOPLE SAVED BEFORE JESUS CAME?
HOW WERE PEOPLE SAVED BEFORE JESUS CAME? BOB BRYANT Cypress Valley Bible Church Marshall, Texas I. INTRODUCTION How were people saved before Jesus came? Some suggest that people were saved by sincerely
More informationWILL WE BE MARRIED IN THE LIFE AFTER DEATH?
Explanatory Notes: WILL WE BE MARRIED IN THE LIFE AFTER DEATH? Series title: Topic: Marriage in heaven / heaven as a marriage Table of Contents: Message 1: What is the Life after Death Like? p. 1 Message
More informationInternational Sunday School Lesson Study Notes October 18, 2015. Lesson Text: Acts 10:24-38 Lesson Title: Breaking Down Barriers.
International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes October 18, 2015 Lesson Text: Acts 10:24-38 Lesson Title: Breaking Down Barriers Introduction Although Peter is the leader of the apostles, it has been a
More informationThen said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Toward the close of John chapter 6, there is a sad and arresting verse.
WILL YE ALSO GO AWAY JOHN 6:60-69 Text: John 6:67 John 6:67 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Introduction: Toward the close of John chapter 6, there is a sad and arresting verse.
More informationThe Lord Gives Moses the Ten Commandments
The Lord Gives Moses the Ten Commandments (portions of Exodus 19-20, 32-34) By Rev. Kurt Horigan Asplundh Illustrated by Marguerite Acton 2004 General Church Office of Education Have you ever heard anyone
More informationWhat is the Church? Matthew 16:18
THE CHURCH What is the Church? 1 What is the Church? Matthew 16:18 INTRODUCTION: A. Matthew 16:18... And on this rock I will build My church. What is the church? 1. The prophets of old prophesied about
More informationGrace to you and peace, from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Whiplash 1 Matthew 16:21-28 (NRSV) From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes,
More information(Leader and Reader Text) Vigil Service for a Deceased Serran with Lay Leader
(Leader and Reader Text) Vigil Service for a Deceased Serran with Lay Leader Prayers, readings and the quotes below are taken from Order of Christian Funerals, approved for use in the Dioceses of the United
More informationJOHN PAUL HElL THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS: Narrative Meaning and Function of Mark 9:2-8, Matt 17:1-8 and Luke 9:28-36
JOHN PAUL HElL THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS: Narrative Meaning and Function of Mark 9:2-8, Matt 17:1-8 and Luke 9:28-36 EDITRICE PONTIFICIO ISTITUTO BIBLICO - ROMA 2000 PREFACE IMPRIMI POTEST Romae, die
More informationPrayer Service to Celebrate the Ministry of Teachers During Catholic Schools Week 2015
Prayer Service to Celebrate the Ministry of Teachers During Catholic Schools Week 2015 You Will Need A large candle with the words Love, Kindness, Joy, Truth and Justice (the final page of this document
More informationThe Gospel of the Kingdom The End Time Message
Introduction The Gospel of the Kingdom The End Time Message According to Jesus, one of the signs of the end, that is, the close of this age, is the completion of the preaching of the gospel of the Kingdom
More informationCaring for a new Christian follow-up Sandy Fairservice
F Caring for a new Christian follow-up Sandy Fairservice ollow up is a commercial term familiar to sales people. You make a contact, then make it again to advance your purpose. Dawson Trotman borrowed
More informationTruth and Light KOINONIA SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2012. Rev. Emily Joye McGaughy
Truth and Light KOINONIA SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2012 Rev. Emily Joye McGaughy First Congregational Church United Church of Christ 145 Capital Ave., NE Battle Creek, MI 49017 269 965 1225 www.fccbc.org Truth
More informationThe Purpose. Jesus Miracles.
Welcome to: - Bible House of Grace. God, through His Son Jesus, provides eternal grace for our failures and human limitations. The Purpose Of Jesus Miracles. (2013) The Bible not only reveals God s eternal
More informationMission and Service Candle-Lighting Services for Worship and Home
Mission and Service Candle-Lighting Services for Worship and Home Introduction Here are two ideas for Advent candle-lighting: one for worship services and one to be used at home by your church families.
More informationThe Gospel Preached to Abraham
Law and Grace Lesson Eighteen 1 Chapter Eighteen The Gospel Preached to Abraham How were people saved before Jesus died and rose to justify the believer? How was Adam saved? How was Abraham saved? Were
More informationWHO DO YOU SAY I AM? Youth Group Session Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministry Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA 2005
WHO DO YOU SAY I AM? Youth Group Session Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministry Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA 2005 Ages 13-18 Workshop time 1.5 hours Objective: 1. To help your youth discover who
More informationwith Children Sharing the Plan of Salvation By Cheryl Markland
Sharing the Plan of Salvation with Children By Cheryl Markland Font: Whiz Bang For more information contact: Childhood Ministry Baptist State Convention of North Carolina (800) 395-5102 ext. 5646 Sharing
More informationConfirmation Faith Statement
A is simply 1-2 paragraphs of what you believe about God, faith, Jesus, salvation, etc. Every Confirmation student will pick out a Confirmation verse as a basis of their faith statement. You can use one
More informationTHEME: Jesus knows all about us and He loves us.
Devotion NT224 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Woman at the Well THEME: Jesus knows all about us and He loves us. SCRIPTURE: John 4:1-42 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!
More informationThe Tabernacle outside the camp realised repentance reawakening re-evaluation relationship
The Tabernacle outside the camp Ex. 33:7 And it came to pass, that every one which sought the LORD went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp. So many things happened
More informationDevotion NT267 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Second Coming. THEME: Jesus is coming again. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 24:27-31
Devotion NT267 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Second Coming THEME: Jesus is coming again. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 24:27-31 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids. Bible Time for
More informationCompassion: The Heartbeat of God
Life Reference: Jude 22-23 Focus Verse: And of some have compassion, making a difference (Jude 22). From the time we were little, bedtime stories filled our heads with handsome princes who searched until
More informationTHEME: The goodness of God leads us to repentance.
Devotion NT213 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: John the Baptist THEME: The goodness of God leads us to repentance. SCRIPTURE: Luke 3:1-22 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!
More informationFather. Communications. Creative. Master. Sample. Bridegroom. King. A Bible Study in 6 Sessions on the Kingdom Parables
Father Master Bridegroom King A Bible Study in 6 Sessions on the Kingdom Parables FatherMaster BridegroomKing A Bible Study in 6 Sessions on the Kingdom Parables When the Son of Man comes, will he find
More informationThe Spirituality of the Catechist
The Spirituality of the Catechist Purpose This retreat experience will give catechists the opportunity to reflect on passages from the Scriptures that are pertinent to their vocation as catechists. They
More informationThe Challenges of Evangelism. Sharing your faith in the 21 st Century
The Challenges of Evangelism Sharing your faith in the 21 st Century Definitions What is Evangelism? Evangelism, definitions of: zealous preaching and dissemination of the gospel, as through missionary
More informationIn the Bible, Jesus said, I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly. - John 10:10)
CONGRATS! CONGRATULATIONS! Taking the step of faith to follow Jesus Christ is the greatest step you will ever take. It s the one action that will allow you to experience new opportunities and gain a new
More informationA PRAYER IN THE GARDEN
BOOK 3, PART I, LESSON 4 A PRAYER IN THE GARDEN THE BIBLE: Luke 22:39-53, Mark 14:32-50 THEME: We remember that Jesus taught about love and showed love in everything he did. During Lent and Easter we remember
More informationDenver Baptist Church
Denver Baptist Church 2016 Bible Reading Plan All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training that the man of God may be complete, equipped
More informationDid you know that more than 50% of the folks who call themselves Catholic choose not to believe what is really the heart of our faith?
The Body and Blood of Christ? Really! Did you know that more than 50% of the folks who call themselves Catholic choose not to believe what is really the heart of our faith? You may have forgotten why we
More informationUNDERSTANDING OTHER RELIGIONS Week 3: Islam 1. LEADER PREPARATION
This includes: 1. Leader Preparation 2. Lesson Guide UNDERSTANDING OTHER RELIGIONS Week 3: Islam 1. LEADER PREPARATION LESSON OVERVIEW When you look at the major world religions, Islam is one of the youngest.
More informationcreation ; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
[WELCOME TO THE FAMILY] Bible Study #1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORD OF GOD (Part 1) It is amazing that, when we come to faith in Christ, we truly become a new creation. As it says in 2 Corinthians 5:17: if
More informationJohn 20:31...these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.
[ B E L I E V E R S B I B L E S T U D Y ] THE GOSPEL OF JOHN Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION... The Gospel of John is such a great book to study, as a new believer, because it speaks so clearly about Jesus. It
More informationValley Bible Church Sermon Transcript
Working Hard but Taking No Credit Philippians 2:12-13 Part 1 I know that each of us, if we were totally honest as professing Christians, would say that there are certain things about ourselves that we
More informationCommunion Table Talks By Matt Dabbs http://mattdabbs.wordpress.com
Communion Table Talks By Matt Dabbs http://mattdabbs.wordpress.com These talks are designed for taking the Lord s Supper at tables and having a discussion led at teach table in order to take the Lord s
More informationCATECHISM (adopted 2008) FOR CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CONFESSION OF FAITH
(from 2008 preliminary minutes page 183) CATECHISM (adopted 2008) FOR CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CONFESSION OF FAITH 1. Who is God? God is the one living, active Creator of all that is, seen and unseen. 2.
More informationThursday Night Call to Worship All: You have called us to this place. All: have brought us here, each of us unique and yours.
Thursday Night Call to Worship One: Holy God, Creator of us all, All: You have called us to this place. One: You, God of all creativity and imagination, All: have brought us here, each of us unique and
More informationWhat is Meant by the New Testament Church?
THE CHURCH What is Meant by the New Testament Church? 1 What is Meant by the New Testament Church? Matthew 16:13-19 INTRODUCTION: A. Matthew 16:13-18 When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi,
More informationReprinted by permission from Book of Common Worship, 1993 Westminster/John Knox Press
Reprinted by permission from Book of Common Worship, 1993 Westminster/John Knox Press INVITATIONS to CONFESSION of SIN If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if
More informationPreparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson
Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson 1 Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson Prepare Your Heart Pray for yourself; ask God to speak to you through this Scripture passage. Pray for your students and
More informationJESUS PREDICTS HIS DEATH AGAIN Luke 18:31-34 JESUS REPEATED PREDICITON OF HIS DEATH (18:31-34)
1 JESUS PREDICTS HIS DEATH AGAIN Luke 18:31-34 Jesus mission is about to come to an end. He has prepared His disciples for His impending death by instructing them about a life of faith. He now reminds
More informationQUIZ FOR ACTS CHAPTER TWO
QUIZ FOR ACTS CHAPTER TWO 1. Fill in the blank: When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with in one place. a. Great happiness. b. One accord. c. Profound peace. 2. In Acts chapter two,
More informationLiving Water Church Ministry Training Center
Living Water Church Ministry Training Center He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:38 1000 Hall Valley Drive Bridgeport, WV 26301
More informationDiscover The God Who Believes In You
Discover The God Who Believes In You I AM LOVED The most basic fact of the Bible is that there is a God. He made everything that is, including you, and loves you with an everlasting love. God has loved
More informationBellaire Community United Methodist Church February 21, 2016. The Garden of Gethsemane. 24 Hours That Changed the World part 2
Eric Falker, page 1 Bellaire Community United Methodist Church February 21, 2016 The Garden of Gethsemane 24 Hours That Changed the World part 2 Mark 14:26-50 (Intro Video) Throughout Lent we are walking
More informationClass #9 September 30 th, 2007 Worship (Part 1)
Class #9 September 30 th, 2007 Worship (Part 1) This outline is the first part of what may be a three or four Sunday scripture centered discussion on worship and how we practice it that will unfold as
More informationFOUNDER S DAY. Adult Lesson
African Methodist Episcopal Church FOUNDER S DAY Adult Lesson GOD CALLS: THE PEOPLE RESPOND By Shirley Richards, Assst. District Superintendent South Philadelphia District FOCUS: Following God s Leadership.
More informationLesson 2 Opening Thoughts on Who Is the Holy Spirit And How Does He Work?
Lesson 2 Opening Thoughts on Who Is the Holy Spirit And How Does He Work? The Holy Spirit s Actions in People s Lives HOW DID THE HOLY SPIRIT WORK IN PEOPLE S LIVES IN THE EARLY CHURCH? Genesis 1:26-27-
More informationJohn 12:1-8 Martha, Mary, Lazarus and the family secret
John 12:1-8 Martha, Mary, Lazarus and the family secret How I wish I had an hour to talk with you about this wonderful story of the meal at the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus at the beginning of the
More informationCourse Name: [ The Book of 1 John ] Lesson One: [ Twelve Things You Need To Know about the Apostle John ]
Course Name: [ The Book of 1 John ] Lesson One: [ Twelve Things You Need To Know about the Apostle John ] 1. John s hometown was Bethsaida, Galilee. He was the son of Zebedee. 2. John was in the fishing
More informationLESSON 16 CONCLUSION
LESSON 16 CONCLUSION FACILITATOR S Note The following lesson is designed to review with class participants the key points of all the lessons we ve covered during our study of the Gospel of John. So much
More informationBASIC CATHOLIC PRAYERS
BASIC CATHOLIC PRAYERS Sign of the Cross In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. The Apostles Creed I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
More informationPsalm 128: The Worshiper s Blessings
Psalm 128: The Worshiper s Blessings Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor, blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful
More informationActs 1:1-11 & Luke 24:44-53 Ascended to Empower
Acts 1:1-11 & Luke 24:44-53 Ascended to Empower The promise of Jesus before leaving: Ascension Sunday May 2015 Acts 1: 1-11 (ESV) The Promise of the Holy Spirit 1 In the first book, O Theophilus, I have
More information