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The Immediate Word

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

The Final Four -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- 2011
Holy Week offers such a wide range of texts and approaches that for this installment of The Immed
Breaking News -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
"Do not be afraid. These words that the angel speaks to the two Marys at the empty tomb (and then r
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
The Reluctant Witness -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The common thread that runs through the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Easter is the t
No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
Where Is Emmaus? -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
Our lectionary gospel text this week brings us the familiar story from Luke of two disciples encount
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Who Can You Really Trust? -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday of Easter share several common threads.
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
The Joy Conundrum -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2011
On the final Sunday preceding Pentecost, many congregations will be observing Ascension Sunday, usin
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
Imagine -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2011
It's interesting that we observe Pentecost Sunday during the spring graduation and marriage season.
Free Sermon Illustrations For January 2, 2011 From The Immediate Word -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
ILLUSTRATIONS
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For June 19, 2011 -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
A FATHER'S PERSPECTIVE
The Rules That Rule -- Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses concludes a lengthy address to t
When Good-Bye Is Not Good-Bye -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
This Sunday of the church year the lectionary focuses on the doctrine of the Trinity -- a complex th
Fourth Of July?! -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
In America, this Sunday comes in the middle of a holiday weekend as the country will be awash in the
Sacrificing Our Children -- Genesis 22:1-14, Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Psalm 13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2011
The lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures this week provides us with a compelling story but
Worshiping Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
This first Sunday of the new calendar year finds those who follow the lectionary with a choice -- wh
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
What Are We Going To Do With The Weeds? -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2011
At first the reaction across the country was incredulous disbelief -- then as the reality of the Cas
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l

Illustration

The Immediate Word

No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
Where Is Emmaus? -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
Our lectionary gospel text this week brings us the familiar story from Luke of two disciples encount
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Who Can You Really Trust? -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday of Easter share several common threads.
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
The Joy Conundrum -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2011
On the final Sunday preceding Pentecost, many congregations will be observing Ascension Sunday, usin
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
Imagine -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2011
It's interesting that we observe Pentecost Sunday during the spring graduation and marriage season.
Free Sermon Illustrations For January 2, 2011 From The Immediate Word -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
ILLUSTRATIONS
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For June 19, 2011 -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
A FATHER'S PERSPECTIVE
The Rules That Rule -- Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses concludes a lengthy address to t
When Good-Bye Is Not Good-Bye -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
This Sunday of the church year the lectionary focuses on the doctrine of the Trinity -- a complex th
Fourth Of July?! -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
In America, this Sunday comes in the middle of a holiday weekend as the country will be awash in the
Sacrificing Our Children -- Genesis 22:1-14, Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Psalm 13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2011
The lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures this week provides us with a compelling story but
Worshiping Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
This first Sunday of the new calendar year finds those who follow the lectionary with a choice -- wh
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
What Are We Going To Do With The Weeds? -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2011
At first the reaction across the country was incredulous disbelief -- then as the reality of the Cas
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
The Treat In The Trick -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2011
This week our lectionary passage from Genesis brings us the strange story of Jacob being tricked by
The Jesus Gang -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2011
In the wake of the recent Arizona shootings, a great deal of attention has been focused on the tone
Quitters -- Luke 13:10-17, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Hebrews 12:18-29, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2010
In this week's Old Testament readings, the Lord calls a reluctant Jeremiah to the difficult and ofte
Hey, Grinch -- Bring Back Christmas! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
On this final Sunday before Christmas, the collision between the secular Christmas season and the sa
Jockeying And Jostling At The Table Of Prestige -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13, Psalm 81:1, 10-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2010
In this week's lectionary gospel passage from Luke, Jesus offers some strong comments on the importa

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
Breaking News -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
"Do not be afraid. These words that the angel speaks to the two Marys at the empty tomb (and then r
No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
The Reluctant Witness -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The common thread that runs through the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Easter is the t
Where Is Emmaus? -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
Our lectionary gospel text this week brings us the familiar story from Luke of two disciples encount
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Who Can You Really Trust? -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday of Easter share several common threads.
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
The Joy Conundrum -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2011
On the final Sunday preceding Pentecost, many congregations will be observing Ascension Sunday, usin
Free Sermon Illustrations For January 2, 2011 From The Immediate Word -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
ILLUSTRATIONS
Imagine -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2011
It's interesting that we observe Pentecost Sunday during the spring graduation and marriage season.
The Rules That Rule -- Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses concludes a lengthy address to t
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For June 19, 2011 -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
A FATHER'S PERSPECTIVE
Fourth Of July?! -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
In America, this Sunday comes in the middle of a holiday weekend as the country will be awash in the
When Good-Bye Is Not Good-Bye -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
This Sunday of the church year the lectionary focuses on the doctrine of the Trinity -- a complex th
Worshiping Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
This first Sunday of the new calendar year finds those who follow the lectionary with a choice -- wh
Sacrificing Our Children -- Genesis 22:1-14, Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Psalm 13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2011
The lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures this week provides us with a compelling story but
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
What Are We Going To Do With The Weeds? -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2011
At first the reaction across the country was incredulous disbelief -- then as the reality of the Cas
The Jesus Gang -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2011
In the wake of the recent Arizona shootings, a great deal of attention has been focused on the tone

Sermon

The Immediate Word

The Final Four -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- 2011
Holy Week offers such a wide range of texts and approaches that for this installment of The Immed
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
Breaking News -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
"Do not be afraid. These words that the angel speaks to the two Marys at the empty tomb (and then r
No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
The Reluctant Witness -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The common thread that runs through the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Easter is the t
Where Is Emmaus? -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
Our lectionary gospel text this week brings us the familiar story from Luke of two disciples encount
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Who Can You Really Trust? -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday of Easter share several common threads.
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
The Joy Conundrum -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2011
On the final Sunday preceding Pentecost, many congregations will be observing Ascension Sunday, usin
Free Sermon Illustrations For January 2, 2011 From The Immediate Word -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
ILLUSTRATIONS
Imagine -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2011
It's interesting that we observe Pentecost Sunday during the spring graduation and marriage season.
The Rules That Rule -- Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses concludes a lengthy address to t
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For June 19, 2011 -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
A FATHER'S PERSPECTIVE
Fourth Of July?! -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
In America, this Sunday comes in the middle of a holiday weekend as the country will be awash in the
When Good-Bye Is Not Good-Bye -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
This Sunday of the church year the lectionary focuses on the doctrine of the Trinity -- a complex th
Worshiping Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
This first Sunday of the new calendar year finds those who follow the lectionary with a choice -- wh
Sacrificing Our Children -- Genesis 22:1-14, Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Psalm 13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2011
The lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures this week provides us with a compelling story but
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
What Are We Going To Do With The Weeds? -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2011
At first the reaction across the country was incredulous disbelief -- then as the reality of the Cas

Worship

The Immediate Word

The Final Four -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- 2011
Holy Week offers such a wide range of texts and approaches that for this installment of The Immed
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
Breaking News -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
"Do not be afraid. These words that the angel speaks to the two Marys at the empty tomb (and then r
No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
The Reluctant Witness -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The common thread that runs through the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Easter is the t
Where Is Emmaus? -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
Our lectionary gospel text this week brings us the familiar story from Luke of two disciples encount
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Who Can You Really Trust? -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday of Easter share several common threads.
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
The Joy Conundrum -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2011
On the final Sunday preceding Pentecost, many congregations will be observing Ascension Sunday, usin
Free Sermon Illustrations For January 2, 2011 From The Immediate Word -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
ILLUSTRATIONS
Imagine -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2011
It's interesting that we observe Pentecost Sunday during the spring graduation and marriage season.
The Rules That Rule -- Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses concludes a lengthy address to t
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For June 19, 2011 -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
A FATHER'S PERSPECTIVE
Fourth Of July?! -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
In America, this Sunday comes in the middle of a holiday weekend as the country will be awash in the
When Good-Bye Is Not Good-Bye -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2011
This Sunday of the church year the lectionary focuses on the doctrine of the Trinity -- a complex th
Worshiping Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2011
This first Sunday of the new calendar year finds those who follow the lectionary with a choice -- wh
Sacrificing Our Children -- Genesis 22:1-14, Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Psalm 13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2011
The lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures this week provides us with a compelling story but
A God Of New Things -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29, Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, David Jordan Squire, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2011
As the new calendar year commences much media attention is focused on Washington, where this week ou
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
What Are We Going To Do With The Weeds? -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2011
At first the reaction across the country was incredulous disbelief -- then as the reality of the Cas
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Easter 2
20 – Sermons
170+ – Illustrations / Stories
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Easter 3
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160+ – Illustrations / Stories
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31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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John Jamison
Object: This message is a role-play for your children and requires no additional objects.

Note: You can use this role-play with a large or very small group. You will want one child to play Thomas, one child to play Jesus, and the rest of the children to play the disciples. When I have had only had one or two children, I have “volunteered” an adult or two to help out.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent! Let’s get started!

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For April 27, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Bonnie Bates
Acts 5:27-32
The Acts of the Apostles begins with the ascension of Jesus, and the arrival of the Holy Spirit who galvanizes them to begin the spread of the Good News of Jesus the Christ. It is not long, despite signs and wonders, that the apostles find themselves facing real opposition. Arrest and threats. However, in the leadup to this passage, they ignore these threats and continue to share the Good News. The news about this comes to the religious leaders while they’re debating what to do about them.
Frank Ramirez
Sometimes movies end with the “happily ever after moment.” Finally — Hooray! Sometimes movies begin with the “happily ever after moment.” Roll up your sleeves. The real fun is just beginning.

Acts 5:27-32

StoryShare

Frank Ramirez
Every eye will see him…. (v. 7)

The speed of news is not quite instantaneous. There’s this traffic cop called the speed of light that strictly enforces that 186, 242 mile per second speed limit built into our universe. If there’s a way around that limitation it remains the stuff of speculation — out of this world speculation.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Thomas had never seen his friends so excited. Peter's eyes were shining, and he could hardly contain his impatience. John was always quieter than Peter, but even he seemed full of barely suppressed eagerness. They were both tugging at Thomas, while at the same time dancing round him.

Thomas reluctantly agreed to go to the cave with them, although he continued to think they were mad. "If there was nothing there last week, how can it have changed now?" he kept asking.

SermonStudio

Schuyler Rhodes
Anyone can throw a party. It's easy to jump up and down and shout loud "alleluias." Pay the DJ, set out the drinks and the buffet table, and that's about it. At first, it's a blast! Whirling bodies and pulsing rhythms fill the night. Laughter and clinking glasses seem like an endless and joyful dialogue. But, by midnight it all starts to get a little old. People get tired of shouting and dancing and head home because they have to work the next day. The DJ was only hired for a few hours and he, perhaps, has another gig at an after-hours club across town.
Richard E. Zajac
... Unless I see... I will not believe...

I must credit the Reverend R. Maurice Boyd for this talk. Many of its ideas stemmed from "Consequences of Candor," a chapter in his book Corridors of Light.1

__________
David Kalas
When the curtain opens on Scene Two, we see a familiar scene. It is the austere, official chamber where the Sanhedrin hold court. The room is cold and intimidating. It feels even more so when the first characters begin to arrive on stage.

These are the members of the Sanhedrin: the leaders in the land who form the ruling council for the Jews of first-century Palestine. They are a distinguished looking group. They are well-dressed, well-manicured, and well-to-do. Their faces betray the seriousness of the purpose for which they have gathered.
Henry F. Woodruff
No cavalry rode to the rescue; this time the savior was technology. Here is how it happened. Longing for more intimate communication between preacher and congregation, the church purchased and installed a wireless microphone system. With an FM receiver in place and wearing a lapel microphone, the preacher could get out from behind the pulpit or lecturn and roam about, even into the midst of the congregation.

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