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First Sunday in Lent - A

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Children's Activity

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Repentance -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Just say, "No!" -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:
Weak and strong -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
It is time for the season of Lent.
Fighting temptation -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Teachers and Parents: Teaching our children the difference
Jesus measured up -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Teachers or Parents: The whole concept of fasting is difficult
A Real Temptation -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Teachers: Today you may teach your students about dealing with
Jesus' forty-day fast in the wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Materials:Blank calendar pages (two per child) Markers Crayons

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Relationships Tested -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19 -- David Coffin -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Imagine a young couple about to be married who have just processed up the aisle of a traditional Chr
Calling New Disciples -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19 -- Sandra Herrmann -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
The scriptures for today bind together the beginning of sin in the world, our salvation from sin, an
Being Sinners -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Sandra Herrmann -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
It’s the beginning of Lent, and having worshiped on Ash Wednesday, we have declared that we are sepa
Tough beginnings -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Wayne Brouwer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Ancient Israel's calendar of daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly markers was not so much a schedule o
The rise and fall of sin -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11, Psalm 32 -- David Kalas, Schuyler Rhodes -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Lent is traditionally a season of spiritual contemplation.
Telling the whole story -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11, Psalm 32 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Oscar Wilde penned a powerful story about justice called The Picture of Dorian
The wedges driven into life -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11, Psalm 32 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
As a teenager I split a great deal of firewood.
If you are the children of God -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
Some stories from the Bible sound strange, disconnected from our lives and our frames of reference.
Can these bones live? -- Ezekiel 37:1-14, Romans 8:6-11, John 11:1-45 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1999
There are many people in our society who know little or nothing about the joys we experience on Sund
A direction to follow -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1996
The day God got lonely -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11, Psalm 32 -- Wayne Brouwer -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Today is the first Sunday during Lent. This is an important fact to note.

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Relationships Tested -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19 -- David Coffin -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Imagine a young couple about to be married who have just processed up the aisle of a traditional Chr

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

Praxis Meets Blue Squirrel -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Janice B. Scott -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Call to Worship:

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Praxis Meets Blue Squirrel -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Janice B. Scott -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Call to Worship:

Children's sermon

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Tempting! -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- John Jamison -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Object:  A cookie, a trophy or award of some kind, and a pair of socks.
Temptation Challenge -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Jesus sets the bar high by resisting temptation even from the imagination of the devil.
Goals For Jesus -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Mary Kay Eichelman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
How many of you like to play soccer?  How many of you like to be on the winning team?  Our lives are
Choices We Make -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Anna Shirey -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
First Thoughts
Consequences -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
"Therefore just as one man's trespass led to condemnation for all, so one man's act of righteousn
Repentance -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him. (v. 11)
Our knot -- Romans 5:12-19 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died though the one
Just say, "No!" -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the
It's free, but it's also expensive! -- Romans 5:12-19 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Today is the first Sunday in Lent. Lent is the season right before Easter.
Weak and strong -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Today is the first Sunday in Lent. Who remembers what Lent is?
The gift -- Romans 5:12-19 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning! I want to tell you a story this morning. Once
Fighting temptation -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning! Jesus once spent forty days in the desert
Life saver -- Romans 5:12-19 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
One of the things I love about summertime is the opportunity
Jesus measured up -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Jesus spent 40 days in the desert and for 40 days he did not
What a temptation -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Good morning, boys and girls. Does anyone know what a

The Immediate Word

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation

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Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Tempting! -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- John Jamison -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Object:  A cookie, a trophy or award of some kind, and a pair of socks.
Temptation Challenge -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Jesus sets the bar high by resisting temptation even from the imagination of the devil.
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

Stella Martin's 'second Sight' -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Janice B. Scott -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Stella Martin first became aware of her unusual gifts when she was quite small.

Devotional

SermonStudio

Lent 1 -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
"Did God say, 'You shall not eat from any tree in the garden'?" The woman said to the serpent, "W
Lent 1 -- Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
... and in whose spirit there is no deceit.-- Psalm 32:2
Lent 1 -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Yet death exercised dominion from Adam to Moses, even for those whose sins were not like the tran
Lent 1 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

Drama

SermonStudio

Fasting -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Robert F. Crowley -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Theme

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Lent 1 (2023) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 1 (2020) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Psalm 32
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 1 (2017) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bob Ove, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 1 (2014) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bob Ove, Ron Love, Derl G. Keefer, Scott A. Bryte, Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7
God has given us... -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Bob Ove -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
God has given us free will! Some have said that was his big mistake!
During my seminary career... -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Derl G. Keefer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
During my seminary career, I was pastor of a rural church with a parsonage for us to live in.
In the year 590... -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Ron Love -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
In the year 590, Pope Gregory I, also known as Pope Gregory the Great, established the list that is
Americans do not want... -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Americans do not want to hear much about sin.
You can make a call... -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Scott A. Bryte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
You can make a call without first having to build your own telephone.
This was a sequel... -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bob Ove -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
This was a sequel to the fall of Adam. Adam was tempted and fell.
NULL -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7
NULL -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Craig Kelly -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
I must admit, I do enjoy watching legal dramas on television.
NULL -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Before dictionaries, people spelled things… well, however they wanted to.
NULL -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Ron Love -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Rudyard Kipling, best known as the author of The Jungle Book, wrote a poem titled The Whit
NULL -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Craig Kelly -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
On March 8, 1971, Madison Square Garden in New York City was abuzz.

The Immediate Word

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about

StoryShare

Crazy Gerald -- Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
“Then I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not hide my iniquity;

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Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 1 (2023) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7
Crazy Gerald -- Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
“Then I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not hide my iniquity;
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Sermon Illustrations For Lent 1 (2020) -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Psalm 32

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

Understanding God, Temptation Is Nasty... -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Janice B. Scott -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

Poems

SermonStudio

Lent 1 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Andrew Daughters -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1989
Temptation is a lot of different things to different folks.
Lent 1 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Andrew Daughters -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1989
Temptation is a lot of different things to different folks.

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Fully, Only Human -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Chris Ewing -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Striving to win and to test limits, athletes have been in the news lately for risking the use of ill

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Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:

SermonStudio

First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
Lent 1 -- Psalm 32 -- Stan Purdum -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- John R. Brokhoff -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
THE LESSONS
First Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
The first thing we should realize about our texts from Genesis is that they are intended as depictio
First Sunday In Lent -- Derl G. Keefer, C. Neil Strait -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2002
WORSHIP HELPSCALL TO WORSHIP
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme We head toward the passion and cross of Christ.
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Christ Confronts Satan -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Russell F. Anderson -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- John R. Brokhoff -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
Lesson 1: Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7 (E); Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 (C); Genesis 2:7-9, 15-17; 3:1-7
First Sunday of Lent -- Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- George M. Bass -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1989
The church year theological clue

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation

Free Access

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:

SermonStudio

Don't Give In -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Marian R. Plant, David G. Plant -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
A colleague in ministry, nearing retirement, said something startling to me.
Jesus Tempted in Us -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- David O. Bales -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
It's good to be here with you.
Will this Be on the Test? -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Tony S. Everett -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
What do you think might be the most common questions teachers in all grade levels hear from their st
Strong In God's Name -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Lee Griess -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
A young man was sent to Spain by his company to work in a new office they were opening there.
Putting The Genie Back In The Bottle ... -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
When our twins were quite young -- infants really -- I remember a scene that played out on our livin
In The Balance -- Romans 5:12-19 -- David O. Bales -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
"He started it." You've probably heard that from the backseat or from a distant bedroom.
Adam's Legacy -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Richard W. Ferris -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
In the musical Fiddler on the Roof, Tevye is the Jewish father of five girls living in a Russ
God, Or The World? -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
He was a man of mystery and charm; he was a man of brokenness and faith.
Family Tree -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Bill Mosley, Bill Mosley -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
The fence between Heaven and Hell was falling apart. It was badly in need of repair.
The Beginning Of It All -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Harry N. Huxhold -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
On May 20, l927, Charles A.
A Fear Of Falling -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Robert J. Elder -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Three observations:
Greed Leads To Destruction -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Once there was a man who owned a little plot of land.
Lint -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
The topic this morning was not a misprint in the newspaper nor in your bulletin.
A Bigger Peace -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Frank Luchsinger -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
There is only one cupcake left and there are two little girls. "I want the bigger piece!
The Temptation Of His Life -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Thomas A. Pilgrim -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Robert Penn Warren wrote a novel called All The King's Men.
The Temptations Of Christ And Our Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
Some of the worst temptations seem to come when you are alone, do they not?
Echoes Prom Eden -- Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25; 3:7 -- Theodore F. Schneider -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
I. "There's Something Wrong Here!"

Stories

StoryShare

Crazy Gerald -- Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
“Then I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not hide my iniquity;
Thorough Temptation Of The Thoroughly Human -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19 -- David O. Bales -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Contents"Thorough Temptation Of The Thoroughly Human" by David O. Bales
A Little Soul Searching -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Keith Wagner, Keith Hewitt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Contents "A Little Soul Searching" by Keith Wagner
How The Snake Fooled The Woman -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Sandra Herrmann, Keith Hewitt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
Contents"How the Snake Fooled the Woman" by Sandra Herrmann
Your Choice -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Frank Ramirez, Craig Kelly -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
Contents"Your Choice" by Frank Ramirez "The Trial" by Craig Kelly
It's Not My Fault -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- C. David Mckirachan, Charles D. Reeb -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Contents What's Up This Week "It's Not My Fault" by C. David McKirachan
Stories/illustrations For February 6Th & 10Th, 2008 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Rosmarie Trapp -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
The Terrible Dark Day by Peter Andrew SmithJoel 2:1-2, 12-17
Still Learning Not To Wobble -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Contents What's Up This Week

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Crazy Gerald -- Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
“Then I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not hide my iniquity;
Thorough Temptation Of The Thoroughly Human -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19 -- David O. Bales -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
Contents"Thorough Temptation Of The Thoroughly Human" by David O. Bales

SermonStudio

Temptation -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Temptation.
Still Learning Not To Wobble -- Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
God does not die on the day when we cease to believe in a personal deity, but we die on the day when
Making Mistakes -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and
Rainbow -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Constance Berg -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
The clown came walking ever so slowly up the aisle, smiling. She looked around.
Stealing Candy -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Timothy J. Smith -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Mark was one of those teens that other kids wanted to be with; at the same time parents strongly enc

Worship

The Immediate Word

Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Fully, Only Human -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Chris Ewing -- First Sunday in Lent - A
Striving to win and to test limits, athletes have been in the news lately for risking the use of ill

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Lead Us Not into Relevance -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
For February 26, 2023:
Right, Wrong, Whatever -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2020
For March 1, 2020:
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
The Lenten Season

SermonStudio

Lent 1 -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Litany For LentOne: O Christ, as you head to Jerusalem, you lead us
Lent 1 -- Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 32 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Order For Confession P: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, +
Gradually Slipping Away -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Call To Worship
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
The Lenten Season
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Theme: TemptationCall To Worship
First Sunday In Lent -- Romans 5:12-19 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Theme: New BeginningsCall To Worship
First Sunday In Lent -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Theme: TemptationCall To Worship
First Sunday In Lent -- Psalm 32 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Words Of Assurance
The Temptations of Jesus -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Wayne H. Keller -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
The Community GathersInvitation to the Celebration
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7Theme: Open Your EyesCall To Worship
The Temptation Of Jesus -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT -- Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7, Psalm 32, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- B. David Hostetter -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Self-awareness as sin-awareness -- Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7, Psalm 130, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1989
First Sunday in LentFirst Lesson: Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7Theme:
We are sinners by our own choice -- Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7, Romans 5:12-19 -- Heth H. Corl -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1986
Call to WorshipPastor:
LENT 1 -- Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17, 25-3:7, Psalm 130, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Norman A. Beck -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1986
God's gifts of life and free will, mankind's choice of sin and disobedience, mankind's need for forg
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Proper 23 | OT 28 | Pentecost 18
30 – Sermons
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30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
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29 – Commentary / Exegesis
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Proper 25 | OT 30 | Pentecost 20
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
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31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For November 2, 2025:
Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For November 2, 2025:

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: This message involves roleplay. You will need a chair for Zach to stand on, unless it is ok for him to stand on a front pew. For the best fun, you will also want to have an adult volunteer play the role of Jesus and walk in when it is time. Whether he is in costume is up to you.

* * *
John Jamison
Object: You will need one or more pictures of people recognized as saints. You may find some pictures by Googling “public domain pictures of saints” and printing images from the results.

* * *

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 and Psalm 119:137-144
Walter Elwell in the Shaw Pocket Bible Handbook notes of righteousness that it is, “Right standing, specifically before God. Among the Greeks, righteousness was an ethical virtue. Among the Hebrews it was a legal concept; the righteous man was the one who got the verdict of acceptability when tried at the bar of God’s justice.” God is a righteous God, even when is people are not righteous.
Frank Ramirez
One of the features of synagogue worship is the Shema. The Hebrew word is “Hear!” and is the opening for Deuteronomy 6:4-5, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” God’s people are commanded to “hear” these words. They come from the Lord. And these three scriptures invite us to hear God and each other, something that is lacking in our society today.
Wayne Brouwer
Fred Craddock tells of a vacation encounter in the Smokey Mountains of eastern Tennessee years ago that moved him deeply. He and his wife took supper one evening in a place called the Black Bear Inn. One side of the building was all glass, open to a magnificent mountain view. Glad to be alone, the Craddocks were a bit annoyed when an elderly man ambled over and struck up a nosey conversation: “Are you on vacation?” “Where are you from?” “What do you do?”
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 and Psalm 149

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
Trouble and anguish have overtaken me, but your commandments are my delight. Your statutes are always righteous; give me understanding that I may live. (vv. 143-144)

When I was an associate pastor in Janesville, Wisconsin one of my responsibilities was to give a lecture on spirituality once a month at a drug treatment facility. The students who attended were persons who had been convicted of drunk driving and were required to attend the class as a condition of their sentence. Attendance was always good.
Frank Ramirez
Call them the good old days. Call it the Golden Age. It’s not unusual for people to look back in their youth, or to the youth of their country, as somehow more perfect, honorable, or simpler. C.S. Lewis was always skeptical about claims that chocolate was better in one’s youth. It wasn’t better. Our taste buds were stronger and more receptive.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
The Roman Catholic Church's canonisation of Edith Stein some years ago, fuelled considerable controversy. Edith Stein was born and bred into a Jewish family, becoming a Roman Catholic Christian at the age of 31. She was also a leading German intellectual in the early thirties, during the run-up to World War 2, although she gave up that career in order to become a Carmelite nun. But she didn't deny her Jewish roots, for in 1933 she petitioned the Pope, Pious XI to write an encyclical in defence of the Jews.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus didn't reject anyone, even those who were liars and cheats. By a simple act of friendship Jesus turned Zaccheus' life around. In our worship today let us consider friendship and all that it means.


Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, there are some people I don't like.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, there are some people I reject.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, there are some people I keep out of my circle of friends.
Lord, have mercy.


Reading:

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
The world offers many blessings, but none of these things will save us: only the blessing of God in Jesus Christ can do that.

Old Testament Lesson
Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18
Daniel's Apocalyptic Dream
Perry H. Biddle, Jr.
Comments on the Lessons
John W. Clarke
This chapter of Luke brings us ever closer to the end of Jesus' public ministry. Jesus enters Jericho, just fifteen miles or so from the holy city of Jerusalem. It is here that Jesus transforms the life of Zacchaeus, the tax collector. This is one of the few stories that is peculiar to Luke and is a wonderful human-interest story. The fact that Zacchaeus is willing to climb a tree to see Jesus is a clear indication that he really wanted to see and meet the carpenter from Nazareth. His eagerness to see Jesus is rewarded in a very special way.
Scott A. Bryte
Then he looked up at his disciples and said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now for you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.
Mark Ellingson
This is a story written for people who had been or were about to be persecuted, if not enslaved. (The book of Daniel was probably written in the mid-second century B.C. during a period of Seleucid [Syrian] domination in Palestine.) It tells them and us how their ancestors had once faced a similar slavery under the oppression of the Babylonians centuries earlier. The implication was that if these ancestors could endure and overcome such bondage, so could they and so can we.
Gary L. Carver
Ulysses S. Grant fought many significant battles as commander of the Union forces in the War Between the States. He also served as President of the United States where he probably engaged in as many battles as he did while he was a general. Toward the end of his life he fought his toughest battle -- with cancer and death.

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