Proper 9
Preaching
Lectionary Preaching Workbook - SERIES C
The Lessons
1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21 (C)
For refusing to sell his lot to King Ahab, Naboth is falsely accused and murdered so Ahab can take possession of the land. Here we have only the beginning and ending of a dramatic story involving a king, a subject, and a prophet. To understand it, one must know and tell what happens between the first and last verses of the pericope. King Ahab offers to buy or trade the lot of Naboth whose land is next to the palace for his vegetable garden. Because he received it as an inheritance, Naboth refused to sell it. Ahab goes home and Jezebel sees him pout over Naboth's refusal. In the name of the king, Jezebel orders a civic celebration honoring Naboth but has two false witnesses to testify that Naboth spoke against God and the king. For this blasphemy he was stoned to death and his property automatically went to the crown. Here is where the story should end, for Ahab got what he wanted and was happy. However, God was displeased at this injustice and murder, and so he ordered Elijah to go to Ahab and pronounce judgment upon him and Jezebel.
Isaiah 66:10-14 (L, RC)
Galatians 6:7-18 (C)
Galatians 6:1-10, 14-16 (L)
Galatians 6:14-18 (RC)
Rejoice over Jerusalem, for God blesses her with prosperity and comfort.
What matters is not circumcision or uncircumcision but a new person who lives according to the Spirit.
Paul closes his letter with the same concern with which he started. After reminding his people that they will reap what they sow, Paul makes his last appeal by his own handwriting for the Gospel. It is the problem of circumcision as the prerequisite for becoming a Christian. They who promote circumcision do it to boast of their success in having Gentiles being circumcised and to avoid persecution by the Jews. In contrast, Paul will boast only in the cross. What matters finally is not circumcision or uncircumcision but the new creation in Christ. After the first benediction, Paul wants no one to bother him in the future on this subject, for he bears on his body the marks of Jesus.
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 (C, RC)
Luke 10:1-12, 16 (17-20) (L)
Jesus sends out seventy to preach and heal and they return excited with joy that in his name demons fled.
Only Luke tells of Jesus' sending out seventy disciples to go to places he intended to come. They were sent to preach and heal. The number, seventy, is considered symbolic of the Jewish tradition of there being seventy nations in the world. This is a case for world missions. Their going was not their idea but it was in response to the prayer that laborers would be sent into the harvest. They were warned against opposition to their preaching and healing. Urgency characterized their mission. When they return, they are excited with joy that at the name of Jesus the demons fled. Jesus cautions them, however, not to rejoice over the demons but in the fact that their names are written in the Book of Life in heaven.
Prayer of the Day
"God of glory, Father of love, peace comes from you alone. Send us as peacemakers and witnesses to your kingdom, and fill our hearts with joy in your promise of salvation."
Hymn of the Day
"Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun"
Theological Reflections
Gospel:
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20
1. Plentiful (v. 2). Jesus sent out seventy people two by two to prepare people for his coming by witnessing and healing. As one person Jesus could not do it alone for "the harvest is plentiful." In today's church the pastor cannot by him/herself do the work of evangelism - the harvest is too plentiful. Consider the fact that one out of the four billion people in the world is Christian. Forty percent of Americans have no church home. Even in the church there is a harvest waiting to be reaped: seventy percent of the members do not worship regularly, twenty-five percent never pray, and thirty-five percent never read the Bible.
2. Near (vv. 9, 11). The message of the seventy was "The kingdom of God has come near to you." Whether they accept the message or not, the kingdom came near to them. The seventy were appointed to visit in Jesus' place and they had the truth to share and healing to apply. Yet, they were not Jesus himself. To hear about Jesus is to be near the Kingdom. To accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is to be in the Kingdom.
3. Joy (v. 17). The visits of the seventy were a great success. They reported to Jesus with exhilarating joy that the demons fled at his name. Jesus was happy, too, because he saw the downfall of Satan. Nevertheless, Jesus cautioned the returnees that their real joy was not in their success but in the fact that their names were written in heaven. The real joy is the joy of salvation.
Lesson 1: 1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21
1. Inheritance (v. 3). King Ahab made Naboth a reasonable offer for his lot which he wanted for a garden. Ahab offered to buy it or to trade it for a better vineyard. As king he might have appropriated it after condemning it. Was Naboth unreasonable by not doing the king a favor by not selling it? It was a matter of "inheritance." Naboth received it from his forefathers and he wanted to keep the land in the family. There are some things worth more than money. One's birthright should not be sold for a mess of pottage.
2. Came (v. 17). It was an almost perfect crime. Jezebel's scheme seemed to have been successful. The people stoned Naboth to death for alleged blasphemy and nobody seemed to know the truth of the matter. Ahab was happy and was in the act of possessing the lot when Elijah appeared. How did Elijah know about it? God knew of the murder and so he sent Elijah to pronounce God's judgment on the royal pair. God knows and cares what evil goes on in the world and condemns it.
3. Enemy (v. 20). Earlier King Ahab called Elijah the "troubler" of Israel. Now he calls him his "enemy" - "Have you found me, 0 my enemy?" Anyone who stands for truth and is opposed to falsehood becomes an enemy of liars. Love is the enemy of hatred. A preacher of righteousness automatically becomes the enemy of the Mafia. A Christian cannot be a friend to all people.
Lesson 2: Galatians 6:7-18
1. Reap (vv. 7-9). Four times in these three verses Paul uses the word "reap." In the analogy of sowing seed, it is natural for the sower to reap in due time what he has sown. There is a natural law that you reap what you sow. Sow weeds and you reap weeds. Sow hatred and you get hatred. If one sows to the Spirit, one will reap eternal life.
2. Except (v. 14). In what shall a person glory? We may boast of our children or our parents. We may have reason to boast of our scholastic degrees or our business success. For Paul, he will glory in nothing except the cross of Jesus. Why would he boast of a terrible death on a cross? He was not there when Jesus was crucified. Paul boasts of the cross for what God has done in Christ on the cross in reconciling us to God, forgiving our sin, and granting us eternal life.
3. Body (v. I 7). As final proof that his gospel is the one and only true gospel, Paul says that he bears on his body the marks of Jesus. This does not necessarily mean physical marks even though Paul probably bore the scars of the beatings and stonings he endured. The Greek word used here for "body" is "soma," not "sarx" which is the physical body. "Soma" means the whole person, and not only flesh. A true Christian does not necessarily have physical marks of Jesus, the spiritual mark of Jesus on a person is the relationship he/she has with Christ.
Preaching Possibilities
Gospel:
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20
1. Look Who's Here! 10:1-9
Need: Church visitors (the seventy) are ambassadors of Christ. They are "little Christs" who speak and act in the place of Jesus - Christ's surrogates! Every pastor knows how difficult it is to get church members to make calls on prospective members. This sermon is designed to motivate members to visit the unchurched by showing them that they as visitors have the high privilege of speaking for and represent-ing Jesus. Look who's at the door - not Mr. and Mrs. John Doe but Jesus Christ in the persons of the Does.
Outline: Look who's here -
a. Look who's going - Jesus (v. 1): "Where he himself was about to come."
b. Look who's blessing - Jesus through you - vv. 5, 9
c. look who's talking - Jesus through you - v. 9
2. What No One Person Can Do. 10:1-9
Need: For too many years evangelism has been a one-man job - the pastor's. Through his preaching, counseling, and visiting, he was expected to add new members to the roll. In some churches, an increase in salary was tied to the number of new members received, and his preaching was judged by the numbers of converts. This practice does not succeed, for evangelism is too big for one man. In today's Gospel, Jesus enlists and sends out a large number of followers other than the disciples to witness for him. Under the system of letting the pastor do the work of evangelism, mainline churches in recent years have lost millions of members. If the church is to grow, evangelism must become a program involving the laity.
Outline: Evangelism is for you, too.
a. Who is to go - v. 1. "Seventy others" - a general number of followers not among the disciples, the laity.
b. Who sends them - v. 1. You are "appointed" and commissioned - "send them."
c. Who are visited - v. 1. In Jewish tradition, "seventy" referred to the seventy nations in the world. The gospel is for all people: classes, nations, races. We can't pick our prospects!
d. Why visit - vv. 5-9. To offer peace, to heal the sick, to announce good news.
3. Get A Move On! 10:9, 16
Need: The mood in the average church today is "What's your hurry?" The weakness of today's church is apathy, unconcern, and indifference toward unchurched people. We excuse ourselves from witnessing for Christ by saying, "There is a church on almost every corner. If they want to go to church, they can." Or, we think one religion is as good as the next. Or, we say our neighbors live as good a life as most church members. This is not the feeling of Jesus about winning people for the Kingdom. Throughout the text, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of going out and witnessing through visitation which is essential today because people will not come to the church. The church must go to the people.
Outline: The urgency of winning people for Christ.
a. The condition of the world - v. 3: "lambs in the midst of wolves"
b. The time is ripe - v. 2: "the harvest is plentiful."
c. Avoid delays - v. 4: "salute no one on the road."
d. The imminence of the Kingdom - v. 9: "The Kingdom of God has come to you."
4. What To Do On a Visit. 10:4-9
Need: People are reluctant to make calls on the unchurched because they do not know what to say or do on a visit. How shall they approach the prospects? Shall they talk about religion? Should they tell about their personal religious experiences? This sermon would acquaint people with what visitors might say and do. This sermon should encourage people to visit and should prevent visitors' turning people off. The sermon should show visitors how they can attractively and effectively bring people to Christ.
Outline: What to do on a visit.
a. Stick to the subject - v. 4: "Salute no one on the way."
b. Identify with the people - v. 7: "Eat and drink what they provide." Become involved in their lives and share with them. Make friends.
c. Offer help - v. 9: "Peace be to this house ... heal the sick." Visit to see what you can do for the people. Ask, "What can we do for you?"
d. Announce the good news - v. 9. Note that the religious aspect of the visit comes last. If one starts with "Are you saved?", you may turn them off. After you have established a relationship with the prospects and rendered assistance, tell them about the good news.
Lesson 1: 1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21
1. A Story Sermon. 21:1-21
Narrative preaching is the current vogue. The sermon is the telling of a story with which people may identify. The story has its own message without elaboration or application. While this type of sermon is not recommended Sunday after Sunday, occasionally when a text lends itself to this form, it may be a delightful change. The pericope gives only the opening and closing verses of the story of Ahab, Naboth, and Elijah. The story-sermon will need the entire passage - 21:1-21.
Outline: The story will cover the following told with imagination and concrete description -
a. A fair offer for a piece of land - vv. 1-3
b. When you don't get what you want - v. 4
c. Who says you can't have what you want? - vv. 5-7
d. The scheme of a wicked woman - vv. 8-14
e. "I got what I wanted!" - vv. 15-16
f. Ahab, someone wants to see you! - vv. 17-21
2. Other Sermon Possibilities in Lesson 1
a. Some Things Not For Sale - 21:1-3
Some things not for sale: birthright, inheritance, family loyalty, personal purity, character, reputation.
b. You Can't Get Away With It! - 21:17-21
Many do wrong and know they are doing wrong, but they think they can get away with it. They believe no one will find out. It is the principle followed by shoplifters as well as adulterers. Though society may not learn of the crime, God knows about it. The penalty is sure to come: "The wages of sin is death."
c. Known by Your Enemies - 21:20
It is commonly said that you are known by your friends and associates. It is also true that you are known by those who hate and oppose you. Evil-doers hate people of good character. Criminals hate the police. It is what and whom you stand against that show the quality of a person.
Lesson 1: Isaiah 66:1-14
1. The Feminine Factor of our Faith. 66:10-14
Need: Some interested in today's woman's liberation movement cry out against the sexist language used in the Bible and Church. Some insist that we should say "Mother God." This protest may be the result, in part, of our neglect of the feminine factor of our faith. In Biblical and church language the famale counterpart is the church, the new Jerusalem. Christ is the bridegroom and the church is the bride. We Christians are the children of that union. In today's first Lesson, Jerusalem is portrayed as a mother who feeds, carries, and comforts her children. See also Isaiah 42:14; 66:9. Calvin said, "You cannot have God as your father if you do not have the church as your mother."
Outline: Like a mother, the church of the New Jerusalem -
a. Feeds us - v. 11
b. Nurtures us - v. 12
c. Comforts us - v. 13
2. Reason to Rejoice. 66:10-14
Need: Christianity is often associated with solemnity and seriousness, glumness, and sadness. What congregation is known for its joy? Can Christians claim to be the happiest people in the world? They should be able to claim this, but they are not known for their joy. In recent years the slogan in many churches was "Celebrate," but it was short-lived because they had no reason to celebrate. In this Lesson, the word "rejoice," occurs three times. The Kingdom of God, the new Jerusalem, is coming on earth. With its coming, there will be such conditions that will cause rejoicing. Must we wait for the end of time? No, the Kingdom is here in Jesus, the gospel, the church.
Outline: We have reason to rejoice because we will -
a. Experience the glory of the King - v. 11
b. Enjoy prosperity - v. 12
c. Be comforted - v. 13
Lesson 2: Galatians 6:7-18
1. If a Christian, Prove it! 6:17
Need: There are times when we may be called upon to identify ourselves as Christians. How would you prove you are a Christian? Church membership? Baptism by immersion? Confirmation by a bishop? Speaking in tongues? At the end of his letter, Paul tells how he can be known as a Christian: he bears on his body the marks of Jesus. What are these marks? Prayer? Worship? Tithing? Right living? Paul's mark on his person was his relationship with Jesus. The sermon describes what that relationship is.
Outline: Our relationship with Jesus is one when -
a. Jesus is above us as Lord
b. Jesus is in us as Savior
c. Jesus is ahead of us as Leader
2. Keep Up the Good Work. 6:7-14
Need: In this section of the Lesson, we can see a connection with the Gospel for the Day. In the Gospel, Christ sends out laborers into the harvest to visit and witness. Evangelism is a year-round project which never ends until all are safely brought into the Kingdom. In witnessing it is easy to get tired, to lose heart, and to want to do something else. Paul urges us to keep up the good work.
Outline: Keep up the good work of -
a. Sowing in the Spirit - v. 8
b. Doing good to all - vv. 9-10
c. Glorying in the cross - v. 14
PROPER 10
July 10-16
Common
PENTECOST 8
Lutheran
ORDINARY TIME 15
Roman Catholic
The Lessons
2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 (C)
Elisha succeeds Elijah as prophet of Israel. We have just completed a series of Lessons on Elijah and now we start a series of four Lessons from 2 Kings on his successor, Elisha. This first in the series appropriately deals with the transfer from Elijah to Elisha as prophet of Israel. Elisha was a faithful and devout disciple of Elijah. So loyal was he that he would not let Elijah out of his sight. Knowing that he was soon going to depart this world, Elijah asked Elisha what he could give him. Wisely Elisha asked for a double portion of his spirit. This was granted to Elisha, for when Elisha took Elijah's mantle, he used it to separate the waters of Jordan. The power and authority of Elijah's spirit were transferred to Elisha and his ministry as prophet was launched.
Deuteronomy 30:9-14 (L)
Deuteronomy 30:10-14 (RC)
If God's commandments are obeyed, prosperity will come.
Colossians 1:1-14 (C, L)
Colossians 1:15-20 (RC)
Paul thanks God for the faith, love, and hope of the Colossians and prays that their lives may be worthy of Christ.
A series of four readings from Colossians begins today. The first in the series is Paul's prayer of thanksgiving for their faith, love, and hope. Though he never visited the church at Colossae, he received his information from Epaphras who probably was the leader of the church at that time. Paul assures them that he prays for their spiritual wisdom and strengthening and for their leading lives well-pleasing to Christ who has transferred them from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of Christ, the Redeemer.
Luke 10:25-37
The two great commandments and the parable of the Good Samaritan. Note Jesus' inductive method: he answers a question by asking a question. The lawyer answers his own question how one can get eternal life. One is first to love God with one's whole being and your neighbor as yourself. But, to save face, the lawyer asked another question perhaps more difficult to answer: Who is my neighbor? Again note Jesus' teaching method - the inductive method: telling a story and letting the lawyer decide what the answer is. Again, the lawyer gives the right answer: One's neighbor is one in need of help.
Prayer of the Day
"Lord God, use our lives to touch the world with your love. Stir us, by your Spirit, to be neighbor to those in need, serving them with willing hearts."
Hymn of the Day
"O God of Mercy, God of Light"
Theological Reflections
Gospel:
Luke 10:25-37
1. Lawyer (v. 25). In Jesus' time a lawyer was a Biblical scholar, a student of the Torah. In our day we would hardly expect a lawyer to ask a Biblical or theological question of depth. Because he was a professional Bible student and teacher, Jesus asked him what the Bible taught concerning eternal life. He apparently was a smart and informed scholar, for he did not hesitate in giving an answer which Jesus at once without reservation called correct.
2. All (v. 27). The greatest law is to love God with "all": heart, soul, strength, and mind. It is loving God with one's whole being, the "all" self. It is significant that love of God comes first. Love of neighbor comes second, second in importance meaning that love of God precedes love of neighbor. Modern society seems to reverse this order. Note also the intensity of the love of the two. We are to love God with our "all" compared with our love of neighbor as "yourself." How much we love the neighbor depends upon the love of self.
3. Neighbor (vv. 29, 36). In this parable Jesus teaches that our neighbor is one in need. This need transcends all national, racial, and religious obligations. The neighbor may be ten thousand miles away. He/she may be of another nation, race, or religion. This is who your neighbor may be. But, are you a "neighbor"? Jesus says that you are a true neighbor when you show mercy to the needy. To be a neighbor to a neighbor, then "go and do."
Lesson 1: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14
1. Leave (v. 6). Elisha will not "leave" Elijah. Three times Elijah tries to get away from Elisha to save him from a sad farewell. Each time Elisha refuses to let him out of his sight. He stuck closer than a brother. It is similar to the loyalty of Ruth to Naomi. One is reminded of Jesus' asking Peter three times, "Do you love me?" There is a beautiful example of faithfulness and loyalty to another human being.
2. Ask (v. 9). Since Elisha would not leave Elijah, the latter asked Elisha what he could give him as a parting gift. Elisha is in the same position Solomon was when God asked him what he wanted. Elijah was not going to give him what he thought he needed. To ask is to indicate that you want it and will receive it. If we are given something we did not ask for, there is a possibility it will not be used or appreciated. What one asks for is at the same time a revelation of the person who asks. Elisha showed that he was a spiritual man when he asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit.
3. Mantle (v. 13). Elijah's mantle was a symbol of his spirit which gave him his authority and power as a prophet. When Elijah left the earth in a blaze of glory, a fiery chariot, to heaven, he dropped his mantle. Elisha picked it up and the power of the Spirit represented by the mantle repeated for Elisha what Elijah did - the parting of the Jordan waters. The mantle of the prophet was passed down to Elisha who carried on the work of Elijah.
Lesson 2: Colossians 1:1-14
1. And (v. 1). Though Paul was writing a letter and was the apostle to the Gentiles, he did not consider himself as the sole leader. He had the concept of a multiple ministry consisting of himself and Timothy. Paul was no prima donna in the church. He was one with his co-workers such as Timothy, Silas, and Barnabas. It was a "we" project as Luke describes it in the book of Acts. As a case in point, Paul commends Epaphras who gave the Gospel to the Colossians. There is no professional jealousy. No leader was threatened by another. Paul and his fellow-workers considered themselves as partners in proclaiming the Gospel. Here is an example for a multiple staff ministry in the local church.
2. Pray (v. 9). Paul tells the Colossians that he prays for them. For what would a pastor pray for his people? No doubt there were many in the Colossian church who were poor, innocently imprisoned, and some were slaves of wealthy Romans. Why not pray for the corrupt and declining Roman state? Adultery, prostitution, and homosexuality abounded. Why not pray to be delivered from Roman domination? Paul does not pray for any of these things. More important needs are "spiritual wisdom and understanding," power for endurance, and patience with joy.
3. Transferred (v. 13). In Lesson 1 the authority and power of Elijah were transferred in the giving of the mantel to Elisha. Christians have, according to Paul, a greater transfer. Christ has transferred Us from the power of darkness - sin, law, and death - to the kingdom of Christ's light. This transfer was made possible by the redemption wrought on the cross.
Preaching Possibilities
Gospel:
Luke 10:25-37
1. A Tender Heart for a Tough World. 10:29-37
The parable of the Good Samaritan needs to be updated. In modern times things have become worse. Then the robbed one was left half-dead; now he is usually left totally dead. One of the frightening things of our time is the prevalence of violence: TV shows, murder, rape, torture, hijacking with hostages, battered wives, bruised children, vandalism in schools, fighting among athletes, the neutron bomb, and so forth. At the same time there is public indifference to the situation; many good people do nothing. The crying need is for people with tender hearts of compassion who press themselves in practical service.
Outline: The parable of the Good Samaritan still speaks.
a. Condition - v. 30. Today's victims of crime and violence. It is a tough world that shows no mercy to innocent people.
b. Carefree - vv. 31, 32. Tragedy is that people are care-free from any sense of responsibility to go to the rescue, to help the afflicted due to apathy and indifference. This includes religious people whom you expect to help people in need. This leads to the question: who is my neighbor? Is my neighbor the starving child in Bangladesh?
c. Compassion - vv. 33-35. The source of help is compassion, but whence comes compassion? Its source is obedience to God's laws of love. Love of God leads to love of neighbor.
2. Do You Know Your Neighbor? 10:29-37
Need: The common view of a neighbor is one who lives close to you in a spatial neighborhood. In today's world this is not necessarily the case. Many do not know even the name of the family who lives in the apartment down the hall, nor the couple living in the adjoining townhouse. Using this definition of "neighbor," the lawyer in the Gospel lesson was sure he was exempt from the law to love your neighbor. In the parable, Jesus gives a new understanding of a neighbor; he is one who is in need of your assistance given out of love. The need in our day for this sermon is the fact that many church people excuse themselves from concern and sharing with suffering people because they have no connection with them. This is shown by their poor giving to human needs and the lack of interest in social problems.
Outline: In this parable Jesus teaches us -
a. Who our neighbor is - v. 30. The neighbor is one standing in need of help. It does not matter if he is Jew or Gentile, in the house next door or in Rhodesia, black or white, Christian or Communist. According to this understanding of a neighbor, the church has an obligation out of love to be concerned about social problems and to take social action.
b. How to be a good neighbor - vv. 33-37. A good neighbor is one who has compassion for hurt people. He expresses this compassion by taking time to help, providing oil and wine, housing and expenses.
3. Where are You in the Picture? 10:25-27
Need: Look at the group picture of the parable.
a. Are you the lawyer - putting Jesus to the test, justifying yourself?
b. Are you the robbed - are you suffering injustices?
c. Are you the religious person - priest, Levite: passing by the need?
d. Are you the Samaritan - helping people in need?
4. Are You Asking the Right Question? 10:25-29
Need: To get the right answers we must ask the right questions. In the parable the lawyer did not ask the right questions. The question we ask reveals our faith and character.
Outline: Are we asking the right questions?
a. The question of eternal life - v. 25. Eternal life is the result of obedience to God's laws. "Do this and you will live." But, who is able to "do" all the commands? It would require a perfect person. The question that should have been asked, "How can I, a sinner, inherit eternal life?" This would give the answer, "And this is eternal life: to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent."
b. The question of neighbor - v. 29. The lawyer should have asked, "And who is my God?"
If God were truly your God, you would love all men and the question of neighbor would never have been raised. To love God is to love man, and to love man is to assist him in every time of need.
Lesson 1: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14
1. A Series of Four Sermons on 2 Kings
An Overview
Pentecost 8 - 2:1, 6-14 - When Elijah ascends on a chariot of fire, Elisha succeeds Elijah as prophet of Israel.
Pentecost 9 - 4:8-17 - Elisha's promise of a child to an elderly couple is fulfilled.
Pentecost 10 - 5:1-15ab - Elisha cures Naaman of leprosy.
Pentecost 11-13:14-20a - Before Elisha dies, he advises King Joash.
Themes
Pentecost 8 - The Changing of the Guard
Pentecost 9 - The Reward of Kindness
Pentecost 10 - The Cleansing Power of Obedience
Pentecost 11 - A Forecast of Victory
2. Preaching Themes in Lesson 1
a. Loyalty and faithfulness - 2:6
In a world of broken promises, estranged friends, split marriages, and runaway children, there is a need for a sermon promoting faithfulness. To save Elisha the pain of departing, Elijah tries three times to leave Elisha with the excuse that he has to go to another town. Elisha refuses to let Elijah out of his sight. He will stick with him to the very end. What is the cause of this deep loyalty? Is it not love?
b. The Mantle of the Spirit - 2:13
Elijah's mantle represented the Spirit, authority, and power of the prophet. The mantle was transferred to Elisha who with the same power and authority carries on the work of God's prophet. It is a necessary part of the continuing work of God in the world. The workers go but the work remains. Where one leader leaves off, the next picks up. In the 1984 Olympics the torch was ignited in Olympia, Greece, and one after the other carried the light to Los Angeles. When the mantle falls on us or the torch of God's truth is passed to us, we have the responsibility and privilege to carry on the work of God to the next generation.
c. Going Out in a Blaze of Glory - 2:11
How shall we leave this world - with a whimper or in a blaze of glory? Elijah was taken to
heaven in a chariot of fire pulled by horses of fire. When the time comes to leave the earth,
at least two things we must do to go in a blaze of glory -
1. Destination: heaven and the presence of God.
2. Legacy: What do you bequeath to those left behind? Elijah gave his spirit to Elisha.
Lesson 1: Deuteronomy 30:9-14
1. Does it Pay to Obey? 30:9-10
Need: Does it "pay" to be obedient to God's laws? Is it a fact that God rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked? Our people need to see that we do not obey in order to profit. We love and obey God for his own sake. On the other hand, as the text says, God does bless an obedient people. A nation which disobeys God's laws and becomes morally corrupt has no future. A person or people who live according to God's rules generally enjoy long life, good days, and prosperity. The wages of sin is death; the gift of goodness is God's favor of prosperity.
Outline: It does pay to obey.
a. Promise of prosperity - v. 9. God promises his people an abundance of prosperity in every area of life: work, children, cattle, crops. God delights to bless his people with largess. This is not always true - consider Job, but it generally is the case.
b. Conditions of prosperity - v. 10
1. Obedience to the laws of God.
2. Commitment of the whole person to God.
2. Anything to Get Out of It! Deuteronomy 30:11-14; Luke 10:29
Need: The hardest thing for man is to obey. By nature he wishes to do his own thing and have his own way. It is said, laws are made to be broken. We constantly look for loopholes to avoid obeying the law. In our text from both the Gospel and Lesson 1, we find God dealing with this problem. God anticipated what his people will say about his laws. In the Gospel the lawyer asks, "Who is my neighbor?" as an "out" to the command, "Do this and you will live."
Outline: There are no loopholes in God's Laws.
a. Laws are not too hard - v. 11
b. Laws are not too distant - v. 12
c. Laws are not too mysterious - v. 13
d. Laws are personal: in you - v. 14
Lesson 2: Colossians 1:1-14
A Series on Colossians
An Overview
Pentecost 8 - 1:1-14 - Paul prays for the church at Colossae.
Pentecost 9 - 1:15-20, 28 - The fullness of God was in Christ.
Pentecost 10 - 2:6-15 - Made alive to God through Christ.
Pentecost 11 - 3:1-11 - Live by the highest.
Themes
Pentecost 8 - A Prayer for You
Pentecost 9 - All You need to Know about God
Pentecost 10 - Come Alive!
Pentecost 11 - Living in the Perpendicular
1. Thank God for You! 1:3-5
Need: If one were to give thanks for you, what is there about you that would cause one to thank God? Paul thanks God for the faith, love, and hope in his Colossian people. This sermon could fill two needs: (1) a positive, constructive expression of appreciation of the character of the congregation - a sincere commendation for spiritual qualities; (2) a stimulant to prod the people to become worthy of such commendation. Put it this way: what is there about you for which I could thank God?
Outline: Thank God for -
a. Your faith - v. 4
b. Your love - v. 4
c. Your hope - v. 5
2. Have you Been Transferred? 1:13-14
Need: In daily life we are accustomed to being transferred, and with each transfer we hope it means a promotion with larger salary. We may transfer schools. We may get a transfer at work from one department to another one. The company may transfer us to another city. In our text Paul talks about the greatest transfer of all: from darkness to the light of God's kingdom. Everyone needs this transfer, because we are born into the world of sin and need to be delivered. Has this transfer taken place in your life?
Outline: You need a transfer.
a. Born into a kingdom of darkness - v. 13a - into suffering - death - hell.
b. Transferred to the Kingdom of God - v. 13b - Kingdom of Christ - redemption - forgiveness.
1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21 (C)
For refusing to sell his lot to King Ahab, Naboth is falsely accused and murdered so Ahab can take possession of the land. Here we have only the beginning and ending of a dramatic story involving a king, a subject, and a prophet. To understand it, one must know and tell what happens between the first and last verses of the pericope. King Ahab offers to buy or trade the lot of Naboth whose land is next to the palace for his vegetable garden. Because he received it as an inheritance, Naboth refused to sell it. Ahab goes home and Jezebel sees him pout over Naboth's refusal. In the name of the king, Jezebel orders a civic celebration honoring Naboth but has two false witnesses to testify that Naboth spoke against God and the king. For this blasphemy he was stoned to death and his property automatically went to the crown. Here is where the story should end, for Ahab got what he wanted and was happy. However, God was displeased at this injustice and murder, and so he ordered Elijah to go to Ahab and pronounce judgment upon him and Jezebel.
Isaiah 66:10-14 (L, RC)
Galatians 6:7-18 (C)
Galatians 6:1-10, 14-16 (L)
Galatians 6:14-18 (RC)
Rejoice over Jerusalem, for God blesses her with prosperity and comfort.
What matters is not circumcision or uncircumcision but a new person who lives according to the Spirit.
Paul closes his letter with the same concern with which he started. After reminding his people that they will reap what they sow, Paul makes his last appeal by his own handwriting for the Gospel. It is the problem of circumcision as the prerequisite for becoming a Christian. They who promote circumcision do it to boast of their success in having Gentiles being circumcised and to avoid persecution by the Jews. In contrast, Paul will boast only in the cross. What matters finally is not circumcision or uncircumcision but the new creation in Christ. After the first benediction, Paul wants no one to bother him in the future on this subject, for he bears on his body the marks of Jesus.
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 (C, RC)
Luke 10:1-12, 16 (17-20) (L)
Jesus sends out seventy to preach and heal and they return excited with joy that in his name demons fled.
Only Luke tells of Jesus' sending out seventy disciples to go to places he intended to come. They were sent to preach and heal. The number, seventy, is considered symbolic of the Jewish tradition of there being seventy nations in the world. This is a case for world missions. Their going was not their idea but it was in response to the prayer that laborers would be sent into the harvest. They were warned against opposition to their preaching and healing. Urgency characterized their mission. When they return, they are excited with joy that at the name of Jesus the demons fled. Jesus cautions them, however, not to rejoice over the demons but in the fact that their names are written in the Book of Life in heaven.
Prayer of the Day
"God of glory, Father of love, peace comes from you alone. Send us as peacemakers and witnesses to your kingdom, and fill our hearts with joy in your promise of salvation."
Hymn of the Day
"Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun"
Theological Reflections
Gospel:
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20
1. Plentiful (v. 2). Jesus sent out seventy people two by two to prepare people for his coming by witnessing and healing. As one person Jesus could not do it alone for "the harvest is plentiful." In today's church the pastor cannot by him/herself do the work of evangelism - the harvest is too plentiful. Consider the fact that one out of the four billion people in the world is Christian. Forty percent of Americans have no church home. Even in the church there is a harvest waiting to be reaped: seventy percent of the members do not worship regularly, twenty-five percent never pray, and thirty-five percent never read the Bible.
2. Near (vv. 9, 11). The message of the seventy was "The kingdom of God has come near to you." Whether they accept the message or not, the kingdom came near to them. The seventy were appointed to visit in Jesus' place and they had the truth to share and healing to apply. Yet, they were not Jesus himself. To hear about Jesus is to be near the Kingdom. To accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is to be in the Kingdom.
3. Joy (v. 17). The visits of the seventy were a great success. They reported to Jesus with exhilarating joy that the demons fled at his name. Jesus was happy, too, because he saw the downfall of Satan. Nevertheless, Jesus cautioned the returnees that their real joy was not in their success but in the fact that their names were written in heaven. The real joy is the joy of salvation.
Lesson 1: 1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21
1. Inheritance (v. 3). King Ahab made Naboth a reasonable offer for his lot which he wanted for a garden. Ahab offered to buy it or to trade it for a better vineyard. As king he might have appropriated it after condemning it. Was Naboth unreasonable by not doing the king a favor by not selling it? It was a matter of "inheritance." Naboth received it from his forefathers and he wanted to keep the land in the family. There are some things worth more than money. One's birthright should not be sold for a mess of pottage.
2. Came (v. 17). It was an almost perfect crime. Jezebel's scheme seemed to have been successful. The people stoned Naboth to death for alleged blasphemy and nobody seemed to know the truth of the matter. Ahab was happy and was in the act of possessing the lot when Elijah appeared. How did Elijah know about it? God knew of the murder and so he sent Elijah to pronounce God's judgment on the royal pair. God knows and cares what evil goes on in the world and condemns it.
3. Enemy (v. 20). Earlier King Ahab called Elijah the "troubler" of Israel. Now he calls him his "enemy" - "Have you found me, 0 my enemy?" Anyone who stands for truth and is opposed to falsehood becomes an enemy of liars. Love is the enemy of hatred. A preacher of righteousness automatically becomes the enemy of the Mafia. A Christian cannot be a friend to all people.
Lesson 2: Galatians 6:7-18
1. Reap (vv. 7-9). Four times in these three verses Paul uses the word "reap." In the analogy of sowing seed, it is natural for the sower to reap in due time what he has sown. There is a natural law that you reap what you sow. Sow weeds and you reap weeds. Sow hatred and you get hatred. If one sows to the Spirit, one will reap eternal life.
2. Except (v. 14). In what shall a person glory? We may boast of our children or our parents. We may have reason to boast of our scholastic degrees or our business success. For Paul, he will glory in nothing except the cross of Jesus. Why would he boast of a terrible death on a cross? He was not there when Jesus was crucified. Paul boasts of the cross for what God has done in Christ on the cross in reconciling us to God, forgiving our sin, and granting us eternal life.
3. Body (v. I 7). As final proof that his gospel is the one and only true gospel, Paul says that he bears on his body the marks of Jesus. This does not necessarily mean physical marks even though Paul probably bore the scars of the beatings and stonings he endured. The Greek word used here for "body" is "soma," not "sarx" which is the physical body. "Soma" means the whole person, and not only flesh. A true Christian does not necessarily have physical marks of Jesus, the spiritual mark of Jesus on a person is the relationship he/she has with Christ.
Preaching Possibilities
Gospel:
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20
1. Look Who's Here! 10:1-9
Need: Church visitors (the seventy) are ambassadors of Christ. They are "little Christs" who speak and act in the place of Jesus - Christ's surrogates! Every pastor knows how difficult it is to get church members to make calls on prospective members. This sermon is designed to motivate members to visit the unchurched by showing them that they as visitors have the high privilege of speaking for and represent-ing Jesus. Look who's at the door - not Mr. and Mrs. John Doe but Jesus Christ in the persons of the Does.
Outline: Look who's here -
a. Look who's going - Jesus (v. 1): "Where he himself was about to come."
b. Look who's blessing - Jesus through you - vv. 5, 9
c. look who's talking - Jesus through you - v. 9
2. What No One Person Can Do. 10:1-9
Need: For too many years evangelism has been a one-man job - the pastor's. Through his preaching, counseling, and visiting, he was expected to add new members to the roll. In some churches, an increase in salary was tied to the number of new members received, and his preaching was judged by the numbers of converts. This practice does not succeed, for evangelism is too big for one man. In today's Gospel, Jesus enlists and sends out a large number of followers other than the disciples to witness for him. Under the system of letting the pastor do the work of evangelism, mainline churches in recent years have lost millions of members. If the church is to grow, evangelism must become a program involving the laity.
Outline: Evangelism is for you, too.
a. Who is to go - v. 1. "Seventy others" - a general number of followers not among the disciples, the laity.
b. Who sends them - v. 1. You are "appointed" and commissioned - "send them."
c. Who are visited - v. 1. In Jewish tradition, "seventy" referred to the seventy nations in the world. The gospel is for all people: classes, nations, races. We can't pick our prospects!
d. Why visit - vv. 5-9. To offer peace, to heal the sick, to announce good news.
3. Get A Move On! 10:9, 16
Need: The mood in the average church today is "What's your hurry?" The weakness of today's church is apathy, unconcern, and indifference toward unchurched people. We excuse ourselves from witnessing for Christ by saying, "There is a church on almost every corner. If they want to go to church, they can." Or, we think one religion is as good as the next. Or, we say our neighbors live as good a life as most church members. This is not the feeling of Jesus about winning people for the Kingdom. Throughout the text, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of going out and witnessing through visitation which is essential today because people will not come to the church. The church must go to the people.
Outline: The urgency of winning people for Christ.
a. The condition of the world - v. 3: "lambs in the midst of wolves"
b. The time is ripe - v. 2: "the harvest is plentiful."
c. Avoid delays - v. 4: "salute no one on the road."
d. The imminence of the Kingdom - v. 9: "The Kingdom of God has come to you."
4. What To Do On a Visit. 10:4-9
Need: People are reluctant to make calls on the unchurched because they do not know what to say or do on a visit. How shall they approach the prospects? Shall they talk about religion? Should they tell about their personal religious experiences? This sermon would acquaint people with what visitors might say and do. This sermon should encourage people to visit and should prevent visitors' turning people off. The sermon should show visitors how they can attractively and effectively bring people to Christ.
Outline: What to do on a visit.
a. Stick to the subject - v. 4: "Salute no one on the way."
b. Identify with the people - v. 7: "Eat and drink what they provide." Become involved in their lives and share with them. Make friends.
c. Offer help - v. 9: "Peace be to this house ... heal the sick." Visit to see what you can do for the people. Ask, "What can we do for you?"
d. Announce the good news - v. 9. Note that the religious aspect of the visit comes last. If one starts with "Are you saved?", you may turn them off. After you have established a relationship with the prospects and rendered assistance, tell them about the good news.
Lesson 1: 1 Kings 21:1-3, 17-21
1. A Story Sermon. 21:1-21
Narrative preaching is the current vogue. The sermon is the telling of a story with which people may identify. The story has its own message without elaboration or application. While this type of sermon is not recommended Sunday after Sunday, occasionally when a text lends itself to this form, it may be a delightful change. The pericope gives only the opening and closing verses of the story of Ahab, Naboth, and Elijah. The story-sermon will need the entire passage - 21:1-21.
Outline: The story will cover the following told with imagination and concrete description -
a. A fair offer for a piece of land - vv. 1-3
b. When you don't get what you want - v. 4
c. Who says you can't have what you want? - vv. 5-7
d. The scheme of a wicked woman - vv. 8-14
e. "I got what I wanted!" - vv. 15-16
f. Ahab, someone wants to see you! - vv. 17-21
2. Other Sermon Possibilities in Lesson 1
a. Some Things Not For Sale - 21:1-3
Some things not for sale: birthright, inheritance, family loyalty, personal purity, character, reputation.
b. You Can't Get Away With It! - 21:17-21
Many do wrong and know they are doing wrong, but they think they can get away with it. They believe no one will find out. It is the principle followed by shoplifters as well as adulterers. Though society may not learn of the crime, God knows about it. The penalty is sure to come: "The wages of sin is death."
c. Known by Your Enemies - 21:20
It is commonly said that you are known by your friends and associates. It is also true that you are known by those who hate and oppose you. Evil-doers hate people of good character. Criminals hate the police. It is what and whom you stand against that show the quality of a person.
Lesson 1: Isaiah 66:1-14
1. The Feminine Factor of our Faith. 66:10-14
Need: Some interested in today's woman's liberation movement cry out against the sexist language used in the Bible and Church. Some insist that we should say "Mother God." This protest may be the result, in part, of our neglect of the feminine factor of our faith. In Biblical and church language the famale counterpart is the church, the new Jerusalem. Christ is the bridegroom and the church is the bride. We Christians are the children of that union. In today's first Lesson, Jerusalem is portrayed as a mother who feeds, carries, and comforts her children. See also Isaiah 42:14; 66:9. Calvin said, "You cannot have God as your father if you do not have the church as your mother."
Outline: Like a mother, the church of the New Jerusalem -
a. Feeds us - v. 11
b. Nurtures us - v. 12
c. Comforts us - v. 13
2. Reason to Rejoice. 66:10-14
Need: Christianity is often associated with solemnity and seriousness, glumness, and sadness. What congregation is known for its joy? Can Christians claim to be the happiest people in the world? They should be able to claim this, but they are not known for their joy. In recent years the slogan in many churches was "Celebrate," but it was short-lived because they had no reason to celebrate. In this Lesson, the word "rejoice," occurs three times. The Kingdom of God, the new Jerusalem, is coming on earth. With its coming, there will be such conditions that will cause rejoicing. Must we wait for the end of time? No, the Kingdom is here in Jesus, the gospel, the church.
Outline: We have reason to rejoice because we will -
a. Experience the glory of the King - v. 11
b. Enjoy prosperity - v. 12
c. Be comforted - v. 13
Lesson 2: Galatians 6:7-18
1. If a Christian, Prove it! 6:17
Need: There are times when we may be called upon to identify ourselves as Christians. How would you prove you are a Christian? Church membership? Baptism by immersion? Confirmation by a bishop? Speaking in tongues? At the end of his letter, Paul tells how he can be known as a Christian: he bears on his body the marks of Jesus. What are these marks? Prayer? Worship? Tithing? Right living? Paul's mark on his person was his relationship with Jesus. The sermon describes what that relationship is.
Outline: Our relationship with Jesus is one when -
a. Jesus is above us as Lord
b. Jesus is in us as Savior
c. Jesus is ahead of us as Leader
2. Keep Up the Good Work. 6:7-14
Need: In this section of the Lesson, we can see a connection with the Gospel for the Day. In the Gospel, Christ sends out laborers into the harvest to visit and witness. Evangelism is a year-round project which never ends until all are safely brought into the Kingdom. In witnessing it is easy to get tired, to lose heart, and to want to do something else. Paul urges us to keep up the good work.
Outline: Keep up the good work of -
a. Sowing in the Spirit - v. 8
b. Doing good to all - vv. 9-10
c. Glorying in the cross - v. 14
PROPER 10
July 10-16
Common
PENTECOST 8
Lutheran
ORDINARY TIME 15
Roman Catholic
The Lessons
2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 (C)
Elisha succeeds Elijah as prophet of Israel. We have just completed a series of Lessons on Elijah and now we start a series of four Lessons from 2 Kings on his successor, Elisha. This first in the series appropriately deals with the transfer from Elijah to Elisha as prophet of Israel. Elisha was a faithful and devout disciple of Elijah. So loyal was he that he would not let Elijah out of his sight. Knowing that he was soon going to depart this world, Elijah asked Elisha what he could give him. Wisely Elisha asked for a double portion of his spirit. This was granted to Elisha, for when Elisha took Elijah's mantle, he used it to separate the waters of Jordan. The power and authority of Elijah's spirit were transferred to Elisha and his ministry as prophet was launched.
Deuteronomy 30:9-14 (L)
Deuteronomy 30:10-14 (RC)
If God's commandments are obeyed, prosperity will come.
Colossians 1:1-14 (C, L)
Colossians 1:15-20 (RC)
Paul thanks God for the faith, love, and hope of the Colossians and prays that their lives may be worthy of Christ.
A series of four readings from Colossians begins today. The first in the series is Paul's prayer of thanksgiving for their faith, love, and hope. Though he never visited the church at Colossae, he received his information from Epaphras who probably was the leader of the church at that time. Paul assures them that he prays for their spiritual wisdom and strengthening and for their leading lives well-pleasing to Christ who has transferred them from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of Christ, the Redeemer.
Luke 10:25-37
The two great commandments and the parable of the Good Samaritan. Note Jesus' inductive method: he answers a question by asking a question. The lawyer answers his own question how one can get eternal life. One is first to love God with one's whole being and your neighbor as yourself. But, to save face, the lawyer asked another question perhaps more difficult to answer: Who is my neighbor? Again note Jesus' teaching method - the inductive method: telling a story and letting the lawyer decide what the answer is. Again, the lawyer gives the right answer: One's neighbor is one in need of help.
Prayer of the Day
"Lord God, use our lives to touch the world with your love. Stir us, by your Spirit, to be neighbor to those in need, serving them with willing hearts."
Hymn of the Day
"O God of Mercy, God of Light"
Theological Reflections
Gospel:
Luke 10:25-37
1. Lawyer (v. 25). In Jesus' time a lawyer was a Biblical scholar, a student of the Torah. In our day we would hardly expect a lawyer to ask a Biblical or theological question of depth. Because he was a professional Bible student and teacher, Jesus asked him what the Bible taught concerning eternal life. He apparently was a smart and informed scholar, for he did not hesitate in giving an answer which Jesus at once without reservation called correct.
2. All (v. 27). The greatest law is to love God with "all": heart, soul, strength, and mind. It is loving God with one's whole being, the "all" self. It is significant that love of God comes first. Love of neighbor comes second, second in importance meaning that love of God precedes love of neighbor. Modern society seems to reverse this order. Note also the intensity of the love of the two. We are to love God with our "all" compared with our love of neighbor as "yourself." How much we love the neighbor depends upon the love of self.
3. Neighbor (vv. 29, 36). In this parable Jesus teaches that our neighbor is one in need. This need transcends all national, racial, and religious obligations. The neighbor may be ten thousand miles away. He/she may be of another nation, race, or religion. This is who your neighbor may be. But, are you a "neighbor"? Jesus says that you are a true neighbor when you show mercy to the needy. To be a neighbor to a neighbor, then "go and do."
Lesson 1: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14
1. Leave (v. 6). Elisha will not "leave" Elijah. Three times Elijah tries to get away from Elisha to save him from a sad farewell. Each time Elisha refuses to let him out of his sight. He stuck closer than a brother. It is similar to the loyalty of Ruth to Naomi. One is reminded of Jesus' asking Peter three times, "Do you love me?" There is a beautiful example of faithfulness and loyalty to another human being.
2. Ask (v. 9). Since Elisha would not leave Elijah, the latter asked Elisha what he could give him as a parting gift. Elisha is in the same position Solomon was when God asked him what he wanted. Elijah was not going to give him what he thought he needed. To ask is to indicate that you want it and will receive it. If we are given something we did not ask for, there is a possibility it will not be used or appreciated. What one asks for is at the same time a revelation of the person who asks. Elisha showed that he was a spiritual man when he asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit.
3. Mantle (v. 13). Elijah's mantle was a symbol of his spirit which gave him his authority and power as a prophet. When Elijah left the earth in a blaze of glory, a fiery chariot, to heaven, he dropped his mantle. Elisha picked it up and the power of the Spirit represented by the mantle repeated for Elisha what Elijah did - the parting of the Jordan waters. The mantle of the prophet was passed down to Elisha who carried on the work of Elijah.
Lesson 2: Colossians 1:1-14
1. And (v. 1). Though Paul was writing a letter and was the apostle to the Gentiles, he did not consider himself as the sole leader. He had the concept of a multiple ministry consisting of himself and Timothy. Paul was no prima donna in the church. He was one with his co-workers such as Timothy, Silas, and Barnabas. It was a "we" project as Luke describes it in the book of Acts. As a case in point, Paul commends Epaphras who gave the Gospel to the Colossians. There is no professional jealousy. No leader was threatened by another. Paul and his fellow-workers considered themselves as partners in proclaiming the Gospel. Here is an example for a multiple staff ministry in the local church.
2. Pray (v. 9). Paul tells the Colossians that he prays for them. For what would a pastor pray for his people? No doubt there were many in the Colossian church who were poor, innocently imprisoned, and some were slaves of wealthy Romans. Why not pray for the corrupt and declining Roman state? Adultery, prostitution, and homosexuality abounded. Why not pray to be delivered from Roman domination? Paul does not pray for any of these things. More important needs are "spiritual wisdom and understanding," power for endurance, and patience with joy.
3. Transferred (v. 13). In Lesson 1 the authority and power of Elijah were transferred in the giving of the mantel to Elisha. Christians have, according to Paul, a greater transfer. Christ has transferred Us from the power of darkness - sin, law, and death - to the kingdom of Christ's light. This transfer was made possible by the redemption wrought on the cross.
Preaching Possibilities
Gospel:
Luke 10:25-37
1. A Tender Heart for a Tough World. 10:29-37
The parable of the Good Samaritan needs to be updated. In modern times things have become worse. Then the robbed one was left half-dead; now he is usually left totally dead. One of the frightening things of our time is the prevalence of violence: TV shows, murder, rape, torture, hijacking with hostages, battered wives, bruised children, vandalism in schools, fighting among athletes, the neutron bomb, and so forth. At the same time there is public indifference to the situation; many good people do nothing. The crying need is for people with tender hearts of compassion who press themselves in practical service.
Outline: The parable of the Good Samaritan still speaks.
a. Condition - v. 30. Today's victims of crime and violence. It is a tough world that shows no mercy to innocent people.
b. Carefree - vv. 31, 32. Tragedy is that people are care-free from any sense of responsibility to go to the rescue, to help the afflicted due to apathy and indifference. This includes religious people whom you expect to help people in need. This leads to the question: who is my neighbor? Is my neighbor the starving child in Bangladesh?
c. Compassion - vv. 33-35. The source of help is compassion, but whence comes compassion? Its source is obedience to God's laws of love. Love of God leads to love of neighbor.
2. Do You Know Your Neighbor? 10:29-37
Need: The common view of a neighbor is one who lives close to you in a spatial neighborhood. In today's world this is not necessarily the case. Many do not know even the name of the family who lives in the apartment down the hall, nor the couple living in the adjoining townhouse. Using this definition of "neighbor," the lawyer in the Gospel lesson was sure he was exempt from the law to love your neighbor. In the parable, Jesus gives a new understanding of a neighbor; he is one who is in need of your assistance given out of love. The need in our day for this sermon is the fact that many church people excuse themselves from concern and sharing with suffering people because they have no connection with them. This is shown by their poor giving to human needs and the lack of interest in social problems.
Outline: In this parable Jesus teaches us -
a. Who our neighbor is - v. 30. The neighbor is one standing in need of help. It does not matter if he is Jew or Gentile, in the house next door or in Rhodesia, black or white, Christian or Communist. According to this understanding of a neighbor, the church has an obligation out of love to be concerned about social problems and to take social action.
b. How to be a good neighbor - vv. 33-37. A good neighbor is one who has compassion for hurt people. He expresses this compassion by taking time to help, providing oil and wine, housing and expenses.
3. Where are You in the Picture? 10:25-27
Need: Look at the group picture of the parable.
a. Are you the lawyer - putting Jesus to the test, justifying yourself?
b. Are you the robbed - are you suffering injustices?
c. Are you the religious person - priest, Levite: passing by the need?
d. Are you the Samaritan - helping people in need?
4. Are You Asking the Right Question? 10:25-29
Need: To get the right answers we must ask the right questions. In the parable the lawyer did not ask the right questions. The question we ask reveals our faith and character.
Outline: Are we asking the right questions?
a. The question of eternal life - v. 25. Eternal life is the result of obedience to God's laws. "Do this and you will live." But, who is able to "do" all the commands? It would require a perfect person. The question that should have been asked, "How can I, a sinner, inherit eternal life?" This would give the answer, "And this is eternal life: to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent."
b. The question of neighbor - v. 29. The lawyer should have asked, "And who is my God?"
If God were truly your God, you would love all men and the question of neighbor would never have been raised. To love God is to love man, and to love man is to assist him in every time of need.
Lesson 1: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14
1. A Series of Four Sermons on 2 Kings
An Overview
Pentecost 8 - 2:1, 6-14 - When Elijah ascends on a chariot of fire, Elisha succeeds Elijah as prophet of Israel.
Pentecost 9 - 4:8-17 - Elisha's promise of a child to an elderly couple is fulfilled.
Pentecost 10 - 5:1-15ab - Elisha cures Naaman of leprosy.
Pentecost 11-13:14-20a - Before Elisha dies, he advises King Joash.
Themes
Pentecost 8 - The Changing of the Guard
Pentecost 9 - The Reward of Kindness
Pentecost 10 - The Cleansing Power of Obedience
Pentecost 11 - A Forecast of Victory
2. Preaching Themes in Lesson 1
a. Loyalty and faithfulness - 2:6
In a world of broken promises, estranged friends, split marriages, and runaway children, there is a need for a sermon promoting faithfulness. To save Elisha the pain of departing, Elijah tries three times to leave Elisha with the excuse that he has to go to another town. Elisha refuses to let Elijah out of his sight. He will stick with him to the very end. What is the cause of this deep loyalty? Is it not love?
b. The Mantle of the Spirit - 2:13
Elijah's mantle represented the Spirit, authority, and power of the prophet. The mantle was transferred to Elisha who with the same power and authority carries on the work of God's prophet. It is a necessary part of the continuing work of God in the world. The workers go but the work remains. Where one leader leaves off, the next picks up. In the 1984 Olympics the torch was ignited in Olympia, Greece, and one after the other carried the light to Los Angeles. When the mantle falls on us or the torch of God's truth is passed to us, we have the responsibility and privilege to carry on the work of God to the next generation.
c. Going Out in a Blaze of Glory - 2:11
How shall we leave this world - with a whimper or in a blaze of glory? Elijah was taken to
heaven in a chariot of fire pulled by horses of fire. When the time comes to leave the earth,
at least two things we must do to go in a blaze of glory -
1. Destination: heaven and the presence of God.
2. Legacy: What do you bequeath to those left behind? Elijah gave his spirit to Elisha.
Lesson 1: Deuteronomy 30:9-14
1. Does it Pay to Obey? 30:9-10
Need: Does it "pay" to be obedient to God's laws? Is it a fact that God rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked? Our people need to see that we do not obey in order to profit. We love and obey God for his own sake. On the other hand, as the text says, God does bless an obedient people. A nation which disobeys God's laws and becomes morally corrupt has no future. A person or people who live according to God's rules generally enjoy long life, good days, and prosperity. The wages of sin is death; the gift of goodness is God's favor of prosperity.
Outline: It does pay to obey.
a. Promise of prosperity - v. 9. God promises his people an abundance of prosperity in every area of life: work, children, cattle, crops. God delights to bless his people with largess. This is not always true - consider Job, but it generally is the case.
b. Conditions of prosperity - v. 10
1. Obedience to the laws of God.
2. Commitment of the whole person to God.
2. Anything to Get Out of It! Deuteronomy 30:11-14; Luke 10:29
Need: The hardest thing for man is to obey. By nature he wishes to do his own thing and have his own way. It is said, laws are made to be broken. We constantly look for loopholes to avoid obeying the law. In our text from both the Gospel and Lesson 1, we find God dealing with this problem. God anticipated what his people will say about his laws. In the Gospel the lawyer asks, "Who is my neighbor?" as an "out" to the command, "Do this and you will live."
Outline: There are no loopholes in God's Laws.
a. Laws are not too hard - v. 11
b. Laws are not too distant - v. 12
c. Laws are not too mysterious - v. 13
d. Laws are personal: in you - v. 14
Lesson 2: Colossians 1:1-14
A Series on Colossians
An Overview
Pentecost 8 - 1:1-14 - Paul prays for the church at Colossae.
Pentecost 9 - 1:15-20, 28 - The fullness of God was in Christ.
Pentecost 10 - 2:6-15 - Made alive to God through Christ.
Pentecost 11 - 3:1-11 - Live by the highest.
Themes
Pentecost 8 - A Prayer for You
Pentecost 9 - All You need to Know about God
Pentecost 10 - Come Alive!
Pentecost 11 - Living in the Perpendicular
1. Thank God for You! 1:3-5
Need: If one were to give thanks for you, what is there about you that would cause one to thank God? Paul thanks God for the faith, love, and hope in his Colossian people. This sermon could fill two needs: (1) a positive, constructive expression of appreciation of the character of the congregation - a sincere commendation for spiritual qualities; (2) a stimulant to prod the people to become worthy of such commendation. Put it this way: what is there about you for which I could thank God?
Outline: Thank God for -
a. Your faith - v. 4
b. Your love - v. 4
c. Your hope - v. 5
2. Have you Been Transferred? 1:13-14
Need: In daily life we are accustomed to being transferred, and with each transfer we hope it means a promotion with larger salary. We may transfer schools. We may get a transfer at work from one department to another one. The company may transfer us to another city. In our text Paul talks about the greatest transfer of all: from darkness to the light of God's kingdom. Everyone needs this transfer, because we are born into the world of sin and need to be delivered. Has this transfer taken place in your life?
Outline: You need a transfer.
a. Born into a kingdom of darkness - v. 13a - into suffering - death - hell.
b. Transferred to the Kingdom of God - v. 13b - Kingdom of Christ - redemption - forgiveness.
