Scripture Readings: 1 Sam. 1:4-20; Ps. 16;
Hebrews 10:11-25; Mark 13:1-8
Sermon by Ted Johnston
(From Mark 13:1-37, drawing on commentary from
New Bible Commentary and Bible Knowledge Commentary)
The Little Apocalypse
Introduction
In our journey through the Gospel of Mark, we come to chapter 13, a passage often called "The Little Apocalypse." Here Jesus gives a prophecy concerning a coming time of judgment. Unfortunately, some people misuse it, trying to force-fit it into their prophetic scheme. In doing so they miss the point of Jesus' exhortation to his original disciples and the point that applies to all followers of Jesus down through the centuries, including all of us. Let's see if we can hear what the Lord was actually saying.
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Scripture Readings: 1 Kings 17:8-16; Ps. 146;
Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44
Sermon by Ted Johnston
(From Mark 12 and 1 Kings 17, drawing on insights from
the New Bible Commentary and the Bible Knowledge Commentary)
Two Lessons About Generosity
Our Gospel and Old Testament readings today tell stories about generosity. Let's begin with the one in Mark's Gospel:
[Note to preacher: if today's passages in Mark and 1 Kings were read in the Scripture reading portion of the service, they need not be read again.]
The widow at the temple
As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the... Read the article
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Note on today’s liturgy: November 1 in the Western Christian liturgical calendar is All Saints Day---a day to remember and thank God for the lives of God's people down the centuries who have faithfully witnessed to Christ, often at great cost. Today's sermon picks up that theme, correcting a common misunderstanding concerning what a saint is.
Scripture Readings: Ruth 1:1-18; Ps. 119:1-8;
Hebrews 9:11-14; Mark 12:28-34
Sermon by Martin Manuel (from Mark 12)
True Devotion: True Sainthood
Introduction
When you hear the word saint, what comes to mind? For many, a saint is an extraordinary person---one with special devotion to God. A holy person. When someone says, “I’m no saint,” they typically mean that they are imperfect.... Read the article
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