October 7, 2018 – Jonathan chute “Insiders”
Sermon: sermon
In our gospel the disciples report to Jesus that they found someone performing healings in his name. They tell him that they tried to put a stop to it, since the man wasn’t one of them. But Jesus says that good deeds done in his name are never out of place. It does not matter who does them. Being a follower of Jesus is not an exclusive club. Anyone who acts with compassion is a member of this family. The text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Insiders”, is Mark 9:38-41.
Scripture: scripture
October 14, 2018 – Dale Gehr “Forgiveness”
Sermon: sermon
This week is our annual Laity Sunday, when leaders from among the congregation take the lead in Sunday worship and our pastors step away from the pulpit for the day. Dale Gehr, our Lay Leader, will be our preacher, reflecting on the subject of forgiveness. Throughout his ministry it was one of Jesus’ most persistent themes. He spoke about forgiveness to large crowds of people and tried to explain it to his closest circle of disciples. He demonstrated forgiveness through his actions in life, and he offered forgiveness as he died. His commitment to forgiveness was so strong, and his authority in extending forgiveness so bold, that his words and behavior scandalized some of his listeners. Dale’s sermon draws from a section of Jesus’ teaching in Luke’s gospel encouraging his followers to love our enemies, and recommending that we forgive others according to the measure we would like to be forgiven. We will also hear a passage from Matthew’s gospel in which Jesus urges his followers to pray with an emphasis on forgiveness.
Scripture: scripture
October 21, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “New Glasses”
Sermon: sermon
In this week’s gospel, two of the disciples ask for the seats of honor in the heavenly kingdom. When the other disciples hear about this they become angry at James and John. Jesus uses the occasion to teach them that the path to greatness in God’s kingdom is the path of service – not of self. Though they have spent much time with Jesus on the road, it seems the disciples still have a ways to go. The text for Jonathan’s sermon, “New Glasses,” is Mark 10:35-45.
Scripture: scripture
October 28, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Two for One”
Sermon: sermon
This Sunday’s gospel tells of an encounter between Jesus and another leader of the Jewish community, a legal scholar. He is interested in what Jesus might have to say about God’s law. He asks, “Which is the most important commandment?” Jesus answers the man’s question and leaves him with something more to ponder. The lawyer agrees with Jesus about the core of Jewish teaching and life. And Jesus commends him for his understanding. Mark 12:28-34 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Two for One.”
Scripture: scripture
