9/6/15 – Jonathan Chute – “Mercy!”
Sermon: Sermon
The scripture comes once again from the Letter of James. It speaks to the all too human tendency to treat some people better than others, because of wealth, influence or appearance. While this is unfortunate in any group, it is especially out of place in the community of faith. The writer says that our failure to treat all people with the same love and care is a judgment on our faith. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is James 2:1-17, and his title is “Mercy!”
Scripture: Scripture
9/13/15 – Jonathan Chute – “Upside Down”
Sermon: Sermon
In our gospel Jesus begins to share with the disciples a fuller picture of himself and his future. It does not go over well. He has raised their hopes with the promise of God’s kingdom. Now he tells them that he must suffer, be rejected and killed. Peter refuses to accept this new idea. It is not what he or the others signed up for. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is Mark 8:27-38, and his title is “Upside Down.”
Scripture: Scripture
9/20/15 – Jonathan Chute – “Children’s Time”
Sermon: Sermon
The gospel tells of an intriguing discussion among the disciples. Jesus has again been teaching them about his coming suffering and death. They, on the other hand, are jockeying with one another for position – arguing about which of them is the greatest. Their desire for position and prestige does not go over well with Jesus. He offers them a different picture of what it means to be first in the kingdom of God. Jonathan is preaching from Mark 9:30-37, and his title is “Children’s Time.”
Scripture: Scripture
9/27/15 – April Herron – “Here for a Generous Purpose”
Sermon: Sermon
The Book of Esther contains the story of a young woman who finds herself in a position to work for the salvation of her people. It’s a story full of drama, intrigue, risk, and the acceptance of leadership. Once every three years, the story of Esther turns up in the lectionary (the scripture readings assigned for the day). This is the Sunday! We’ll be celebrating Esther’s courage and welcoming new members into the family of faith–a family that includes amazing ancestors. April’s sermon title is, “Here for a Generous Purpose.”
Scripture: Scripture
