| Text | Sermon Title, Delivery Date, Summary |
| Genesis 1:1-31 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH"
(2/7/99) Our Apostles' Creed series continues as we affirm our belief in "God, the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth." |
| Genesis 2:1-8, 15 | A CHRISTIAN UNDERSTANDING OF WORK (9/2/01) Labor Day weekend affords us an opportunity to consider what we believe about work. A meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Genesis 3:1-13, Luke 14:16-23 | EXCUSES (3/29/98) Excuses. We all make them...and too often. But Lent is itself an "excuse" to change ourselves for the better. |
| Genesis 3:1-19 | THINKING ABOUT THE UNTHINKABLE (2/21/96) An Ash Wednesday sermon centering on the traditional reminder of our mortality ("Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return") but reaffirming our Christian conviction that mortality is not the final word. |
| Genesis 9:8-17 | UNDER THE RAINBOW (8/20/2000) The story of Noah is one with which we have been familiar since earliest Sunday School days, and offers a marvelous affirmation of God's grace amidst the "floods" of life. |
| Genesis 11:1-9, Acts 2:1-13 | BEATING BABEL (6/11/2000) Pentecost! "The Birthday of the Church." We recall that marvelous day in Jerusalem when people understood each other in ways they had not been able to do since the Tower of Babel. Is such a day possible again? |
| Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 | "GOD'S NOT DONE WITH ME YET!" (2/23/97) Our sermon title could easily be the affirmation of 99-year-old Abraham in this week's lesson. And if God's not done with an almost-centenarian, how about you and me? |
| Genesis 18:1-15 | THE LAST LAUGH (1/21/01) Do you laugh enough? Does anyone? The word is that he or she who laughs...lasts. And that is surely biblical. |
| Genesis 21:8-21 | GOD HEARS (7/23/2000) If you have ever wondered about the incredible tensions in the Middle East, today's lesson lays out the background. The sermon title is not only a theological conviction, it is the translation of the Hebrew name Ishmael, Abraham's first son and part of the cause of tension. |
| Genesis 32:22-31 | STRUGGLING WITH GOD (8/1/99) One of the most intriguing characters in all of scripture is that loveable rascal Jacob, and one of his most interesting adventures was a midnight wrestling match by the River Jabbok. His struggle offers valuable lessons. |
| Genesis 45:3-15, Luke 6:27-38 | PAY BACK TIME (2/18/01) This week the lectionary invites us to consider the story of Joseph and his brothers as we listen to Jesus' word concerning dealing with those who do us wrong - and if we think someone has done US wrong, think about Joseph. |
| Genesis 50:15-21, Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 | "...BUT GOD..." (6/4/2000) As is our custom at this time of year, we honor those young people who have just completed high school and college. The message to the graduates is a reminder of God's providential care...even when it is not apparent. A Baccalaureate sermon. |
| Exodus 3:1-15, Revelation 1:8-18 | THE BUSH IS STILL BURNING (8/29/99) The Old Testament Lectionary lesson for today tells a story with which we have been familiar since childhood, Moses and the Burning Bush. It offers a wonderful word of hope for today. |
| Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14 | THE PROD OF THE PAST (9/8/96) Today we celebrate the beginning of five years together as pastor and people. The Lectionary texts guide us to thoughts of our family relationship as God's people and then challenge us to use our heritage to spur us on to greater accomplishments. |
| Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22 | GOD CARES ABOUT JUSTICE! (3/2/97) Our sermon title is hardly a shock, but is a statement which gets a healthy reminder as we consider this week's lectionary texts: the Ten Commandments and Jesus' Cleansing of the Temple. |
| Exodus 20:1-20 | THE TEN COMMANDMENTS An attempt to get "Back to Basics" in our Christian walk requires a study of this bedrock set of instructions. Click on the sermon title to read each message in the series.
|
| Leviticus 19:1-18 | SUNDAY DINNER (8/5/01) No institution in American life says "Family" like the traditional gathering of the clan after worship on Sunday. A meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Numbers 11:1-17, John 3:1-15 | NICODEMUS (2/18/96) A monologue featuring an intriguing character from the Gospels. Prior to reading the sermon, check the Numbers passage for a historical perspective on the Jewish Sanhedrin of which Nicodemus was a member and then from John's gospel the story of Nicodemus' night time visit with Jesus. |
| Numbers 14:1-10a | REMEMBERING THE GOOD OLD DAYS (9/12/99) A sermon on the seventh anniversary of Dr. Leininger's pastorate at St. Paul Presbyterian Church, a look back at the past to spur us on for the future. |
| Numbers 21:4-9, John 3:14-21 | LOOK AND LIVE (3/9/97) "Snakes, snakes, everywhere SNAKES!" might have been the anguished cry of the Israelites in the wilderness. |
| Deuteronomy 5:12-15, Matthew 12:1-21 | SUPER SUNDAY (1/28/96) America's attention is directed to the Super Bowl today. With that as a backdrop we consider this special day...but in a different way. |
| Deuteronomy 5:12-15, Matthew 12:1-8 | A THEOLOGY OF WORK (9/5/99) A sermon for Labor Day that looks at the biblical perspective on work. |
| Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 20-25 | GROWING IN FAITH (9/10/2000) Sunday School is important, and not only for children. According to a study, "Effective Christian Education is the most powerful single influence congregations have on 'maturity of faith.'" A sermon for Rally Day. |
| Deuteronomy 15:7-11, John 14:13-14 | "DOES GOD CARE WHO WINS THE SUPER BOWL?" (1/25/98) The sermon title comes from a Sports Illustrated (1/26/98) article of the same name. So? Does God Care? |
| Deuteronomy 32:1-7 | REMEMBER! (7/25/99) The annual Homecoming celebration of the Oakdale Presbyterian Church in Clover, SC occasions this reflection on the importance of memories. |
| Deuteronomy 34:1-12 | THE GOD OF THE UNLIKELY (10/24/99) The Old Testament Lectionary lesson for this week tells the story of the death of Moses, one of the most important leaders in all of history, but an "unlikely" leader. Come to think of it, God OFTEN chooses the "unlikely." |
| Ruth 1:1-18 | A WONDERFUL MOTHER (-IN-LAW), (5/12/96) Mothers-in-Law are not the most highly thought of figures in our culture, but one mother-in-law of antiquity is a delight. Her name is Naomi. A sermon for Mothers' Day. |
| I Samuel 1:1-18 | A MOTHER'S GIFT (5/14/2000) Mothers' Day. We listen again to the story of one of scripture's best known Moms, Hannah - the mother of Samuel. |
| I Samuel 3:1-10, John 1:43-51 | THE VOICE (1/27/2002) The story of Samuel invites us to consider the Call of God in our lives, and we remember that the Call may not be what we want to hear. |
| I Samuel 8:4-20 | BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR...YOU JUST MIGHT GET IT!, (6/8/97) As commencement exercises focus the nation's attention, and as graduates begin to contemplate their next steps in life, we find some advice from the Prophet Samuel and the experience of ancient Israel. A Baccalaureate Sermon. |
| I Samuel 16:14-23 | THERAPY IN MELODY or HEALING IN 4/4 TIME (10/21/01) OKTOBERFEST at First Presbyterian continues with a Festival of Music. Morning worship is heavily oriented toward music and the pastor's meditation recalls the therapeutic value of music in the life of Israel's first king. |
| II Samuel 11:1-12:13 | DAVID AND BATHSHEBA (7/30/2000) This familiar story of sex, seduction and murder is one with little redeeming value...on the surface. But there is "gospel" here. |
| I Kings 19:1-18 | DEALING WITH DEPRESSION (6/24/01) The Old Testament Lectionary lesson this week introduces us to one of the most powerful personalities in scripture, the prophet Elijah, a man who should have been at the top of his world, but... |
| II Kings 5:1-14 | OUR MAGNIFICENT, MYSTERIOUS, MISCHIEVOUS GOD (7/8/01) The Old Testament Lectionary lesson recounts the story of the healing of Naaman, a fascinating reminder that God does not always act according to our preconceptions. |
| Esther 7:1-6, 9-10, 9:20-22 | THE GOD WHO IS ALWAYS THERE (9/28/97) The story of the deliverance of the Jews in the book of Esther (a book which nowhere mentions the name of God) is a reminder that God is ALWAYS there, even when not as obvious as we might wish. |
| Job 1:1-3, 13-21 | A NATION MOURNS (9/14/01) Where is God in the midst of the horrible tragedy of the September 11th attack on the United States? A meditation for the Service of Prayer and Remembrance. |
| Job 23:1-9, 16-17 | WHEN GOD IS GONE (10/15/2000) The story of Job is one that wrestles with the problem of injustice in a world that is supposedly in the loving control of a just God. Part of the puzzle is the wonder that Job shares with many of us in times of trouble: Where is God? |
| Job 38:1-18 | REMEMBERING CHARLIE (5/27/01) Memorial Day Weekend! Our nation remembers with humble gratitude the sacrifice made on our behalf by so many through the years. The inevitable question arises when we consider the horrible loss endured: WHY? |
| Job 38:1-7, 34-41 | WHEN A FRIEND'S LIFE TUMBLES IN or "Is there anything I can do, anything at all?" (10/19/97) Our friends occasionally need our help in special ways. The story of Job teaches us some lessons in offering care and compassion. A sermon for Friendship Month at St. Paul |
| Psalm 8 | DO I MATTER? (10/17/99) The UN reported this week that the world's population has now reached 6-billion. The issue is "If I am only 1 of 6,000,000,000 on this planet, Do I Matter?" |
| Psalm 8 | GOD THE BOGGLER (1/2/2000) With the Y2K celebrations behind us, we reflect on our amazement at what we have beheld. A mind-boggling event. Then we realize that we serve a mind-boggling God. A meditation in preparation for a celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Psalm 13 | PSALMS OF LAMENT (2/11/96) How can we talk with God when our heart is breaking? The Psalmists did, and often. What is linked here is not a sermon but rather the reflection of a conversation between the pastor and the family of a young girl whose life was tragically ended. They wrote their own Psalms of Lament for the occasion. |
| Psalm 13 | LIFE BETWEEN VERSES 4 AND 5 (6/2/02) The language of lament is our theme this week. We focus on one of the best known Lament psalms, ("How long, O Lord..."). A communion meditation. |
| Psalm 22:1-5, 27-31, Mark 15:25-37 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "GOD...ALMIGHTY..." (1/31/99) Our consideration of the Apostles' Creed continues as we affirm our belief in "God, the Father, ALMIGHTY..." How can we do that with integrity in the face of all the evil in this world? |
| Psalm 23, John 10:1-16 | A NEW LOOK AT AN OLD TREASURE (4/21/02) "The Good Shepherd" is the Lectionary's focus today. Meet him in Psalm 23 and John 10. |
| Psalm 23 | THE SHEPHERD PSALM (5/6/01) This most beloved of all scripture passages is a word of faith that covers our past, present, and future. A meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Psalm 33:1-12 | "GOD BLESS AMERICA" (7/4/99) On Independence Day, we reflect on God's blessings to our nation and accept the challenge to make it even better. |
| Psalm 41:1-3, John 9 | SIGHT FOR BLIND EYES (3/17/96) The story of one of Jesus' most incredible miracles told from the perspective of the one who is the inspiration for the words of the grand old hymn, "I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see." |
| Psalm 42, Matthew 14:14-21 | HUNGRY PEOPLE (3/24/96) On one incredible day, 5,000 men (plus women and children) were fed with five loaves and two fish. It is AMAZING what Jesus can do with just a little...even from us. |
| Psalm 46 | GOD & SILENCE (4/12/96) In the midst of the noise of day-to-day life, we need moments of silence to be able to communicate with God. A Maundy Thursday sermon in preparation for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper and the Service of Tenebrae (Darkness). |
| Psalm 50:1-15, Luke 16:13-14 | WHO'S THE BOSS? (11/12/95) Money is a wonderful tool in our society but much misunderstood. We use money to measure wealth, to set value, to solve problems. However, in each case we are in danger of coming to wrong conclusions. Pledge Sunday. |
| Psalm 51:1-17, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 | LENT (2/13/02) Our Lenten observance begins with worship on Ash Wednesday. The meditation is in preparation for the Imposition of the Ashes and the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| Psalm 51:1-17 | GOOD NEWS IN THE ASHES (3/8/2000) We begin our Lenten journey to the Cross with the traditional imposition of ashes, the symbol of penitence. But we find good news amidst the gloom and doom. |
| Psalm 84:1-4, Luke 21:5-28 | OF RUBBLE AND TROUBLE
(12/17/95) Christmas is coming - a beautiful time. But juxtaposed against that is a life of great uncertainty for all of us, a time when our institutions, those entities in society upon which we have depended, our temples, are crashing down around us - not one stone left on another. We are left with rubble and trouble. |
| Psalm 90:1-12 | THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER (2/15/98) As St. Paul's 40th birthday party proceeds, we consider the whole issue of getting older and hear the reminder that a recommitment to the basics will help us progress. |
| Psalm 91:1-11, Revelation 12:7-9 | "THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS TOO MUCH SUGAR!" (2/2/97) The Archangel Michael is encountered three times in scripture: Daniel 10, Jude 1, & Revelation 12. Now audiences are encountering "Michael" in their local movie theatres in a film of that name. Could there be something we might learn from this cinematic celestial? |
| Psalm 91:1-12, Luke 1:5-13a, 26-30 | ANGELS (10/22/95) Angels. Are there such beings? What do they do? Do people really experience the presence of angels? What does the Bible say about angels? What has the church historically said about angels? This sermon may not answer your every question about angels, but we trust it will take care of some. |
| Psalm 100, I Thess. 5:12-18 | AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE (11/19/95) As we approach another Thanksgiving Day, it is appropriate to consider ways to express our thanks with more than just our mouths. |
| Psalm 100 | "I'M THANKFUL FOR..." (11/21/99) Thanksgiving Sunday. But in the face of the terrible tragedy that occurred at Texas A&M this week, Thanksgiving for some folks is going to be difficult. How do we give thanks in the face of such events? |
| Psalm 100 | THE LANGUAGE OF THE HEART (11/19/2000) On this day that we rededicate our sanctuary organ, we are reminded of the importance of music in our lives. |
| Psalm 109:1-20 | PRAYING THE UNPRAYABLE or, "Dear God, Please Kill Osama bin Laden." (9/30/01) Prayer Services have been the order of the day around the nation as folks reach down to their spiritual roots in the aftermath of September 11. How shall we pray? |
| Psalm 118:14-24, I Peter 1:3-9 | SALVATION (4/14/96) Salvation is one of those big theological words which is often misunderstood. It is more than a future hope, it is a present reality. |
| Psalm 119:1-16, I Corinthians 9:24-27 | BEATIN' BALLS & BEATIN' BALLS (4/28/96) With the PGA Tour in Greensboro this weekend, our attention turns to golf, that delightful game which, as we learn, can offer some lessons for Christian disciples. |
| Psalm 133, Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16 | COMMON GROUND (6/22/97) "Common Ground" is the emphasis for Presbyterians this week as we return home from our 209th General Assembly. How can people of faith holding divergent views work together in the cause of God's Kingdom? |
| Psalm 147:12-20, Matthew 18:1-4 | THEOLOGY IN SNOW (2/6/2000) The "Blizzard of 2000" that struck the Carolinas recently offered an incredible challenge. It offered a wonderful lesson as well. |
| Psalm 147:12-20 | TO Y2K AND BEYOND (1/10/99) As 1999 dawns, it seems as though all anyone is interested in is the arrival of the year 2000 with all its "millennium bugs" and potential catastrophes. The psalmist is good enough to remind us that the one who holds the millennium is the one whom we worship. A sermon in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 | NOW THAT SCHOOL IS OUT... (6/7/98) "No more pencils, no more books..." Commencement speakers are waxing eloquent on campuses around the nation. The sermon is not directed solely at graduates; instead it focuses on something we all could use more of at any age - wisdom. Trinity Sunday. |
| Proverbs 17:22, Matthew 7:1-5 | GOOD MEDICINE (4/22/01) Holy Humor Sunday! A sermon to celebrate the joy of Christ's resurrection victory. |
| Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 | WHEN ALL YOU'VE EVER WANTED IS NOT ENOUGH (12/31/2000) As the calendar page turns and we finally do move into the 21st century, we reflect on what we truly value. A sermon for New Year's. |
| Isaiah 6:1-8 | EXPRESSING THE INEXPRESSIBLE (5/25/97) What can anyone say about God that begins to be adequate? Not much. But, of course, that does not prevent us from trying. A sermon for Trinity Sunday. |
| Isaiah 35:1-10, Matthew 11:2-11 | HOPE FOR HURTING HEARTS (12/16/01) As we move through Advent our lectionary texts invite us to consider the dissonance between the joy that is normally expected in our celebration of Christmas and the sadness that permeates so many lives. What does God have in store? |
| Isaiah 40:1-5, Matthew 3:1-17 | JOHN THE BAPTIST (12/10/95) Scripture calls him "a man sent from God" to prepare the way for the coming Christ. He must have been mesmerizing to have had the effect he did on all who encountered him. The sermon is, for the most part, a monologue featuring John as he might have presented himself before the court of Herod following his arrest. |
| Isaiah 53:1-6, John 12:23-36, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 22:7-20, Mark 15:22-39, I Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-22, Philippians 2:5-11 | PALM/PASSION SUNDAY 3/23/97 No sermon this Sunday as our worship is focused by a Service of Lessons and Anthems. We read relevant portions of scripture and hear the marvelous music that speaks to us in ways nothing else can. The lessons are in the order that the congregation encounters them. |
| Isaiah 55:1-9, Luke 13:1-9 | THE FIG TREE (3/15/98) Politics in Palestine. As modern as tomorrow's newspaper, but as ancient as the Bible. As 1st century folks wrestled with calls to arms on one hand or urgings of "go along to get along" on the other, Jesus uses a story about a fig tree to note the danger of misplaced priorities. |
| Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Luke 1:46-55 | DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR? (12/12/99) The news everyday assaults us with so much that is wrong in our lives; it can get us so down that we can't remember up. But then comes Advent and the promise of a better world. |
| Jeremiah 1:4-8, Matthew 10:29-31 | DO I HAVE A DESTINY? (7/24/94) The movie "Forrest Gump" helps us bring focus to our Presbyterian doctrine of Predestination. |
| Jeremiah 1:4-10, I Corinthians 13 | THE GROWN-UP CHURCH (2/1/98) As St. Paul Presbyterian approaches its 40th birthday, we consider just what it means to be a "grown-up" Church. |
| Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33 | THE HANDWRITING ON THE HEART (3/16/97) The exiles of Jeremiah's day were living in a hope-less situation. Sadly, the hope that was missing for them is in equally short supply in our own day. |
| Ezekiel 37:1-14, Ephesians 4:1-16 | "2020" VISION (2/25/96) This first Sunday in Lent happens to coincide with St. Paul Presbyterian's 38th birthday. A sermon to help us look toward our future as we move toward the year 2020. |
| Hosea 1:2-10 | TROUBLE IN THE MANSE (7/29/01) The Old Testament Lectionary lesson introduces us to a unique prophet...and a most unique life story. |
| Jonah 1:1-17; 2:10-3:3a, John 20:19-22 | "I'M ON A MISSION FROM GOD!" (3/17/02) The Fifth Sunday in Lent with Mission Month continuing at First Presbyterian. The grandiose statement of the Blues Brothers starts our thinking as we consider whom God uses to accomplish divine purposes. |
| Jonah 3:1-10, II Corinthians 4:1-10 | A GOSPEL FOR LOSERS (8/30/98) There are occasions when even the most self-assured among us feel like failures. Scripture has good news for us, even when we get so down we can't remember up. |
| Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Mark 1:14-20, | GOIN' FISHIN' (1/26/97) This morning we hear Christ's call to the first disciples and his promise to make these fishermen "fishers of people." In preparation read the gospel lesson along with the lectionary's humorously contrasting Old Testament lesson. |
| Jonah 3:1-4:1, Matthew 20:1-16 | WHAT IF YOU GOT TO HEAVEN AND FOUND OUT THAT GOD HAD DECIDED TO LET EVERYBODY IN? (9/22/96) The question is prompted by our gospel lesson, Jesus' parable about the workers in the vineyard. |
| Micah 6:1-8 | REAL RELIGION (5/28/2000) With all the counterfeits out and about these days, it is no wonder folks question expressions of faith. Nothing new, actually. The prophet Micah spoke to the issue 2800 years ago. |
| Micah 6:1-8 | THE RIGHT STUFF (2/3/02) The prophet Micah reminds us that the "stuff" of religious ritual is not the "stuff" of true discipleship. A meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Micah 6:6-8 | IN PRAISE OF PETUNIAS (5/5/02) As Spring begins to burst forth, we see the beauty of creation once again. Some blooms are spectacular, some more routine, but one offers a wonderful lesson for the church. |
| Zephaniah 3, Hebrews 12:1-11 | TOUGH LOVE (3/10/96) Words from one of the lesser known Old Testament prophets, Zephaniah, which remind us of our accountability before a Holy God while reaffirming an incredible image of divine love. |
| Malachi 3:6-10 | THE "T" WORD (11/4/01) Stewardship is our theme this week as FPC and countless other churches around the nation plan budgets for the next year. |
| Matthew 1:18-25 | THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (12/20/98) With such momentous occurrences as the bomb shells in Baghdad and the bombast in Washington all framed by the lights and laughter of the holiday season, we are struck by the surreal confluence of events. We wonder is there any word from the Lord in the midst of it all? |
| Matthew 2:1-12 | FOLLOW THE STAR (1/6/02) There are some wonderful lessons in the visit of the Magi as we conclude our Christmas celebration and begin a new year. A sermon in preparation for the celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Matthew 3:1-17, Isaiah 40:1-5 | JOHN THE BAPTIST (see above) |
| Matthew 4:1-11 | THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT! (2/17/02) The gospel lesson for the first Sunday in Lent recalls the Temptations of Christ in the wilderness with the implicit reminder of the temptations we ourselves face and the dangers they pose to excuse ourselves from responsibility. |
| Matthew 5:13-16 | SHOULD THE CHURCH STICK ITS NOSE INTO THINGS THE CHURCH SHOULDN'T STICK ITS NOSE INTO? (1/23/2000) With the Iowa caucuses coming up this week and the New Hampshire primaries next, and with this year's candidates freely commenting on matters of personal faith, we are faced with our question. "Should the church...?" |
| Matthew 5:21-26 | MAKE IT RIGHT! (3/19/2000) During this Lenten period of reflection and introspection, we look at those elements of our lives that hinder our Christian walk. This week we encounter Jesus' words about repairing damaged relationships. |
| Matthew 5:43-45 | GOD AND HURRICANES (9/19/99) With the visit of Hurricane Floyd to our coast this week, we consider what our faith has to say about such events. |
| Matthew 5:43-48 | LOVE YOUR ENEMY? ARE YOU KIDDING, LORD? (9/23/01) We continue to be affected by the events of September 11, and we continue to seek the guidance of the Lord in the aftermath. |
| Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Psalm 51:1-17 | LENT (see above) |
| Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 | PUBLIC PIETY (2/17/99) According to Jesus, "Public Piety" is something to be guarded against. But don't we need just a little? An Ash Wednesday meditation. |
| Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 | AN EXCUSE TO BE BETTER (2/28/01) Lent has returned, that remarkable season of the church year that offers us what the sermon title suggests. An Ash Wednesday meditation. |
| Matthew 6:9-13 | THE LORD'S PRAYER Click on the sermon title to read each message in the series.
|
| Matthew 6:19-24 | REGIS AND JESUS (3/26/2000) The success of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" calls attention to our obsession with money and possessions. But our Lenten journey brings us to Jesus' words on the subject, words we might not want to hear. |
| Matthew 6:19-33 | WHAT IS TRULY IMPORTANT (9/26/99) With the devastation of Hurricane Floyd and the earthquake in Taiwan, events encourage us to reflect on our values. |
| Matthew 6:25-34 | WINNING OVER WORRY (3/12/2000) In our Lenten pilgrimage, we consider those areas of our lives that ought not to be. Today we encounter a besetting sin that is virtually universal in modern society - worry. |
| Matthew 7:1-5, Proverbs 17:22 | GOOD MEDICINE (see above) |
| Matthew 7:1-6 | THE JUMP TO JUDGMENT (4/9/2000) We continue our Lenten reflections as we encounter Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount about judgmentalism. |
| Matthew 7:24-27 | TRAGEDY AND TRIUMPH (1/28/01) This week's tragic earthquake in India is juxtaposed with the memory of a tragedy in our own nation fifteen years ago today, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger. How do we deal with the awful things that happen in our lives? |
| Matthew 10:29-31, Jeremiah 1:4-8 | DO I HAVE A DESTINY? (see above) |
| Matthew 11:2-6, Colossians 1:15-23 | THE INCOMPARABLE CHRIST (11/26/95) More than a century ago Horace Bushnell asked "Who can satisfy himself with anything he can say about Jesus Christ?" Thus we rely here on the Biblical record to make our statements. A sermon for Christ the King Sunday. |
| Matthew 11:2-11, Isaiah 35:1-10 | HOPE FOR HURTING HEARTS (see above) |
| Matthew 11:28-30 | ASK THE AVERAGE PERSON... (11/5/95) "Ask the average person..." and (s)he will say (s)he wants to be happy. But too few of us genuinely feel happy. How do we deal with that all too common phenomenon? A sermon prior to the celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Matthew 12:1-8, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 | A THEOLOGY OF WORK (see above) |
| Matthew 12:1-21, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 | SUPER SUNDAY (see above) |
| Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 | GOOD NEWS FOR TENANT FARMERS (7/11/99) The lectionary visits the Parable of the Sower, the first of Matthew's parables of the Kingdom. |
| Matthew 14:14-21, Psalm 42 | HUNGRY PEOPLE (see above) |
| Matthew 14:22-33 | STAY IN THE BOAT! (8/8/99) The story of Jesus walk on the water and Peter's attempt to join him is one of the most familiar in all of scripture. Sermons and lessons on the passage have traditionally insisted on the need to remain focused on Christ if we are going to avoid sinking in the storms of life. But is this the lesson that the gospel writer wants to convey? |
| Matthew 15:21-28 | HANG IN THERE! (8/18/96) The Lectionary today takes us on a trip with Jesus and the twelve to the North of Galilee where they meet a persistent Gentile mother looking for healing for her daughter. We find a particularly troubling conversation in which Jesus appears to be uncompassionate, uncaring, almost mean! What are we to make of it? |
| Matthew 16:13-16 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "JESUS CHRIST...OUR LORD..."
(2/14/99) Our Apostles' Creed series moves now to the second article and our affirmations about Jesus Christ. What does it mean to affirm Jesus as "Lord?" |
| Matthew 16:13-16 | THE ULTIMATE QUESTION (5/21/2000) The "Jesus" mini-series has garnered quite a bit of attention this week as television tries to tell "the greatest story ever told" in a new way. Just what do we believe about Jesus? |
| Matthew 16:13-18 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE HOLY CATHOLIC CHURCH" (5/2/99) We continue our series on the Apostles' Creed as we come to the affirmation that continues to raise questions among some Protestants. What do we mean when we say, "I believe in the holy, catholic church?" |
| Matthew 16:13-28 | A LABOR OF LOVE (9/1/96) On this Labor Day Sunday we consider the ultimate work: the self-sacrificing work of Christian discipleship. A sermon in preparation for the celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Matthew 18:1-4, Psalm 147:12-20 | THEOLOGY IN SNOW (see above) |
| Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14, Romans 13:8-14 | THE PROD OF THE PAST (see above) |
| Matthew 18:21-35, Romans 14:1-13 | THE FREEDOM IN FORGIVENESS (9/15/96) The Lectionary moves us to consider how we get along with one another in the church. First, there is Peter's famous question to Jesus about how often we ought to forgive when a brother or sister has "done us wrong." Then there is Paul's admonition about criticizing our brothers and sisters for their religious practices. |
| Matthew 20:1-16, Jonah 3:1-4:1 | WHAT IF YOU GOT TO HEAVEN AND FOUND OUT THAT GOD HAD DECIDED TO LET EVERYBODY IN? (see above) |
| Matthew 22:15-22 | "ONE NATION, UNDER GOD" (7/7/02) The nation is celebrating another birthday as it also considers the effect of a court ruling concerning religion's involvement with our Pledge of Allegience to the flag. |
| Matthew 24:1-44 | THE END OF THE WORLD (6/30/02) The impending publication of Volume X in the popular Left Behind series prompts a consideration of what we believe about coming events. |
| Matthew 25:14-30 | THE ONE IN THE MIDDLE (5/5/96) Christ's well known parable of the talents has many lessons for us, but most focus on encouragement to be like the good, smart five-talent shining star as opposed to the lazy, bad one-talent dolt. What about the two-talent servant, the one in the middle? A sermon in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Matthew 26:14-49 | THE JUDAS GENE (3/27/02) Maundy Thursday. The story of Judas' betrayal of Jesus is one that is known the world over. Judas' name lives in infamy; we wonder whether a Judas' "gene" might live in each of us. |
| Matthew 28:1-10 | THE IMPERATIVES OF THE RESURRECTION (3/30/97 Sunrise) "Stop Being Afraid," "Come," "See," "Tell," "Go," and "Rejoice." Orders for Christians on the Day of Resurrection. |
| Matthew 28:1-10 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "...HE ROSE AGAIN..." (3/7/99) From the depths of Hell, our Apostles' Creed series lifts us to the heart of the Christian faith, "The third day he rose again from the dead." |
| Matthew 28:16-20 | FOLLOWING ORDERS (2/8/98) As St. Paul's 40th anniversary celebrations continue, we consider what the Lord HAS called and IS calling us to be and do. |
| Mark 1:4-11 | I AM SOMEBODY!!! (1/13/02) The church remembers the Baptism of the Lord on this day and recalls the importance of our own baptisms in the process. A sermon in preparation for the reaffirmation of our Baptismal vows. |
| Mark 1:4-11 | POWER! (1/9/2000) The church calendar calls us to remember the Baptism of the Lord. We take the opportunity to remember and reaffirm our own. |
| Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10 | GOIN' FISHIN' (see above) |
| Mark 2:1-12 | THE FORGIVENESS FACTOR (2/20/2000) The New Testament Lectionary lesson tells one of the most famous stories in the gospels, the account of folks who are so concerned for the healing of their paralytic friend that they tear the roof off a house to get him to Jesus. |
| Mark 5:21-43 | "IF I BUT TOUCH..." (7/9/2000) The Lectionary Gospel has two wonderful healing stories for us today, one sandwiched in the middle of the other. Both share the healing power of TOUCH, a lesson sorely needed in the modern world. |
| Mark 5:25-34 | THE HEALING TOUCH (12/31/95) The Gospels are full of stories of physical and mental healing. Jesus healed people. The disciples healed people. But there have not been too many stories of healing coming from the mainline church lately. Healing IS part of our task. Can we get back on track? A sermon for a Service for Wholeness to begin the New Year. |
| Mark 6:14-29 | WHEN EVIL WINS (7/16/2000) Our lectionary gospel today tells a horrible story - the murder of John the Baptist, one more incident in the long history of the world when it seems that evil wins. How do people of faith deal with such things? |
| Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10, 14-17 | "EPHPHATHA - BE OPENED!" (9/17/2000) The gospel lesson offers two healing stories, each with their own intriguing twists. EPHPHATHA...BE OPENED! is Jesus' Aramaic command to deaf ears, perhaps even ours. |
| Mark 8:27-38, James 3:1-12 | A STORY WORTH SHARING (9/14/97) The Epistle lesson from James today focuses on the tongue and the damage it can do when out of control. On the other hand, damage can be done when the tongue fails to do what it should. Christians have "A Story Worth Sharing" if we only would. Read the lectionary passages, in preparation. |
| Mark 9:2-9 | "WOW!!!" (3/5/2000) WOW!!! is the reaction of Peter, James, and John on the Mount of Transfiguration. |
| Mark 9:2-8, 14-27 | THE VIEW FROM THE MOUNTAINTOP (2/10/02) The Sunday before the beginning of Lent (Ash Wednesday, Feb. 13 this year) recalls the "Transfiguration of the Lord." Just prior to Ash Wednesday we encounter a special birthday in the American experience, that of Abraham Lincoln, a man from whom we can learn a great deal. |
| Mark 9:17-24 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "I BELIEVE..." (1/17/99) As we continue our Back to Basics emphasis, we begin a series on the Apostles' Creed. We start with the opening affirmation, "I believe..." because what we believe determines how we behave. |
| Mark 9:30-37 | WELCOMING JESUS (9/21/97) As usual, the Twelve "didn't get it." (Do we?) Jesus says that we welcome him when we welcome the least among us. |
| Mark 10:2-16 | JESUS AND DIVORCE (10/8/2000) The lectionary confronts us with a subject we would just as soon ignore: Jesus' teaching on divorce. Does a society in which divorce is rampant simply hang its head in shame, or is there more here than meets the eye? |
| Mark 10:13-16 | A LESSON IN THE SNOW (4/1/01) Our focus this week is on children. A meditation in preparation for a celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Mark 10:17-22 | THE DISCIPLINE OF DISCIPLESHIP (8/11/96) With our national attention still drawn to the recently completed Atlanta Olympics, our thoughts focus on the discipline necessary to achieve success at such a high level. Discipline is equally necessary for success in Christian discipleship. We look at the story of the Rich Young Ruler for some lessons. |
| Mark 10:17-31 | "...A FRIEND INDEED" (10/12/97) We know the aphorism from which the sermon title is drawn, but we almost wish it were not true. We are victims of what a recent PBS special called "Affluenza." |
| Mark 11:1-11 | SUNDAY'S COMING!! (4/8/01) What could have caused the Jerusalem crowd to change their tune so drastically from Palm Sunday to Good Friday? Perhaps what causes anyone to change their tune - something as simple as a loss of hope. But the Holy Week story is wonderful news for those who find themselves in the same predicament. |
| Mark 12:28-34 | NO HOLDING BACK (11/2/97) The Great Commandment to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength plus our neighbor as ourself is challenge that is difficult to ignore, especially as we move toward Consecration Sunday and our stewardship in the coming year. |
| Mark 12:38-44 | THE VIEW FROM JESUS' PEW (11/12/2000) The gospel lesson for today intrigues us with Jesus' choice of a place to sit in the Temple...a vantage point that allows him to see (and comment upon) what worshipers are giving. Hmm. |
| Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-25 | WHEN YOUR CHURCH PROVOKES YOU (11/16/97) ...and the church DOES provoke us at times, doesn't it? But the Lectionary's Epistle lesson gives us another perspective on being "provoked" that is worth considering. Read it along with the Gospel lection. |
| Mark 13:24-37 | "TELL IT AGAIN, DADDY!" (11/28/99) A brief meditation for the first Sunday in Advent, a reminder that, though the story is wonderfully familiar, it needs to be told again and again. |
| Mark 13:31-33 | THE END OF THE WORLD...SATURDAY!!! (12/26/99) at St. Andrew by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina With Y2K looming this week and all the apocalyptic scenarios being bandied about, we wonder what the future holds. |
| Mark 13:31-33 | LEFT BEHIND...THE BOOKS, THE MOVIE, THE TRUTH (2/1101) There has been much attention given lately to the best-selling series of books (and subsequent motion picture) that purport to describe the events of the end of time based on the apocalyptic material in scripture. Is it accurate? |
| Mark 14:17-26 | A LIFE OF SATURDAYS! (4/1/99) We serve a just and fair God...so we say. But if God is just and fair, why is life so often the opposite? A Maundy Thursday meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Mark 15:1-15 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "CRUCIFIED...DEAD...BURIED..." (2/21/99) Our Apostles' Creed series continues with an investigation of Christ's atoning death. |
| Mark 15:25-37, Psalm 22:1-5, 27-31 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "GOD...ALMIGHTY..." (see above) |
| Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 | HEAVEN (3/30/97) The Easter Lectionary readings lead us to think of the resurrection, but our thoughts move ahead to a consideration of that life beyond the one we now know: Heaven. What will heaven be like? |
| Luke 1:5-13a, 26-30, Psalm 91:1-12, | ANGELS (see above) |
| Luke 1:26-55 | MARY'S COMPLAINT (12/21/97) With everything that happens to Mary in the gospel record, from unwed motherhood to watching the murder of her son, we would admit that here is someone with solid grounds for complaint. But complaints are the farthest things from her lips. |
| Luke 1:39-55 | THE NEWS FROM NAZARETH (12/24/2000) The lectionary gospel this week affords us opportunity to eavesdrop on some "girl talk" between two ladies awaiting the arrival of their respective blessed events. |
| Luke 1:46-55, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 | DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR? (see above) |
| Luke 2:1-20 | HARK, THE ANGEL HAROLD (12/24/95) A Christmas Eve fantasy based on a story that has gone the rounds for years. It presents the story of that holy night from a new vantage point. |
| Luke 2:1-20, Titus 2:11-14 | ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS... (12/24/96) My two front teeth? A million dollars? How about just a little grace. A sermon for the annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion worship. |
| Luke 2:1-20 | ONE MORE ANGEL (12/24/2000) The image of the annual Christmas pageant is one that brings fond memories: shepherds in bathrobes, unruly animals, dialogue disasters, etc. Of course, there is the obligatory Angel Choir which is flexible enough to accommodate any child. There is "gospel" in that. |
| Luke 2:1-20 | THE CHRISTMAS ENVELOPE (12/24/99) A brief meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper to remind us of the reason for our celebration. |
| Luke 2:8-16 | CHRISTMAS PEACE (12/24/01) In the midst of war can we think of peace? Even at Christmas? Indeed, we can! Indeed, we must! A Christmas Eve meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| Luke 3:1-6 | ONE SHOCK AFTER ANOTHER (12/2/01) Our lives are often defined by the "shocks" we endure. The good news of today's message is that no shock is beyond the reach of a gospel that seems to be built on one shock after another. |
| Luke 3:7-18 | HE'S COMING. ARE YOU READY? (12/14/97) John the Baptist greets his congregation by calling them a "Brood of Vipers," but amazingly, they stay and listen. They even find his message GOOD NEWS! Do you? |
| Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 | TERMS OF ENDEARMENT (1/7/01) When Jesus is called, "My Son, whom I love," at his baptism, we have the wonderful opportunity to hear those words for ourselves. A sermon in preparation for a Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows. |
| Luke 4:1-13 | TEMPTATION (3/1/98) On the First Sunday in Lent each year, we encounter the story of Christ's temptations in the wilderness. Is there a reason? No doubt! |
| Luke 4:1-13 | THE CHURCH SHOULD GO TO HELL! (3/4/01) The confluence of the first Sunday in Lent with the first Sunday of FPC's Mission Month encourages us to take an unusual look at what the church is called to do. |
| Luke 6:27-38, Genesis 45:3-15 | PAY BACK TIME (see above) |
| Luke 8:26-39 | DOING BATTLE WITH DEMONS (6/21/98) Modern minds might not think in terms of unseen beings as controlling their lives, but there is a powerful affirmation of Christ's power over evil in today's gospel lesson that cries out to be heard. A sermon following the conclusion of the 210th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in Charlotte, NC. |
| Luke 9:10-17 | A MEAL WITH FRIENDS (9/3/2000) There is no such thing as "Lone Ranger" Christianity. The gospel does not allow that option. We are joined together in Jesus Christ, and we evidence that every time we gather at the Lord's Table. A sermon in preparation for a celebration of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| Luke 9:51-62 | BAN THE "BUT'S" (6/28/98) As Jesus begins his ultimate journey to Jerusalem and the cross, he encounters would-be disciples, but...but...but... The "BUT'S" interfered with discipleship then just as they do today. |
| Luke 10:25-37 | THE GOOD SAMARITAN: A NEW LOOK AT AN OLD STORY (7/15/01) The story of the Good Samaritan is one of the best-known and loved in all of scripture. But there is more to it than an exhortation to help those in need. |
| Luke 12:13-21 | A FOOL AND HIS MONEY (8/2/98) Jesus' parable of the Rich Fool is one that causes affluent American Christians to squirm. And rightly so. |
| Luke 12:15-34 | ELIJAH AND ORPAH (11/11/01) On this two-month anniversary of the September 11th tragedies, we reflect on the change of values that our nation has experienced in the aftermath. Perhaps that is not such a bad thing. We hear an old story based on Leo Tolstoy's "Ilyas." |
| Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9 | THE FIG TREE (see above) |
| Luke 13:18-30 | THE GOD OF ABRAHAM, ISAAC AND JACOB (10/22/2000) Three great patriarchs, three figures of history, a father, a son and a grandson who have been consistently revered by people of faith. If we consider them individually, we find something remarkable: any God who could love THOSE three, and include those three in the Kingdom, could love and include just about anyone. |
| Luke 14:16-23, Genesis 3:1-13 | EXCUSES (see above) |
| Luke 14:25-33 | THE DANGER OF DISCIPLESHIP (9/9/01) RALLY DAY!!! We kick off our Fall/Winter Christian Education program then gather for worship and encounter some of Jesus' most difficult words. |
| Luke 15:11-24 | "IS GOD LIKE DADDY?" (6/16/96) What a question! A sermon for Fathers Day. |
| Luke 15:11-32 | SONNY MONEYBAGS (3/22/98) "Sonny Moneybags" is our nickname for the elder brother in Jesus' famous story of the Prodigal Son. Instead of the better known younger sibling, we look to the older for a change. |
| Luke 16:13-14, Psalm 50:1-15 | WHO'S THE BOSS? (see above) |
| Luke 18:15-17 | THE BIRDIES (8/16/98) Jesus tells us to approach matters of the Kingdom as children do. When we do, we can learn some profound truths that might be taught, as in today's case, by even a three-year-old. |
| Luke 21:5-28, Psalm 84:1-4 | OF RUBBLE AND TROUBLE (see above) |
| Luke 21:25-36 | EYES UP! (11/30/97) A brief meditation to accompany St. Paul's "Hangin' o' the Green" which reflects on our pastor's loss of his step-father on Friday and reminds us of the ultimate promise of Advent - GOD WINS! |
| Luke 21:25-36 | HEADS UP! (12/3/2000) On this first Sunday of Advent, we begin our preparations for the arrival of our Savior. But the lectionary offers us a most "un-Christmas-y" text. A sermon in preparation for the celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Luke 24:13-35 | EAST OF EASTER (4/6/97) Easter is past, and if you can think of that momentous event as midnight on a clock, the beginning of a new day in human history, then superimpose a compass over that clock, we are EAST of Easter. Do we live with that reality in mind? A sermon in preparation for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| Luke 24:13-35 | THE CHRIST OF THE COMMONPLACE (4/14/02) The third Sunday of Easter. The familiar story of the Walk to Emmaus reminds us that we find Christ, or rather Christ finds us, in unexpected places. |
| Luke 24:36-48, I John 3:1-7 | FAMILY RESEMBLANCE (4/13/97) "FAMILY RESEMBLANCE" is not only the title of this sermon, but is also our challenge as Christian people. |
| John 1:1-14 | MERRY XMAS (12/15/96) The oft-seen greeting from which our title is drawn prompts us to wonder what life would be like if the Babe of Bethlehem were indeed nothing but some unknown "X." |
| John 1:9-12 | MAYOR'S DAY (12/23/01) As we come to the climax of our Advent observance, we consider a modern parable. |
| John 1:35-42a | THE "E" WORD (9/24/2000) This is Evangelism Sunday on the Presbyterian calendar, but the truth is many Presbyterians (plus lots of others) find the whole subject more than a little intimidating. Read the lesson in preparation for the sermon and meet someone who can be a wonderful role model for a style of Evangelism with which everyone can be comfortable. |
| John 1:43-51, I Samuel 3:1-10 | THE VOICE (see above) |
| John 2:1-11 | THIS JESUS IS SOMETHING! (1/14/01) John calls this the first of Jesus' "signs." A sign of what? |
| John 2:13-22, Exodus 20:1-17 | GOD CARES ABOUT JUSTICE! (see above) |
| John 3:1-15, Numbers 11:1-17 | NICODEMUS (see above) |
| John 3:14-21, Numbers 21:4-9 | LOOK AND LIVE (see above) |
| John 3:16 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE LIFE EVERLASTING" (6/13/99) We conclude our series on the Apostles' Creed with the rousing affirmation that gives us all the confidence we need to face the worst enemy of all - death. |
| John 3:16 | GOD BLESS SANTA! (12/17/2000) Every year at this time the church celebrates Advent while it seems that the rest of the world is already in the midst of Christmas. Can we have both? |
| John 4:5-42 | UNEXPECTED EVANGELISTS (3/3/02) The third Sunday in Lent and the opening of Mission Month at First Presbyterian. The lectionary gospel lesson introduces us to a nameless Samaritan woman whom Jesus meets at a village well. |
| John 5:1-9 | "DO YOU WANT TO BE MADE WELL?" (6/27/99) The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) meeting in Fort Worth, Texas has completed its business. Our reflection on the week's work draws focus from Jesus' encounter with the paralytic by the pool near Jerusalem's Sheep Gate. |
| John 9, Psalm 41:1-3 | SIGHT FOR BLIND EYES (see above) |
| John 10:1-16, Psalm 23 | A NEW LOOK AT AN OLD TREASURE (see above) |
| John 12:12-16 | SOMETIMES YOU'VE GOT TO SHOUT! (3/24/02) Passion/Palm Sunday. An imminent family birthday celebration sparks a reminder that good news, whether of the birth of a baby, the arrival of a Messiah, or any other kind, demands to be shared. |
| John 12:20-33, Jeremiah 31:31-34 | THE HANDWRITING ON THE HEART (see above) |
| John 13:1-17 | THE CHRISTIAN CALLING (3/27/97) The story of Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet is a reminder that our true calling as Christians is service. A sermon for Maundy Thursday in preparation for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| John 13:1-17, 31b-35 | I'VE BEEN THERE (4/9/98) The Upper Room is the setting for our lesson, and the pastor recalls his own visit to that holy place. A sermon in preparation for a celebration of the Lord's Supper on Maundy Thursday. |
| John 13:31-35 | SOUNDS JUST LIKE MOM! (5/13/01) The lectionary gospel lesson for the 5th Sunday of Easter offers a unique lesson for Mothers' Day. |
| John 14:13-14, Deuteronomy 15:7-11 | "DOES GOD CARE WHO WINS THE SUPER BOWL?", (see above) |
| John 14:15-27, Galatians 5:16-25 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE HOLY GHOST" (4/18/99) We resume our series on the Apostles' Creed. Today we come to our affirmation concerning the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit. |
| John 14:23-29, Acts 16:9-15 | GETTING DIRECTIONS (5/17/98) In a scary world, we wonder what is to become of us, who will take care of us, who will put us on the right road? |
| John 15:9-17 | JESUS' FRIEND (5/4/97) In our Gospel lesson today, Jesus says he wants us to be his friends. An intriguing invitation. |
| John 16:16-33, Revelation 12:1-12 | BEATING THE DRAGONS (7/19/98) Dragons have always been terrifying figures and, as such, have been used as a metaphor for all sorts of horror. John did it in the book of Revelation; the pastor does it again today. |
| John 17:1-11 | THE WORD FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD (10/4/98) On World Communion Sunday, we hear a word of self-giving from a most unlikely source. |
| John 17:6-19 | IF JESUS WERE A MOM (5/12/02) There is something about Jesus' High Priestly prayer in John 17 that sounds a great deal like what a loving mother might pray. A sermon for Mothers Day. |
| John 17:6-23 | GOD'S BATTLESHIP (10/3/99) Author Max Lucado has called the church a "battleship," an unsinkable vessel designed to get us safely to our eternal shore. But divisions among the "crew" pose problems. A meditation for World Communion Sunday. |
| John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8 | THE ALPHA AND THE OMEGA (11/26/2000) The final Sunday of the liturgical year - Christ the King - celebrates the ultimate triumph of our Lord. |
| John 19:14-18 | WERE YOU THERE? (4/20/2000) In the midst of Holy Week, the question raised by the spiritual we sing is very real. "Were you there when they crucified my Lord?" |
| John 20:1-18 | BECAUSE HE LIVES (4/12/98) The pastor's very personal story of why is Easter so special to him. |
| John 20:1-18 | ROLLING STONES (4/4/99) Easter! And the stone is rolled away. Is there a sermon in that stone? A meditation in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| John 20:19-22 | INTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (3/18/01) The third Sunday in Lent and, here at FPC, the continuation of Mission Month, a needed reminder of what we are about as Christ's Church. |
| John 20:19-22, Jonah 1:1-17; 2:10-3:3a | "I'M ON A MISSION FROM GOD!" (see above) |
| John 20:19-31 | INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW...BUT CAN THEY? (4/19/98) "Doubting" Thomas - Poor fellow. One brief moment of confusion after the murder of his friend Jesus, and forever after he has this name stuck to him. Meanwhile, Thomas is a surrogate for all of us who have ever had questions concerning our faith. |
| John 20:19-31 | LAUGH, THOMAS LAUGH! (4/30/2000) Holy Hilarity Sunday! We celebrate God's ultimate "joke" on sin and evil in the joyful remembrance of Christ's resurrection. |
| Acts 1:1-8, Acts 2:1-21 | DIVINE DYNAMITE (5/31/98) POWER was the promise of Christ to the church prior to his ascension. It came on Pentecost. |
| Acts 1:1-9 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "HE ASCENDED..." (3/14/99) Our Apostles' Creed series moves from past to present tense as we consider Christ's ascension and exaltation in glory: "He ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty." |
| Acts 1:1-11 | CLOUDED VISION (5/19/96) The story of the Ascension of Christ describes the Lord being taken up by a cloud out of the sight of the disciples. Suddenly, the gospel witness is now entrusted to human hands. Wow! We only wish we could approach our task with UNclouded vision. But... A sermon for Ascension Sunday. |
| Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, Genesis 50:15-21 | "...BUT GOD..."(see above) |
| Acts 2:1-13, Genesis 11:1-9 | BEATING BABEL (see above) |
| Acts 2:1-21 | THE GIFT OF FIRE (5/26/96) Have you ever received a gift you were not sure what to do with? Perhaps that describes some of the feeling of the disciples on that momentous Pentecost in Jerusalem. |
| Acts 2:1-21, Acts 1:1-8 | DIVINE DYNAMITE (see above) |
| Acts 2:1-21 | THE REAL FORCE BE WITH YOU! (5/23/99) The confluence of the opening of the new Star Wars adventure and the Day of Pentecost recall one of cinema history's most memorable lines - "May the Force be with you! - and remind us of our deeply held conviction that the REAL Force surely is. |
| Acts 2:1-42 | VISIONS AND DREAMS (5/18/97) To all around in Jerusalem that morning it sounded like a most hearty party, but Peter explained it as something far more - it was nothing less than the movement of the Holy Spirit of God. A sermon for Pentecost. |
| Acts 8:26-40, I John 4:7-21 | A WINSOME WITNESS (4/27/97) Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian Eunuch is the Lectionary's focus today. Meet him in Acts 8 and read the companion passage in I John 4. |
| Acts 9:1-20 | ST. PAUL (4/26/98) The Lectionary takes us to the Damascus Road today to witness the conversion of the apostle Paul. Hear the story in his "own" words. A monologue. |
| Acts 9:36-43 | DORCAS (5/3/98) Not until Mother Teresa came along in this century has the world been so enamored of a charitable lady. Read about her in preparation for the message. |
| Acts 11:19-26 | BARNABAS (6/9/96) We are facing a famine of role-models these days, but we find a good one in the subject of this morning's message, Barnabas. |
| Acts 16:9-15, John 14:23-29 | GETTING DIRECTIONS (see above) |
| Acts 16:16-34 | A FAITH THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE (5/24/98) Faith is only real if it makes a difference in the way we live. It made a difference in the life of a Philippian jailer. |
| Romans 1:16-17 | REMEMBERING OUR ROOTS (10/28/01) A sermon for Reformation Sunday looking at the life of Martin Luther and the contributions he made to the faith we share today. |
| Romans 8:28-39 | GRAMMIES, GAMES, AND GOD (2/27/2000) This week millions of people saw the 42nd annual Grammy Awards and heard host Rosie O'Donnell advise winners regarding their acceptance speeches, "I ran into God backstage and He said 'You're welcome.'" Winners in high profile athletic contests regularly thank God for giving them the victory. Do we believe that God arranges those things? |
| Romans 12:1-18 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS" (5/9/99) Our creedal affirmation concerning the "communion of saints" is closely linked to our faith in the "holy catholic church." And both raise questions. |
| Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14 | THE PROD OF THE PAST (see above) |
| Romans 14:1-13, Matthew 18:21-35, | THE FREEDOM IN FORGIVENESS (see above) |
| I Corinthians 3:5-9 | PLANTING AND WATERING (5/20/01) Presbyterian Heritage Sunday offers us a chance to reflect on and be challenged by the tradition that has nourished us. |
| I Corinthians 9:24-27, Psalm 119:1-16 | BEATIN' BALLS & BEATIN' BALLS (see above) |
| I Corinthians 11:17-26 | CHRISTIAN AMNESIA (7/1/01) As our nation prepares to remember the sacrifices made to insure our freedom, the church comes to the Table and remembers "the Lord's death until he comes." |
| I Corinthians 11:23-26 | WAITING AND REMEMBERING (11/3/96) We prepare ourselves to celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. After all the theologizing, we consider what it really means for us. |
| I Corinthians 11:23-26 | THE GOOD OLD DAYS (10/7/01) Homecoming Sunday at First Presbyterian (and World Communion Sunday). A meditation in preparation for a celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| I Corinthians 13, Jeremiah 1:4-10 | THE GROWN-UP CHURCH (see above) |
| 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Mark 16:1-8 | HEAVEN (see above) |
| I Corinthians 15:1-20 | IS IT TRUE? (3/31/02) Karl Barth once said that people come to church from week to week with only one question in mind: Is it true? And on Easter, the question is writ large. |
| I Corinthians 15:35-58 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE RESURRECTION OF THE BODY" (6/6/99) We continue our series on the Apostles' Creed and encounter an affirmation that has challenged Christian thinkers for 2,000 years. What do we mean when we affirm a belief in bodily resurrection? |
| II Corinthians 4:1-10, Jonah 3:1-10 | A GOSPEL FOR LOSERS (see above) |
| II Corinthians 4:5-12 | NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP!!! (6/1/97) Ever feel like giving up? As the sermon title suggests, DON'T! |
| II Corinthians 5:16-21 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS" (5/16/99) Someone has suggested that forgiveness is incredibly powerful - it can change the past! Thus, our affirmation in the Creed saying, "I Believe in the Forgiveness of Sins." |
| II Corinthians 5:16-21 | AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST (6/23/02) The 214th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has concluded its work. The theme of the gathering was "Ambassadors for Christ," and the pastor's meditation is a reflection on the work just completed. |
| II Corinthians 9:6-15; I Timothy 6:6-10 | A CONTRARIAN VIEW OF GIVING (11/7/99) With Stewardship the focus in many churches at this time of year, we offer a tongue-in-cheek bit of "comfort" to those who would rather not hear about the subject. |
| II Corinthians 13:11-14 | THE TRIUNE GOD (6/2/96) "...God in three persons, blessed Trinity" says the hymn. What do Christians mean when we speak of God as "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?" A sermon for Trinity Sunday and in preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| Galatians 5:16-25, John 14:15-27 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "THE HOLY GHOST" (see above) |
| Ephesians 3:16-21 | ROOTED AND GROUNDED (6/17/01) Dr. Leininger has returned from Louisville and brings a report on the work of our General Assembly, the theme of which this year is "Rooted and Grounded in Love." |
| Ephesians 4:1-16, Ezekiel 37:1-14 | "2020" VISION (see above) |
| Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16, Psalm 133 | COMMON GROUND (see above) |
| Ephesians 5:21-33 | FOR BETTER OR WORSE (4/29/01) In the Spring, so they say, a young man's fancy turns to love, and as Spring arrives in Pennsylvania, we encounter the subject in all its splendor. |
| Ephesians 6:10-17 | SPIRITUAL EXCELLENCE A summertime quest which studies St. Paul's discussion of The Armor of God, the equipment we need if EXCELLENT discipleship is our goal. Click on the sermon title to read each message in the series.
|
| Ephesians 6:10-20 | BEING A CHRISTIAN "SURVIVOR" (8/27/2000) With all the attention given to the TV series, "Survivor" lately, the lectionary epistle lesson for this week offers some advice and equipment for "Being a Christian 'Survivor.'" |
| Philippians 1:21-26 | ALL HALLOWS EVE (10/31/99) Halloween! The ghosts and goblins are what we think of most, but there are spiritual riches to be mined by getting behind the masks and costumes to the significance of the holiday. |
| Philippians 2:5-11 | THE MOST IMPORTANT STATEMENT THE CHURCH EVER MAKES (6/25/2000) As the Presbyterian Church (USA) General Assembly gathers for its annual meeting and as St. Paul Presbyterian Church looks toward the future and a change in pastoral leadership on Dr. Leininger's final Sunday with us, we consider what is ultimately important. |
| Philippians 3:13b-14 | FASTER! HIGHER! STRONGER! (10/1/2000) The familar trilogy which is the motto of the Olympic Games sets the tone for a message on Christian discipleship. A sermon in preparation for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| Colossians 1:15-23, Matthew 11:2-6 | THE INCOMPARABLE CHRIST (see above) |
| Colossians 1:15-20 | WHOSE CHURCH IS IT ANYWAY? (7/14/96) Following the meeting of the 208th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA), this sermon reports on the action while offering a reminder about who is ultimately in charge. |
| Colossians 3:12-17 | SILLY GOOSE (3/3/96) Lessons we can learn from the geese that will soon be winging their way past us to their summer home in the North. It turns out that these geese are not silly at all. A sermon in preparation for the Lord's Supper. |
| I Thessalonians 5:12-18, Psalm 100 | AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE (see above) |
| 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18 | THANKSGIVING IN A 9/11 WORLD (11/25/01) Christ the King Sunday...hard on the heels of our national Thanksgiving Day. We consider both of those themes and reflect. |
| I Timothy 2:1-4 | THE GOD OF PEACE (8/6/2000) August 6 - a fateful and always disturbing anniversary! May the events of August 6, 1945 never be repeated! |
| I Timothy 6:6-10; II Corinthians 9:6-15 | A CONTRARIAN VIEW OF GIVING (see above) |
| II Timothy 1:1-7 | A MOTHER'S MOST VITAL TASK (5/10/98) Mothers have quite a list of responsibilities, not the least of which is passing on the faith to their children. Read about two women who handled the task admirably in preparation for the message. A sermon for Mothers Day. |
| II Timothy 2:1-13 | IN MEMORY OF CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS (5/30/99) As the nation celebrates Memorial Day, it is appropriate to remember faithful "Soldiers of the Cross." |
| II Timothy 2:8 | "REMEMBER JESUS CHRIST..." (4/7/96) A sermon based on the Apostle Paul's reminder to Timothy of the one thing that can sustain him - and us - in the midst of the trials of life and death. An Easter sermon in preparation for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. |
| II Timothy 3:14-17 | BE PREPARED! (2/4/01) The first Sunday in February is traditionally Boy Scout Sunday in recognition of the historic importance Scouting has placed on faith. The meditation is in preparation for the celebration of the Lord's Supper and is developed from the familiar Boy Scout motto. |
| II Timothy 4:9-18 | LIVING WITH LONELINESS (8/13/2000) Ever been lonely? Who hasn't? The scripture does not offer any "cure" for loneliness, but the experience of the Apostle Paul might offer some help. |
| Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-20 | ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS... (see above) |
| Hebrews 10:11-25, Mark 13:1-8 | WHEN YOUR CHURCH PROVOKES YOU (see above) |
| Hebrews 10:19-25 | JESSE, YOU'RE WRONG! (10/10/99) Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura's widely published comments saying "Organized religion is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people who need strength in numbers" cries out for a response. The direction of the pastor's message is apparent from its title. |
| Hebrews 10:19-25 | WHY BOTHER WITH CHURCH? (6/18/2000) As we first encounter a new presence in the First Presbyterian Pulpit, we consider a question that is basic. After all, there is much wrong with the church. But, on the other hand... |
| Hebrews 11:1-6 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "GOD, THE FATHER..." (1/24/99) Our series on the Apostles' Creed continues as we affirm our belief in "God, the Father." |
| Hebrews 11:1-13, 39-12:2 | THE VOICE FROM THE GALLERY (4/15/01) Imagine coming to church on a Sunday, listening attentively to the progress of worship when, suddenly, a voice in the back breaks in with "I have a word from the Lord!" What kind of surprise is this? Come to think of it, is not "surprise" what happened on Easter? |
| Hebrews 11:1-16 | IN GOOD HANDS (1/14/96) We have arrived at a New Year, an exciting time or a scary time, depending upon your point of view. God's people have nothing to fear. We are, after all, "in good hands." A sermon in preparation of the celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 | STRANGE SAINTS (8/9/98) STRANGE SAINTS (2) (8/12/01) The Lectionary takes us to "Faith's Hall of Fame" today and introduces us to some of the strangest saints we could ever imagine. (Sermons linked above are similar but offer different illustrative material.) |
| Hebrews 12:1-11, Zephaniah 3 | TOUGH LOVE (see above) |
| James 1:1-5 | MAKING TOUGH DECISIONS (3/8/98) Abortion. Capital Punishment. Assisted Suicide. Human Cloning. Bombs over Baghdad. Just a few of the ethical conundrums we face. How do we make those tough calls? A sermon with a formula for decision-making. |
| James 2:1-10, 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 | "EPHPHATHA - BE OPENED!" (see above) |
| James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 | A STORY WORTH SHARING (see above) |
| I Peter 1:3-9, Psalm 118:14-24 | SALVATION (see above) |
| I Peter 1:3-9 | PARTY TIME!!! (4/7/02) "Holy Humor" Sunday. We celebrate God's great cosmic Easter "joke" on sin and evil. |
| I Peter 2:1-10 | CHRIST IS OUR CORNERSTONE! (10/29/2000) "Christ Is Our Cornerstone" is the motto chosen by First Presbyterian 105 years ago in celebration of the laying of the cornerstone of the building then being constructed and which is now our sanctuary. As our pastor is installed today, the century-old motto is showcased once again as we focus on our future. |
| I Peter 2:21-25 | FOLLOWING JESUS (4/28/02) What does it mean to follow Jesus? That is the question at the heart of the Christian literary classic, In His Steps. The story of the events of over 100 years ago in the fictional town of Raymond, Kansas provide the framework for today's message. |
| I Peter 3:18-22 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "HE DESCENDED INTO HELL" (2/28/99) Our Apostles' Creed series continues with an affirmation that all churches do not make. "He descended into Hell" has its biblical basis in a passage of questionable interpretation. So what are we to make of it? |
| I John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36-48 | FAMILY RESEMBLANCE (see above) |
| I John 3:1-7 | THE FAMILY ALBUM (5/7/2000) The lectionary invites us to consider an incredible family relationship - Scripture calls us "Children of God!" |
| I John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40 | A WINSOME WITNESS (see above) |
| Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37 | THE ALPHA AND THE OMEGA (see above) |
| Revelation 1:8-18, Exodus 3:1-15 | THE BUSH IS STILL BURNING (see above) |
| Revelation 2:1-7 | LOST LOVE (9/29/96) Today we begin to hear Christ's Word to the Church as found in chapters 2 and 3 of the book of Revelation, a series in conjunction with our midweek study of this confusing and controversial last book of the Bible. This morning we encounter the Church at Ephesus. |
| Revelation 2:8-11 | THE RICHEST CHURCH IN TOWN (10/13/96) We continue with our series on Christ's Word to the Church as found in chapters 2 and 3 of the book of Revelation, a series in conjunction with our midweek study. Today we consider the church at Smyrna. |
| Revelation 2:12-17 | A TRIP IN TIME (10/20/96) Our sermon series based on the Lord's message to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor found in Revelation 2 and 3 continues with a visit to the church at Pergamum. |
| Revelation 2:18-29 | WHEN INTOLERANCE BECOMES A VIRTUE (11/10/96) We continue our sermon series based on the Lord's message to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor found in Revelation 2 and 3. Today we consider the church that was too tolerant for its own good, Thyatira. |
| Revelation 3:1-6 | WHEN LIFE BECOMES TOO EASY (11/17/96) We continue our sermon series based on the Lord's message to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor found in Revelation 2 and 3. Today we see what happens when the church becomes complacent as we consider the congregation at Sardis. |
| Revelation 3:7-13 | THE PILLARS OF THE CHURCH (11/24/96) Christ's word to the church through those directed to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 2 and 3) is a missionary challenge today. We consider the church at Philadelphia. |
| Revelation 3:14-22 | WHEN THE LORD GETS DISGUSTED WITH HIS CHURCH (12/8/96) We conclude our series on Christ's Word to the Church (Revelation 2 and 3) as we meet the congregation in Laodicea. As the sermon title indicates, the situation was not good. |
| Revelation 7:9-17 | TERRORISTS, TRAGEDY, TRAUMA & GOD (9/16/01) What a horrible week! The incredible carnage, the mindlessness of it all! How do we make sense of it? |
| Revelation 12:1-12, John 16:16-33 | BEATING THE DRAGONS (see above) |
| Revelation 12:7-9, Psalm 91:1-11 | "THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS TOO MUCH SUGAR!" (see above) |
| Revelation 19:6-9 | THE UGLIEST BRIDE IN HISTORY (4/2/2000) Our Lenten reflection and introspection might be discouraging as we see all the things that ought not to be in our lives as individuals and a church. But just when we need it most, we encounter the Lord's word of unconditional love we find in scripture. A sermon in preparation for a celebration of the Lord's Supper. |
| Revelation 20:11-15 | THE APOSTLES' CREED: "...HE SHALL COME AGAIN TO JUDGE..." (3/21/99) Our Apostles' Creed series looks to the future and God's ultimate triumph. |
| Revelation 21:1-5 | A FINE '99 (12/27/98) As we move from the old year with its hurts and heartaches to the new with all its promises and possibilities, we are reminded that our God makes ALL THINGS new. A sermon for the congregation of St. Andrew by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Island, SC. |
| Revelation 21:1-5a | THE GOD OF NEW BEGINNINGS (7/2/2000) As we begin a new ministry in Warren, we are met by a God who is more concerned about our future than our past. Good News! |
click and send us mail