Something is about to Happen

Something is about to Happen PDF

Author: Thomas G. Long

Publisher: CSS Publishing

Published: 1996

Total Pages: 60

ISBN-13: 0788008668

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

Previously published under the title Shepherds and Bathrobes, this series of model sermons for Advent/Christmas includes such topics as John the Baptist's preaching in the wilderness, the Word made flesh, and a sound and light show on the mountaintop. Long's sermons demonstrate how preaching can be more like watching a movie than listening to a collection of ideas. They abound in a rich variety of fresh images and stories which flesh out the familiar passages and prepare both preachers and listeners for incarnational celebrations of Advent and Christmas. Wade P. Huie, Jr. Professor of Homiletics Emeritus Columbia Theological Seminary Decatur, Georgia The title says it: these are earthy sermons in which a believable voice tells our human story, recites our literature and drama, reports the news that is our daily lot, and does all this with a sharp eye for the Bible's images, a keen ear for the Tradition's youthful voices. A fine example of preaching. Charles L. Rice Professor of Homiletics Drew University Theological School Madison, New Jersey Thomas G. Long is Francis Landey Patton Professor of Preaching and Worship at Princeton Theological Seminary. He is the author of many books and is one of the most well-known teachers of preachers in America.

Praying for a Whole New World

Praying for a Whole New World PDF

Author: William G. Carter

Publisher: CSS Publishing

Published: 2000

Total Pages: 126

ISBN-13: 0788017284

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

A history professor told me that the earliest Protestants in America discouraged the celebration of Christmas. "It's too much fun," the Puritans reasoned, "and the Gospel of Jesus Christ requires our utmost seriousness." -- from the Introduction At a time of year which is often as stressful and exhausting as it is exhilarating, William Carter reminds us that while holiday celebrations will fade into winter gloom, Jesus Christ, the light that casts no shadow, remains at the center of our faith and lives. This collection of seventeen sermons based on the Revised Common Lectionary is for readers who wish to take the gospel seriously during a season when commercialism and social activities can be overwhelming. Carter's messages provide a wonderful interplay between the biblical text and illustrations drawn from contemporary life. He brings the sensibilities of an accomplished jazz musician to the lectionary readings, creating new melodies that arise from the established material -- some in counterpoint to the scripture, others elaborating upon the original tune. The sermons of this outstanding preacher are inspiring reading for both clergy and laypeople! Senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, William G. Carter has received national recognition for his preaching and writing, with sermons and articles appearing in Journal for Preachers, Presbyterian Survey, Preaching, Lectionary Homiletics, The Christian Ministry, and Best Sermons 7. In 1999, he was selected to preach on The Protestant Hour, an international radio ministry that reaches over two million listeners each week. He frequently leads workshops for pastors on homiletical themes and practices. A graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary, Carter serves on the seminary's board of trustees. Reverend Carter is also a highly regarded jazz pianist who has studied and performed with such noted artists as Phil Woods and Bob Brookmeyer. He has traveled widely presenting contemporary worship services and frequently weaves his music into his ministry.

Jesus Listens--for Advent and Christmas, with Full Scriptures

Jesus Listens--for Advent and Christmas, with Full Scriptures PDF

Author: Sarah Young

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Published: 2023-10-03

Total Pages: 177

ISBN-13: 1400244250

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

This devotional collection of prayers and reflections from Sarah Young's bestselling Jesus Listens and Jesus Calling prepares your spirit for the Savior's coming, helps you spend the days of Advent and Christmas with intentionality, and carries you into the New Year with your heart and mind fixed on Jesus. Enjoy more peaceful moments this holiday season with Jesus Listens—for Advent and Christmas. This inspirational holiday devotional also includes Scripture verses, and words of hope from God's heart to yours. Jesus Listens—for Advent and Christmas is ideal for: Anyone longing to draw closer to Jesus during the Advent and Christmas season. Those who are looking for comfort, calm, and peace in place of the holiday bustle. Families who want to cultivate a tradition of Advent prayers and devotions together. This full-color prayer book includes: Prayers, reflections, and Bible verses based on the Christmas story and prophecies of Jesus' birth. Stunning seasonal illustrations, making this holiday treasure a beautiful gift or keepsake. As you pray Scripture throughout this holiday season, you'll experience not only God's answers, but also how prayer connects you to God, changes your heart, and brings peace and joy to one of the greatest celebrations of the year. Enjoy Sarah Young's other Christmas books: Jesus Calling for Christmas Jesus Calling: The Story of Christmas (picture book) Jesus Calling: The Story of Christmas (board book) Jesus Calling Advent and Christmas Prayers

Humming Till the Music Returns

Humming Till the Music Returns PDF

Author: Wayne Brouwer

Publisher: CSS Publishing

Published: 1999

Total Pages: 160

ISBN-13: 0788015060

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

One day God will stand again as solo conductor on the podium of the universe and lead in the crashing finale of the symphony of life. But until then, we who are left in this world with the buzzing and blaring of many competing and changing "top 40" hits need to keep humming the tune that Jesus taught. -- from the Introduction The scripture lessons for these seasons combine themes of waiting in expectation and displaying the effects of eternity within the context of time. Though the dulling ache of sin and corruption pushes the song of creation out of tune, Jesus intervenes with a melody of grace, and the church keeps the music alive in witness and testimony while longing for the chorus of eternity to shout hallelujah once again. Wayne Brouwer's messages ring loud and true in the ears of those who hear these sermons. Sermon titles include: - I Can't Wait (1 Corinthians 1:3-9) - Tilting the Balance of Power (Romans 16:25-27) - Anti-Venom Serum (Galatians 4:4-7) - Finding the Right Superlatives (Ephesians 1:3-14) - Beyond Personal Preferences (1 Corinthians 8:1-13) Wayne Brouwer is a graduate of Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, and has done graduate study at Calvin Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan; Christ Seminary - Seminex, St. Louis, Missouri; and McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, where he is working toward his Ph.D. He has served as President of the CRC Publications Board and Vice President of the Synod of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. Prior to his present position as senior pastor of Harderwyk Christian Reformed Church in Holland, Michigan, Brouwer was Assistant Professor of Theology at Redeemer Christian College in Ancaster, Ontario. He also has taught at the Reformed Theological College of Nigeria in Mkar, Nigeria. He has published many books and over 100 articles, devotionals, and sermons.

Don't Forget the Child

Don't Forget the Child PDF

Author: Alex A. Gondola

Publisher: CSS Publishing

Published: 2001

Total Pages: 117

ISBN-13: 0788018345

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

Alex Gondola says that in our modern culture we sometimes "experience Christmas at its worst: overcommercialized, expensive, exhausting, nearly devoid of spiritual significance." In this collection of twenty cogent and inspiring sermons for Advent and Christmas, he reminds us of the key to putting the season in its proper perspective -- "Don't forget the child!" For it is only when we are drawn nearer to the child of Bethlehem, celebrating the simple beauties of the stable, that we can escape from the rush of the season into the divine light of saving grace heralded by the birth of God's Son. This volume is an exceptional source of inspiration for sermon preparation, but it's also excellent for personal devotions exploring the meaning of Advent and Christmas. It's a great Christmas gift! Alex Gondola has given us a lovely round of Advent and Christmas meditations. They are reflective and delightful. They shine with little gems of human interest stories that can light our path throughout the whole year. Catherine Clark Kroeger Editor, Study Bible for Women (The New Testament) This outstanding collection of Advent/Christmas sermons brings rich insights and new appreciation for the wondrous story of Christ's coming. Whether you are in a pew or in a pulpit on Sundays, you will be grateful for this book. Dr. William P. Baker Senior Pastor Emeritus, First Presbyterian Church Allentown, Pennsylvania Author of Everyone in the Bible, Who's Who in Church History, A Savior for All Seasons Alex Gondola, a master preacher, in this collection of sermons, with wonderful illustrations, can assist the working preacher expand her or his creative imagination for Advent and Christmas preaching. Dr. Benjamin Griffin President and Professor of Liturgics Andover Newton Theological School Alex A. Gondola Jr. is senior pastor of Dennis Union Church (United Church of Christ) in Dennis, Massachusetts (located on Cape Cod). He has also served congregations in Springfield, Massachusetts; Rome, New York; and Utica, New York. Gondola is a graduate of Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania (B.A.), Andover Newton Theological School (M.Div.), and Colgate Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York (D.Min.), and has also studied at the New College of Divinity of the University of Edinburgh (Scotland). He is the author of Come As You Are (CSS), and contributed several stewardship sermons to the CSS anthology From Every Angle.

The Purpose of Christmas

The Purpose of Christmas PDF

Author: Rick Warren

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 2012-12-11

Total Pages: 146

ISBN-13: 1471108449

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

In his powerful yet compassionate voice, Pastor Rick Warren tells the most wonderful story of all - the story of God come to earth in the form of a human infant. Warren goes back to that day long ago when the baby Jesus was born in the manger. In this clarion call to 'remember the reason for the season', readers are taken back in time to the simple origins of a baby who changed history forever. Warren gives readers an intimate look into his family heritage as he shares the fifty-year-old Warren Christmas tradition of having a birthday party for Jesus. Through stirring imagery and compelling insights, this book celebrates the significance and promise of this cherished holiday.

Coming Home

Coming Home PDF

Author: Frank Ramirez

Publisher: CSS Publishing

Published: 1998

Total Pages: 65

ISBN-13: 0788012819

DOWNLOAD EBOOK →

After many years of preaching from the first three chapters of Luke and the first two chapters of Matthew, Frank Ramirez decided to preach about something a little different around Christmastime. What evolved was this series of seven messages for the Sundays beginning with Advent and ending with Epiphany. Why a sermon series based on the Old Testament book of Haggai? Ramirez writes, "I've always been fascinated by the lesser known books of the Old Testament, partly because I'm afraid of being embarrassed in heaven if I don't recognize some of these people!" Frank Ramirez is pastor of the Elkhart Valley Church of the Brethren in Elkhart, Indiana. A native of California, he has also lived in Virginia, Tennessee, and Illinois. He has served as a parish pastor since graduating from Bethany Theological Seminary. His other interests include beekeeping and marathon running. Ramirez has written seven other books, plus numerous articles and short fiction.