Taking the Sermon Home

Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2013
Text: Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36
A Burden Relieved

Today is the day we celebrate the gift of grace, and the freedom that the gospel gives.

How do you define the word freedom?  What is the difference between freedom, and license?

Jesus says in John's gospel: So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed  

What does Jesus do to make you free?  How does this freedom change your perspective on life?

Taking the Sermon Home

October 20, 2013
The Real Deal
Sermon Text: Luke 18:9-14...the parable of the Pharisee and a tax collector. 

Where do you see yourself in the parable…as a Pharisee, or a tax collector…or, do you see
yourself in both? Why?

Think about your most treasured human relationships. What is it that makes them so
precious, and somehow different from other relationships? How does this relate to how
you nurture your relationship with God?


In what ways can our attitude impede a robust relationship with God?

Taking the Sermon Home

October 13, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Luke 18:1-8—The Parable of the Widow and the Unjust Judge

In the gospel this week, Jesus tells a story about a widow who keeps coming to a judge, seeking justice. The judge dismisses her for a time, but ultimately is worn down by her constant pleas and grants her request. 

Jesus highlights the words pray, justice, and faith in the story. What do you think these words all have to do with each other?

What do you expect to happen when you pray?  What part do you play in making prayer meaningful and fulfilling?

How can God use you to answer the pleas for justice in our world today?

Taking the Sermon Home

September 29, 2013

Taking the Sermon Home

Stories to Tell; Gifts to Share: Cheerful Sacrifice

Scriptural Reference: Luke 19:1-10

Today we complete our sermon series as we read about Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, and his encounter with Jesus.

· The business practices of a tax collector such as Zacchaeus were known to be suspect.  In other words, he was the type of person Jesus would likely have been critical of, and yet, Jesus seeks out Zacchaeus’ hospitality and is warmly received.  What does this say about Zacchaeus?  About Jesus?

· What happens when Zacchaeus is touched by the power of Jesus’ spirit?

· What does it mean in your life to be transformed by grace? 

· In what ways does the gospel make a difference in your life, and inform the choices you make about your giving?