Taking the Sermon Home

The sermon title for Sunday was Solids, Stripes or Plaids as we both celebrated the annual "Scottish Sunday" tradition at Christ the King, and considered the appointed readings for the day:

1 Corinthians 1:10-18

Matthew 4:12-23

The readings tell us about the way in which the call to ministry unfolds.  In the gospel, we learn that Jesus’ call to the disciples was so compelling, that they dropped everything and immediately left their nets to follow.  Then in First Corinthians, Paul reminds us that we are to be united in mind and purpose as followers of the Lord.

What does the total devotion that the original disciples displayed “look like” in today’s world? 

What does one need to leave behind to follow?

What are some of the impediments to Christian community in churches today, and how can the same mind and purpose be fostered?

Taking the Sermon Home

The sermon on January 19, 2014 was Come and See.  The sermon text is John 1:29-42.

Today we read John’s version of Jesus’ baptism, and learn how the initial disciples were gathered.

How do the men learn about Jesus and what compels them to follow him?

How does the group grow beyond the initial followers?

According to today’s gospel, becoming a disciple of Jesus is all about invitation. Who has been
instrumental in leading you to become a follower, and who might you invite to come and see?

Taking the Sermon Home

January 12, 2014
Today is a celebration of the Baptism of Our Lord. The Old Testament reading is again from Isaiah, the 42nd chapter, and the account of Jesus’ baptism comes from Matthew 3:13-17.

The passage from Isaiah describes a servant (which could be Israel) that has been called to fulfill certain purposes—to bring justice to the nations, and release people from things that bind them. God calls each of us in our baptism. What are the ways you can discern God’s plan for your life?

The gospel of Matthew describes Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. Why do you think Jesus was baptized, given his identity as Son of God?

What difference does your baptism make in your day-to-day life? 

Taking the Sermon Home

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, and Matthew 2:1-12

In our readings this morning, we anticipate the festival of Epiphany on January 6 and the occasion, according to Matthew’s gospel, when the three wise men come from the East to see the baby Jesus. They are led by the light of a star.

Matthew indicates that Herod is frightened by Jesus’ birth, and the fascination the wise men display. Why
do you think Herod is concerned? In what way does Jesus upset the status quo?

Who, or what, draws you nurture your relationship with God?

What are the gifts that you have, to offer the Lord?