How do we preach when all of us - hearers and preachers alike - are constantly distracted? J. Ellsworth Kalas offers wise insights for effective preaching in an age of distraction. He explores how God can meet people precisely at the point of their distraction, connecting through pastoral attentiveness, creativity and excellence.
At the very beginning of our faith, the Christian population numbered a few thousand, measuring only one percent of the world population. Today a single mega-church can boast a comparable number, and together, Christians now number more than two billion people. It all began with this little body of believers who knew a secret that needed to be shared. How did they do it? And what can we learn from them? Join best-selling author and beloved pastor, J. Ellsworth Kalas as he explores the book of Acts to uncover the ministry motivations of the first followers--ordinary people who accomplished the extraordinary and who can serve as a guide for today's believers to carry on. Because the work is not done. The story continues... This book contains a discussion guide.
Full of gripping illustrations that bring the scriptures to life, this anthology of sermons for the entire church year offers readers a treasure trove of spiritual guidance. Five distinguished preachers representing a variety of denominations and ministry settings contribute messages based on gospel texts for each Sunday and major celebration in Cycle C of the Revised Common Lectionary. Their thoughtful meditations proclaim the good news for today's world and exemplify the transforming power of God's word in our lives. Unforgettable in their power and biblical witness, these sermons provide readers with strength, support, and a Christ-centered vision. This is an essential resource that's useful for: - Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts - Preaching illustrations - A clearer understanding of scripture passages - Adult study and discussion groups - Personal devotions and Bible study on each Sunday's readings Frank Honeycutt's sermons are exciting in their evocative power. His narrative ability is a real gift that enables these messages to illumine the word of God and human life so that a listener is drawn into the word and encouraged to reflect, remember, and think about life in terms of God's activity. These sermons reflect a pastor whose imaginative juices flow mightily. Thomas E. Ridenhour McClurg Distinguished Professor of Homiletics Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary I am impressed by the sense of urgency in Robert Cueni's messages. When the specter of my immediate death flashes before me, I want to know that I have lived toward God's reign with all that I have. These sermons help transform me in that direction. Ronald J. Allen Sweeney & Miller Professor of Preaching and New Testament Christian Theological Seminary
