Pruning made easy

Bearing fruit to God’s glory

The central theme of the sermon titled “Renounce all Evil” revolves around the biblical story of Jacob and Esau and the broader message of seeking spiritual transformation, forgiveness, and caring for others as part of the vine of God.

The sermon elucidates the story of the twin brothers to emphasise the critical moments, from Jacob’s deceitful acquisition of Esau’s birthright to his rendezvous with an angel where he was renamed as “Israel,” forming the foundation of the twelve tribes of Israel. Although the story seems disconnected from the sermon’s title, the sermon successfully bridges this by highlighting themes of forgiveness and new life, underlining how the seemingly undeserving can also bear fruit.

The sermon infuses personal anecdotes from gardening experiences to demonstrate the significance of nurturing and care in spiritual transformation. It underscores the concept of spiritual pruning – eliminating what is not life-giving and promoting new growth.

The sermon concludes with a powerful call to action for believers to accept Jesus as Savior and Redeemer and abide in him as he does in us. All believers are bestowed with the crucial responsibility of nurturing and pruning as the Body of Christ, as God’s spirit is always with them. We all encourage believers to recognise and renounce evil, foster spiritual change, and be fruitful for the glory of the Lord.

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The sermon, “In Renounce All Evil,” centres on rejecting all evil and injustice in our world and actively demonstrating love and care for others.

Drawing on familiar stories, parables from the Gospel, and contemporary cultural references, we emphasise expressing Christ’s sacrificial love through our actions. Using insights from country music, scriptures, and science fiction, he encourages the congregation to reflect on their commitment to love and care.

Use is made in the example of a male emu, as related in First Nation folklore, to illustrate heartfelt care and devotion. Mirroring this imagery with that of the Good Shepherd, he challenges the audience to show love and care akin to Jesus Christ. In referring to different Biblical passages, he emphasises the transformative power of love and its role in overcoming the darkness in the world. Being recipients of Christ’s boundless love empowers us to embody this love, extend compassion to those in need, and make a positive impact.

Towards concluding the sermon, an example is given from the television series “Doctor Who” to highlight the enduring struggle between good and evil. He highlights the significance of loyalty, self-sacrifice, and love to triumph over evil. He encourages the congregation to consider if they could be the Body of Christ in the world today, spreading love and compassion and fighting for justice and reconciliation.

In response to recent global events, we are all called upon the congregation to act as Jesus’s voice and hands, expressing their love through actions, as Peter, John, Paul, and Jesus once did. The sermon concludes by urging the congregation to grow in love and attunement to the Good Shepherd’s voice, thereby contributing to positive change in the world.

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14th April, 2024

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The sermon “Repenting of Sin: A Call to Transformation” is centred on the understanding of Christian jargon and the act of repentance. By explaining common jargon used by the church, such as baptismal covenant and promising to God, the sermon emphasises how important it is for everyone to comprehend these terms. The previous sermon explored the story of Thomas asking to see Jesus’ wounds, ultimately leading to the affirmation that Jesus is Lord and God. The sermon brings this back to the act of baptism: an acceptance of Jesus Christ into one’s life, regardless of religious denomination. 

Furthermore, the sermon discusses repentance, defining it as turning away from sin and temptation. This act is likened to aligning oneself to God’s grace and bestowing love onto all children. Several bible passages emphasise the importance of repentance, such as Luke 24:36b–48, where Jesus appears after his death and commissions his disciples to pass on the story of his journey. The sermon also touches on the role of baptism in repentance and how it symbolises both spiritual rebirth and a commitment to Christ. In his conclusion, the congregation is urged to respond to the call of repentance, to turn away from sin and to embrace God’s transformative love and grace.

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Prayer Prompts

• Ask for prayer requests from the small group members.

• Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom to help apply the sermon to their lives throughout the coming week.

• Pray for a deep understanding of repentance and a willingness to turn away from distractions and temptations.

• Pray for the boldness and courage to be witnesses of Christ’s transformative love and grace in their daily lives.

Made with the assistance of church.tech, AI for Churches, and Grammarly to keep it readable!

Thomas the Twin was not the only one

In the sermon “I Turn to Christ,” Dennis explores the story of Thomas, emphasizing the importance of faith and doubt among the disciples. Thomas’s encounter with the risen Jesus leads to a powerful declaration of belief in him as Lord and God. The sermon highlights the significance of names in baptism and the role of questioning in deepening faith. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the power of faith in Jesus, even amidst doubts, as a path to salvation.

The sermon titled “I Turn to Christ” by Dennis uses the rich story of the disciple, Thomas, to demonstrate the importance of faith, the power of names, and the pivotal role of Christianity’s sacrament of baptism. Thomas, often misunderstood as the doubting disciple, is a testament to the complexity of belief, disbelief, and unbelief. Dennis emphasises Thomas’s critical role in Christianity when he recognised and declared Jesus the risen Lord, stating, “My Lord and my God!” Thomas’s naming of Jesus is presented to highlight the significance and power of naming.

Further in the sermon, the story of Thomas, alternatively known as Didymus or the Twin, continues serving as the backbone of the discourse. His association with Jude or Judas in Mark’s gospel strengthens the naming theme, suggesting a possible physical resemblance to Jesus and leading to the label “the Twin.” The sermon uses this narrative to delve deeper into the power of names, using examples from legal and religious practices, including baptism.

In baptism, individuals are named and dedicated to the Lord and God, echoing Thomas’s declaration of faith in Jesus.
Moreover, the sermon introduces the writings of Cyril, a fifth-century patriarch of Alexandria, to deconstruct the stigma attached to doubt. Cyril highlights that true faith involves accepting what one hasn’t seen but believing through trusted witnesses’ testimony.

The sermon advocates for questioning, asserting that it aids in refining understanding and faith in Christ, just as it did for Thomas. It also stresses the foundational question of baptism, “Do you turn to Christ?” stating the commitment towards Christ’s path begins from this point.

Lastly, Dennis explores his relationship with his Christian identity, acknowledging the array of ways individuals perceive him, and concludes with the reaffirmation of the belief in Jesus Christ as the Saviour and Messiah.

The sermon successfully illustrates through Thomas’s journey that turning to Christ, dedicating our Christian names to the Lord, and staying open to doubts can enrich our faith and lead us towards salvation.

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The sermon “Truly this is the Son of God” underscored the meaning of Jesus Christ’s resurrection and how it influences the faith of Christians. Dennis correlated the notion of dissonance in musical harmony to significant events in the Bible. The essence of the sermon revolves around the significance of the resurrection story, as recorded in Mark 16:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-11. This story is historically essential and actively continues to shape the Christian faith and the lives of its followers.

The faith journey reflects dissonance, marked by periods of movement, confusion, and moments of tension followed by release or resolution. Dennis reflects on the remarkable incident where the women who visited Jesus’s tomb after his crucifixion found it empty. This realisation initially evokes fear and confusion but gradually transforms into overwhelming joy as an angel announces the resurrection of Jesus. This proclamation, echoing throughout history, reminds Christians of Jesus’ power over sin and death.
Moreover, the resurrection, as Apostle Paul asserted, is central to the faith; without it, the belief in and acceptance of Christ falter. Belief extends beyond simply accepting Jesus’ existence and becomes a call for significant changes symbolised by repentance, turning and renouncing sinful ways.

Dennis underscores the transformative power of belief in the resurrection in believers’ lives. This belief should not be limited to Easter Sunday but should permeate every aspect of life, inspiring believers to live out Christ-like virtues.

The sermon concluded by challenging believers to deepen their understanding of their faith, re-commit themselves to the truths of their faith, and live as Christ’s disciples, spreading the Gospel to the world. Believers were reminded of the necessity for continuous renewal and resilience throughout their faith journey, underlined by the resurrection narrative.

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No study guide with this one, just text

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A Lenten Journey

In the sermon “Towards Harmony,” Dennis leads his congregation through a comprehensive study of the transformative power inherent in baptism, in alignment with St Peter’s Lenten theme of “Living in Harmony.”

A key part of the sermon is the emphasis on renewing our baptismal commitment—a significant act for the rebirth it symbolises and the promises made during the event, notably based on the traditional prescriptions of the Book of Common Prayer.

Dennis uses a provided meme as a visual tool to encapsulate these sacred promises. The meme underscores the transformative essence of baptism—encouraging trust in Christ, rejection of sin, advocacy for justice, and rejection of evil, thereby offering a personal transformation and a communal repossession of harmony, justice and peace.

The sermon journey, drawing from lessons from the Melbourne College of Divinity, explores varying themes from God’s ever-present nature, even in troubling times, to the virtues of rejecting selfishness and taking up personal burdens, as exemplified in the story of the Transfiguration.

The importance of confronting and abandoning evil, particularly the love of money, is emphasised in scrutinising the event of Jesus’ marketplace uproar at the temple. A critical part of the message worth noting was the Mothering Sunday sermon, highlighting us as God’s masterpieces created for definitive purposes, undergirded by God’s love and wish for our best.

The call is for a disposition to embrace unexpected changes and opportunities positioned to reflect God’s love and respect for our neighbours.

The concluding message challenges us to embrace the revolution of faith during Easter, encapsulated in the baptism act.

The focus is not on a floorless walk in our faith journey. Instead, it encourages a deep awareness, acceptance of God’s surprises, and a will to explore them while abandoning debilitating pasts.

The emphasis is on the need to actively seek justice and uphold a new life journey, thereby sharing in Easter’s abundant bless

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Embracing God’s Love with Open Hearts

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The sermon, “Embracing God’s Love with Open Hearts” by Dennis, delves into the importance of Lent as a profound journey of spiritual awakening. By referencing Mark 1:9-15, Dennis correlates Lent with Jesus’ own time of trials and preparation, signifying the essence of introspection and spiritual discipline. Lent calls for self-examination, aligning ourselves more closely with Gods’ will, and facing our own shortcomings with God’s strength and mercy.

The sermon emphasizes the significance of adopting a humble and receptive attitude towards God’s love. Lent is not a time for self-condemnation, but an opportunity to bask in the light of God’s love and mercy. Dennis, taking cues from Psalm 25, accentuates the need for a remorseful heart willing to embrace God’s guidance and transformation. 

Towards the end of the sermon, Dennis guides the congregation to practice gentleness towards oneself and others during Lent, emphasizing that true transformation doesn’t emanate from individual efforts, but through the power of God’s redeeming love. 

He accentuates the compulsion of approaching Lenten practices with humility and sincerity. The sermon concludes with Dennis inviting every congregant to venture with open and contrite hearts into Lent, radiating hope for profound spiritual rebirth and transformation. 

The sermon encapsulates the essence of Lent as a sanctimonious period advocating introspection, penance, and spiritual rejuvenation. It implores believers to trust in God’s unfailing love and mercy, thereby allowing His divine light to guide us in our spiritual journeys.

Icebreaker:

If you were given the opportunity to invent a new flavour for a Lenten-themed ice cream, what would it be and why?

1. How can the story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness inspire us to confront our own weaknesses during Lent?
   • Context: The sermon referenced Mark 1:9-15 where Jesus faced temptation but emerged victorious through prayer and the Word of God.
   • Application Question: Think of a specific challenge or temptation you face. How can you use prayer and God’s Word to overcome it during this season of Lent?
2. Why is gentleness an important aspect of our approach to the Lenten season?
   • Context: The sermon encourages cultivating a spirit of gentleness towards ourselves and others during Lent, recognizing that true transformation comes through God’s redeeming love.
   • Application Question: How can you practice gentleness in your own life and towards others as you journey through Lent?
3. How does Psalm 25’s humble plea to know God’s ways and be led in His truth relate to our posture during Lent?
   • Context: Dennis drew from Psalm 25 to illustrate a contrite heart open to God’s guidance and transformation.
   • Application Question: In what ways can you apply the humility and openness shown in Psalm 25 to your own Lenten journey?
4. Why is it important to approach Lenten disciplines with humility and sincerity?
   • Context: The sermon emphasizes that true transformation does not come through our own efforts alone but through the power of God’s redeeming love.
   • Application Question: Consider a Lenten discipline you practice. How can you ensure you’re doing it with humility and sincerity, relying on God’s grace?
5. How can we embrace God’s love with open hearts during this time of prayerful reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal?
   • Context: The sermon invites us to embark on the gentle path of Lent, seeking God’s presence and allowing His light to guide our journey.
   • Application Question: What specific actions or habits can you develop to help open your heart to God’s love and guidance throughout the season of Lent?
6. Prayer Points for Groups

• Ask for prayer requests from the group.

• Pray for the strength to fully embrace the season of Lent as a time of introspection and spiritual discipline, asking God to help everyone examine their hearts and align their lives more closely with His will.

• Pray for the grace to confront personal temptations and weaknesses, just as Jesus did in the wilderness. Ask for God’s guidance and transformation during this period of reflection and repentance.

• Pray for a spirit of gentleness towards oneself and others during this season. Request that God helps everyone approach Lenten disciplines with humility and sincerity, relying on His love and mercy for true transformation.

• Finally, pray that everyone would truly embrace God’s love with open hearts, seeking His presence and allowing His light to guide them throughout the Lenten season and beyond.

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Image: Dave Perry, theworshipcloud.com

This week Dennis explores the Gospel of Mark, focusing on the theme of brokenness and healing. He emphasizes Jesus’ ministry and the restoration of people to their rightful place in the community. Jesus heals Simon’s mother-in-law, symbolizing the restoration of her position. The gathering of the entire city outside Simon’s house represents people seeking healing. The sermon emphasizes the importance of gathering, being open, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God, while resisting the temptation to stay in one place.

Dennis’s sermon titled “Gathering in Brokenness” revolves around the theme of human brokenness and the need for healing as drawn from the Gospel of Mark, specifically Mark 1:29-39. Dennis examines the dramatic events in the first chapter of the gospel, emphasizing Jesus’s adult ministry that involves healing the sick and restoring them to their place in the community. 

A notable instance is Jesus healing Simon’s mother-in-law, whose immediate return to her duties signifies her reintegration into her community.Focusing on the gathering of the crowd outside Simon’s house, Dennis spotlights the intense curiosity and desire for healing these people exhibit. Drawing reference to the works of graphic artist and theologian, David Perry, he likens this gathering to onlookers peering through a knot in the fence, eager to experience the transforming presence of God. This underscores the importance of unity and openness within the community, balanced with personal reflection and prayer.

Dennis draws a parallel between Jesus’s journey and his own impending move to a new ministry, highlighting the value of adaptability and a readiness to proclaim the gospel. Jesus’s mission of not just physical healing, but restoring individuals to community gets particular attention, reinforcing the notion that illness or indisposition shouldn’t result in societal exclusion.

The sermon ends with a connection to Marty Haugen’s hymn “Gather Us In”, subtly echoing the message of restoration and the continuation of the mission to proclaim the Kingdom. With this, Pastor Dennis asserts the importance of extending the light of God’s incarnate glory to all, and that this heavenly light dwells within each one of us, reminding us of the power, glory, and dominion that belong to God.

Icebreaker Question

If you were a famous inventor, what fun or outrageous invention would you be known for?

1. How does the story of Jesus healing Simon’s mother-in-law teach us about the importance of restoring people to their community?
   • Context: In the sermon, Dennis discusses how Jesus’ healing of Simon’s mother-in-law reinstates her into her household and community.
   • By taking her hand and raising her up, Jesus demonstrates the value of each individual in their community.Application Question: Can you think of a time when you felt restored or helped someone else become restored in your community? How did that experience impact your life?
2. Why does Jesus continue his ministry and move to other places despite the temptation to stay?
   • Context: Dennis explains that, like Jesus, there is a gospel to proclaim and people in need of restoration. Jesus prays and moves on to continue his mission, silencing the voices of temptation.
   • Application Question: Are there times in your life when you’ve felt the need to move on from a comfortable situation for a greater purpose? How did you handle it?
3. What does the gathering of the entire city outside Simon’s house represent in the context of Jesus’ ministry?
   • Context: The gathering signifies the expectation and curiosity of those seeking healing. Jesus cures many, gathering them into his presence and re-creating their persons.
   • Application Question: How can you apply the idea of gathering and healing to your own community or church? What steps can be taken to help those in need?
4. In Mark 1:29-39, how do Jesus’ actions demonstrate the importance of inclusion within a community?
   • Context: The sermon highlights Jesus’ mission to restore people to their rightful place in the community. By curing many, he reaffirms their value and grants them inclusion.
   • Application Question: How can you play a role in promoting inclusion and community within your own life? Are there people in your life who may need reassurance of their value?
5. Why is the concept of a pilgrimage important to Jesus’ ministry from the group members, acknowledging any brokenness they are currently experiencing and the need for healing in their lives.
   • Context: Dennis explains that the sense of pilgrimage resonates with his own journey to a new ministry. Similarly, Jesus’ ministry involves moving through various places to proclaim the gospel and restore people to their community.
   • Application Question: How can the idea of a pilgrimage be relevant in your own life? Can you see patterns of growth or change in your spiritual journey?

1. Prayer Points for small groups
   • • Pray that God will help them to apply the lessons of the sermon, specifically in recognizing and embracing their own brokenness as part of the universal human experience, and seeking God’s healing and restoration in their lives. 
   • • Pray for the courage to accept Jesus’ invitation to become part of the gathering crowd, yearning for transformation and a renewed sense of God’s presence in their lives. 
   • • Ask God to help them to overcome the temptation to remain stagnant in their spiritual growth and instead, to continue on the pilgrimage, proclaiming the Kingdom of God in their everyday lives. 
   • • Pray for God’s light to shine in the darkness of their lives and to give them the strength to share this light with those around them.

Sermon Summary 🎬

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In a sermon titled “Persevering in Baptismal Commitment,” Dennis emphasizes staying focused on the mission of the church as he prepares to leave. He explores the Gospel of the Wedding Feast in Cana, connecting it to Isaiah 25’s prophecy of a future feast for all peoples. The wedding miracle is the first of several signs in the Gospel of John, revealing Jesus’ identity and encouraging believers to persevere in their mission. Dennis urges believers to embrace the transformative power of Christ and remember their baptismal promises, rooted in the core of being the Body of Christ.

Ice Breaker 🧊

If you were invited to the wedding feast in Cana, what dish would you bring and why?

Discussion Questions 💬

1. How can we see the Wedding Feast in Cana as a symbol of God’s kingdom and the salvation feast described in Isaiah 25?
   • Dennis refers to Bishop Tom Wright’s insights into the Wedding Feast in Cana and the symbolism of weddings representing the coming kingdom of God and wine recalling the salvation feast described in Isaiah 25.
   • How can this symbolism influence your understanding of your own baptismal commitment and role in God’s kingdom?
2. Why is it important for believers to be transformed toward the promised time?
   • Dennis draws a parallel between Jesus transforming the water in the purification jars into wine and the transformation that occurs through baptism, emphasizing the need for believers to transform toward the promised time.
   • What steps can you take in your personal life to ensure that you are growing and transforming in your faith?
3. What is the significance of the seven signs found in the Gospel of John in relation to Jesus’ identity and mission?
   • Dennis explains that the seven signs, including the Wedding Feast in Cana, point to Jesus’ identity and mission, revealing Jesus as the divine bridegroom who brings new life and abundance.
   • How do these signs help deepen your faith and encourage you to persevere in your baptismal covenant?
4. Why should the mission of the Church be driven by love and not by fear or division?
   • Dennis expressed concern about using fear-based images like the Doomsday Clock and emphasized that the love of God should be the motivating force for transformation and the Church’s mission.
   • How can you practice and foster love within your community and ensure that it guides your actions?
5. In your daily life, how can you remember and remain faithful to your baptismal promises?
   • Dennis urged believers to persevere in their mission, embrace the transformative power of Christ, and remember their baptismal promises.
   • Can you identify specific practices or disciplines that help you remain focused on your baptismal commitment and relationship with Christ?

Prayer 🙏

• Begin by asking for any prayer requests from the group or your family. 

• Pray for God’s guidance as we each strive to become vessels purified by Christ for His use, continuously growing in spiritual maturity and holiness. and to be of good courage. 

• Pray for a deeper understanding of the Gospel of John and the signs within it that affirm our faith. Ask for the wisdom to see these God to help us be driven by His love in fulfilling the mission of the Church. Pray for unity among believers and a focus on. Encourage them to share any specific areas in their lives where they need God’s guidance, strength, or comfort. 

• Ask God to help each member remember their baptismal promises and to apply the transformative power of Christ in their daily lives. Pray for the strength to persevere in their mission

Sermon Summary 🎬

In Dennis’s sermon titled “Jesus: The House of God and Gate of Heaven” he explores the profound connections between the Old and New Testaments, focusing on the symbolism of Jesus as the bridge between heaven and earth. He describes Jesus as the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity, the pathway to salvation and eternal life. By referencing the story of Jacob and the encounter of Nathaniel, Dennis emphasises the transformative power of a personal relationship with Jesus. He urges the congregation to become a touching place where God’s presence can manifest, emphasizing that their faith is in a person, not just a physical building or set of rules.

Ice Breaker 🧊

If you could have any historical figure from the past come to your dinner party, who would it be and what would be the first question you’d ask them?

Discussion Questions 💬

1. How does the story of Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28 relate to Jesus being the House of God and the Gate of Heaven?
   • Dennis connected Jacob’s dream to the symbolism of Jesus by exploring how both represented meeting points between heaven and earth.
   • Can you think of a time in your life where you felt the presence of God? How did it impact your faith?
2. What does it mean when Jesus refers to himself as the temple that would be raised in three days?
   • Dennis explained that Jesus was referring to his own body; through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus became the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity.
   • How does Jesus’ sacrifice change your understanding of the purpose and function of temples or churches in relation to God’s presence?
3. Why did Jesus tell Nathaniel that he would see heaven open and angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man?
   • This statement connected Nathaniel’s encounter with Jesus to Jacob’s dream, reaffirming Jesus as the embodiment of the divine and the gateway to the heavenly realms.
   • In what ways can you seek a deeper encounter with Jesus in your daily life as the gateway to the heavenly realms?
4. What does it mean to live out our baptismal promises and be a touching place where God’s presence is manifested?
   • Dennis reminded the congregation that their faith is in Jesus, and by living out their baptismal promises, they become like Jacob, Moses, Jonah, Job, and David, who recognised and embraced God’s presence in their lives.
   • What personal changes or actions can you take to be more open to manifesting God’s presence in your life?
5. How is the church a holy place if it is not the physical building itself that is holy?
   • Dennis explained that it is the people, who seek Jesus and are sent out to embrace the transformative encounter with him, that make the church the authentic House of God and Gate of Heaven.
   • What can you do to help create a holy space within your own community or in your interactions with others?

Praying for our Community

• Ask for prayer requests from your group, family or congregation.
• Pray for a deeper understanding of Jesus as the “House of God” and the “Gate of Heaven.” Ask the Lord to reveal the profound connections between the Old and New Testaments in our daily life.
• Pray for the ability to recognize Jesus as the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity. Pray for a greater appreciation of the new covenant established by Jesus, and for the ability to see ourselves as living stones in the spiritual house of God.
• Ask for grace to accept Jesus as the pathway to salvation and eternal life, connecting heaven and earth. Pray for openness to the transformative encounter with Jesus, just like Jacob, Moses, Jonah, Job, and David.
• Pray for the opportunity to live out our baptismal promises, becoming a touching place where God’s presence can manifest. Ask for the courage to respond to Jesus’ call, and to be transformed, just as Nathaniel was.

In John 1, we encounter the powerful testimony of John the Baptist, witnessing to the coming of Jesus. The significance of a second reading, akin to a witness statement, is that it reinforces the importance of Mark’s purpose in testifying to Jesus as the one who is to come.

Isaiah 61 prophesies the anointing and mission of the Messiah, which entails bringing good news, healing, freedom, and comfort to the brokenhearted. It challenges us to embrace our duty as believers to live out the presence of Christ in our communities, by proclaiming the Gospel, ministering to the needs of others, and providing solace to the hurting.

Through our actions, we can exemplify the transformative power of Christ and bring hope to those around us.

How powerful is the cry of a baby? Can you ignore it?

1. In some respects, the repeated testimony of John the Baptist read again on consecutive Sundays, may seem odd.
   1. Last week was the testimony of Mark. This week is the testimony of John.
   2. How much more truth does repeating the testimony add to the sense of reality?

2. The testimony of John the Evangelist interrupts the great Hymn to the Word (John 1), abruptly challenging the flow of the beautiful prose.

1. Once John the Evangelist is clarified, the writing returns to the Hymn, picking up the testimony of John after the Hymn is over.
   1. To what extent is this because there may have been some confusion over who John the Baptist was?
   2. What other biblical texts can you recall that may also emphasise the roles of Jesus and John?

3. Isaiah 61 details quite strongly the expected role of the Messiah. At various points in the gospels, the “Messianic Mission” is clearly articulated based on the writings found in the prophets.

1. Read in the Gospel of Luke Jesus quoting Isaiah 61.1-2. Every Sabbath, seven people would read in the Synagogue: the Rabbi, a Levite, and five ordinary Israelis.
   1. What are the areas of mission that the Messiah is expected to fulfil?
   2. What are the possible requirements of the Body of Christ concerning this mission?

4. Micah 6.8 asks the reader, “What does the Lord require?” This is consistent with the teachings of the prophets and the law.

1. Looking at Mark 1, John 1, Luke 4, Isaiah 61 and Luke 4, how consistent is the testimony of John?
   1. Are all Christians called to exercise all these gifts or excel in the skills given?
   2. Read 1 Corinthians 12. How are we many yet still only one body?

5. Many people only want to engage in the story of the manger at Christmas. The so-called Lutheran Carol makes a claim that “no crying he makes”. 

1. Luke makes it abundantly clear that the child was born in poverty and, as such, would have been demanding in terms of feeding and nurturing.
   1. How realistic is it to romanticise the gospel as a testimony containing only comfortable news?
   2. Is the crying of the Christ-child a voice of one in the wilderness?

Prayer Points

Start by entering a deep stillness that allows your inner and outer ears to not only hear the Word of God, but to listen for the cry in the wilderness.

“Christ is near” it seems to say.

Given the need for justice, mercy and pilgrimage on the Way with God, give thanks for the gift(s) that you have received from God.

Focus on one thing is not right. How can your gift from God make a difference in terms of advocacy, safety, justice or mercy?

The Reign of Christ Year A 2023

Short Summary:

The sermon focuses on the concept of making decisions in our lives, drawing parallels between decisions made during a move and decisions made about our faith. Dennis shares a personal story about setting boundaries and highlights the importance of mutual respect. The sermon explores the parables of the kingdom and the idea that the kingdom of Heaven is like a wedding banquet. It emphasizes the need for preparation, giving our all, and being judged by our actions. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the call for justice, mercy, and a humble pilgrimage with God.

Full Summary

In this sermon, Dennis commences by reflecting on decision-making as an integral aspect of our faith journey. Drawing a parallel with the stress and choices we encounter during moving, he infers the same in the practice of our faith where every decision impacts our path towards the kingdom of Heaven. This Kingdom is the ultimate reward, a life immersed in God’s presence. To illuminate this, Dennis uses a personal narrative of how instilling mutual respect in a classroom set the tone for a harmonious interaction, an allegory to a peaceful existence achieved through informed decision-making.

The sermon explores Jesus’ parables about the Kingdom of Heaven, emphasizing the fundamental nature of life’s choices. It stresses the need to prioritize the Kingdom above everything else, fostering growth and nurturing in the Kingdom. Dennis likens the Kingdom of Heaven to a wedding feast where everyone is included, but with responsibilities and expectations. Over time, our actions become the yardstick for judgment by Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Using thoughts from Bishop Tom Wright and Andrew McGowan, Dennis accentuates our understanding of God’s expectations- justice, mercy, and a humble walk with Him. The focus gravitates towards recognizing the face of God in the needy and marginalized, and consequently serving them. The sermon clearly demarcates between merely doing good deeds and embodying a good life. The Kingdom of Heaven, it affirms, is a nurtured devotion borne out of true love for God that reflects in our actions towards the community.

Concluding with references from Ephesians and the book of Micah, the preacher highlights the rewards of belief – hope, riches, and partaking in God’s power. Overall, the sermon underscores the importance of conscious decision-making in faith, striving for justice, mercy, and a humble walk with God, in reflecting the ethos of the Kingdom of Heaven. Dennis calls for an unwavering conviction in God, extolling us to be enlightened in heart and bearers of God’s love and creation in our individual spheres of influence.

Life Question:

If you had to pack up your life into a suitcase, what’s one peculiar item that you would absolutely include and why?

Questions and Discussion

1. How can the concept of mutual respect help us make better decisions in our faith journey?
   • Context: Dennis shared a story about setting boundaries for a class, emphasizing that showing respect leads to receiving respect and a more peaceful existence.
   • Application Question: What areas of your life could benefit from practicing mutual respect, and how could it improve your relationship with God?
2. What is the significance of recognizing the value of the kingdom and prioritizing it above all else in our lives?
   • Context: The parables of the kingdom emphasize the importance of giving up everything for the kingdom and nurturing its growth.
   • Application Question: What priorities might you need to reassess in your life to ensure the kingdom is truly your top priority?
3. How can our actions reflect that we are prepared to be guests in the kingdom of Heaven?
   • Context: Dennis explains that the kingdom of Heaven is like a wedding banquet where everyone is welcome, but there are expectations and responsibilities as guests.
   • Application Question: What steps can you take to show that you are preparing for and accepting your responsibilities as a guest in the kingdom?
4. Based on Micah’s question, how can we practice justice, mercy, and humility in our everyday lives?
   • Context: Dennis references Micah’s question: ‘What does the Lord require but justice, mercy, and a humble pilgrimage with our God?’
   • Application Question: Identify specific actions or decisions you can make to show justice, mercy, and humility in your interactions with others.
5. How can you differentiate between doing good and living good in your own life?
   • Context: The sermon distinguishes between doing good (mere work) and living good (faith without action is dead), calling us to seek the kingdom through our decisions.
   • Application Question: Provide examples of when you’ve done good versus when you’ve lived good, and consider how you might focus more on living the values of the kingdom.

Prayer Points for this week:

• Ask God for wisdom and discernment in making decisions that align with our faith and reflect the values of the Kingdom of Heaven.

• Pray for grace to live a life of mutual respect, justice, and mercy, reflecting God’s love and care for the needy and marginalized.

• Seek God’s help in preparing ourselves for the Kingdom, like guests at a wedding banquet, fulfilling our responsibilities and expectations.

• Request God’s guidance in living out our faith not just in words but in action, showing His love and gift of creation to the wider community.

The sermon titled “The Power and Responsibility of Testimony” is a crucial exploration of the role witnessing plays in sharing the Christian faith and portraying God’s love to the world. The sermon begins with a reference to Scripture, 1 John 5:9-13, setting the stage for a deep dive into the importance of testimony. The preacher takes time to discuss the context in which the Gospel of John was written, a period marked by strife and challenges for Christians. It firmly establishes that witnessing isn’t merely about telling tales–it involves testifying about God’s grace and His work in our lives. The minister uses rich examples from history and the Bible to illuminate the intended meaning of his message. 

The sermon uses the story of Columba and Finian’s dispute, which resulted in a tragic conflict, to underscore the need for humility and temperance in presenting personal testimony. The sermon also utilises biblical narratives, such as Mary’s Magnificat and Nathaniel’s faith in Jesus following a straightforward testimony, to showcase the transformative power of genuinely experiencing Christ’s love. Another critical theme touched upon in the sermon is prosperity. 

Real prosperity is not material wealth but the spiritual richness experienced through a relationship with Christ. The discourse also reminds the faithful that their testimonies should manifest God’s compassion and strive for social justice, as Christ did during his ministry. 

The sermon offers a thought-provoking dissection of the necessity of witnessing God’s actions in our lives. It also emphasises the prominence of humility, compassion, and, more importantly, the responsibility for believers to become living testimonies of Jesus Christ’s love for the world. It concludes with a prayer asking for God’s assistance in becoming effective witnesses, shunning materialistic desires and showcasing Christ’s love and concern for those around us.

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The reflection, “The Joy of Abiding in Christ: A Journey, Not a Burden,” delves into the relationship between Christians and Christ, likening it to a joyful journey rather than a gruelling task. Drawing on passages from the Apostle John, the reflection underscores our devotion to God and compliance with the commandments to express love towards God and God’s children. This obedience is not portrayed as an obligation but as a triumphant and motivated response to the love we receive from God. 

The reflection underlines the idea of dwelling or ‘abiding’ in the love of Christ by bringing out the profound depth of intimacy it signifies – an intimacy that Jesus himself shares with God the Father. This abiding is achieved through obedience, which isn’t a burden but a natural outcome of residing in his love.

Embracing this concept leads to a deeper connection with God and the ability to bear enduring fruits in the spirit.

Drawing inspiration from Matthew 11:30, the text stresses that living in Christ brings comfort and ease, contrary to the worldly perception of burden. The concept of absolute freedom is accentuated in surrendering our desires to the loving will of Christ, which brings about total acceptance, limitless love, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit.

In summation, abiding in Christ forms the central theme of this sermon. Obedience to divine command is not portrayed as a duty but a path to a deeper relationship with God. This relationship brings forth fruits that magnify God’s glory and demonstrate Christ’s profound and reassuring transformative power.

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