Series IV, Cycle B
Gregory L. Tolle
Jesus was a master storyteller, and his preaching was filled with parables because he knew his listeners would relate to them -- and therefore connect with his message. Likewise, insightful and well-told stories are an essential element of the contemporary preacher's toolbox; they are invariably what people remember long after the sermon is over. If you're looking for a collection of fresh,

Series I, Cycle A
John T. Ball, Bill Mosley, James L. Killen, Jr., Arley K. Fadness, and Charles Aaron
Bring the Old Testament to life with this inspiring and thought-provoking collection of sermons for each Sunday and major celebration in the Church year. Based on the First Readings from Cycle A of the Revised Common Lectionary, these powerful messages by five exceptional preachers from diverse denominations explore the meaning of the Hebrew scriptures for today's Christian living. Abundant insights

Second Lesson Sermons For Sundays After Pentecost (Middle Third), Cycle A
Tom M. Garrison
Some things can come only when the Spirit takes over and somehow we become what we never thought we could be, because the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. There are occasions when those sighs come to the surface and

A Christmas Eve Worship Service
Cynthia E. Cowen
This heartwarming dialogue between a pastor and Santa focuses our attention on the truest gift of Christmas, the Christ child. Simple to prepare, the service requires little in the way of advance rehearsal. Two good presenters can provide a meaningfu...

The Positive Approach To Building Your Church God's Way
Danny Von Kanel
Every church needs to reach out and bring in new members in order to remain a living, vital entity -- yet there are many different ideas about what is the best way for Christian congregations to foster real growth. In recent years, what has been term

Entertaining Ideas And Activities For Children
Bonnie J. Hinkemeyer
A treasure chest of learning ideas that includes outside activities, paints, things to make, discovery, games, and snacks. These ideas not only entertain children, they also improve their attention spans. Each activity is field-tested, fun, and inexp

Applications For Contemporary Life, Cycle C
Richard E. Gribble


The parable is the most well-known literary form presented in the Gospels. And since narrative or story sermons are such a prominent element in the contemporary pulpit, pastors are preaching on the parable texts more frequently than ever.

Preaching The Miracles Of Jesus, Cycle C
John W. Wurster
The stories of Jesus’ miracles can be challenging to modern sensibilities, conditioned as we are to believe that there must be a logical explanation for water being turned into wine or nets suddenly overflowing with fish. But John Wurster suggests th...

A Thanksgiving Play For Youth
Raymond I. Keffer
All of us have lost family members, friends, and people who influenced our lives. Although we cannot physically bring these people back to life, they can and do continue to live in our minds, our thoughts, and our dreams. The Empty Chair

Brief Choir Prayers
Fred H. Wilkins
In the rush to prepare for Sunday morning's service, does it sometimes seem as if the choir isn't always focused on the reason why they are there? Increase your choir's commitment to God by sharing some of these heartfelt devotions with them before t