The young King Josiah was confronted by God's Word for the first time in his life and it changed everything. This sermon explores how we can use the habits of bible study and prayer to put God's Word at the center of our communal lives.
The Art Pastor's Guide to Sabbath | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
What is the purpose of the Sabbath Law in the Torah. It is interesting to compare how the context of the law shifts from Exodus to Deuteronomy. Who gets to rest, and why?
Jars of Clay | 2 Corinthians 4 | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
The Apostle Paul reminds his friends in the church of Corinth in 2 Corinthians 4, that we hold this treasure of God's grace in jars of clay. No matter what our circumstances, we can persevere.
The Apostle Paul offers his friends in Corinth a description of God's love that offers hope for reconciliation to a divided group. This most excellent way found in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 is what our world needs today.
view commentary at https://cartoonistbible.com/visuals/1-corinthians-131-8-what-is-love/
A Cartoonist's Guide to Holy Week in the Four GospelsSteve Thomason
This presentation contains a graphic novel style illustration of the story of Holy Week from all four Gospels--Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Visit cartoonistbible.com/holyweek to explore these amazing stories.
This presentation walks through Mark 1:1-20 and highlights Jesus' message of the Kingdom of God. What does it mean to "repent and believe the Good News?"
What is the Bible and why does it matter? This presentation offers a visual introduction to the Bible as a bookshelf, a shared story, a window to Jesus, and meditation literature. Walk through the books, timeline, and maps of the Bible.
This presentation is designed to help high school students prepare for the inevitable moment of deconstruction that will happen in their lives and various ways that people process the experience.
This image was inspired by a lecture given by Dr. Aaron Simmons, a professor of Philosophy at Furnam University, at Theology Beer Camp on October 21, 2023. He was talking about Ethics after Deconstruction, drawing from Kierkegaard and existentialist philosophy.
The End of Theological Education Presentation.pptxSteve Thomason
My visual book review of The End of Theological Education by Ted Smith. This was presented to the faculty of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN on October 25, 2023.
A Cartoonist's Guide to Acts is a full-color graphic novel and image pack telling the story of how Jesus' first disciples took the good news across cultural barriers. Use these images to enhance your preaching and teaching by engaging your audience in a fresh way.
Jesus Feeds 4,000 | A Cartoonist's Guide to Matthew 15:1-16:12Steve Thomason
Matthew 15:1-16:12 tells the story of Jesus in Genessarat where he speaks with the Syro-Phoenician woman, feeds 4,000+ people with seven loaves and some fish, and is confronted by the religious leaders.
This PowerPoint presentation walks through the Cartoonist's Guide to Matthew Graphic Novel panel-by-panel. You might use some of these images to illustrate a sermon, teach a class, or to help you study.
Does the American Dream of independence reflect Jesus' dream of the Kingdom of God? In this post we reflect on dependence, independence, and interdependence. read post at https://www.stevethomason.net/2023/06/28/a-declaration-of-interdependence-reflections-on-independence-day/
The Trinity: A Cartoonist's Guide to the Triune GodSteve Thomason
Let's face it. Talking about God is difficult. How can finite human beings comprehend the infinite, ultimate reality. One of the ways that Christians have attempted to describe the nature of God is with the language of trinity. God is three in one. This PowerPoint offers some visuals to help you study and teach on the Trinity. Enjoy!
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:1-14Steve Thomason
The Book of Acts begins where the Gospel of Luke ends. Jesus is on a mountain with his disciples. He tells them that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them and they will be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
The Day of Pentecost | A Visual Guide to Acts 2:1-13Steve Thomason
The Holy Spirit swept into the lives of Jesus' disciples in a dramatic way on the Jewish Festival of Pentecost. These slides will help you tell the story.
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
The Art Pastor's Guide to Sabbath | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
What is the purpose of the Sabbath Law in the Torah. It is interesting to compare how the context of the law shifts from Exodus to Deuteronomy. Who gets to rest, and why?
Jars of Clay | 2 Corinthians 4 | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
The Apostle Paul reminds his friends in the church of Corinth in 2 Corinthians 4, that we hold this treasure of God's grace in jars of clay. No matter what our circumstances, we can persevere.
The Apostle Paul offers his friends in Corinth a description of God's love that offers hope for reconciliation to a divided group. This most excellent way found in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 is what our world needs today.
view commentary at https://cartoonistbible.com/visuals/1-corinthians-131-8-what-is-love/
A Cartoonist's Guide to Holy Week in the Four GospelsSteve Thomason
This presentation contains a graphic novel style illustration of the story of Holy Week from all four Gospels--Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Visit cartoonistbible.com/holyweek to explore these amazing stories.
This presentation walks through Mark 1:1-20 and highlights Jesus' message of the Kingdom of God. What does it mean to "repent and believe the Good News?"
What is the Bible and why does it matter? This presentation offers a visual introduction to the Bible as a bookshelf, a shared story, a window to Jesus, and meditation literature. Walk through the books, timeline, and maps of the Bible.
This presentation is designed to help high school students prepare for the inevitable moment of deconstruction that will happen in their lives and various ways that people process the experience.
This image was inspired by a lecture given by Dr. Aaron Simmons, a professor of Philosophy at Furnam University, at Theology Beer Camp on October 21, 2023. He was talking about Ethics after Deconstruction, drawing from Kierkegaard and existentialist philosophy.
The End of Theological Education Presentation.pptxSteve Thomason
My visual book review of The End of Theological Education by Ted Smith. This was presented to the faculty of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN on October 25, 2023.
A Cartoonist's Guide to Acts is a full-color graphic novel and image pack telling the story of how Jesus' first disciples took the good news across cultural barriers. Use these images to enhance your preaching and teaching by engaging your audience in a fresh way.
Jesus Feeds 4,000 | A Cartoonist's Guide to Matthew 15:1-16:12Steve Thomason
Matthew 15:1-16:12 tells the story of Jesus in Genessarat where he speaks with the Syro-Phoenician woman, feeds 4,000+ people with seven loaves and some fish, and is confronted by the religious leaders.
This PowerPoint presentation walks through the Cartoonist's Guide to Matthew Graphic Novel panel-by-panel. You might use some of these images to illustrate a sermon, teach a class, or to help you study.
Does the American Dream of independence reflect Jesus' dream of the Kingdom of God? In this post we reflect on dependence, independence, and interdependence. read post at https://www.stevethomason.net/2023/06/28/a-declaration-of-interdependence-reflections-on-independence-day/
The Trinity: A Cartoonist's Guide to the Triune GodSteve Thomason
Let's face it. Talking about God is difficult. How can finite human beings comprehend the infinite, ultimate reality. One of the ways that Christians have attempted to describe the nature of God is with the language of trinity. God is three in one. This PowerPoint offers some visuals to help you study and teach on the Trinity. Enjoy!
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:1-14Steve Thomason
The Book of Acts begins where the Gospel of Luke ends. Jesus is on a mountain with his disciples. He tells them that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them and they will be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
The Day of Pentecost | A Visual Guide to Acts 2:1-13Steve Thomason
The Holy Spirit swept into the lives of Jesus' disciples in a dramatic way on the Jewish Festival of Pentecost. These slides will help you tell the story.
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptxMartaLoveguard
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?Joe Muraguri
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptxBharat Technology
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
HANUMAN STORIES: TIMELESS TEACHINGS FOR TODAY’S WORLDLearnyoga
Hanuman Stories: Timeless Teachings for Today’s World" delves into the inspiring tales of Hanuman, highlighting lessons of devotion, strength, and selfless service that resonate in modern life. These stories illustrate how Hanuman's unwavering faith and courage can guide us through challenges and foster resilience. Through these timeless narratives, readers can find profound wisdom to apply in their daily lives.
13. Why is This So Important?
Make Scripture Center of
Worship and Daily Life
Do Scripture in
COMMUNITY
WAIT
On God’s PROMISE
Know Scripture. Know Jesus.
No Scripture. No Jesus.
On Thanksgiving, my wife, my parents, and I watched the classic You’ve Got Mail with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. It was so funny to watch them log on to AOL with dial up and sit anxiously awaiting the connection, so they could hear those words “You’ve got mail.”
Now, if a site doesn’t load in less than one second on our phone, we’re beating on it and thinking we should upgrade to the latest model.
Today we begin the season of Advent.
This is a season that is all about waiting. It is a time when we remember the nation of Israel as they suffered under the hand of oppressive Empires and waited for the day when a Messiah would come.
What are you waiting for?
Some are waiting for the baby to arrive.
Some are waiting for the test results to come back.
Some are waiting for the day when the kids clean up their rooms without being asked.
During the Season of Advent we need to learn to wait upon the Word of God.
King Josiah was the King of Judah. He found a copy of the scripture, read it, was convicted of how far the country had strayed from God’s path, cleaned up their act, and put the scripture at the center of their lives.
We should cultivate God’s promise by using the spiritual practices of Bible Study and Prayer on a regular basis in our lives. This is a way that we can wait on the Lord through reading, prayer, and meditation.
Amen. There it is.
My challenge to you is to meditate on scripture regularly, and, at the end, I’ll give you a practical way to do that.
So, if you want to tune out now, you can.
However, allow me to complexify this topic a little. First, let’s look at the story itself, then we will circle back to the practical challenge to bible study and prayer.
Previously on the Narrative Lectionary.
This is the story of Abraham’s family. God made a promise that God would bless Abraham and through the nation that his family would become, all nations would be blessed.
Moses gave the people the Law. This was the key of their calling. At the end of Deuteronomy he said, I set before you today Life and Death. IF you obey God’s law, then you will have life. CHOOSE LIFE.
The rest of the story has been Israel struggling with life and death, and usually choosing death.
Remember, at the beginning of November we were in the book of 1 Kings and saw how the nation was split in two. Solomon built the temple by taxing the people heavily.
[ADVANCE] Then his son Rehoboam chose to tax the people even more and it caused a rebellion.
Now we move to 2 Kings and see what happens when the nation chooses to disobey God.
If you look at this messy chart, you’ll see that all the kings of Israel and Judah are listed. The “bad” ones are in red and the “good” ones are in green. The Kingdom of Israel had all bad kings. Every single one of them led the people to worship foreign gods and they abused the weak and the poor.
[ADVANCE]Remember, when Jeroboam led the people to rebel against Rehoboam and form the northern Kingdom of Israel, he lied to the people and established two idols. He said, “See, here are the gods that led you out of Egypt.”
Eventually the Empire of Assyria crushed Israel. They were cruelly massacred and the survivors were intermarried with other nations and the bloodline of Israel was destroyed forever.
Judah, on the other hand, had a mixture of good kings and bad kings. Some kings tried to lead the people to obey God’s Law and others got in bed with foreign gods.
[ADVANCE] Last week we heard from the prophet Isaiah. What we didn’t mention was that he said those words during the reign of King Hezekiah. He tried to lead Judah to follow God. He prayed that God would protect them from Assyria and they were shielded from the attack.
Then one of the greatest ironies of Israel’s history happens. Hezekiah’s son took over. His name was Manasseh and he was the worst and most wicked King Judah ever had. His story is in 2 Kings 21.
He worshipped foreign gods inside the temple and cruelly abused the people. He was a wicked man.
Then Manasseh died and his son Amon took over. Amon was bad as well, so his servants assassinated him.
His son Josiah became king when he was 8 years old.
That’s where today’s story begins.
When Josiah was 26 years old he decided to fix up the temple. Apparently it had started to fall apart, so he invested a bunch of money into its repair. When the workers were rifling through the storage rooms they came across a scroll that contained the Law of Moses.
It is unclear exactly which scroll they found, but most scholars believe it was the book of Deuteronomy. When Josiah heard the words of Moses he was convicted. He realized that his grandfather, Manasseh, had broken just about every law in the book and the nation was in great danger.
So, Josiah launched a great reformation that consisted of two parts.
[ADVANCE] First, he purged the land of all the idol worship.
[ADVANCE] Second, he reestablished the scripture, the Law of Moses, as the central guidelines for how to be the people of God.
Josiah’s reform bought Judah some time. They were not destroyed during his lifetime. But, when he died, the people slipped right back into the ways of Manasseh, and Babylon crushed them.
Here’s what I think. Here's why it is important to put the study of God's Word at the center.
[ADVANCE] First, it is absolutely vital that we put scripture at the center of our daily lives. We must continually preach it in worship, and we should spend time each day in scripture reading, prayer, and meditation.
[ADVANCE] Why? Because, without scripture we would not know Jesus, and Jesus is the key to everything.
[ADVANCE] Second, we need to do this, not just alone, but in community. The fact that people disagree over scripture is part of the beauty of this thing called being human. We must continually learn how to lovingly debate and discuss the scripture. And in the process of the discussion, we will actually hear the Word of God. That is why we must continually have small group Bible studies and Adult Formation opportunities on a regular basis.
[ADVANCE] Third, we must remember that we are waiting. Just like Josiah, no amount of reform, or cleaning up our act in our own power is going to save the world. The only thing that saves the world is the grace of God through Jesus. As Christians, we long for the day when Jesus returns and makes all things new. The promise of God is already, but not yet.
This is the wait of winter.
I want to leave you with a practical note. If you do not have a regular practice of Bible study, you should know that we provide a daily reading schedule on our website each week. Go to graceandover.org, look under the resources tab, and click on Narrative Lectionary Devotions.
Each week I provide a quick overview of the readings and a link to the daily readings.
No matter what plan you follow, I encourage you to read scripture regularly, talk to God about it, and discuss it with people.
And together, we will wait on the Word of God.