We all love a good story. If a book, movie, or television programs captures our interest, the whole world seems to disappear as we get lost in the world of the story. People often think the Bible is a dry book full of rules, lists of unpronounceable names, and dull historical records. But that's untrue. The Bible also has great stories that are full of drama, intrigue, tragedy, and humor. In this 6 week series, we'll look at six different stories in the Bible. Not only will you learn why they are such great stories, but you will see how God can use them to guide your life and strengthen your faith.
You can listen to the podcasts of these sermons, they are posted each week on the podcasts page of our website.
August 1 • The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
"Love your neighbor as yourself." This is often easier said than done in a society that has become fast-paced, consumer-driven and divided. What does it mean to "love" our neighbor and how can we live that out as Christ's disciples in today's modern world?
August 8 • Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1-13)
"You can't judge a book by its cover." This statement is a reminder that what we see on something or someone's 'outside', does not necessarily reflect the quality of what's 'inside'. When the prophet Samuel is tasked by God with choosing a new king for the people of Israel, he makes some assumptions about who God wants him to choose. God has to teach Samuel that God never judges a book by its cover, and neither should he.
August 15 • The Courage of Queen Esther (Esther 4:7-15)
"Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for such a time as this?" (v. 14) The book of Esther is a story of one woman's courage to take on an impossible mission of going before the king. She must do this to save not only her family but an entire nation. Esther relies on the support of her family and her faith in God when she faces this unique challenge.
August 22 • God Whispers to Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-18)
Just as we communicate with others in many different ways, so does God. In a particularly difficult time of his life, God speaks to Elijah in a unique way. God not only wants to get Elijah's attention and shake him out of his funk, but give him guidance for the future. How does God communicate with you in times of difficulty?
August 29 • Living East of Eden (Genesis 4:1-17 and Hebrews 11:1-6)
"… (A)m I my brothers' keeper?" After the fall in the Garden of Eden, God's creative action is ongoing through his creation. Human action demonstrates faith, as actions speak concerning life, in relation to God. What offering, given to the Lord, is an acceptable one?
September 5 • Jesus' Story of the Workers in the Vineyard
(Matthew 20:1-16)
Sometimes life doesn't seem fair. Other people are blessed in ways that are seem to be beyond what they deserve. Jesus tells a story about a vineyard owner who does not act very fair when it comes to paying his workers. Jesus wants to drive home the point that God provides blessings for all people, in ways that he deems appropriate.