Anabaptist/Mennonite Illustrations
Radical discipleship, pacifism, believer's baptism.
Key question: “How does this call us to follow Jesus in daily life?”
14741 illustrations found
Real-World Humility - Illustration
Consider the humble act of a simple gardener tending to their plants. Each morning, they rise before the sun, kneeling in the soil, hands caked with earth. As they nurture seeds with water and care, they understand a profound truth:...
Lessons from Mercy - Story
At a small community center in our town, there’s a young woman named Sarah who often volunteers in the kitchen. Not long ago, she shared her story with us—a tale of profound transformation through mercy and grace that echoes the...
Real-World Humility - Contemporary Example
When we look at Isaiah 40:31, we see a profound promise: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and...
Genesis 44:14-34 - Progressive Perspective
In this passage, the Progressive theological tradition interprets Joseph's actions as a reflection of God's justice and mercy. The confrontation with his brothers highlights themes of reconciliation and forgiveness, emphasizing that true restoration comes through understanding and transformation rather than punishment. This narrative invites us to consider how we might embody God's love and justice in our relationships, particularly with those marginalized or oppressed.
When Hope - Contemporary Example
A few years back, I met a young woman named Sarah at a community garden. She was tending to a small plot filled with vibrant tomatoes and fragrant basil, but her eyes held a deep, hidden sorrow. As we spoke,...
The Example of Kindness - Story
Last summer, our church organized a community gardening project. It started with a simple idea: to transform an empty lot into a space where our neighbors could come together and grow fresh vegetables. Little did we know how deeply that...
The Power of Perseverance - Story
A story related to this content Just as a lighthouse guiding ships, perseverance teaches us that perseverance leads to blessing.
Genesis 43:15-34 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 43:15-34 illustrates the importance of reconciliation and inclusion within the community. The passage invites believers to recognize the humanity of others, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, and emphasizes the transformative power of hospitality and forgiveness in fostering social justice.
Genesis 3:8-13 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 3:8-13 is seen as a narrative that highlights the complexity of human relationships and the socio-political dimensions of sin and accountability. This passage calls us to recognize the interconnectedness of humanity and the ways in which we often hide from one another and from God, inviting a deeper understanding of inclusion and social justice.
Genesis 5:1-32 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 5:1-32 is viewed through the lens of the evolving human experience and the inclusivity of God's covenant. This passage, which lists genealogies, reminds us of the interconnectedness of humanity and the divine purpose that transcends individual stories, highlighting the importance of social justice and communal responsibilities in our relationship with God.
Genesis 39:7-23 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 39:7-23 is seen as a narrative highlighting themes of justice, resilience, and the importance of ethical integrity in the face of systemic oppression. Joseph's experience in Potiphar's house exemplifies the struggle against injustice and the necessity of standing firm in one's values, emphasizing that faith must be active in the pursuit of equity and justice for marginalized communities.
Genesis 46:1-7 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 46:1-7 is interpreted as a powerful narrative about family, belonging, and the divine call to seek out and embrace those who are marginalized or estranged. The passage emphasizes God's presence and assurance in times of uncertainty, encouraging an understanding of divine guidance that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of the oppressed.
Genesis 45:16-28 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 45:16-28 reveals the transformative power of reconciliation and forgiveness within the broader context of social justice. The passage emphasizes God's call for inclusion and healing amid familial and societal conflict, illustrating how divine providence can reshape human relationships and promote communal restoration.
Putting Into Practice: Wisdom - Teaching Material
As we reflect on 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we find a beautiful portrait of love that embodies wisdom and guides our relationships. Love is patient; love is kind; it does not envy or boast. This passage invites us to consider how...
Genesis 49:28-33 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive tradition, Genesis 49:28-33 is interpreted as a narrative that emphasizes the importance of inclusion and justice within the community of faith. This passage reflects the evolving understanding of familial relationships and the significance of legacy, inviting contemporary readers to consider how their own legacies impact social justice and equity in today's world.
Genesis 27:41-46 - Progressive Perspective
In this passage, the Progressive theological tradition emphasizes the complexities of family dynamics and the consequences of favoritism, particularly how these dynamics can perpetuate cycles of injustice and exclusion. The narrative invites us to reconsider our understanding of blessing and identity, recognizing that God's grace can flow through unexpected and marginalized channels.
The Example of Righteousness - Contemporary Example
On a crisp autumn morning, I found myself sharing a coffee with Maria, a woman whose journey exemplifies the profound connection between righteousness and faith. She had faced unimaginable trials—loss, betrayal, and a long battle against illness. Yet, amidst her...
Genesis 49:1-27 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 49:1-27 is interpreted as a reflection of the complexities of human relationships and the evolving nature of God's covenant with humanity. The blessings and curses pronounced by Jacob reveal not only the individual identities of the tribes but also invite us to consider how God's promise unfolds through diversity and inclusion, particularly for those marginalized in society.
Applying Faith - Contemporary Example
Consider the profound invitation in Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” This isn’t merely a call to silence; it’s a divine assurance for our turbulent lives. When we pause in stillness, we open ourselves to the...
The Example of Righteousness - Story
In a small town, there lived a man named Samuel. He was known for his unwavering faith and remarkable integrity. Samuel worked as a carpenter, spending long hours in his shop, crafting beautiful furniture that not only served a purpose...
The Power of Perseverance - Contemporary Example
A contemporary example of this content Just as a lighthouse guiding ships, perseverance teaches us that perseverance leads to blessing.
Lessons from Kindness - Contemporary Example
A contemporary example of the same concept Like a seed growing in fertile soil, kindness requires receive to see {result}.
The Meaning of Salvation - Application
As we delve into Joshua 1:9, we find a profound promise from God: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever...
Genesis 6:1-8 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 6:1-8 is seen as a reflection of humanity's moral failings and the consequences of systemic injustice. This passage invites us to consider the divine response to human violence and corruption, emphasizing a God who is deeply concerned with social justice and compassionate inclusion, rather than a vengeful deity. It challenges us to reflect on our own complicity in societal injustices and to seek transformative justice in our communities.