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
Genesis 26:26-35 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 26:26-35 is interpreted as a narrative emphasizing justice, reconciliation, and the inclusion of marginalized voices. It highlights the need for communities to resolve conflicts peacefully and seek common ground, reflecting God's desire for harmony among all peoples.
Thinking About Perseverance - Commentary
As we meditate on Ephesians 2:8-9, we are reminded that our salvation is a gift from God, not a result of our own works. This divine grace is the very foundation of our perseverance. Think of a child learning to...
Genesis 28:10-22 - Progressive Perspective
In the Progressive theological tradition, Genesis 28:10-22 is seen as a transformative encounter with God that emphasizes God's presence in the midst of our journeys and struggles. This passage highlights the importance of recognizing sacred spaces wherever we find ourselves, affirming that spiritual experiences are available to everyone, regardless of their social status or background.
Lessons from Kindness - Contemporary Example
In a small town not far from here, a family faced a heartbreaking situation. Their son, a vibrant teenager full of dreams, was involved in a serious accident that left him with physical and emotional scars. As days turned into...
Living Out Goodness - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Psalm 23, we find ourselves invited into a profound truth: goodness and mercy are not just concepts, but companions on our journey of faith. Imagine a shepherd walking alongside his sheep, guiding them through the valleys...
When Patience - Story
There’s a story about a young man named David who dreamed of becoming a skilled artisan, creating beautiful furniture that would last for generations. Every day after school, he would sneak into his grandfather’s workshop, where the scent of cedar...
The Beatitudes: Kingdom Values in an Upside-Down World - Contemporary Example
The Beatitudes illustrate a radical inversion of societal values, emphasizing that those deemed cursed by the world are actually blessed in God's kingdom. This teaching highlights the importance of recognizing spiritual poverty, mourning over sin, and embracing humility as essential stages of transformation. Ultimately, living by these kingdom values may invite opposition, but it also aligns believers with God's promises and rewards.
Applying Hope - Illustration
As we dive into Galatians 5:22-23, we see the beautiful fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Each of these traits is not merely a checklist but a vivid invitation to live out...
The Way of Jesus: Peace, Simplicity, and Discipleship - Story
The Anabaptist tradition emphasizes the practical application of Jesus' teachings, particularly in the areas of non-resistance and peacemaking. By following the example of Jesus, believers engage in active discipleship that fosters community, mutual aid, and a commitment to justice. This approach highlights the importance of mature faith and the responsibility of all believers in ministry and community life.
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...
Faith and Faith - Church Context
As we reflect on 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we are reminded that love is not merely an emotion; it is the soil in which our faith and community are rooted. Paul writes, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not...
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...
Spiritual Insight: Hope - Story
As I reflect on the command of Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, I’m reminded of a story that reveals the essence of hope and community. A few months ago, I visited a small group of believers who had gathered in a...
Faith and Justice - Church Context
Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). This profound truth invites us into a life woven with both justice and hope, especially within our church community. As we reflect on the...
Living Out Faith - Illustration
Imagine a tapestry being woven by a skilled artisan. Each thread, vibrant and varied, appears chaotic and disconnected from our vantage point. Yet, as the artisan works, a beautiful pattern emerges that tells a story far greater than any single...
The Example of Hope - Contemporary Example
A few months ago, a friend of mine named Sarah faced a challenge that would test her faith like never before. She had been diagnosed with a serious illness, one that sent shockwaves through her life. As the news sank...
Living Out Humility - Teaching Material
As we reflect on 2 Timothy 1:7, which tells us that God has given us a spirit not of fear, but of power, love, and self-control, we must consider how humility weaves these elements together in our everyday lives. Humility...
The Doctrine of Courage - Teaching Material
When Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (*John 14:6*), He reveals not just a path to follow but a profound source of courage for our daily lives. This statement invites us to place our trust...
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...
Evening Prayer: Faithfulness - Story
As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, we find ourselves in a sacred space of reflection. Imagine a young mother sitting by her kitchen table, the remnants of dinner scattered around,...
Spiritual Insight: Hope - Biblical Insight
As we gather in this sacred space, let’s reflect on the words of our Savior in Matthew 28:19-20, where He commands us to go and make disciples of all nations. It is a call that resonates with both urgency and...
Living Out Understanding - Illustration
As we reflect on Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20 to go and make disciples of all nations, we recognize that this is not merely a directive but a profound invitation into a life of purpose and transformation. The call to...
Daily Reflection: Hope - Story
As we gather in this sacred space, I invite you to close your eyes for a moment and picture a seed buried deep in the earth. It lies in darkness, surrounded by soil, feeling the weight of the world above...
Reflecting on Justice - Church Context
As we gather today, Matthew 28:19-20 resonates deeply within our hearts: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” These words, spoken by...