Catholic Illustrations
Sacramental life, apostolic tradition, Magisterium.
Key question: “How does this connect to sacramental grace and Church teaching?”
14907 illustrations found
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 15:35-49
We read 1 Corinthians 15:35-49 as a profound exposition of the resurrection body in the context of God’s sovereign redemptive plan. Paul contrasts the perishable, dishonorable, and weak natural body with the imperishable, glorious, and powerful spiritual body, emphasizing the transformation wrought
Money Talks: What Is Your Treasure Saying? - Story
The sermon illustration emphasizes the importance of viewing money through the lens of stewardship rather than ownership, highlighting that our relationship with money reflects our beliefs about God's character and provision. It teaches that tithing is a way to break the hold of money over our lives and to affirm God's ownership of all resources, ultimately leading to heart transformation and spiritual growth.
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Galatians 2:15-21
In Galatians 2:15-21, we read this passage as a profound exposition of the doctrine of justification by faith alone, apart from works of the law. This text underscores the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant in Christ, where the righteousness we possess is not our own but is imputed
Thinking About Mercy - Church Context
Imagine a small parish community gathered in the warmth of their church hall, the gentle hum of conversation enveloping them like a soft blanket. Here, among familiar faces, they share stories—joys and sorrows woven together in the fabric of their...
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 12:14-21
In Romans 12:14-21, we read this passage as an exhortation to live out the implications of the gospel within the covenant community and the world. This section calls us to embody the ethic of the kingdom that has been inaugurated through Christ's redemptive work. As those who have been recipients of
Lessons from Faithfulness - Story
Maria lived in a small town, a place where dreams often felt like whispers drowned out by the noise of everyday life. She worked tirelessly as a nurse, giving her all to care for others, yet each day was a...
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Ephesians 2:11-22
We read Ephesians 2:11-22 through the lens of God's sovereign grace, seeing it as a profound exposition of the covenant of grace that unites Jew and Gentile in Christ. This passage speaks to the elimination of the dividing wall of hostility and the creation of one new humanity in Christ, emphasizing
The Immigrant's Homecoming - Contemporary Example
The illustration of Maria's longing for her hometown serves as a metaphor for the Christian experience of yearning for heavenly citizenship. It highlights the restlessness believers feel in this world, pointing to their true destination of perfect communion with God and eternal belonging.
Spiritual Insight: Kindness - Prayer
As we gather in the embrace of Psalm 23, we are reminded of the profound ways God cares for us, guiding us like a shepherd through both verdant pastures and shadowed valleys. “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing...
The Example of Kindness - Story
In a small village, there lived a woman named Maria, known for her beautiful garden. Every morning, she tended to her flowers with a gentle touch, nurturing them with kindness and patience. Yet, one spring, a fierce storm swept through...
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Luke 15:11-32
We read the parable of the Prodigal Son as a profound illustration of the covenant of grace, highlighting God's sovereign and compassionate initiative in restoring sinners. The father’s reception of the prodigal son is a vivid picture of God’s effectual calling and unconditional election, emphasizin
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Titus 3:3-8
We read Titus 3:3-8 as a profound exposition of the gospel of sovereign grace within the covenant of grace. This passage highlights the stark contrast between our total depravity and the transformative power of God's mercy, which is not based on our works but on His sovereign choice. In the unfoldin
Applying Compassion - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Jesus' profound declaration, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (*John 14:6*), we are reminded of the extraordinary compassion embedded within His promise. This passage reveals that the path to true wholeness and healing...
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Acts 2:42-47
We read Acts 2:42-47 as a vivid picture of the early church living out the reality of the New Covenant in Christ. This passage shows the transformative power of sovereign grace, as the Holy Spirit gathers and sanctifies a people devoted to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, a
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 8:19-22
We read Romans 8:19-22 through the lens of God's sovereign plan of redemption, seeing creation's longing for redemption as intertwined with the hope of the covenant community. This passage speaks to the cosmic scope of God’s redemptive work in Christ, emphasizing that the groaning of creation will c
When Patience - Contemporary Example
There’s a small community garden near my home where neighbors gather to tend to their plants, share advice, and cultivate friendships. Last spring, a newcomer named Maria joined us. She was eager but inexperienced, throwing herself into her work with...
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Ephesians 6:10-18
We read Ephesians 6:10-18 through the lens of covenant theology, understanding this passage as an exhortation to stand firm in the strength of the Lord because of our union with Christ. The imagery of the armor of God is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where God himself is depicted as a warrior.
The Good Shepherd: Psalm 23 in a Dangerous World - Contemporary Example
The sermon illustration emphasizes the profound meaning behind Psalm 23, highlighting God's active and protective care as the shepherd. It illustrates the shift from a general acknowledgment of God's presence to a personal relationship in times of suffering, ultimately pointing to Christ as the fulfillment of the shepherd role through His sacrificial love.
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Matthew 5:3-12 (The Beatitudes)
We read this passage as an expression of the kingdom ethic established by Christ, who fulfills the covenant of grace. The Beatitudes reveal the characteristics of those who are recipients of sovereign grace, highlighting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the elect. This pass
The Good Shepherd: Psalm 23 in a Dangerous World - Story
The sermon illustration emphasizes the profound meaning of Psalm 23, highlighting God's active and protective care as a shepherd. It illustrates the transition from a general acknowledgment of God's sovereignty to a personal assurance of His presence in times of suffering. Ultimately, it connects the imagery of the shepherd to Christ, who embodies perfect protection and sacrificial love for His followers.
Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Genesis 49:1-27
We read Genesis 49:1-27 as a pivotal moment in redemptive history where Jacob, under the guidance of divine revelation, pronounces blessings and prophecies over his sons, which are ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This passage is a covenantal testament, reflecting God's sovereign choice and provident
Digital Disciples: Living Faith Online - Story
The sermon illustration emphasizes the importance of Christian witness in the age of social media, urging believers to reflect the teachings of Ephesians 4:29 in their online interactions. It highlights the need for digital wisdom, encouraging individuals to ensure their posts build others up and glorify God, rather than drawing attention to themselves.
Lessons from Love - Contemporary Example
There’s a story that comes from a small community where a woman named Maria ran a local bakery. Each morning, long before the sun peeked over the horizon, Maria would pour her heart into kneading the dough, crafting each loaf...
Genesis 4:9-16 - Reformed/Calvinist Perspective
In the Reformed tradition, Genesis 4:9-16 illustrates the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of human history, particularly in the judgment and mercy exhibited towards Cain. This passage highlights the consequences of sin but also emphasizes God's covenant faithfulness, showing that even in punishment, there is an opportunity for divine grace and protection.