Mainline Protestant Illustrations
Social justice, ecumenism, historical-critical scholarship.
Key question: “How does this text address contemporary social issues?”
14785 illustrations found
When Perseverance - Contemporary Example
In our neighborhood, there's a small bakery owned by a woman named Maria. Every morning, before dawn breaks, she arrives to knead the dough, her hands dusted with flour, her heart filled with hope. But this year has been particularly...
Faith and Justice - Church Context
Isaiah 40:31 invites us into 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.” This scripture paints a vivid picture of...
Applying Forgiveness - Teaching Material
Forgiveness is not merely a lofty ideal; it is a profound act of love that reflects the very heart of God. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that...
Living Out Goodness - Contemporary Example
As we reflect on Romans 8:28, where Paul assures us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him," we are drawn to the profound truth that God’s goodness is active in...
A Story of Humility - Biblical Analogy
There was once a small, humble village nestled at the foot of a great mountain. The villagers lived simple lives, working together to cultivate the land and care for one another. Every year, when the first blooms of spring appeared,...
Theological Perspective: Righteousness - Commentary
Righteousness, as articulated in Hebrews 11:1, beckons us to embrace a profound understanding of faith: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This scripture invites us into a transformative journey where our...
The Example of Patience - Story
There’s a small garden behind a humble home in our community, tended by an elderly woman named Ruth. Every spring, she plants a variety of seeds, each one a promise of what’s to come. But if you were to visit...
Applying Courage - Illustration
Consider the story of a young woman named Sarah, who worked in a bustling city hospital. Each day, she encountered patients who were facing the harrowing uncertainty of illness and the daunting journey towards recovery. One afternoon, she met an...
The Power of Perseverance - Contemporary Example
Maria was a vibrant member of our church, known for her laughter and boundless energy. But one winter, life threw her a curveball. A sudden illness left her physically weakened and emotionally exhausted. Days turned into weeks as she lay...
The Doctrine of Courage - Teaching Material
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the steadfastness to trust in God's promises even when uncertainty surrounds us. In Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord declares, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and...
Putting Into Practice: Gentleness - Illustration
Picture a small community garden, a patch of earth lovingly tended by neighbors. Each person brings their unique talents — some carefully plant seeds, others water the plants, and a few offer gentle words of encouragement when the weeds threaten...
Theological Reflection: Arminian (Wesleyan) Lens Views on Christian Unity
As we reflect on John 3:16—“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son”—we find a profound core of our faith that resonates deeply within the Arminian and Wesleyan traditions. This verse encapsulates the radical...
The Example of Self-control - Quote
This truth has been expressed by many throughout history. The example of Mark shows that self-control is not about perfection but about love. Supporting quote: "[Relevant quote that supports this pri
Applying Forgiveness - Illustration
Picture a bustling community center on a Saturday morning. Families gather for a local event, laughter and chatter fill the air, yet amid this joy, a quiet tension simmers beneath the surface. A woman named Sarah sits at a table,...
Genesis 34:1-31 - Wesleyan/Methodist Perspective
In the Wesleyan/Methodist tradition, Genesis 34 illustrates the consequences of moral failure and the necessity of social holiness. The actions of Shechem and the response from Jacob's family highlight the brokenness of humanity and the need for God's prevenient grace to guide our actions toward justice and reconciliation.
Theological Perspective: Righteousness - Teaching Material
Righteousness, as we explore in Hebrews 11:1, is deeply intertwined with faith: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This verse invites us into a profound understanding of divine purpose and spiritual...
The Meaning of Kindness - Commentary
Kindness is often viewed as a simple act – a smile, a helping hand, a kind word. Yet, when we delve into the depth of kindness, especially through the lens of *hesed*—the Hebrew word for steadfast love—we see it as...
A Story of Perseverance - Contemporary Example
In a small town, there lived a man named Samuel who had dedicated his life to running a community garden. For years, he cultivated this space, believing it would nourish not just bodies but spirits as well. Each spring, he...
Theological Perspective: Faithfulness - Commentary
As we dwell on John 14:6, where Jesus proclaims, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” we find a profound assurance in His faithfulness. In this sacred declaration, Jesus invites us into a relationship built on trust and...
Practical Redemption - Contemporary Example
Imagine a community struggling to overcome division and despair, much like the early church in the book of Acts. One particular story stands out: a woman named Sarah, a single mother who lost her job during a difficult economic downturn....
Iron Sharpens Iron: The Ministry of Christian Friendship - Story
The content emphasizes the importance of deep, transformative friendships among Christians that go beyond mere social interaction. It highlights the role of accountability and encouragement in spiritual growth, illustrating how true friends challenge each other to become more like Christ while providing strength in times of trial.
Intercessory Prayer: Arminian (Wesleyan) Lens Model for Community
Gracious God, as we gather in the warmth of this sanctuary, we come before You with hearts wide open, trusting in Your promise found in Proverbs 3:5-6, where we are reminded to “trust in You with all our hearts.” We...
Practical Hope - Contemporary Example
As we reflect on Romans 8:28, where Paul assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him,” let’s consider the profound hope we find in this promise, especially in our own lives and...
Spiritual Insight: Gentleness - Prayer
Gentleness is often seen as a quiet strength, yet it holds profound power in our lives. Think of the tender touch of a caregiver cradling a newborn, the way a gentle breeze rustles through tall grasses, or the calm assurance...