Mainline Protestant Illustrations
Social justice, ecumenism, historical-critical scholarship.
Key question: “How does this text address contemporary social issues?”
14785 illustrations found
Putting Into Practice: Faith - Teaching Material
When the Apostle Paul declares in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” he isn’t merely throwing out a motivational catchphrase. He speaks from a profound place of experience, having faced persecution, imprisonment, and deep...
Biblical Truth: Redemption - Application
Romans 8:28 tells us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This profound promise is not merely a platitude; it is an...
The Doctrine of Courage - Commentary
As we reflect on the profound promise of Jeremiah 29:11, we are reminded that God knows the plans He has for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future. This...
The Example of Grace - Contemporary Example
A few months ago, a friend of mine, Sarah, faced a mountain of uncertainty when her husband lost his job unexpectedly. With two children and a mortgage, the weight of fear pressed heavily upon her. Through it all, she felt...
When Perseverance - Quote
There once was a small town known for its annual marathon. Every year, runners from near and far would gather, each seeking to conquer the 26.2 miles that wound through the scenic hills. Among them was a young woman named...
The Power of Gentleness - Contemporary Example
The other day, I watched a local artist working on a mural in our community park. With each stroke of her brush, she transformed a blank wall into a vibrant tapestry of colors and scenes depicting unity and hope. I...
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...
Genesis 1:9-13 - Wesleyan/Methodist Perspective
In the Wesleyan/Methodist tradition, Genesis 1:9-13 reveals God’s sovereignty in creation and the goodness of the natural world. This passage illustrates the concept of prevenient grace, showing how God initiates the order and beauty of creation, inviting humanity into a relationship with Him and the world around them.
Thinking About Compassion - Commentary
Consider for a moment the deep well of compassion that flows from God’s heart into our lives. Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse is often quoted in moments of personal challenge,...
The Example of Forgiveness - Story
There’s a story from a small town that I often reflect on—it's about a woman named Ruth, who ran a local bakery. Ruth was beloved for her warm smile and her pies. But one day, her world turned upside down....
The Power of Joy - Contemporary Example
There’s a story I love about a woman named Clara, who lived in a small town. Clara had a gift for gardening; her backyard was a kaleidoscope of colors, filled with roses, daisies, and sunflowers that turned their faces toward...
Real-World Self-control - Illustration
Imagine waking up one morning, sunlight spilling into your room, casting warmth across the floor. As you stretch and breathe in the new day, you remember the words of Jesus from John 14:6, where He lovingly declares, “I am the...
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...
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,...
When Faithfulness - Story
In a small town, there lived an elderly gardener named Mrs. Thompson, known for her vibrant flower garden that filled the neighborhood with color and aroma. Year after year, she tended to her plants with unwavering commitment, battling pests, droughts,...
The Power of Love - Quote
Once, in a small town, a young woman named Sarah struggled with her purpose. She had always felt a deep longing for something more, yet the daily grind of life left her weary and uncertain. One cold winter evening, while...
Putting Into Practice: Gentleness - Contemporary Example
Jeremiah 29:11 offers us a profound reminder of God's intentions for our lives: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and...
When Perseverance - Story
There was a woman named Lydia, known in her community not merely for her successful purple cloth business, but for her unwavering faith and love. She faced trials like any of us—moments when doubt crept in and perseverance felt more...
Understanding Kindness - Reflection
Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches us that "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." Here, Paul offers a profound insight into the...
Real-World Self-control - Contemporary Example
Consider the moment when you’re standing in line at your favorite coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee swirling around you. You’ve had a long day, and perhaps your patience is wearing thin. You overhear a conversation, a friend...
When Faithfulness - Contemporary Example
There’s a small community garden just a few blocks from our church, tended by neighbors of all ages. Every spring, they gather together, shovels and seeds in hand, full of hope and laughter. One year, a young girl named Lily...
A Story of Compassion - Contemporary Example
On a chilly evening last winter, a small group of church members gathered to prepare meals for the homeless in our community. Among them was Sarah, a young single mother who had recently faced the loss of her job. Despite...
When Kindness Meets Real Life - Contemporary Example
In the bustling heart of our city, there’s a small café that has become a lifeline for many. It’s not just the aroma of fresh-brewed coffee that draws people in; it’s the kindness that envelops you as soon as you...
A Modern Story of Healthcare & Healing Ministry
In the bustling heart of our community lies a small clinic, a vital lifeline for those in need. Each day, its doors swing open to a diverse tapestry of patients, from the weary single mother to the elderly war veteran,...