Pentecostal/Charismatic Illustrations
Spirit baptism, spiritual gifts, experiential faith.
Key question: “How does the Holy Spirit empower believers through this text?”
14789 illustrations found
The Meaning of Wisdom - Application
Faith is more than a mere belief; it’s the bedrock upon which our understanding of wisdom stands. Hebrews 11:1 declares, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This verse invites us into...
Genesis 46:8-27 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 46:8-27 highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His people through the lineage of Jacob. It underscores the reality of being simultaneously justified and sinful (simul justus et peccator), as we see God working through a flawed family to fulfill His redemptive plan, reminding us that our identity in Christ is rooted in grace despite our imperfections.
The Example of Salvation - Contemporary Example
A few months ago, I attended a local community festival, where a humble artist set up a small booth. Intrigued by her vibrant paintings, I approached and began to chat. She shared that her work was inspired by her journey...
Practical Self-control - Contemporary Example
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7 that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” This verse is a beautiful promise that encourages us to embrace the gifts of the...
Practical Patience - Illustration
Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “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 a future.” This promise is a beautiful tapestry woven...
Genesis 4:1-8 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 4:1-8 illustrates the reality of sin and its destructive consequences, highlighting the tension of being simul justus et peccator (simultaneously saint and sinner). Cain’s rejection of God's favor and his subsequent violence towards Abel reveal the depth of human sinfulness, while also pointing to God's persistent call to repentance and grace amidst our failures.
Lessons from Peace - Biblical Analogy
A biblical analogy that illustrates the same principle Just as a lighthouse guiding ships, peace teaches us that patience leads to growth.
Practical Salvation - Contemporary Example
Imagine a young mother, Sarah, who juggles a demanding job while caring for her two children, one of whom struggles with a chronic illness. Each day, she wakes up not knowing how she'll manage the challenges ahead—both physical and emotional....
Spiritual Insight: Redemption - Story
Imagine a weary traveler, burdened with a heavy pack. Each step feels like a struggle, as the weight of past mistakes and regrets pulls them down. This traveler is searching for a place of rest, a glimpse of hope amidst...
Genesis 35:16-29 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 35:16-29 highlights the human experience of suffering, loss, and the reality of death, all while affirming God's ongoing presence and faithfulness. This passage illustrates the tension of being both justified and sinful (simul justus et peccator), where God's covenant promises endure despite human failings and mortality.
The Power of Understanding - Story
In a small village nestled between rolling hills and whispering forests, there lived a wise, elderly woman named Abuela Elena. Known for her deep faith, she had a gift for understanding the gentle nudges of the Holy Spirit. One day,...
Burning Bushes and Bandwidth: Encountering God in the Digital Age
Moses, tending his father-in-law Jethro
Living Out Joy - Teaching Material
Imagine a young woman named Claire, filled with dreams but overwhelmed by uncertainty. Recently, she felt the tug of God on her heart to serve in a community outreach program. Yet, as she signed up, self-doubt crept in. “What if...
Genesis 38:1-30 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 38 serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and grace amidst human sinfulness. The narrative reveals how God can bring about His purposes even through flawed individuals, demonstrating that His grace does not depend on our righteousness, embodying the principle of 'simul justus et peccator'—simultaneously justified and sinner.
Real-World Righteousness - Illustration
As we reflect on 2 Timothy 1:7, which reminds us that "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind," we find profound truth about our daily walk in righteousness. Picture a...
When Compassion - Contemporary Example
A contemporary example of the same concept The example of David shows that compassion is not about works but about faith.
Applying Wisdom - Contemporary Example
As we gather today, let’s reflect on the profound words of Jesus in John 14:6, where He declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” In this declaration, we find the blueprint for true wisdom. It’s not merely...
Practical Gentleness - Illustration
Imagine a bustling coffee shop early on a Saturday morning. The barista, juggling multiple orders, accidentally spills hot coffee over a frazzled customer. In that moment, the air thickens with tension. But instead of reacting in anger, the barista approaches...
The Power of Goodness - Contemporary Example
A contemporary example of this content Just as a anchor holding steady, goodness teaches us that obedience leads to victory.
Practical Redemption - Illustration
Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has a plan for our lives—a plan filled with hope and a future. Yet, it's easy to lose sight of that promise, especially when life throws challenges our way. Picture a young woman named...
A Story of Love - Story
Rachel was a young woman who had once felt lost in her own life, wandering through a fog of uncertainty. She carried a heaviness in her heart, burdened by the weight of expectations and self-doubt, unsure of her purpose. But...
Genesis 4:17-26 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 4:17-26 highlights the tension of humanity's sinful nature and God's ongoing mercy. The narrative depicts Cain's legacy of violence and the emergence of civilization, reminding us that even in sin, God's providence continues to unfold, ultimately leading to redemption through Christ.
Putting Into Practice: Redemption - Teaching Material
Trusting in God is not merely about believing in His existence; it’s about actively engaging our faith in the everyday decisions we face. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your...
Genesis 21:8-21 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 21:8-21 highlights God's providence and mercy amidst human failure and strife. The narrative of Hagar and Ishmael illustrates the tension between Law and Gospel, showing how God's grace extends even to those marginalized and cast out, affirming that all are included in His salvation plan despite their circumstances.