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 Doctrine of Joy - Church Context
As we gather today, let us reflect on Jeremiah 29:11, a beloved promise that declares, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you...
Genesis 3:1-7 - Lutheran Perspective
In Lutheran tradition, Genesis 3:1-7 highlights the simultaneous reality of sin and grace, as it reveals humanity's fall into sin while simultaneously setting the stage for God's redemptive plan through Christ. The passage exemplifies the Law's role in exposing sin, as Adam and Eve's disobedience leads to a broken relationship with God, yet it foreshadows the Gospel promise of restoration.
The Doctrine of Humility - Church Context
Humility is a cornerstone of our faith, particularly in the life of the church. In Ephesians 2:8-9, we are reminded that our salvation is a gift from God, not the result of our works. This profound truth reveals the depth...
Genesis 42:1-25 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 42:1-25 illustrates the complexity of human sinfulness and the sovereign work of God in bringing about repentance. The brothers' encounter with Joseph serves as a reminder of the Law’s role in revealing sin, while also pointing to the Gospel's promise of forgiveness and restoration, as seen in Joseph's eventual reconciliation.
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...
The Power of Gentleness - Contemporary Example
There was a young woman named Sarah who found herself at a crossroads in life. Just out of college, she felt lost and overwhelmed, unsure of her purpose. One afternoon, as she sat in a small coffee shop, the weight...
When Life Meets Real Life
In our modern world, life often feels like a turbulent sea, filled with both daunting waves and the promise of a distant shore. As people of faith, we find ourselves navigating these waters, much like the biblical figures who faced...
Genesis 20:1-18 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 20:1-18 underscores God's unwavering grace in the face of human sin. Despite Abraham's fear and deceit, God remains faithful to His promises, showcasing His mercy and the reality of being simultaneously just and sinner (simul justus et peccator). This passage reminds us that our failings cannot thwart God's purposes.
Theological Perspective: Wisdom - Commentary
As we turn our hearts to Romans 12:2, Paul challenges us with the profound call to not conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This is no small task; it...
Genesis 25:1-11 - Lutheran Perspective
In Genesis 25:1-11, we witness God’s continued faithfulness to His covenant, despite human frailty and the passage of time. This passage underscores the Lutheran belief in God’s grace, as He works through imperfect vessels, reminding us that we are simultaneously just and sinner (simul justus et peccator), and that our standing before God is based on His promises rather than our performance.
Reflecting on Wisdom - Church Context
As we delve into Psalm 23, we encounter a profound declaration of God’s intimate guidance in our lives. "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." Here, the imagery of the shepherd evokes a deep sense of care and...
Genesis 2:18-25 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 2:18-25 is understood as a profound illustration of God’s intention for human relationships, emphasizing the goodness of creation and the necessity of community. The text reveals God's creative purpose in forming humanity not only in His image but also in relationship, pointing to the essential nature of companionship and mutual support, all while highlighting the reality of sin and brokenness in human relationships.
Genesis 26:7-11 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 26:7-11 highlights the tension between human sinfulness and God's providential care. The response of Isaac to the fear of being harmed reflects our own struggles with doubt and insecurity. Yet, through God's grace, we are reminded that our identity as 'simul justus et peccator' allows us to trust in God's promises despite our failings.
Genesis 25:19-26 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 25:19-26 reveals the complexity of God's grace and providence in the midst of human struggle. The narrative of Esau and Jacob illustrates the concept of 'simul justus et peccator,' highlighting that even from birth, God’s election and promise operate amidst sin and familial conflict, demonstrating His sovereignty in the lives of His people.
The Example of Salvation - Story
There was a young woman named Sarah who grew up in the shadows of her mistakes. Every time she looked in the mirror, she saw a past riddled with poor choices and heartache. She felt as though she was carrying...
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....
Lessons from Gentleness - Contemporary Example
There was a small community garden in the heart of our city, a patch of green amid concrete and chaos. Every Saturday, neighbors gathered to tend to their plots, but one gardener stood out. Mrs. Thompson, an elderly woman with...
Genesis 31:1-21 - Lutheran Perspective
In Genesis 31:1-21, we see God's providence and protection over Jacob as he flees from Laban, illustrating the tension between human frailty and divine grace. The Lutheran tradition emphasizes that while Jacob acts out of fear and self-interest, God remains faithful to His promises, demonstrating that we are simultaneously justified and sinful (simul justus et peccator). This passage reminds us of God’s active role in guiding His people amidst their struggles and moral failures.
Theological Perspective: Love - Church Context
John 3:16 reminds us of the profound truth that “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.” This verse encapsulates the very essence of our faith and the heartbeat of our church community. Love is...
Genesis 3:20-24 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 3:20-24 is understood as a pivotal moment of both judgment and grace. The expulsion from the Garden symbolizes the seriousness of sin and the separation it brings between humanity and God, yet it also anticipates God's ultimate plan for redemption through Christ, embodying the tension of being simultaneously justified and a sinner (simul justus et peccator).
Genesis 46:28-34 - Lutheran Perspective
In Lutheran theology, Genesis 46:28-34 illustrates God's providential care and the assurance of His promises to His people. Joseph's reunion with his family serves as a foreshadowing of reconciliation and grace, emphasizing that despite human shortcomings, God remains faithful to His covenant.
Genesis 41:1-8 - Lutheran Perspective
In the Lutheran tradition, Genesis 41:1-8 highlights God's sovereignty over history and His ability to use dreams and visions to shape the future. The passage illustrates the tension between human responsibility and divine providence, emphasizing that while Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, it is ultimately God who reveals the meaning, underscoring the Law's role in revealing our need for God's grace.
Reflecting on Wisdom - Commentary
Psalm 23 opens with a profound declaration: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” This simple yet profound statement invites us into a deep relationship of trust and surrender, reflecting God’s unwavering wisdom and guidance. Imagine for a...
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...