Reformed/Presbyterian Illustrations
Sovereignty of God, covenant theology, systematic doctrine.
Key question: “How does this reveal God's sovereignty and covenant faithfulness?”
14730 illustrations found
Evening Prayer: Faithfulness - Biblical Insight
As the day draws to a close, imagine standing on the shore, the sun sinking into the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Each wave gently caresses your feet, a reminder of the relentless rhythm of...
Genesis 41:1-8 - Mainline Protestant Perspective
In Genesis 41:1-8, the theological emphasis within the Mainline Protestant tradition highlights God's sovereignty and providential care in human affairs. This passage illustrates how God uses dreams to communicate His plans, emphasizing the importance of discernment and the pursuit of justice in our lives and communities.
A Story of Grace - Contemporary Example
There’s a man named David who I met in a local coffee shop. David was once a successful corporate executive, living a life many would envy. Yet beneath the surface, he felt empty, trapped in a cycle of superficial relationships...
Understanding Faithfulness - Reflection
Faithfulness, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, is not merely a passive state of being; it is an active, vibrant expression of love and commitment that transforms our relationships and our very selves. The Apostle Paul outlines a love that...
Daily Reflection: Understanding - Prayer
As we ponder the beautiful truth found in Proverbs 3:5-6, we are reminded that our understanding is not merely a product of our intellect but a journey of the heart, nurtured in prayer. Imagine a child learning to ride a...
The Doctrine of Forgiveness - Church Context
Forgiveness is not merely a transaction; it is a transformative gift that we receive and share within the community of faith. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it...
Theology of Hope - Commentary
As we turn our hearts to John 3:16, we encounter a verse that encapsulates the very essence of hope: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not...
The Meaning of Wisdom - Commentary
When we consider Galatians 5:22-23, we encounter a profound picture of the fruit of the Spirit, especially the attribute of wisdom that intertwines with love, joy, and peace. In the journey of spiritual growth, wisdom is not merely an intellectual...
When Self-control - Biblical Analogy
In the heart of a bustling city, there stood an old, beloved bakery. Its aroma wafted through the streets, drawing in passersby like a warm hug on a chilly day. Mrs. Thompson, the baker, was known not just for her...
The Power of Justice - Story
There’s a small community center in a struggling neighborhood that has become a beacon of hope. Every Tuesday evening, a group of volunteers gather to prepare meals for families who are struggling to make ends meet. One particular Tuesday, as...
The Example of Compassion - Story
In a quiet corner of a small town, there lived a woman named Clara. Known for her radiant smile and open door, she often welcomed neighbors in need—those facing illness, grief, or uncertainty. One rainy afternoon, a young mother named...
When Peace - Biblical Analogy
On a chilly autumn evening, a father and his young daughter wandered through the woods, the fading light casting long shadows among the trees. The girl, enchanted by the swirling leaves and the serene beauty of dusk, suddenly stopped, looking...
Applying Faithfulness - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Matthew 28:19-20, we find ourselves in the heart of Jesus’ Great Commission, a divine call to faithfulness that isn’t merely about evangelism, but an invitation to participate in the ongoing story of God’s redemptive work. Jesus...
Evening Prayer: Diversity & Inclusion
Dear Heavenly Father, As I pause in this sacred moment, I invite you to guide my thoughts toward the vibrant tapestry of diversity that you have woven into our lives. In Colossians 3:23, we are reminded to work heartily, as...
Theology of Hope - Reflection
As we delve into the profound truth of John 3:16, we encounter not just a promise but the very heartbeat of our faith: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.” This verse encapsulates...
The Power of Justice - Contemporary Example
An extraordinary example of justice intertwined with grace unfolded in a small community not long ago. A woman named Mary lived a quiet life, dedicating her days to caring for her aging parents. One evening, a tragic accident claimed their...
Faith and Humility - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Matthew 28:19-20, we stand at the precipice of our divine calling, carried forward by a charge that reverberates through the ages: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” It is a humbling reminder that our...
Daily Reflection: Faith - Story
As I sat on my porch one quiet evening, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with strokes of orange and purple. It brought to mind the words from 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God gave us a spirit...
Real-World Preaching
In our modern world, where the noise of distractions often drowns out the voice of truth, preaching can feel like navigating a stormy sea. Yet, just as the biblical figures faced their own tumultuous waters, we are called to engage...
Reflecting on Justice - Commentary
As we delve into Galatians 5:22-23, we encounter the fruits of the Spirit, each a reflection of God’s character and His desires for us. Among these fruits, justice and mercy stand out, intertwined in a profound dance of divine love....
Genesis 41:37-57 - Mainline Protestant Perspective
In Genesis 41:37-57, the story of Joseph's rise to power amidst famine highlights God's sovereignty and providence, emphasizing that God's plans often unfold through human actions and social structures. The passage also invites reflection on how God's justice can be realized in societal systems, calling believers to advocate for those marginalized by economic disparities.
The Doctrine of Perseverance - Church Context
Jeremiah 29:11 assures 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 resonates deeply within the life...
The Power of Humility - Contemporary Example
In a small town, there lived a humble man named Samuel. He worked as a mechanic, fixing cars day in and day out. But Samuel had a secret passion—he loved to paint. Every evening after work, he would retreat to...
Faith and Grace - Commentary
As we delve into Paul's beautiful description of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we find ourselves at the intersection of grace and faith. Paul writes that love is patient, love is kind; it does not envy, it does not boast,...