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
Real-World Redemption - Teaching Material
John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This profound declaration of God’s *agape* (selfless love) reveals the...
The Example of Love - Contemporary Example
In a small town, there lived a woman named Ruth, known for her unwavering faith and love for her community. Ruth had faced her share of trials—loss, illness, and the weight of loneliness—but she always seemed to rise above. What...
Biblical Truth: Love - Commentary
In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul lists the fruits of the Spirit, with love (*agape*) standing as the foundational virtue. This love is not merely an emotion or fleeting sentiment; it is a resolute commitment to the well-being of others,...
Lessons from Faithfulness - Story
Mary had always been a quiet presence in our small church, a gentle soul who sat in the same pew each Sunday, knitting in her lap as the sermon unfolded. Her faith was steadfast, but her life had not been...
A Story of Grace - Story
Samantha was a single mother, burdened by the weight of her past. Years of poor choices left her feeling like a shipwreck on a shore of regret. Each morning, she would wake up to the relentless reminder of her mistakes,...
The Power of Compassion - Contemporary Example
In a bustling neighborhood, there lived a single mother named Sarah, who juggled two jobs while raising her two young children. Despite her tireless efforts, the weight of their situation often felt unbearable. One evening, after a particularly exhausting day,...
Living Out Self-control - Illustration
Picture a shepherd guiding his flock through the lush green pastures and still waters, just as David paints for us in Psalm 23. This imagery is rich with implications for our spiritual growth, especially when we consider the call to...
The Example of Justice - Contemporary Example
In a small town, a local bakery known for its delightful pastries was threatened by a large chain store wanting to buy out the property. The townspeople loved the bakery, not just for its treats but for the owner, Mrs....
Applying Goodness - Contemporary Example
As we reflect on Romans 12:2, which calls us to “not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,” we recognize that living a life of goodness and service is not merely...
When Faithfulness - Contemporary Example
Thomas sat in his small apartment, the walls covered with fading memories of a life once filled with laughter and connection. He had always been the one to help others, but the past few years had left him feeling drained...
Understanding Faith - Application
As we delve into the profound truth of John 3:16, we encounter the heart of our faith: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…” This simple yet profound verse captures the essence of...
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...
A Story of Joy - Contemporary Example
Mary had always been a planner. Every part of her life was meticulously charted out: career, family, even her spiritual journey. She believed if she followed the right steps, she could maintain control. But life, as we know, has a...
The Example of Courage - Story
A few months ago, I had the privilege of visiting a small village in the mountains, where I met a woman named Maria. Maria had lived through unimaginable hardships—loss of family members, a devastating flood that destroyed her home, and...
Selma: Fear Not in the Face of Injustice - Progressive (Isaiah 41:10)
In the heart of Selma, Alabama, on a warm March morning in 1965, hundreds gathered, their breath visible in the cool air, hearts pounding with fear and determination. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and anxiety, a...
Hidden Figures: Excellence Despite Injustice - Progressive (Colossians 3:23-24)
In the heart of NASA’s Langley Research Center during the 1960s, three remarkable women, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, forged their paths in a world that sought to confine them. Imagine Katherine, with her sharp pencil and tireless...
Morning Meditation: Environmental Justice
Dear Heavenly Father, As I sit quietly in the morning light, I am reminded of your profound wisdom in Philippians 4:6-7, where you call us to be anxious for nothing but to bring our requests before you with thanksgiving. Today,...
The Commission That Includes Justice - Progressive (Matthew 28:18-20)
In 1980, four American churchwomen were murdered in El Salvador while serving the poor. They weren't just preaching; they were feeding, healing, advocating. The military saw their work as subversive—b
The Whole World Means Everyone - Progressive (John 3:16)
When the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was drafted in 1948, Eleanor Roosevelt insisted on the word "universal"—not just rights for some nations, but for every human being. Critics said it was
Grace Against Meritocracy - Progressive (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Our culture worships meritocracy: you get what you earn, you deserve what you have. But Ephesians 2:8-9 subverts this idol: "Not by works, so that no one can boast." Grace undermines the myth that the
Fannie Lou Hamer's Tired Strength - Progressive (Philippians 4:13)
Fannie Lou Hamer was beaten, shot at, and impoverished for registering Black voters in Mississippi. When asked why she kept going, she said, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired"—and kept worki
Quiet Time: Heaven
Dear Heavenly Father, As I reflect on Heaven in my life today, I am reminded of your wisdom found in John 14:6. Help me to see this area of my life through your eyes and respond with the love and grace you have shown me. Guide me to be a light in the darkness, bringing hope and healing wherever I encounter Heaven. May my actions reflect your character and draw others closer to you. In Jesus' name, Amen. Take a moment today to consider how God might be calling you to engage with Heaven in a w...
Spiritual Insight: Healthcare & Healing Ministry
Dear Heavenly Father, As I reflect on Healthcare & Healing Ministry in my life today, I am reminded of your wisdom found in Psalm 46:1. Help me to see this area of my life through your eyes and respond with the love and grace you have shown me. Guide me to be a light in the darkness, bringing hope and healing wherever I encounter Healthcare & Healing Ministry. May my actions reflect your character and draw others closer to you. In Jesus' name, Amen. Take a moment today to consider how God mi...
Evening Prayer: Technology and Human Connection
Dear God of Love and Justice, As I reflect on Technology and Human Connection in my life today, I am reminded of your wisdom found in Luke 12:33. Help me to see this area of my life through your eyes of love and respond with the compassion and justice you have shown me. Guide me to be a light in the darkness, bringing hope and healing wherever I encounter Technology and Human Connection. May my actions reflect your character of love and work for the transformation of our world into your kingdo...