Wesleyan/Methodist Illustrations
Entire sanctification, social holiness, prevenient grace.
Key question: “How does this text call us toward holiness and compassion?”
14918 illustrations found
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Amos 5:21-27
In Amos 5:21-27, we read God's words through the lens of a community familiar with both oppression and deliverance. God rejects empty rituals and calls us to authentic worship that encompasses justice and righteousness. We see this as a direct challenge to any form of religiosity that ignores the cr
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: John 1:1-5
We read John 1:1-5 as a proclamation of the divine Word that has always been on the side of the oppressed. In the beginning was the Word, and this Word has been with us, empowering us through the darkest nights of slavery and segregation. The light that shines in the darkness is the presence of Jesu
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Acts 2:17-18
We read Acts 2:17-18 as a declaration that God's Spirit is poured out on all flesh, empowering those whom society has marginalized. This passage affirms the priesthood of all believers, emphasizing that God speaks through sons, daughters, young and old, irrespective of social status. In our traditio
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: John 1:14
In John 1:14, we read this as the divine declaration of God's commitment to dwell among the marginalized and the oppressed. The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us is God breaking through the barriers of heaven to stand in solidarity with us in our struggle. It affirms that God is not distant
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: John 18:1-11
We read this passage as a profound demonstration of Jesus' authority and the power of nonviolent resistance. As Judas comes with soldiers to arrest Jesus, we see the Messiah, fully aware of the impending injustice, stepping forward with divine courage. This moment is a testament to Jesus' solidarity
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Luke 6:20-21
We read this passage as a declaration of God's preferential option for the poor and oppressed. Jesus, standing among his disciples, speaks directly to those who are marginalized — the poor, the hungry, those who weep. This is not a future promise alone but a present reality: the kingdom of God is br
Genesis 16:1-16 - Black Church Perspective
In the Black Church tradition, Genesis 16:1-16 highlights God's concern for the marginalized and oppressed, exemplified through the plight of Hagar, a woman of color who experiences both abandonment and divine intervention. This passage reminds us that God sees and hears the cries of those who feel invisible in society, affirming that liberation is a fundamental aspect of God's character and mission.
Morning Meditation: Humility - Prayer
As the sun rises, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold, we are reminded of the promise in Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.”...
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Psalm 2:1-12
We read Psalm 2 as a declaration of God's ultimate authority against the oppressive systems and rulers of this world. It echoes the cries for deliverance and justice that resound through our history. We see in the nations' rebellion a reflection of the systems that have sought to dehumanize and oppr
Evening Prayer: Gentleness - Story
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the evening sky, I find peace in the gentle rhythms of life. It reminds me of the soft touch of a hand on my shoulder, a reassuring gesture...
A Story of Hope - Story
A few years ago, I met a woman named Clara at our local food pantry. Clara was in her fifties, and life had dealt her a series of harsh blows. She had lost her job, her marriage had ended, and...
When Kindness - Contemporary Example
Last spring, in the heart of our community, a young woman named Sarah decided to organize a neighborhood clean-up day. It wasn’t just about cleaning the streets; it was her way of reaching out and building connections in a world...
Lessons from Understanding - Story
There’s a small garden in my neighborhood that never fails to capture my attention. It belongs to an elderly woman named Ruth, who tenderly tends to it every day. One afternoon, I watched her inspect each plant with a gaze...
When Wisdom - Story
There was a small, quaint cafe in my hometown where the owner, Mrs. Thompson, was known not just for her delicious pies but for the way she listened. One day, a weary young woman named Sarah entered, her heart heavy...
Evening Prayer: Gentleness - Biblical Insight
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues across the sky, I find myself reflecting on Psalm 23:1-6, a tender reminder of God’s gentleness and provision. "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." In the quiet...
Theology of Compassion - Commentary
Jesus’ profound declaration in John 14:6—“I am the way, and the truth, and the life”—is not merely a statement about His identity; it is a promise that invites us into a transformative relationship. When Jesus identifies Himself as “the way,”...
Quiet Time: Grace - Biblical Insight
As we pause to reflect on God's incredible grace, let’s turn our hearts to Jeremiah 29:11, where the Lord lovingly proclaims, “For I know the plans I have for you.” What a profound assurance! Imagine for a moment a master...
Real-World Humility - Teaching Material
Consider the beauty of Isaiah 40:31, which reminds us that “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles.” This passage paints a vivid picture of divine strength, but it also subtly...
Evening Prayer: Gentleness - Prayer
As evening falls and the world begins to quiet, we find ourselves drawn into a sacred space where gentleness envelops us—much like the gentle embrace of a parent cradling a child. Psalm 23 reminds us that “The Lord is my...
Morning Meditation: Compassion - Story
As I stood in my kitchen one early morning, the sun began to spill golden light across the counter, illuminating the humble pile of dishes waiting to be washed. I was lost in thought when my eight-year-old daughter, with a...
Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Psalm 46:8-11
We read Psalm 46:8-11 as a powerful declaration of God's sovereignty and a call to witness God's deliverance for the oppressed. This passage is a reminder that the God who made desolations on the earth is the same God who takes down systems of oppression, breaks the chains of injustice, and brings p
Quiet Time: Grace - Story
Imagine a small, serene garden, tucked away behind a weathered wooden fence. Each morning, the sunlight filters through the leaves, casting gentle shadows on the earth below. This garden, cultivated over time, is not just a patch of land; it...
Living Out Goodness - Contemporary Example
Imagine a small community center in your town where people gather every Saturday morning, not for a class or a workshop, but to share a meal. This gathering is more than just food; it’s a lifeline for many. There’s Sarah,...
Evening Prayer: Gentleness - Story
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues across the sky, I find myself reflecting on the gentleness of our Shepherd. Psalm 23 reminds us, “He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” Picture a quiet...