Sermon and Worship Resources

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1. Imitate Generosity

Matthew 20:1-16

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

The climax of the parable occurs in verse 15: "Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?" The vineyard owner claims the right to pay his workers not on the basis of their merits but on the basis of his own compassion. Why should such generosity be condemned as injustice? Underlying the parable is the Old Testament conception of God as the creat...

2. Temptations of Daily People

Luke 4:1-13

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

This passage (4:1—11) is often appointed by lectionaries for the first Sunday of Lent. The presumption is that the narrative is of direct relevance for Christians as they enter a period of penitence. Ordinary Christians are unlikely to perceive it so, and with good cause. The story does not correspond with our experience; we do not hold conversations with a visible devil, nor are we whisked from p...

3. The Authority of the Church

Matt 16:13-20

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

There is general agreement that the phrase "the gates of Hades" is poetic language for the power of death (see Isa. 38:10). What is meant is that the congregation of the new covenant will persist into the age to come despite all the efforts of the powers of darkness to destroy it. "The gates of Hades" may here represent a defensive posture: death will strive to hold in its prison house all who hav...

Showing 1 to 3 of 3all results

Showing all results

1. Imitate Generosity

Matthew 20:1-16

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

2. Temptations of Daily People

Luke 4:1-13

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

3. The Authority of the Church

Matt 16:13-20

Illustration

Douglas R. A. Hare

Showing 1 to 3 of 3all results