Sermons by Rev. Billy Kluttz (Page 2)
Keep on Gnawing
In John’s gospel, Jesus tells us repeatedly he is the “bread of life,” but how exactly does that work? This Sunday, Pastor Billy will discuss the great bread chapter of John (chapter 6), Passover, manna, feeding the 5,000, and what Jesus’ invitation to carbo-loaded, full life might mean for us today.
There’s Hope for Closeted Jesus Followers
At first, Nicodemus is a secretive disciple of Jesus, but, after Jesus’ crucifixion, Nicodemus finds the courage to come out as a Jesus follower. Nicodemus’ story is good news for all of us in need of a second chance to respond to God’s calling to show up in love for others in need.
Holy Rumbling: Courage, Conflict, and Vulnerability
In our story this week, God calls Samuel and asks him to deliver harsh words of rebuke to his mentor Eli the priest. Watch Pastor Billy will reflect on how we can learn from Samuel’s example and have honest conversations ourselves that are grounded in courage and vulnerability.
Did God Really Want Abraham to Sacrifice Isaac?
Does God really ask Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac? Or is there a deeper challenge in the story of Genesis 12:1-14? Pastor Billy will preach on what we can all learn from Abraham and Isaac’s encounter with God (spoiler alert: killing your children is not what God wants).
How to React When Others are Vulnerable
When others share their secrets and fears with us we can respond with support or we can use their trust against them. Christians are called to create communities of vulnerability and care so that we can be open and honest together.
We Are Beloved, Our Enemies Are, Too.
Daniel in the lion’s den is a beloved Bible story, but what does it teach us about loving our neighbors and enemies, too? Pastor Billy talks about lions and tigers, and being the beloved community to everyone we meet, including our enemies.
God Can Use Your Half-Hearted Welcomes
Even if you can’t yet welcome others with all of your being, God can use that. That is what Naomi learns after shunning Ruth during her journey home to Bethlehem. God is pulling us all toward greater inclusion and community.
Changing the World is Like Road Construction: Summer Sermon Stories Series
Queen Vashti was brave enough to be forgotten. To follow Jesus and change the world, we have to be brave enough to be forgotten, as well.
We Have So Much in Common: Summer Stories Series
Adam’s first words to Eve are about how much they have in common. The story of humanity, however, soon turns to a focus on our differences. We need to remember Adam’s focus on our shared humanity and a shared creator. This is the first Sunday of our Summer Stories Sermon Series.
What if Jesus Was Short?
Our story isn’t clear about who is short (Jesus or Zacchaeus), but if we can imagine Jesus as short, it gives new meaning to Jesus’ work with the poor and his crucifixion (and resurrection).
- 1
- 2