Chapel sermon - can I get someone to check this out for me?

ICTHUS · 07-23-2003, 07:14 AM

Hey guys,

I've written a sermom for a school chapel service, and I was hoping I could get some of the sharper theologians on this board to check it out for me...

See attached word document. The sermon is on the topic of Luke 9:18-23 - entitled "Who Do You Say That I Am?"

God bless,
Ryan

p.s. my school is in the Anglican/Episcopalian tradition, in case anyone was wondering.

ICTHUS · 07-25-2003, 07:20 PM

Perhaps this is in the wrong forum.

If it is, could someone please move it to a forum where it will get read?

God bless,
Ryan

p.s. I'm actually looking for any Episcopalians on this board, (such as Ted Logan) to look at this. Do you have any experience in an Anglican tradition school?

**Ted Logan** · 07-26-2003, 01:18 AM

Okay, I've taken a look at your chapel sermon and I have a few things to say.

I like it. It's very well done. I would say that your message is strong, it's the Gospel, plain-and-simple, and you've got your ducks in a row. I like the way you bring the story into perspective with history as well as modern situations.

If there is anything I might say, it's that you might offend the leadership of the school. Episcopal schools (at least here in Texas) often do not want to offend those of different sensibilities, so your challenge of repentance and references to eternity and the exclusivity of the Christian faith may or may not be appreciated by those in charge. That said, which would be better: To give one sermon where you preach the Truth and get the message across with urgency, or a thousand lukewarm sermons that tickle the ears? I think that you should consider this an opportunity to make a difference, and don't worry so much about whether it's too harsh. It seems to me that Christians are the only ones who are no longer allowed to be harsh in their delivery of their message, and that's just stupid. Go for it. You've got a captive audience for a few minutes-- preach.

As for sound theology, I see nothing amiss in the document. I would word some things differently, but that just comes from being me. Someone else might have pointers, but for the most part, I'm inclined to say, Preach your way, faithfully seeking God's guidance. If you preached my way, you wouldn't do nearly as well, just like I'd suck at preaching your way.

And don't forget, although you probably won't make any students mad, if you do, that's fine. The Gospel divides.

ChrisHarbison · 07-26-2003, 01:29 AM

Bottom of the 2nd page:

Quote:

Your acceptance or rejection of Him could have eternal consequences.

Not "could", but definetly do.

It's a good basic presentation of the saving Gospel of Christ. Maybe it's because I'm so tired, but I'm having a hard time seeing the coherence between the Australian Prime Minister and Jesus.

All in all, I agree with Ted, if you offend someone for being "too narrow or close-minded" who cares

.

**Ted Logan** · 07-26-2003, 01:33 AM

I'm with you, Chris. I think ICTHUS was just trying to parallel Jesus with someone else who was "a famous leader." Am I right?

ICTHUS · 07-26-2003, 02:56 AM

Quote:

I'm with you, Chris. I think ICTHUS was just trying to parallel Jesus with someone else who was "a famous leader." Am I right?

Yep. Cuz heaps of people in Australia have HUGELY different opinions of John Howard.

You either love him, or you hate him..

God bless,
Ryan