Pentecost Sunday is a major celebration of the Christian Church, occuring 50 days after Easter.
In 2017 we celebrate Pentecost on Sunday 4th June 2017
Some background and explanations
International Standard Bible - Pentecost
Bible Study tools - Pentecost
Churchyear.net-Pentecost
Wikipedia - Pentecost
Catholic Encyclopdia - Pentecost
Russian Orthodox - Pentecost
Videos
Pentecost in 2 minutes- Lutheran video
What is Pentecost - CPH
Greek Orthodox - Pentecost video
Visual Bible - day of Pentecost
Pentecost - the church is born
Pentecost - the skit guys
Pentecost - a reflective retelling of Acts 2:1-4
The Story of Pentecost - Dan Stevers
What's in the bible? - Pentecost
Pentecost kids story
Worship Resources
Textweek
Lutheran Church of Australia - Worship Planning
All age worship from Barnabas in churches
The Billabong
Calvin Worship Institute
Engage Worship ideas- Pentecost
Kids Friendly Church - New Zealand
Kir-Shalom resources
Ministry Matters - various resources
Presbyterian Church USA
The Worship Closet
United Method church resources
Reformed Worship - Pentecost 2017
Rethink worship
re: worship
Uniting Church of Australia all age worship
25 contemporary songs for Pentecost Sunday- Praise Charts
List of Pentecost contemporary songs and traditional hymns includes CCLI songs, Alltogether Songs, LCA hymnal with supplement, Lutheran Service Book, Evangelical Lutheran Worship, This far by faith hymnal and Together in Song
Bible Studies
The meaning of Pentecost - bible.org
The Pentecostal experience - bible.org
Be open to the Spirit - ELCA
A longer look at the lessons (fee based) - CPH
Answers for a study of the Epistle of Pentecost - Trinity Lutheran
Articles
Pentecost Paradoxes - Working Preacher
Preaching a present day Pentecost - Working Preacher
Let the Pentecostal fires and the winds of the Spirit transform your congregation into a force that takes action on behalf of God’s ailing creation. - Lutherans restoring creation
What is Pentecost and why does it matter - Patheos
Pentecost: the day of the Lord - Word and World
The gift of the Holy Spirit - Lutheran Witness
Visuals and images
Pintrest images, art, displays, craft, ideas
Google images
Bing images
Goodsalt
CanStock
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Wednesday, April 05, 2017
Video Sermon series: Faith Foundations
The Faith Foundations sermon series is a video sermon series covering the basics of faith based on Luther's Small Catechism.
Just as the catechism is this is an introductory sermon series to the Christian faith, so it does not cover every aspect of each topic, but instead introduces each topic encouraging people to explore more.
Entire Series
Individual sermons can be viewed by clicking on the sermon title
Sermon 1: The foundation - God's love
Sermon 2: God's values - Ten Commandments
Sermon 3: Who is God? - The Apostles Creed
Sermon 4: Talking with God - The Lord's Prayer
Sermon 5: God connects to us - Baptism
Sermon 6: God's forgiveness - Confession and Absolution
Sermon 7: Intimate Communion with God - Holy Communion
Personal reflection journals and Digging deeper bible studies are available from Pastor Richard Schwedes, email: richardschwedes@gmail.com
Just as the catechism is this is an introductory sermon series to the Christian faith, so it does not cover every aspect of each topic, but instead introduces each topic encouraging people to explore more.
Entire Series
Individual sermons can be viewed by clicking on the sermon title
Sermon 1: The foundation - God's love
Sermon 2: God's values - Ten Commandments
Sermon 3: Who is God? - The Apostles Creed
Sermon 4: Talking with God - The Lord's Prayer
Sermon 5: God connects to us - Baptism
Sermon 6: God's forgiveness - Confession and Absolution
Sermon 7: Intimate Communion with God - Holy Communion
Personal reflection journals and Digging deeper bible studies are available from Pastor Richard Schwedes, email: richardschwedes@gmail.com
Tuesday, April 04, 2017
Book: Frederick the Wise
Behind every well known person there are supporters and backers, and the same was true for Martin Luther. Luther had a number of important backers that supported him as he carried out his God given calling. One of these was Frederick the Wise.
The biographical book Frederick the Wise, unlocks German research to make available in English, for the first time, a full-length story of Frederick III of Saxony. The fascinating biographical journey reveals why this noteworthy elector risked his realm of Saxony to protect the fiery monk Martin Luther and the developing reforms of the Church. As one of the most powerful territorial princes of the Holy Roman Empire of his time, Frederick's "humanity and integrity were rare for someone of his elite status", notes Dr. Paul M. Bacon. "Elector Frederick the Wise of Saxony was much more than simply Martin Luther's noble protector."
A valuable resource for students of German history and the Reformation period.
Features:
What others are saying:
“To his family, friends, peers, and subjects, Elector Frederick the Wise of Saxony was much more than simply Martin Luther’s noble protector. Dr. Wellman’s thoroughly researched and engaging biography paints a vivid image of the Saxon elector. It is sure to become a valuable resource for students of German history and the Reformation period. Interested readers will be introduced to a Christian prince whose humanity and integrity were rare for someone of his elite status within the German empire. They will also encounter political intrigue and scandalous behavior. Praiseworthy, yet not without his flaws, Frederick the Wise steps out from the pages as an exceptional and noteworthy man of his time.”—Dr. Paul M. Bacon, Adjunct Professor of Art History at Dominican University, River Forest, IL
“Sam Wellman’s telling of the story of the public and personal life of Luther’s celebrated protector, Frederick the Wise, is a welcome addition to Reformation scholarship as we approach 2017. His careful research and well-crafted prose provide readers with insights into the risky yet resolute Christian prince who defended Luther even as he received the consolation of evangelical pastoral care from the Reformer. Aspects of the relationship between these two men often only alluded to in standard Luther biographies are developed with precision by Wellman. In this book we learn much about Frederick but a lot about Luther as well.” —Rev. John T. Pless, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN
“In a biography with the character development, twists and turns, and absorbing storyline of a novel, Sam Wellman recreates the life and times of the powerful and resourceful ruler who made the Reformation possible. Duke Frederick emerges as the adult in the room of squabbling princes and an inept emperor. A man of peace, a vigorous patron of the arts and education, and a skillful player in the byzantine mazes of late medieval politics, Frederick was also a man of moral and theological contradictions. But Frederick was a shrewd and stalwart defender of Martin Luther, who was not above criticizing his protector. This book brings the historical context of the Reformation to life.” —Dr. Gene Edward Veith, Professor of Literature at Patrick Henry College
“Frederick the Wise typically plays a supporting role in histories of the Lutheran Reformation—important, but in the wings. Here, he rightfully occupies center stage. Wellman’s quick-moving treatment of Frederick’s life is a delight to read and fills an important gap in English-language Reformation resources.” —Rev. Dr. Lawrence R. Rast Jr., President of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN
“Sam Wellman has written a thorough biography of one of the most significant princes in late medieval Germany. While many recognize Frederick’s important role in the early part of the Lutheran Reformation, Wellman’s biography reveals Frederick’s significance as an elector in the Holy Roman Empire of the German nation. This work also demonstrates Frederick’s political sophistication as someone connected to the most powerful leaders of his own time. Simply put, if Luther’s Reformation had never occurred, scholars would still find Frederick’s life to be a compelling object of scholarship. However, the Lutheran Reformation did take place, and Wellman’s biography explains the political and social context of that pivotal event. Frederick’s defense and support of Martin Luther in the early 1520s ensured that the Reformation did succeed as a social and political movement.” —Dr. Matthew Phillips, Associate Professor of History at Concordia University, Nebraska
The biographical book Frederick the Wise, unlocks German research to make available in English, for the first time, a full-length story of Frederick III of Saxony. The fascinating biographical journey reveals why this noteworthy elector risked his realm of Saxony to protect the fiery monk Martin Luther and the developing reforms of the Church. As one of the most powerful territorial princes of the Holy Roman Empire of his time, Frederick's "humanity and integrity were rare for someone of his elite status", notes Dr. Paul M. Bacon. "Elector Frederick the Wise of Saxony was much more than simply Martin Luther's noble protector."
A valuable resource for students of German history and the Reformation period.
Features:
- Discusses how Frederick dominated other princes of the Holy Roman Empire for nearly 40 years
- Tells why Frederick’s only “wife”—but not their children—had to be kept “secret”
- Chronology of events relevant to Frederick the Wise
- Index of persons and places
What others are saying:
“To his family, friends, peers, and subjects, Elector Frederick the Wise of Saxony was much more than simply Martin Luther’s noble protector. Dr. Wellman’s thoroughly researched and engaging biography paints a vivid image of the Saxon elector. It is sure to become a valuable resource for students of German history and the Reformation period. Interested readers will be introduced to a Christian prince whose humanity and integrity were rare for someone of his elite status within the German empire. They will also encounter political intrigue and scandalous behavior. Praiseworthy, yet not without his flaws, Frederick the Wise steps out from the pages as an exceptional and noteworthy man of his time.”—Dr. Paul M. Bacon, Adjunct Professor of Art History at Dominican University, River Forest, IL
“Sam Wellman’s telling of the story of the public and personal life of Luther’s celebrated protector, Frederick the Wise, is a welcome addition to Reformation scholarship as we approach 2017. His careful research and well-crafted prose provide readers with insights into the risky yet resolute Christian prince who defended Luther even as he received the consolation of evangelical pastoral care from the Reformer. Aspects of the relationship between these two men often only alluded to in standard Luther biographies are developed with precision by Wellman. In this book we learn much about Frederick but a lot about Luther as well.” —Rev. John T. Pless, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN
“In a biography with the character development, twists and turns, and absorbing storyline of a novel, Sam Wellman recreates the life and times of the powerful and resourceful ruler who made the Reformation possible. Duke Frederick emerges as the adult in the room of squabbling princes and an inept emperor. A man of peace, a vigorous patron of the arts and education, and a skillful player in the byzantine mazes of late medieval politics, Frederick was also a man of moral and theological contradictions. But Frederick was a shrewd and stalwart defender of Martin Luther, who was not above criticizing his protector. This book brings the historical context of the Reformation to life.” —Dr. Gene Edward Veith, Professor of Literature at Patrick Henry College
“Frederick the Wise typically plays a supporting role in histories of the Lutheran Reformation—important, but in the wings. Here, he rightfully occupies center stage. Wellman’s quick-moving treatment of Frederick’s life is a delight to read and fills an important gap in English-language Reformation resources.” —Rev. Dr. Lawrence R. Rast Jr., President of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN
“Sam Wellman has written a thorough biography of one of the most significant princes in late medieval Germany. While many recognize Frederick’s important role in the early part of the Lutheran Reformation, Wellman’s biography reveals Frederick’s significance as an elector in the Holy Roman Empire of the German nation. This work also demonstrates Frederick’s political sophistication as someone connected to the most powerful leaders of his own time. Simply put, if Luther’s Reformation had never occurred, scholars would still find Frederick’s life to be a compelling object of scholarship. However, the Lutheran Reformation did take place, and Wellman’s biography explains the political and social context of that pivotal event. Frederick’s defense and support of Martin Luther in the early 1520s ensured that the Reformation did succeed as a social and political movement.” —Dr. Matthew Phillips, Associate Professor of History at Concordia University, Nebraska
Monday, April 03, 2017
Book and Bible Study: SENT seeking the orphans of God
The SENT seeking the orphans of God series explains in simple language how to approach the task of relational evangelism among your relatives and friends. It also details the process of how to set up and develop local mission in a congregation of any size.
Sent Seeking the Orphans of God is for anyone concerned about how to participate with God in sowing the gospel and reaping the harvest.
Many books on missional living describe how to form missional communities and the people within them, but this book goes beyond this to describe how a missional community does relational evangelism together.
It provides small group Bible studies and activities at the end of each chapter, introduced through online video interviews with experienced evangelists. These activities facilitate dialogue and discernment about how to approach the task of relational evangelism amongst your relatives and friends.
Plus, there are two supplementary bonus resources included in this book.
RENEW Love Life Communities: an eight week small group Bible study designed to enable the formation of a team who engages in relational evangelism within your congregation or church planting team.
RENEW Missional Leadership: ten devotions for congregational leaders designed to set up a structure for making disciples who make disciples and facilitate training and support for the church to reap and receive the harvest
Believers feeling confused or apathetic about reaping the harvest will discover here a practical resource which is an encouragement to see, hear and become involved in what God is already up to in people's lives.
What others are saying
Dean Eaton is a faithful guide who gives us concrete ways to join God in helping to bring people into God's family in everyday kind of ways. This book reflects a missional theology that will help you cultivate an inclusive loving community that invites all to live into the divine dance of the Father, Son and Spirit. J.R. Woodward, National director, V3 Church Planting Movement. Author, Creating a Missional Culture, Co-author, The Church as Movement
Sent Seeking the Orphans of God and the accompanying Love Life Community studies are quite possibly the spark that could bring your church alive. Dr Andrew Menzies, Principal Stirling Theological College - University of Divinity.
If you hear God calling you to bring Jesus to your friends, neighbours and workmates, then this is a must-read book for you. Dr Steen Olsen. Director for Mission for the Lutheran Church in South Australia and the Northern Territory former Bishop of the Lutheran Church of New Zealand.
Dean Eaton is an experienced church planter, missional trainer and mentor. He has participated with Christ in church plants in rural, suburban and urban settings in Australia and Japan. Formerly the Principal of Tabor College Australia he is keen to train a new generation of evangelists.
What is available:
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God book (download PDF available here; or purchase softcover book from Amazon)
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God videos (available here), to accompany the group studies
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God promotional tools
Read the book, watch the online video interviews with experienced practitioners, dialogue with your friends using the small group Bible study, and get ready to reap the harvest.
Sent Seeking the Orphans of God is for anyone concerned about how to participate with God in sowing the gospel and reaping the harvest.
Many books on missional living describe how to form missional communities and the people within them, but this book goes beyond this to describe how a missional community does relational evangelism together.
It provides small group Bible studies and activities at the end of each chapter, introduced through online video interviews with experienced evangelists. These activities facilitate dialogue and discernment about how to approach the task of relational evangelism amongst your relatives and friends.
Plus, there are two supplementary bonus resources included in this book.
RENEW Love Life Communities: an eight week small group Bible study designed to enable the formation of a team who engages in relational evangelism within your congregation or church planting team.
RENEW Missional Leadership: ten devotions for congregational leaders designed to set up a structure for making disciples who make disciples and facilitate training and support for the church to reap and receive the harvest
Believers feeling confused or apathetic about reaping the harvest will discover here a practical resource which is an encouragement to see, hear and become involved in what God is already up to in people's lives.
What others are saying
Dean Eaton is a faithful guide who gives us concrete ways to join God in helping to bring people into God's family in everyday kind of ways. This book reflects a missional theology that will help you cultivate an inclusive loving community that invites all to live into the divine dance of the Father, Son and Spirit. J.R. Woodward, National director, V3 Church Planting Movement. Author, Creating a Missional Culture, Co-author, The Church as Movement
Sent Seeking the Orphans of God and the accompanying Love Life Community studies are quite possibly the spark that could bring your church alive. Dr Andrew Menzies, Principal Stirling Theological College - University of Divinity.
If you hear God calling you to bring Jesus to your friends, neighbours and workmates, then this is a must-read book for you. Dr Steen Olsen. Director for Mission for the Lutheran Church in South Australia and the Northern Territory former Bishop of the Lutheran Church of New Zealand.
Dean Eaton is an experienced church planter, missional trainer and mentor. He has participated with Christ in church plants in rural, suburban and urban settings in Australia and Japan. Formerly the Principal of Tabor College Australia he is keen to train a new generation of evangelists.
What is available:
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God book (download PDF available here; or purchase softcover book from Amazon)
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God videos (available here), to accompany the group studies
SENT: Seeking the Orphans of God promotional tools
Read the book, watch the online video interviews with experienced practitioners, dialogue with your friends using the small group Bible study, and get ready to reap the harvest.
Book: Counselling and Christianity five approaches
What does authentic Christian counseling look like in practice? This volume explores how five major perspectives on the interface of Christianity and psychology would each actually be applied in a clinical setting. Respected experts associated with each of the perspectives depict how to assess, conceptualize, counsel and offer aftercare to Jake, a hypothetical client with a variety of complex issues. In each case the contributors seek to explain how theory can translate into real-life counseling scenarios.
This book builds on the framework of Eric L. Johnson's Psychology & Christianity: Five Views.
These include:
While Counseling and Christianity can be used independently of Johnson's volume, the two can also function as useful companions. Christians who counsel, both those in practice and those still in training, will be served by this volume as it strengthens the connections between theory and practice in relating our faith to the mental health disciplines. They will finally get an answer to their persistent but unanswered question: "What would that counseling view look like behind closed doors?"
Visit here to buy Counselling and Christianity five approaches
This book builds on the framework of Eric L. Johnson's Psychology & Christianity: Five Views.
These include:
- the Levels-of-Explanation Approach,
- the Integration Approach,
- the Christian Psychology Approach,
- the Transformational Approach
- the Biblical Counseling Approach.
While Counseling and Christianity can be used independently of Johnson's volume, the two can also function as useful companions. Christians who counsel, both those in practice and those still in training, will be served by this volume as it strengthens the connections between theory and practice in relating our faith to the mental health disciplines. They will finally get an answer to their persistent but unanswered question: "What would that counseling view look like behind closed doors?"
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