Sermon Illustrations

There are some people that we might consider to be a freak because of their disfigured appearance. Consider the story of John Merrick who was known more by his disfigured appearance and labeled as the "Elephant man". "John Merrick was born in Leicester, England in 1862. He suffered from a severe bone and skin disorder that progressively disfigured him grotesquely. At three, he was abandoned by his mother, who deposited him at a workhouse. He was rescued from there only to spend most of his life being exploited in a traveling circus exhibit that featured him as a freak---"The Elephant Man".

"Toward the end of his life, Merrick was befriended, given a home, and treated with respect by a fashionable London surgeon, Sir Frederick Treves. Treves introduced Merrick to Leila Maturin, a widow, who was the first woman to smile at Merrick and touch his hand and speak to him. Gradually, others, including the Princess of Wales, and actresses, looked beyond his loathsome flesh and discovered a real human being with feelings and...

Continue reading this sermon illustration (Free with PRO)

Related Sermon Illustrations

Related Sermons

  • Every Step Of The Way Series

    Contributed by Dennis Davidson on Dec 29, 2013
    based on 7 ratings
     | 41,172 views

    Jeremiah points out that God will be faithful to you every step of the way. Each day when you rise, God will already be taking care of you. His grace, strength and love will be as much a daily part of you life as is breathing.

  • Compassionate Giving

    Contributed by Bruce Ball on Nov 23, 2014
    based on 7 ratings
     | 38,414 views

    This message explains the necessity of giving to a compassionate ministry so others might be helped. The parable of the Good Samaritan in LUKE 10 is used as the example.

  • The Food Sign Series

    Contributed by Jeff Strite on Mar 20, 2017
    based on 14 ratings
     | 36,000 views

    Jesus did many miracles but only 2 are told about in all four Gospels. One is the miracle of Jesus' resurrection... and the other is the miracle of the feeding of the 5000. The question is "Why are these 2 the only miracles listed that in all 4?"

  • Mantengan El Enfoque

    Contributed by Abraham Marsach on Apr 13, 2007
    based on 3 ratings
     | 33,231 views

    MAntenga el enfoque en Cristo, y como Cristo enfrento con amor a la gente escojidad de El

  • Forgive Or Not To Forgive

    Contributed by Anthony Zibolski on Feb 28, 2012
    based on 1 rating
     | 32,305 views

    Forgiveness is the way the Lord releases us from guilt and sets us free to continue loving God and others.