Sermons on surprise: showing 541-555 of 27,922

Cool To God, Not So Cool To Us Series

Contributed by Ed Vasicek on Mar 10, 2003

God’s Idea of Cool Sometimes Surprises Us. Sometimes what is cool to God is not so cool to us. We must learn to understand God’s way of thinking and adjust our minds to tune in with His revealed will. Let’s note three qualities that are so essential t

Cool To God, Not So Cool to Us (Luke 18:1-14, Matt. 20:1-16) INTRO 1. It amazes me how little has changed in the teen world since I was a teen. I reached the age of 20 in the Fall of 1976, by the way. 2. The music doesn’t sound much different, except for rap---which is not new; it is simply old ...read more

Scripture: Luke 18:1-14, Matthew 20:1-16

Denomination: Independent/Bible

Elijah: Fighting Depression

Contributed by John Lowe on Jun 29, 2016

In a contest on Mt. Carmel, he was God's instrument to prove to Israel that Jehovah was the Lord. But after that amazing victory Elijah sank into the depths of despair. He sat down under a juniper tree and asked God to take his life. Does that surprise you about a man of God? I hope not.

Tom Lowe 6/26/16 ELIJAH: FIGHTING DEPRESSION (Text: 1 Kings 18-19) Depression is the common cold of our emotions. Eventually it touches everyone—even God's people. I know this because I am a born-again Christian who has battled depression for many years. Just recently, I passed through a ...read more

Denomination: Baptist

The Sovereignty Of God Series

Contributed by Robert Leroe on Mar 8, 2015

God’s the infinite Ruler of all; He is “running the show.” Nothing can prevent His predetermined plan. Nothing takes Him by surprise. Those who see God’s hand in everything can best leave everything in God’s hand.

It’s been said, “How do you make God laugh? Tell Him your plans” (G.K. Chesterton). Our plans aren’t always in line with God’s. We may try to fight God’s will, but someone pointed out, “Your arms are too short to box with God” (J. W. Johnson). The ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 47:1-9

Denomination: Congregational

From Fear To Faith

Contributed by Kerry Haynes on Apr 15, 2018

Jesus shows up to the disciples behind locked doors and reminds us: 1) Don't be surprised when he shows up in our lives. 2) Allow him to meet our doubts. 3) Allow him to open our minds to scripture, and 4) Take the witness stand for him.

Luke 24:36-48 From Fear to Faith Rev. Roy Almquist shares a peculiar story from the bloody second Battle of Bull Run in the Civil War. Captain Robert Clark and his men were surrounded by the Confederate forces but refused to surrender. In the terrible battle that ensued, Clark’s entire detachment ...read more

Scripture: Luke 24:36-48

Denomination: Baptist

It Takes Faith (Part Eleven) Series

Contributed by Derrick Tuper on Sep 18, 2017

We've looked at many people on our journey through the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. And while it wouldn't surprise us to see names like Noah, Abraham and Moses, the next name on our list might raise a few eyebrows. Today we'll look at the faith of Rahab

IT TAKES FAITH (part eleven) Hebrews 11:31 INTRODUCTION: We've looked at many people on our journey through the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. And while it wouldn't surprise us to see names like Noah, Abraham and Moses, the next name on our list might raise a few eyebrows. Last week I talked about ...read more

Scripture: James 2:24-25, Joshua 6:22-25, Joshua 2:1-15

Denomination: Christian/Church Of Christ

The Truth About Grace

Contributed by Rodney V Johnson on Oct 13, 2023

I spent years in Church not understanding what God's grace does in the life of a Christian. I was surprised when I learned grace DOES NOT COVER my sins. Before you stop reading here, read the message and then decide for yourself what grace is doing in your life.

The Truth About Grace Scripture: Romans 1:17-18; Titus 2:11-12; Ephesians 3:20; Hebrews 13:9 When Paul opened his letter to the Christians in Rome, he wrote, “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.’” (Romans 1:17) ...read more

Scripture: Romans 1:17-18, Titus 2:11-12, Ephesians 3:20

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

Clinks In Our Armour

Contributed by Tim Harrison on Oct 18, 2000

A FRIEND RECENTLY ASKED ME: HOW GOES THE WAR? HIS WORDS CAUGHT ME BY SURPRISE AFTERALL - I LIVE IN AMERICA - THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE BRAVE WAR IS A TERM GENERALLY RESERVED THOSE DISTANT COUNTRIES ON OTHER CONTINENTS LIKE GERMANY, GREAT BRITAIN, CROATIA, IRAQ BUT I KNEW THIS WASN'T

A FRIEND RECENTLY ASKED ME: HOW GOES THE WAR? HIS WORDS CAUGHT ME BY SURPRISE AFTERALL - I LIVE IN AMERICA - THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE BRAVE WAR IS A TERM GENERALLY RESERVED THOSE DISTANT COUNTRIES ON OTHER CONTINENTS LIKE GERMANY, GREAT BRITAIN, CROATIA, IRAQ BUT I KNEW THIS WASN'T WHAT MY ...read more

Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-17

Getting That Camel Through That Needle Series

Contributed by David Asch on Jan 18, 2005

Today we will observe Jesus being asked this question: “What must I do to live forever?” Even if you think you know what’s coming, hang on, you may be surprised! There may be some facets to the answer that you aren’t familiar with, and they may explain w

GETTING THAT CAMEL THROUGH THAT NEEDLE Mark 10:17-31 INTRO: Throughout his history, man’s quest has been the answer to this question: “How can I live forever?” It used to be mummification and the fountain of youth. Today, for $100,000 you can be frozen ($50,00 for head only) SI reports that Ted ...read more

Scripture: Mark 10:17-31

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

A Brief Glimpse Of Heaven

Contributed by Craig Condon on Oct 13, 2015

In order for us to understand the resurrection, we have to expand our ideas about who and what God is and what we can do. We can’t limit God with our own limited human reasoning. God continually surprises us. The future he has planned for us is glorious.

Have you ever wondered about what life will be like in heaven after we die? If so, you’ll be interested in what Jesus has to say about the subject in the passage from Luke 20:27-38. The Sadducees’ question about the resurrection was a ridiculous one because the Sadducees did not ...read more

Scripture: Luke 20:27-38

Denomination: Anglican

Jesus' First Miracle

Contributed by I. Grant Spong on Jan 10, 2022

What was the first epiphany or miracle in your life? A Jewish wedding and fine wine entailed a surprise divine encounter. Let’s encounter the kingdom of God pictured in God’s provision for a marriage. Let’s examine how a wedding at Cana portrays an epiphany of the kingdom of God in John 2:1-11.

Prelude What was the first epiphany or miracle in your life? A Jewish wedding and fine wine entailed a surprise divine encounter. Purpose: Let’s encounter the kingdom of God pictured in God’s provision for a marriage. Plan: Let’s examine how a wedding at Cana portrays an epiphany of the kingdom of ...read more

Scripture: John 2:1-11

Denomination: Independent/Bible

Right On The Money Series

Contributed by Scotty Killingsworth on Nov 6, 2003

I am still being surprised by my heart. I thought I knew it very well, but every once in a while something will pop out I had no idea was lurking there. A temptation that I thought would never bother me walks up and tests me again. Or, some temptation

This sermon was preached by Scotty L Killingsworth to the Evergreen Church on November 9, 2003 This sermon is the last in a series of sermons from 1 Timothy called The Biblical Church. The title of this message is The Biblical church is right on the money Biblical Text First Timothy chapter ...read more

Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:1-20

Denomination: Baptist

Freedom From Guilt – Shut Out From God's Presence Series

Contributed by D. Greg Ebie on Nov 16, 2006

What is the key that will open the door of God’s presence in our lives? This morning we are going to cut a key to unlock our guilt. You may be surprised, but the key to freedom from guilt is GUILT—G.U.I.L.T. Let’s unpack how we can use the key of GUILT

FREEDOM FROM GUILT – Shut Out from God’s Presence Psalm 32 [1] Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. [2] Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit. [3] When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 32:1-11

Denomination: Assembly Of God

Who Was Afraid Of Jesus? Series

Contributed by Donald Whitchard on Feb 9, 2021

Jesus Christ has all authority over both the natural and supernatural world. He brought freedom to a tortured soul, stirred a local crowd into anger, and calmed a raging sea. His ministry brought grace, mercy, love, hope, and for some, fear. Why would anyone fear Him? You would be surprised.

Chapter 4 of Mark's Gospel presented to us the authority that Jesus had over the forces of nature by rebuking a storm on the Sea of Galilee. He and His disciples were in a boat heading to the eastern shore of the Sea when a violent storm erupted, which was a common occurrence according to ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30, Mark 5:1-20, 1 Peter 3:15

Denomination: Baptist

Thieves Strike When Least Expected Jesus Will Come Back When Least Expected

Contributed by Brian Young on Jan 29, 2017

Communion Meditation Sermon Illustration Christ Return Surprise Thief Night Watch Broken Ready Hour Day House Owner Eat Bread Drink Cup Proclaim Lord Death Come Back Planned Hammer Crowbar Break Locks Gloves Protect Wait Time Midnight Ball Drop Police gem

They planned it for many months if not for years. They had the right stuff - They brought a hammer and crowbar to break the locks - They wore gloves and hooded sweat shirts to protect their identities They waited for the right time - They waited for the stroke of midnight until the ball dropped - ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 24:42-43

Denomination: Christian/Church Of Christ

Think Before You Speak - Sermon Body Series

Contributed by Larry Wilson on Aug 9, 2011

Using the letters T H I N K, we apply biblical truth related to our tongue. God has used this sermon in surprising ways. When I preach it, I use the five fingers of my hand to represent each letter of the alliteration. Some of our members have given feedb

Using the acronym THINK, try to ask these 5 questions before you speak. T – True Is it True? Remember this rule about gossip: “The more interesting it is, the more likely it is to be false.” ILLUS: If I counsel a couple, and listen to only one side and then make my judgment, ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 15:2-4, Proverbs 12:18

Denomination: Baptist