There are few more loaded words in American life than "family." Jesus grew up in one and honored his parents in fulfillment of the commandments. But his teachings on family life stand among the most jarring things he ever said. Jesus invites serious followers to "hate" mother and father. He predicts discipleship will bring division rather than peace to family life. He completely recasts the definition of kinship as "whoever does the will of God." In an era when families face unprecedented challenges sticking together for the long haul, Jesus's words at first glance seem to welcome disintegration of the Christian household rather than offering healing and a clear way forward. This book examines the off-putting words of Jesus in the wider context of radical allegiance and baptismal priority. In a country where family devotion is akin to honoring the national flag, Honeycutt unpacks an old word for a new generation of Christians called to place Jesus first in all things. It's only then that we'll be able to truly help those who share a common roof and lineage.
Quick. What do these characters all have in common? An anguished ghost whose interest in measuring mountains led to his premature death. A retired educator who takes a part-time job inside the cozy confines of Wrigley Field’s manual scoreboard. An obsessive orthodontist known to evangelize his prone patients. A bipolar father whose zany day includes an encounter with the police. And a victim of identity theft, reconsidering his vocation. They’re all pastors, of course. Join storyteller Frank Honeycutt on a roller coaster ride inside the flawed lives and vivid imaginations of sixteen ministers struggling to keep and make sense of their faith. At times humorous, surprising, sad, and even warped, this fictional peek into the private lives of clergy sheds angular light upon the complicated theological motives guiding those called to lead God’s people.
Five hundred years after Luther's famous posting of his 95 Theses in 1517, the church again faces an important crossroads. Sunday worship attendance is shrinking at alarming rates. There are now more "Elvis believers" in the US than Episcopalians and almost limitless spiritual options exist for those who seek faith and trust in something, but are hesitant to commit to a particular path leading to truth. The word prosthesis, normally associated with surgery, is also an apt word to describe the church's need to forge a theological identity that fits our current context. The church faces change and a transformed body, but not at the expense of the biblical richness and tradition that fueled the restlessness of the reformers. The essays gathered here, arranged around the seasons of the church year, address familiar challenges faced by all pastors and leaders in an era of transition, specifically in Christian formation and discipleship. Appropriate for group and personal reflection, 95 Prostheses employs humor and biblical accessibility with the skeptical outsider who may be considering Jesus and his church for the first time in mind.
Seasoned advice for pastors facing the weekly challenge of preparing sermons For pastors, a new sermon comes every week. Conventional wisdom says that pastors need to sequester themselves to prepare their weekly sermon without distraction. But veteran preacher Frank Honeycutt suggests just the opposite: prepare your sermons as part of a daily, lived experience in the community. Using the days of the week as a framework, Honeycutt describes practical and essential tasks leading up to the writing and delivery of the Sunday sermon—habits that will provide lasting spiritual nourishment for pastors who plan for a long career in parish ministry. With humor and candid acknowledgment of his own mistakes and doubts, Honeycutt reflects on the joys and hazards of ministry and explains how a faithful process of preaching shapes pastors for a lifetime of healthy ministry. Monday: Listening Tuesday: Hearing Wednesday: Exegeting Thursday: Naming Reflecting: A Pastor Looks Back Friday: Writing Saturday: Rehearsing Sunday: Offering
When life is murder, who can you trust? One minute Mia Quinn is in her basement, chatting on the phone with a colleague at the prosecutor’s office. The next minute there’s a gunshot over the line, and Mia listens in horror as her colleague and friend Colleen bleeds to death. Mia’s a natural for heading up the murder investigation, but these days it’s all she can do to hold her life together. As a new widow with a pile of debts, a troubled teenaged son, and a four-year-old who wakes up screaming at night, she needs more time with her family, not less — and working Colleen’s case will be especially demanding. But Colleen was her friend, and she needs to keep her job. So she reluctantly teams up with detective Charlie Carlson to investigate Colleen’s death. But the deeper they dig, the more complications unfold — even the unsettling possibility that someone may be coming after her. Lis Wiehl’s signature plot twists and relatable characters shine in this absorbing series debut . . .with an intriguing cameo from her best-selling Triple Threat series.
Our days are filled with a variety of known and lurking fears. Christians who name Jesus as Lord on Sundays are inundated with stories (real and imagined) inducing fear and caution throughout the week: random violence, health concerns, the perceived threat of people different from us, and economic worries, to name a few. News sources and national political leaders manipulate these fears in a fashion that threatens (and sometimes usurps) the church's ultimate trust in Christ. A pastoral assumption: at the core of this national anxiety is the looming fear of death, spawning various supplemental protections that have little to do with the promises of Christ. This fear of death (and the false promises claiming to shield us from such) may prompt us to nudge the One we call Lord to the margins of daily life, or even solely to the afterlife--a savior we'll all meet in heaven one day but whose quaint teachings have little to do with problems we're now facing. In this book, gifted storyteller Frank G. Honeycutt calls on his many years of pastoral experience to examine one of the most stunning (and overlooked) theological claims of the New Testament: how baptism radically unites followers of Christ in his death and resurrection. In baptism, we have already died (Romans 6). Disciples commence life in the kingdom on this side of the grave. Believing this with theological rigor and trust relieves personal (and corporate) anxiety about any day in the future when a believer stops breathing.
Are the miracle stories in the Bible actually true? Christians and skeptics alike may doubt the veracity of Jesus’s miracles. Preachers often rely on a dry, literal interpretation of his healings and wonders, or else try to tame them and explain them away rationally. Both approaches, in their obsession with historical accuracy, miss the truth behind these stories. Frank G. Honeycutt draws out the deeper truths in the weird incidents in the Bible. In a warm, conversational style, Honeycutt reads iconic miracle stories—from the wedding at Cana to demonic exorcisms—to enrich the life of faith. Digging into these “unbelievable” stories can widen our spiritual imaginations and point to the promise of Christ’s new world. Pastors seeking thoughtful resources and any inquisitive reader will find a wealth of pastoral insight and scriptural wisdom in Miracles for Skeptics.
The process described in this book will lead to church members who become more deeply committed and firmly rooted in their faith. Honeycutt brings together worship, Christian education, and social outreach in a detailed program directed to the adult who seeks to be an authentic disciple of Christ in an age of member inactivity and half-hearted witness.
Full of gripping illustrations that bring the scriptures to life, this anthology of sermons for the entire church year offers readers a treasure trove of spiritual guidance. Five distinguished preachers representing a variety of denominations and ministry settings contribute messages based on gospel texts for each Sunday and major celebration in Cycle C of the Revised Common Lectionary. Their thoughtful meditations proclaim the good news for today's world and exemplify the transforming power of God's word in our lives. Unforgettable in their power and biblical witness, these sermons provide readers with strength, support, and a Christ-centered vision. This is an essential resource that's useful for: - Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts - Preaching illustrations - A clearer understanding of scripture passages - Adult study and discussion groups - Personal devotions and Bible study on each Sunday's readings Frank Honeycutt's sermons are exciting in their evocative power. His narrative ability is a real gift that enables these messages to illumine the word of God and human life so that a listener is drawn into the word and encouraged to reflect, remember, and think about life in terms of God's activity. These sermons reflect a pastor whose imaginative juices flow mightily. Thomas E. Ridenhour McClurg Distinguished Professor of Homiletics Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary I am impressed by the sense of urgency in Robert Cueni's messages. When the specter of my immediate death flashes before me, I want to know that I have lived toward God's reign with all that I have. These sermons help transform me in that direction. Ronald J. Allen Sweeney & Miller Professor of Preaching and New Testament Christian Theological Seminary
* Ideal for individual and group study and for adult catechesis * Conveniently organized by seasons of the church year * Great stories for sermons * Includes study questions at the end of each chapter
Even though some preachers bemoan preaching's loss of importance, in fact it has rarely been more crucial than it is today. We live in a society that is becoming less and less familiar with the Christian gospel. Although preaching is only one part of the complex set of factors and relationships that leads non-Christians to commit themselves to the gospel, it remains the most visible and recognizable part. The central purpose of this book is to answer a key, seemingly simple question: how does preaching assist the Holy Spirit in the ongoing conversion of adult Christians? The book will take a close look at exactly what the sermon is doing in the larger conversion process, first for those who are new to the faith, but also for those longtime members who need a deeper commitment to the faith they claim as their own. The preacher obviously needs to know more about the sermon's specific effectiveness or shortcomings than what is briefly offered at the church door on Sunday mornings from polite (or occasionally honest) parishioners. Therefore, Frank G. Honeycutt contends, pastors seeking to learn more about the difference their sermons are making in the gathered Sunday assembly will need to be more attentive to the "how" of conversion and preaching's unique opportunity to contribute to conversion and commitment.
In the life of a pastor, it can be tempting to offer half-truths that make everyone happy and the pastor popular. Speaking difficult truths may anger or alienate church members, but authentic pastoral care sometimes requires it. How can those in ministry speak honestly in the inevitable awkward situations they face? Here a wise and witty pastor-storyteller draws on his church life experiences over the past twenty-five years--including sermons, funerals, and board meetings--to offer nitty-gritty guidance on handling the uncomfortable situations that all pastors face. Utilizing humor and encouragement and speaking across denominational lines, Frank Honeycutt examines a variety of biblical contexts where the truth of Jesus is difficult to hear, but direly needed--especially in settings where half-truths are the norm. He shows pastors how to courageously speak the truth no matter the risk or cost.
Five hundred years after Luther’s famous posting of his 95 Theses in 1517, the church again faces an important crossroads. Sunday worship attendance is shrinking at alarming rates. There are now more “Elvis believers” in the US than Episcopalians and almost limitless spiritual options exist for those who seek faith and trust in something, but are hesitant to commit to a particular path leading to truth. The word prosthesis, normally associated with surgery, is also an apt word to describe the church’s need to forge a theological identity that fits our current context. The church faces change and a transformed body, but not at the expense of the biblical richness and tradition that fueled the restlessness of the reformers. The essays gathered here, arranged around the seasons of the church year, address familiar challenges faced by all pastors and leaders in an era of transition, specifically in Christian formation and discipleship. Appropriate for group and personal reflection, 95 Prostheses employs humor and biblical accessibility with the skeptical outsider who may be considering Jesus and his church for the first time in mind.
Are the miracle stories in the Bible actually true? Christians and skeptics alike may doubt the veracity of Jesus’s miracles. Preachers often rely on a dry, literal interpretation of his healings and wonders, or else try to tame them and explain them away rationally. Both approaches, in their obsession with historical accuracy, miss the truth behind these stories. Frank G. Honeycutt draws out the deeper truths in the weird incidents in the Bible. In a warm, conversational style, Honeycutt reads iconic miracle stories—from the wedding at Cana to demonic exorcisms—to enrich the life of faith. Digging into these “unbelievable” stories can widen our spiritual imaginations and point to the promise of Christ’s new world. Pastors seeking thoughtful resources and any inquisitive reader will find a wealth of pastoral insight and scriptural wisdom in Miracles for Skeptics.
Our days are filled with a variety of known and lurking fears. Christians who name Jesus as Lord on Sundays are inundated with stories (real and imagined) inducing fear and caution throughout the week: random violence, health concerns, the perceived threat of people different from us, and economic worries, to name a few. News sources and national political leaders manipulate these fears in a fashion that threatens (and sometimes usurps) the church's ultimate trust in Christ. A pastoral assumption: at the core of this national anxiety is the looming fear of death, spawning various supplemental protections that have little to do with the promises of Christ. This fear of death (and the false promises claiming to shield us from such) may prompt us to nudge the One we call Lord to the margins of daily life, or even solely to the afterlife--a savior we'll all meet in heaven one day but whose quaint teachings have little to do with problems we're now facing. In this book, gifted storyteller Frank G. Honeycutt calls on his many years of pastoral experience to examine one of the most stunning (and overlooked) theological claims of the New Testament: how baptism radically unites followers of Christ in his death and resurrection. In baptism, we have already died (Romans 6). Disciples commence life in the kingdom on this side of the grave. Believing this with theological rigor and trust relieves personal (and corporate) anxiety about any day in the future when a believer stops breathing.
Seasoned advice for pastors facing the weekly challenge of preparing sermons For pastors, a new sermon comes every week. Conventional wisdom says that pastors need to sequester themselves to prepare their weekly sermon without distraction. But veteran preacher Frank Honeycutt suggests just the opposite: prepare your sermons as part of a daily, lived experience in the community. Using the days of the week as a framework, Honeycutt describes practical and essential tasks leading up to the writing and delivery of the Sunday sermon—habits that will provide lasting spiritual nourishment for pastors who plan for a long career in parish ministry. With humor and candid acknowledgment of his own mistakes and doubts, Honeycutt reflects on the joys and hazards of ministry and explains how a faithful process of preaching shapes pastors for a lifetime of healthy ministry. Monday: Listening Tuesday: Hearing Wednesday: Exegeting Thursday: Naming Reflecting: A Pastor Looks Back Friday: Writing Saturday: Rehearsing Sunday: Offering
The process described in this book will lead to church members who become more deeply committed and firmly rooted in their faith. Honeycutt brings together worship, Christian education, and social outreach in a detailed program directed to the adult who seeks to be an authentic disciple of Christ in an age of member inactivity and half-hearted witness.
There are few more loaded words in American life than "family." Jesus grew up in one and honored his parents in fulfillment of the commandments. But his teachings on family life stand among the most jarring things he ever said. Jesus invites serious followers to "hate" mother and father. He predicts discipleship will bring division rather than peace to family life. He completely recasts the definition of kinship as "whoever does the will of God." In an era when families face unprecedented challenges sticking together for the long haul, Jesus's words at first glance seem to welcome disintegration of the Christian household rather than offering healing and a clear way forward. This book examines the off-putting words of Jesus in the wider context of radical allegiance and baptismal priority. In a country where family devotion is akin to honoring the national flag, Honeycutt unpacks an old word for a new generation of Christians called to place Jesus first in all things. It's only then that we'll be able to truly help those who share a common roof and lineage.
Full of gripping illustrations that bring the scriptures to life, this anthology of sermons for the entire church year offers readers a treasure trove of spiritual guidance. Five distinguished preachers representing a variety of denominations and ministry settings contribute messages based on gospel texts for each Sunday and major celebration in Cycle C of the Revised Common Lectionary. Their thoughtful meditations proclaim the good news for today's world and exemplify the transforming power of God's word in our lives. Unforgettable in their power and biblical witness, these sermons provide readers with strength, support, and a Christ-centered vision. This is an essential resource that's useful for: - Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts - Preaching illustrations - A clearer understanding of scripture passages - Adult study and discussion groups - Personal devotions and Bible study on each Sunday's readings Frank Honeycutt's sermons are exciting in their evocative power. His narrative ability is a real gift that enables these messages to illumine the word of God and human life so that a listener is drawn into the word and encouraged to reflect, remember, and think about life in terms of God's activity. These sermons reflect a pastor whose imaginative juices flow mightily. Thomas E. Ridenhour McClurg Distinguished Professor of Homiletics Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary I am impressed by the sense of urgency in Robert Cueni's messages. When the specter of my immediate death flashes before me, I want to know that I have lived toward God's reign with all that I have. These sermons help transform me in that direction. Ronald J. Allen Sweeney & Miller Professor of Preaching and New Testament Christian Theological Seminary
Quick. What do these characters all have in common? An anguished ghost whose interest in measuring mountains led to his premature death. A retired educator who takes a part-time job inside the cozy confines of Wrigley Field’s manual scoreboard. An obsessive orthodontist known to evangelize his prone patients. A bipolar father whose zany day includes an encounter with the police. And a victim of identity theft, reconsidering his vocation. They’re all pastors, of course. Join storyteller Frank Honeycutt on a roller coaster ride inside the flawed lives and vivid imaginations of sixteen ministers struggling to keep and make sense of their faith. At times humorous, surprising, sad, and even warped, this fictional peek into the private lives of clergy sheds angular light upon the complicated theological motives guiding those called to lead God’s people.
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