There is nothing quite as powerful as a good story. So, when Jesus was asked, "Who is my neighbor?" he did what great teachers do: he invited his followers into a journey of self-discovery. The story of the Good Samaritan has become a staple in religious circles, leading individuals to a clear understanding that all those whom we encounter are indeed our neighbors. But how do we live into the reality of the Good Samaritan, seeing good in those rejected by society and seeing good in those whom we often reject ourselves?
This August, Hilldale United Methodist Church will explore what it means to be a neighbor in the fullest sense. Through examining key biblical texts, we will learn how to embody Christ’s love in practical, everyday ways. From understanding the foundational commandment to love God and neighbor, to discovering the deeper meaning behind familiar parables, to exploring stories of companionship and acceptance, this series invites us to expand our definition of “neighbor” and challenges us to live out our faith with intentionality and compassion.
We will begin by considering the Greatest Commandment, which distills the essence of the Hebrew Scriptures into two core principles: loving God and loving our neighbors as ourselves. This foundational truth will guide us in our journey, helping us to see the Scriptures and our daily lives through the lens of love. Next, we’ll explore the parable of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus not only redefines who our neighbor is but also how we should respond to those in need. We’ll then reflect on the story of Ruth, a powerful example of journeying together through life’s hardships, demonstrating deep commitment and love for one another. Finally, we’ll explore Peter’s transformative encounter with Cornelius, which challenges us to confront our biases and embrace the inclusive nature of God’s love.
Join us this month as we take an active role in reaching out to our neighbors, both near and far, and discover what it truly means to be a neighbor in the eyes of Christ.
Week 1: The Greatest Commandment
- Sermon Title: The Greatest Commandment
- Sermon Text: Matthew 22:34-40
- Sermon Description: We United Methodists believe that the Bible is our primary source of authority. Jesus offers us an interpretative lens when he distills the Hebrew Scriptures to only two things: loving God and loving neighbor. How might we grow in understanding if we apply The Greatest Commandment to our study of the Scriptures and our daily lives?
Week 2: What Must I Do?
- Sermon Title: What Must I Do?
- Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-37
- Sermon Description: What must I do to be saved? If we ignore the context of this interaction, this is a beautiful question because it speaks to the core of our search for purpose and meaning. Jesus replies with two questions of his own, leading the questioner on a journey of self-discovery. Today, we may not be asking, "Who is our neighbor?" but we need to discover how we can truly meet our neighbors in their times of need.
Week 3: Journeying Together
- Sermon Title: Journeying Together
- Sermon Text: Ruth 1:12-18
- Sermon Description: How do we journey with others in times of tragedy? The story of Ruth provides a beautiful picture of what it means to journey with another in times of tragedy and loss. Ruth chose to be a neighbor to her mother-in-law and journey with her into an uncertain future. How might we be blessed by walking with others through unfamiliar paths?
Week 4: All Are Welcome
- Sermon Title: All Are Welcome
- Sermon Text: Acts 10:34-43
- Sermon Description: Peter’s encounter with Cornelius invites us to face an uncomfortable truth: we are biased people. Our life story, upbringing, education, and social environment shape our conscious and unconscious preferences. Our faith challenges us to move beyond these barriers so that we may love others as God loves us. Growth in Christlikeness means accepting those who are different from us and loving them wholeheartedly.
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