| Exodus 32.1-14 |
| Psalm 106.1-6,19-23* |
| Philippians 4.1-9 |
| Matthew 22.1-14 |
The sermon begins with a moment of gratitude, acknowledging recent difficulties faced by the parish. Fr Dennis, reflecting on the stories of the golden calf and Jonah from the Bible, delves into the themes of God’s perpetual mercy, repentance, and forgiveness. Even while referencing controversial remarks by Bruce Ruxton about extreme repentance, the preacher emphasises God’s capacity for welcoming back any lost soul, regardless of their mistakes.
Quoting the Prayer of Humble Access and the post-communion prayer, Dennis focused on the power of mercy and potential for redemption.The pastor then shifts towards the reading from Philippians 4, highlighting an internal conflict within the community leadership, advocating for unity and divine mindfulness. The peace of God, surpassing all understanding, is cherished as a beacon for peaceful coexistence and servitude.
This focus is further reinforced through the discussion of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. Here it’s emphasized that unity and inclusivity, even amongst diversified groups, are required to avoid exclusion and division, using the Pharisees as an example. Recognizing the difficulties of such unity, the Dennis reinforces St. Augustine’s perspective on patience. The sermon concludes on a contemplative note with a question about future judgment, underlining the sermon’s main themes of repentance, forgiveness, unity, and service.
Summary: This sermon addresses themes of repentance, forgiveness, unity, and service. The pastor emphasizes God’s mercy and willingness to accept even those who have committed terrible acts. The sermon urges listeners to strive for unity and peace within the community, warning against becoming divisive influences. The overall message is one of redemption and the importance of aligning our actions with our knowledge of God’s will.
Discussion Starters
How can we align our actions with our knowledge of God’s will?
- The pastor concluded by posing the question of whether we will execute what we know to do or find ourselves on the outside on the day of judgment.
- What is one thing you know to be good and in line with God’s will that you can commit to doing in your daily life?
How can we apply St. Augustine’s call for patience in our everyday lives?
- The pastor referenced St. Augustine’s call for patience when dealing with the challenges of working as a unified community.
- What is a specific situation in your life where you can practice patience to promote unity and understanding among others?
What lessons can be drawn from the Parable of the Wedding Feast in regard to inclusion and exclusion in a community?
- The pastor explained the parable in the context of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and emphasized the importance of not becoming a divisive influence.
- How can you personally ensure that you are not excluding others or becoming a divisive influence in your community?
Why is unity within the community important and how can we foster it?
- The pastor encouraged unity and mentioned the example of the two female leaders in Philippians 4 who had a falling out.
- What actions can you take to promote unity in your own community?
What does it mean that God is willing to accept us back, even when we have done something unforgivable?
- The pastor referred to the stories of the golden calf in Exodus and the repentance of the people of Israel in Jonah as examples of God’s mercy.
- Can you think of a time in your own life where you sought forgiveness and found that God was willing to accept you back?
Breaking Open 