Internet Archive Search: creator:"Dr. Alan P. Swartz"

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	Hosea - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Today we take a look at the prophet Hosea and consider how his message contains one of the most beautiful presentations of the Gospel in the Bible. Keywords: hosea; gomer; gospel; ot; oldtestament; grace; love
	Putting First Things First - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Matthew 6:19-34. Jesus tells us to seek the Kingdom of Heaven first and God will take care of us as he does the birds of the air and the flowers of the fields. A sermon on priorities and remaining focused. Keywords: sermon; priorities; goals; focused Downloads: 62 Average rating: (0 review)
	Hearing the Word, Living the Word - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Hearing the Word - Living the Word Texts: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; 1 Corinthians 12:20-28; Luke 4:14-21 The Third Sunday after the Epiphany January 21, 2007 - Horne Memorial UMC Gigi Nelson, Lector; Alan Swartz, Pastor - - - For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart... Keywords: sermon; word; bible; disciple; discipleship Downloads: 25 Average rating: (0 review)
	Easter People Live in Purity - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Concrete steps to take to begin to live a life of purity. Lay Reader is Sean Hein. Downloads: 36 Average rating: (0 review)
	Remade for Ministry - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Those of us who have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior are a New Creation - Remade for the Ministry of Reconciliation. Keywords: sermon; grace; ministry; reconciliation; regeneration; reborn; remade Downloads: 40 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Revealed Christ - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Revealed Christ April 22, 2007 The Third Sunday of Easter, Year C Acts 9:1-20 Psalm 30 Revelation 5:11-14 John 21:1-19 Paul writes, "The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God ... provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him." (Romans 8:16-17, ESV) This idea of sharing in the sufferings of Christ is also found in our Gospel lesson this week... Keywords: sermon; easter 3; year c; suffering; manifestion; christ Downloads: 51 Average rating: (0 review)
	I Quit! - Dr. Alan P. Swartz June 24 - Proper 7c. This Sunday I am preaching on the text from 1 Kings. I have decided to read all of chapter 19 instead of just the few verses selected by the lectionary. The chiastic structure of the story is eviscerated by the lectionary. I am especially grateful to Dan Epp-Tiessen for his comments on the text. How do we deal with ministry burnout? What about all those times we just say we want to quit—I QUIT! Keywords: 1 kings 19; burnout; elijah; elijah narrative; ministry; renewal; revival Downloads: 41
	We Have a Heritage of Small Groups - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A look at the Wesleyan heritage of small groups (classes and bands) and how small groups serve an important place in the work of the church today. Keywords: sermon; small groups; emmaus reunion groups; covenant discipleship groups; accountability Downloads: 24 Average rating: (0 review)
	What Is Love? - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Sermon for the Fifth Sunday of Easter (Year C) May 6, 2007 - Horne Memorial UMC, Clayton NC Texts Acts 11:1-18 Psalm 148 Revelation 21:1-6 John 13:31-35 One of the recurring themes through the past few weeks has been the linking of suffering with glory. In today's sermon we not only see this connection again, but now we find the motivation. Why? Because we have been given a new commandment by Christ... Keywords: sermon; easter 5; year c; easter 5c; suffering; glory; love Downloads: 112 Average rating: (0 review)
	Being the Body - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A look at the 6th chapter of John and what it can tell us about being faithful in our discipleship as the body of Christ. Keywords: sermon; body of christ; discipleship; faithful Downloads: 52 Average rating: (0 review)
	Easter People Live in Harmony - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The first of the Easter season sermon series "Easter People - A Community of Love." During this series we will look at what it means to live in community as God's people. This sermon looks at what it means to live in harmony and the steps we can take to live in harmony. Downloads: 39 Average rating: (0 review)
	Bought with a Price - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Dr. Swartz's sermon on Christian Freedom and Sexual Ethics delivered at Horne Memorial UMC on the Weekend of January 14/15, 2006. The text is 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. The Second Sunday after the Epiphany (Year B). Downloads: 62 Average rating: (0 review)
	Facing the Temptations of Our Day - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Texts: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 4:1-11 Today we take a look at the temptations of Jesus. These three specifically mentioned temptations address both patterns of ministry rejected by Jesus and temptations we continue to deal with today. Keywords: temptations; greed; possess; own; fame; power Downloads: 29
	Lord of Life and Death - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Gospel lesson comes from John 11. While we usually think of this chapter as being about the raising of Lazarus, I believe the heart of the chapter is about the exchange between Jesus and Martha. Just as earlier we have seen the exchanges between Jesus and Nicodemus, Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, and Jesus and the Man Born Blind, so here is the exchange between Jesus and Martha. Keywords: Lent; Lent 5a; John 11; Lazarus; Martha; Mary of Bethany Downloads: 59
	Real Eye Openers - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Reflection on the text from Luke's account of Gospel on the walk to Emmaus. Keywords: salvation; sermon; easter; emmaus Downloads: 29
	The Risk of Faith - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Scriptures: Genesis 12:1-4a; Romans 4:1-5, 13-17; John 3:1-17 In our texts today we consider the challenge of Jesus call to discipleship. When he challenges us to follow him, we have to do so without being weighted down by our pasts. How is that possible? We have to let go of the past. Keywords: discipleship; lent; past; letting go; moving forward; redemption; new life Downloads: 20
	Getting What We Want - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Text: 1 Kings 21:1-21a Ahab was king of Israel. Imagine that. King! Think of what he had as king. Imagine the prerogatives and privileges he enjoyed as king. Yet Ahab became an emotional basket case when he was unable to take possession of a little vineyard next to his property. What is it about having to get what we want even if we are destroyed in the process? Keywords: sermon; methodist; envy; power; ahab; jezebel; elijah; proper 6c; lectionary Downloads: 54
	Christ's Shepherding Ministry - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Fourth Sunday of Easter (Year C) Acts 9:36-43 Psalm 23 Revelation 7:9-17 John 10:22-30 Our image of the Good Shepherd is usually not influenced by modern practices of shepherds since we are just not exposed to them (at least here in the US). We tend to have a romanticized view of shepherds based on the Sunday School images we have learned and applied to King David and Jesus. But, that image is probably not so far from the practice of shepherds in biblical days... Keywords: sermon; shepherding; discipleship; call; Acts 9; John 10 Downloads: 57 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Duty of Constant Communion - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A look at our United Methodist heritage of Holy Communion with a special emphasis on Wesley's sermon titled The Duty of Constant Communion and the hymns he and his brother, Charles, published in their Hymns of the Lord's Supper. Keywords: sermon; lord's supper; holy communion; eucharist; communion; holy meal; united methodist Downloads: 51 Average rating: (0 review)
	Knowing the Truth - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The tag line of The DaVinci Code is "Seek the Truth." We examine some of the factual errors made by the novel, The DaVinci Code. In the New Testament Pilate asks, "What is the Truth?" We look at the five standards used to determine the Books of the News Testament by the Church. Jesus says, "I am the Truth..." As Christians we realize that ultimate truth is not intellectual as much as it is relational... Downloads: 50 Average rating: (0 review)
	Living in the Shephelah - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Shephelah is the region between the Judean high lands and the coastline. The Israelites living in the Shephelah had to learn to live faithfully to God while living in an ungodly culture. Samson demonstrates well this struggle. We, too, live in our own Shephelah. We are citizens of the Kingdom of God and we live in this world. We are called to God's influence on the culture around us - not to be seduced by the culture. Keywords: sermon; faithfulness; culture; influence; seduction Downloads: 94 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Mark of Christ - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Sixth Sunday of Easter (Year C) May 13, 2007 (Mothers' Day) Texts... Acts 16:9-15 Psalm 67 Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5 John 14:23-29 --------------------- Revelation 22:4 "They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads." World English Bible (WEB). In our society there are many people who are concerned with the mark of the beast, but the real question should be if you bear the mark of Christ... Keywords: sermon; marked; discipleship Downloads: 83 Average rating: (0 review)
	What Christ Has Done For Us - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Some time ago a man named Bill Bright wrote a little tract called The Four Spiritual Laws. Maybe you are familiar with it. It was a common evangelism tool that he developed for the Campus Crusade for Christ and Young Life. It became a popular tract that was used by many other groups of people who wanted to know how to share the Good News about Jesus to other people. Now I admit that some people can be downright obnoxious about this kind of stuff, and I am sure that there are those who have been ... Keywords: sermon; easter; resurrection; salvation; justification; sanctification; discipleship Downloads: 37
	Chelsea Is Invited to the Table - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A sermon on the occasion of the baptism of Chelsea Ragland. Keywords: baptism Downloads: 25
	We Are a Community of Grace - Dr. Alan P. Swartz One of our distinctive theological characteristics as United Methodist is our view of grace. Regardless of what aspect of theology you discuss we believe that it must be framed in a discussion of grace. Keywords: sermon; body of christ; grace; prevenient; justifying; convicting; sanctifying Downloads: 75 Average rating: (0 review)
	Easter People are Loving - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Today's text tells us that God is love; that God is revealed to us in love; and, that Love is the internal and external mark of the presence of God in our lives. Downloads: 62 Average rating: (0 review)
	Easter People Make Sacrifices - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Dr. Swartz speaks from today's epistle text (1 John 3:16-24). We know what love is because Christ laid down his life for us. So we ought to do the same for others. The sacrifices we are called to make are voluntary offerings -- voluntary expressions of our love of God, of our neighbor, and our God. We also give willingly that others may be lead to praise God. The lay reader is Sean Hein. Downloads: 61 Average rating: (0 review)
	First Things First - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Putting First Things First Matthew 6:19-34 October 29, 2006 - Horne Memorial UMC A. Be United in Your Life – Not Divided Luke 11:17 1. Your heart will follow your treasure (v. 21) Matthew 13:44; 19:21 2. Keep your eye on the goal (vv. 22-23) Philippians 3:13-14 2 John 1:8-9 3. Be wary of divided loyalties (v. 24) James 1:8 B. Move from Anxiety to Trust (v. 25) Luke 12:11, 25 Philippians 4:6-7 C. Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness (v... Keywords: sermon; priorities; goals; treasure; trust; loyalties; anxiety Downloads: 77 Average rating: (0 review)
	Friends - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Sermon at Horne Memorial UMC on Saturday Evening Service, February 11 by Dr. Alan Swartz. Downloads: 37 Average rating: (0 review)
	Learning to Live in Grace - Dr. Alan P. Swartz We are the people of the new covenant -- people who live in God's Grace. How do we do that? Just what does it mean to live in the grace of God? In this sermon we explore some of the steps we must take to really live in the freedom God has given us by his grace. Downloads: 131 Average rating: (0 review)
	Marriage and Divorce - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Today's Gospel text (Mark 10:1-12) deals with marriage and divorce. Today's sermon looks at the biblical background of marriage and divorce and looks at the work of Dr. John Gottman in Why Marriages Succeed or Fail and How You Can Make Yours Last, John Gottman, Ph.D., Simon & Shuster, 1994. ISBN 0-684-80241-4 Keywords: sermon; marriage; divorce Downloads: 200 Average rating: (0 review)
	Mountaintop Light in the Valley of Shadows - Dr. Alan P. Swartz 1. Thy Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet 2. Jesus said "I am the Light of the World" 3. Jesus said "You are the Light of the World! You put a light on a stand that all may see A City Built on a hill cannot be hid" 4. How are you a Light in the Valley? The Power of Your Witness -- A Life of authenticity! Exemplifying the Godly Act of Forgiveness! Keywords: forgiveness; reconciliation; love; redemption; transfiguration Downloads: 61
	Open My Eyes - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A sermon for Ascension Sunday. Keywords: sermon; ascension; discipleship Downloads: 126
	Propane or Charcoal - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A look at one of the great debates we face today. Propane or Charcoal? What would Jesus do? Well, a simple look at the scripture makes it plain - Jesus used charcoal! Note: If you are humor-impaired or don't recognize satire when you hear it, please just skip this. Keywords: sermon; devotion; charcoal; propane; conflict; unity; discipleship; mission Downloads: 52 Average rating: (0 review)
	Sharing the Message of the Cross - Dr. Alan P. Swartz In today's Epistle Lesson Paul tells us that the Message of the Cross is about Reconciliation which brings healing and unity. This kind of reconciliation has come at a great cost to God in the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. In the same way, reconciliation with our neighbor can come at a great personal cost. We have to die to ourselves, and to our Old Natures. We have to die to self that Christ may live in us... Keywords: salvation; reconciliation; gospel; sharing; grudges Downloads: 23
	Spiritual Struggles - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A Sermon delivered during the weekend of January 28/29, 2006 at Horne Memorial UMC. This version is a better quality recording. Downloads: 53 Average rating: (0 review)
	How to Hava a Successful Marriage - Dr. Alan P. Swartz This is part 2 of a 2-part series on marriage. Last week we looked at some of the factors that cause the disintegration of a marriage. This week we look at several styles of marriage and some of the key elements involved in building successful marriages. Keywords: sermon; marriage Downloads: 81 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Generosity Challenge - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians that they excel at many things, such as faith, speech, knowledge, and eagerness. He challenges them to excel in generosity as well. But, true generosity is a fruit of the Spirit that grows out of the Spirit's work of holiness within us. Like the Corinthians we excel at many things, but we to would do well to face the Generosity Challenge that Paul presents to the Corinthians... Keywords: sermon, generosity, kindness Downloads: 74 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Resurrection - Sunrise Service Sermon 2006 - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A Brief sermon on the resurrection of the body given at the Horne Memorial UMC on April 16, 2006 by Alan Swartz at the sunrise service. Downloads: 130 Average rating: (0 review)
	The Vigor of a New Life - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Vigor of a New Life Easter Sunday, April 8, 2007 = = = = = Acts 10:34-43 1 Corinthians 15:19-26 John 20:1-18 = = = = = The first witnesses crossed the threshold into a vigorous new life by believing. Some believed by seeing. Some believed when they heard Jesus call them by name. Yet others believed on the witness and testimony of others. Today we still have that opportunity to cross that threshold into new life. Keywords: sermon; resurrection; new life; faith; believe; easter; witness; empty tomb Downloads: 63 Average rating: (0 review)
	We Have a Faith that Works - Dr. Alan P. Swartz In this sermon, Dr. Swartz explains the implications of Ephesians 2:8-10 for Christians seeking to live out their faith. This text (and others) help us understnad the relationship of grace, faith, and works. The evidence of God’s grace at work in our lives is manifested in the work we do. While we are not saved by works of the law God has prepared us for works of grace. Keywords: sermon; grace; faith; works; good works; works of mercy; works of piety; works of the law; works of grace Downloads: 1,822 Average rating: (0 review)
	A Fishy Tale - Dr. Alan P. Swartz A sermon delivered on January 21, 2006 at Horne Memorial UMC on the Book of Jonah. Downloads: 148 Average rating: (0 review)
	A God of Holiness and Love - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Lent 3 – March 19, 2006 Exodus 20:1-17 Today's Theme: God's Covenant with Moses Sermon: A God of Holiness and Love Downloads: 88 Average rating: (0 review)
	A God Who Disarms - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Overall Theme for Lent: People of the Covenant Lent 1 – March 5, 2006 (Holy Communion) Genesis 9:8-17 1 Peter 3:18-22 Today's Theme: God's Covenant with Noah Sermon: A God Who Has Disarmed Note that there is some congregational interaction in the sermon that may be difficult to hear. Downloads: 3,304 Average rating: (0 review)
	All Things to All People - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Horne Memorial UMC, Sermon on Weekend of February 4/5, 2006, All Things to All People, Text: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23; Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, Year B Downloads: 117 Average rating: (0 review)
	Control-Alt-Delete - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Have you ever really messed up and wanted a do-over? You golfers call it a mulligan. When you make a real mess of things you might just want to quit your job, sell your house, pack up and move to a part of the country where nobody as ever heard of you. In computers you might have a misbehaving application that just locks up your system to the point where you have to do a reboot by pressing those three magical keys: control-alt-delete... Keywords: grace; salvation; faith; works; new birth; new life; reconciliation Downloads: 893
	Do We Have to Make a Choice? - Dr. Alan P. Swartz Why can't we compartmentalize our lives with competing priorities? A look at the story of Elijah and his confrontation with the 450 prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel and what that has to do with us. Text: 1 Kings 17:8-24; 18:1-2, 17-39 Keywords: sermon; priorities; baal; decisions; elijah; ahab Downloads: 164
	Easter People Live in Purity - Dr. Alan P. Swartz As Easter People -- people who have placed their trust in the Risen Lord -- we are called to live in purity. For we know that the day will come when we stand before our Lord and see him as he is. This sermon delivered at Horne Memorial UMC gives some concrete steps to take to live a life of purity. Downloads: 927 Average rating: (0 review)
	Enduring By Grace - Dr. Alan P. Swartz The Apostle faced hardships, troubles and calamities with patient endurance. By recognizing the work of God within us, we can do the same. We prove ourselves by purity, understanding, patience, kindness, sincere love, and holiness. Text: 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 Lay Reader: Sean Hein Keywords: sermon Downloads: 405 Average rating: (0 review)
	Every Spiritual Blessing - Dr. Alan P. Swartz When we think about being blessed by God, our minds often reflect on those material and emotional blessings we have been given. In today's text from Ephesians 1, the Apostle Paul reminds us of the spiritual blessings we have been given. Keywords: sermon; grace; blessing Downloads: 69 Average rating: (0 review)