The New Testament epistles are more than a historical record of the early church -- they are also the heart and center of Christian proclamation, clearly outlining how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is part of God's cosmic plan of salvation. In this sermon anthology, five distinguished preachers draw valuable lessons from the pastoral letters for the complex challenges posed by life in the 21st century. Each thought-provoking message is filled with compelling stories and illustrations, and offers a clear and authentic vision of Christian faith in the context of daily life....

In each of Sunday's assigned lectionary readings -- the First, Second, and Gospel lessons -- we are invited to view the glorious narrative of scripture through three different, yet harmonious, perspectives. In the gospel lesson, we return to the fountainhead, bringing the congregation back to where Christianity began. Like the first disciples, we walk with Jesus, hearing his words and witnessing his miracles as we journey to the Cross.
As part of the Sermons on the Gospel Readings, Series III, Cycle A series, "To the Cross and Beyond" takes us through Jesus' final days on earth as...