Just Sitting Here Thinking

First: Where is God during tragedy? - a discussion in the aftermath of the December 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami that killed almost a quarter million people. Lesson on the transition of John the Baptist to Jesus beginning his ministry, finding disciples, and his critical first message to the world. The need for repentance to see "I am the truth" and the good news of the kingdom of God.

Lesson on the healings of Jesus and Peter, and the power of faith for the benefit of others. The difference between healing and curing, and the role of the church in healing and serving the spiritual and physical needs of the people. The story of Dr. Robert F. Thomas and his journey from minister to doctor, becoming one of the first to bring modern medicine to the remote Smoky Mountains of Tenness...

Lesson on the emergence of baptism, the history of ritual washing in Judaism, and the origin of John the Baptist. Also the question of transformation and the significance of Jesus' baptism as a symbol of the start of his ministry.

Lesson on one whom God called out of the wilderness, not as a prophet, but to proclaim God's displeasure with the people of Israel for the corruption of the temple, forsaking the poor, and intolerance of the people for each other. What does that mean for us today, and what are the church's responsibilities in caring for all people?

Lesson concluding this study of Revelation, final thoughts on the book as a whole, interpreting the final battle of good and evil, and finding love over judgment from God.

Lesson on the kingdom of God, the Jewish background and tradition of St. John's vision of heaven, and the history and significance of Jerusalem to Judaism and Christianity.

Lesson on the marriage of Jesus and his church, justification by faith not deeds, and salvation through the gift of grace. 

Lesson on the further prophecies of Revelation, including the seven angels with seven trumpets and the ten kings, Roman persecution and early Christian martyrdom.

Lesson on the prophecy of the Seventh Seal and the Lamb who is worthy, and discussing the meaning of Christ's sacrifice at the crucifixion from the perspective of Luther, Calvin, Schleiermacher and other theologians.

To celebrate Easter, we revisit this introspective monologue on the apostle Simon Peter from 2003. As always, no notes - just an extemporized yet structured meditation based on heavy research. Also available in VIDEO at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjwG-eUhOOw&t=1329s

Lesson on the background to the writing of the Book of Revelation - the Roman persecution of the Christians by the Emperor Domitian, St. John's exile to the isle of Patmos, and poetry and symbolism in the language of his visions.

The history of the church from the Holy Roman Empire to the Reformation, and the foundation of religious freedom in the American colonies which led to the war of independence.

Lesson on the history, authorship, metaphors and context of the Book of Revelation on Palm Sunday. Fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah and Jesus as the sacrificial lamb.

Lesson continues with 1 John and the theme of love as a spiritual gift, the power and challenge of "Agape" love (love of God for us, and of us for God) that allows anyone from Mother Teresa to each of us every day to more deeply care for each other in the world and see each other with grace through Christ.

Lesson on the many ways the Bible shows, and many different religions agree that God is Love. Discussion of the "gospel of Love," the Apostle John, and the response of the John the Evangelist of the epistle of 1 John.

Lesson on Jesus' temptations in the desert - to live for oneself, fame, wealth and power. Living for others, for joy rather than possession, and finding true purpose and calling that gives a person real satisfaction and joy. The power of giving back blessings you reap in worldly rewards.

Lesson on Paul's letter to the church at Rome and his vital message which lies at the core of Christianity.

Lesson on John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

One of the most intimate personal bonds between characters in the Bible is that of Ruth and Naomi, as told in the Book of Ruth. Lesson on trust, friendship, family, bravery and loyalty through seemingly insurmountable struggles. But first, it's open floor for questions and discussion following the introspective on John Wesley.

John Wesley tells the intimate story of his own life and spiritual journey, as well as the birth of Methodism in this inspiring and candid introspective monologue. As always, no notes - just an extemporized yet structured meditation based on heavy research.

Lesson on finding the positive and life-affirming in the teachings of the book of Ecclesiastes.

Lesson on the Babylonian Captivity, destruction and rebirth, mourning and hope. God is not one to turn his back upon the people.

Lesson examining Jesus' exchange with the elders of the Temple at 12, the yearning of everyone to set out beyond their home and embark on life's journey, and the need later in life to find home again.

In celebration of Rev. Eastridge's 95th birthday, here is a special Easter introspective monologue as the apostle Simon Peter from 2003. As always, no notes - just an extemporized yet structured meditation based on heavy research. Also available in VIDEO at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjwG-eUhOOw&t=1329s

Lesson discussing John 8:12  -  "I am the light of the world; whoever follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."