First read Psalm 23; John 10:11-18, and 1 John 3:16-24
First read Psalm 23; John 10:11-18, and 1 John 3:16-24
Memorial Homily for Eunice Hansens
Mark Koonz 20 April 2018
Short reflections on gratitude for the gift of life - a central characteristic of Eunice, our sister in Christ
Short reflections on gratitude for the gift of life - a central characteristic of Eunice, our sister in Christ
Things We Cannot Share: Dreams and Hallucinations and the Resurrection Appearances
Mark Koonz 15 April 2018
Read first Luke 24:36-49. This concerns the risen Jesus' appearance to groups of people, not just individuals, and reflections on what this... [more]
Read first Luke 24:36-49. This concerns the risen Jesus' appearance to groups of people, not just individuals, and reflections on what this means. [less]
Mary Magdalene
Mark Koonz 8 April 2018
First witness to the resurrection; first person commissioned and sent by Jesus to tell the disciples and others.
First witness to the resurrection; first person commissioned and sent by Jesus to tell the disciples and others.
The Resurrection Invasion
Mark Koonz 1st April 2018
With John 20:1-18, and a recounting of what happened to soften the harshness of the Roman Empire. The Easter Sunday 2018 message.
With John 20:1-18, and a recounting of what happened to soften the harshness of the Roman Empire. The Easter Sunday 2018 message.
If Only We Had Known In Time
Mark Koonz 25 March 2018
A message for Palm Sunday with Matthew 21:1-11, asking the question, "Where were the people who praised Jesus when he stood before Pilate?"
A message for Palm Sunday with Matthew 21:1-11, asking the question, "Where were the people who praised Jesus when he stood before Pilate?"
Did they Benefit when God spoke?
Mark Koonz 18 March 2018
John 12:20-33
John 12:20-33
Noah Lived a Long Time Ago
Mark Koonz 18 February 2018
With Genesis 9:8-17; 1 Peter 3:18-22; Mark 1:9-15.
With Genesis 9:8-17; 1 Peter 3:18-22; Mark 1:9-15.
The Second Half of Repentance
Mark Koonz 14 February 2018
For Ash Wednesday 2018
For Ash Wednesday 2018
Transfiguration Questions
Mark Koonz 11 February 2018
Mistake: Pastor read a typo that said Mark 1:2 rather than Mark 9:2, and mis-spoke . . . otherwise jump in and explore this fascinating eve... [more]
Mistake: Pastor read a typo that said Mark 1:2 rather than Mark 9:2, and mis-spoke . . . otherwise jump in and explore this fascinating event [less]
The Second Moses did more than Moses
Mark Koonz 28 January 2018
the Ways in which Jesus fulfilled the ancient promise of a second Moses, but went far beyond expectations. Mark 1:21-28, and Deuteronomy 18:... [more]
the Ways in which Jesus fulfilled the ancient promise of a second Moses, but went far beyond expectations. Mark 1:21-28, and Deuteronomy 18:15-20 with John 1:21. [less]
Jonah and God's Love for the World
Mark Koonz 21 January 2018
Jonah 3:1-5, 10; with Mark 1:14-20.
Jonah 3:1-5, 10; with Mark 1:14-20.
Completely Known and Still Loved
Mark Koonz 14 January 2018
We use 3 texts together: 1 Samuel 3:1-10; Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18; and John 1:43-51.
We use 3 texts together: 1 Samuel 3:1-10; Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18; and John 1:43-51.
Wisdom and Flexibility for Re-Routing the Journey
Mark Koonz 7 January 2018
With Matthew 2:1-12, the Wise Men or Magi of the Medes and their journey to Bethlehem
With Matthew 2:1-12, the Wise Men or Magi of the Medes and their journey to Bethlehem
Two People Mary and Joseph Needed
Mark Koonz 31 December 2017
With Luke 2:22-39, about the divine appointment with Simeon and Anna.
With Luke 2:22-39, about the divine appointment with Simeon and Anna.
What's in a Name? Christmas Eve 2017
Mark Koonz 24 December 2017
Jesus's name meant "God saves" and he was born to live out the meaning of this name.
Jesus's name meant "God saves" and he was born to live out the meaning of this name.
Guest Preacher
Dr. Amy Schifrin 3 December 2017
Christ the King Wears Scars
Mark Koonz 26 November 2017
With Ephesians 1:15-23, then John 14:1-3 and Matthew 25:31-46.
With Ephesians 1:15-23, then John 14:1-3 and Matthew 25:31-46.
Memorial Service for Margaret McDonald
Mark Koonz 25 November 2017
The end of her long life is a milestone for Emmanuel Lutheran Church. This message goes with Psalm 23 and John 10:11-18; also John 14:1-3.
The end of her long life is a milestone for Emmanuel Lutheran Church. This message goes with Psalm 23 and John 10:11-18; also John 14:1-3.
Faithful Servants
Mark Koonz 19 November 2017
With Matthew 25:14-30, commonly known as the Parable of the Talents.
With Matthew 25:14-30, commonly known as the Parable of the Talents.
All Souls 2017
Mark Koonz 5 November 2017
The people of God are made up of the living and the dead. Hebrews 11 and 12:1-2 may be read before listening, as well as Revelation 7:9.
The people of God are made up of the living and the dead. Hebrews 11 and 12:1-2 may be read before listening, as well as Revelation 7:9.
The Reformation 500 Years Ago - Reflections
Mark Koonz 29 October 2017
Some highlights of the Reformation and the need for living by grace today.
Some highlights of the Reformation and the need for living by grace today.
God Tends Large and Small Vineyards
Mark Koonz 8 October 2017
With Isaiah 5:1-7; also Matthew 21:33-43, but emphasis on God's work in and among ancient Israel; also referenced: 2 Timothy 1:7 and Ephesi... [more]
With Isaiah 5:1-7; also Matthew 21:33-43, but emphasis on God's work in and among ancient Israel; also referenced: 2 Timothy 1:7 and Ephesians 5:16 following Las Vegas massacre. [less]
Romans Overview and Junia, outstanding Apostle
Mark Koonz 1st October 2017
A summary of Paul's themes in Romans, with a special look at Romans 16:7 and the controversy over Paul's statement that a woman was an apost... [more]
A summary of Paul's themes in Romans, with a special look at Romans 16:7 and the controversy over Paul's statement that a woman was an apostle. [less]
Romans 13 - When to Submit (or not) to Government
Mark Koonz 24 September 2017
Read Romans 13:1-8. In my second message (unrecorded) I gave examples from Soviet Russia in the 1930s and Occupied France in World War Two ... [more]
Read Romans 13:1-8. In my second message (unrecorded) I gave examples from Soviet Russia in the 1930s and Occupied France in World War Two where Christians recognized a responsibility to disobey human decrees in order to obey God. [less]
Romans 12:1-2 Mind Renewal for Transformation
Mark Koonz 10 September 2017
A focus on Romans 12:1-2, asking "What is the extent of worship?" and discussing conformity to Christ rather than the world.
A focus on Romans 12:1-2, asking "What is the extent of worship?" and discussing conformity to Christ rather than the world.
All Israel will be saved - Romans 11
Mark Koonz 3 September 2017
Looking at the Apostle Paul's statements about Israel, election, and grafting new branches onto the tree
Looking at the Apostle Paul's statements about Israel, election, and grafting new branches onto the tree
Romans 9 - God did not stack the decks against us
Mark Koonz 27 August 2017
An examination of the biblical concept of election in relationship to "Jacob" and "Esau."
An examination of the biblical concept of election in relationship to "Jacob" and "Esau."
Romans 8 Part Two - God Works for Good
Mark Koonz 20 August 2017
An exploration of the meaning of Romans 8:28 in the context of Romans 8:22-39. We look at what this verse means for the church and for indi... [more]
An exploration of the meaning of Romans 8:28 in the context of Romans 8:22-39. We look at what this verse means for the church and for individuals. [less]
The Prayer Ministry of the Holy Spirit - Romans 8 Part One
Mark Koonz 13 August 2017
Romans 8 is rich. Our focus is on the intercessions of the Holy Spirit which accompany our prayers. Special reference to James B. Torrance... [more]
Romans 8 is rich. Our focus is on the intercessions of the Holy Spirit which accompany our prayers. Special reference to James B. Torrance's book "Worship, Community, and the Triune God of Grace" - used with permission granted by Dr. Mary Torrance. [less]
Romans 7 - Strange Problems Within
Mark Koonz 6 August 2017
Sanctification follows our justification, leading to new concerns and God's assistance. With reference to Donald Grey Barnhouse's illustrat... [more]
Sanctification follows our justification, leading to new concerns and God's assistance. With reference to Donald Grey Barnhouse's illustration. [less]
Romans 6
Mark Koonz 30 July 2017
Romans 5
Mark Koonz 23 June 2017
On Paul's comparison of Adam and Jesus Christ (with reference to 1st Corinthians 15:45-49).
On Paul's comparison of Adam and Jesus Christ (with reference to 1st Corinthians 15:45-49).
Romans 4: Abraham's Children
Mark Koonz 16 July 2017
An exploration of Romans 4 and Paul's focus on Abraham becoming righteous through faith. He gazed on the glory of God, not his own weakness... [more]
An exploration of Romans 4 and Paul's focus on Abraham becoming righteous through faith. He gazed on the glory of God, not his own weakness. [less]
Romans 3: God's gift
Mark Koonz 9 July 2017
Looking at some central verses in Romans 3
Looking at some central verses in Romans 3
Romans 2
Mark Koonz 2 July 2017
An overview of chapter 2.
An overview of chapter 2.
Who Is In Trouble? Romans 1
Mark Koonz 25 June 2017
An overall look at the underlying reason for God's wrath against sin, as presented in Romans 1; with reference to Richard Hays' "The Moral V... [more]
An overall look at the underlying reason for God's wrath against sin, as presented in Romans 1; with reference to Richard Hays' "The Moral Vision of the New Testament" and Paul Minear's "The Obedience of Faith." [less]
Introduction to Romans
Mark Koonz 18 June 2017
Giving the context (from the final chapters of Romans) in order to review what the Apostle Paul says in Romans 1:1-17.
Giving the context (from the final chapters of Romans) in order to review what the Apostle Paul says in Romans 1:1-17.
Thinking about God's Trinitarian Life: Harmony that Produces a World with the Hope of Salvation
Mark Koonz 11 June 2017
With John 17:1-7 and Matthew 28:19-20. This is not an explanation of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, so much as reflections on God and th... [more]
With John 17:1-7 and Matthew 28:19-20. This is not an explanation of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, so much as reflections on God and the offer of participating in God's triune joy and peace and love. [less]
Something the Holy Spirit Does
Mark Koonz 4 June 2017
A message for Pentecost Sunday, with reference to John 20:19-23, Acts 2:1-7, and 1 Corinthians 12:3-13.
A message for Pentecost Sunday, with reference to John 20:19-23, Acts 2:1-7, and 1 Corinthians 12:3-13.
Putting an End to Dating the End
Mark Koonz 28 May 2017
The Ascension of Jesus and questions on our mind: a focus on Acts 1:1-11, particularly on verses 6-7.
The Ascension of Jesus and questions on our mind: a focus on Acts 1:1-11, particularly on verses 6-7.
Since the Days of Noah
Mark Koonz 21 May 2017
Thoughts on 1 Peter 3:18-22, a closed mystery full of hints, with reference to Ephesians and Genesis.
Thoughts on 1 Peter 3:18-22, a closed mystery full of hints, with reference to Ephesians and Genesis.
Will the Lord be My Shepherd Too?
Mark Koonz 7 May 2017
Reflections on 1 Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-18; and Psalm 23.
Reflections on 1 Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-18; and Psalm 23.
A Walk with Jesus through the Bible
Mark Koonz 30 April 2017
Luke 24:13-35; on a walk to Emmaus Jesus indicated that the Church must be guided by the Scriptures more than by personal experiences.
Luke 24:13-35; on a walk to Emmaus Jesus indicated that the Church must be guided by the Scriptures more than by personal experiences.
Thomas' Second Blessing
Mark Koonz 23 April 2017
John 20:24-30. Why Thomas got to see people come to faith in Jesus who never saw the resurrected Lord.
John 20:24-30. Why Thomas got to see people come to faith in Jesus who never saw the resurrected Lord.
Forgiveness Actualized
Mark Koonz 16 April 2017 Easter Sunday
The meaning of the Cross and Resurrection together.
The meaning of the Cross and Resurrection together.
"God With Us" means "We With God"
Mark Koonz 14 April 2017
A short Good Friday meditation to go with our Stations of the Cross program. A brief reference to Thomas F. Torrance's book "Atonement," wh... [more]
A short Good Friday meditation to go with our Stations of the Cross program. A brief reference to Thomas F. Torrance's book "Atonement," which is worth its weight in gold. [less]
Love One Another is a costly command
Mark Koonz 13 April 2017
A Maundy Thursday message with John 13:34-35, with historical information borrowed from Larry Hurtado's "Why On Earth Did Anyone Become a Ch... [more]
A Maundy Thursday message with John 13:34-35, with historical information borrowed from Larry Hurtado's "Why On Earth Did Anyone Become a Christian in the First Three Centuries" and Alvin J. Schmidt's "How Christianity Changed the World," both of which ar [less]
You or Me? The Day Jesus Made Israel Choose
Mark Koonz 9 April 2017
The triumphal entry of Jesus and his hard action in the temple, a commentary on Matthew 21:5-13.
The triumphal entry of Jesus and his hard action in the temple, a commentary on Matthew 21:5-13.
The Unrecorded Prayer
Mark Koonz 2 April 2017
About being guided by God's Spirit in prayer and action for other people. An examination of John 11:41 within the story of John 11:1-54, the... [more]
About being guided by God's Spirit in prayer and action for other people. An examination of John 11:41 within the story of John 11:1-54, the raising of Lazarus from the dead. [less]
Providential Intervention and Priestly Prayer for the Present and Future
Mark Koonz 19 March 2017
A reflection on Exodus 17:1-7, Moses's earnest prayer and the provision of water. We cannot always know where God intervened in the past, b... [more]
A reflection on Exodus 17:1-7, Moses's earnest prayer and the provision of water. We cannot always know where God intervened in the past, but must pray for this to happen in the present and future. [less]
God Loves to Give the Gift of Life Twice
Mark Koonz 12 March 2017
John 3, Nicodemus, and Jesus's words about being "born again" or "born twice."
John 3, Nicodemus, and Jesus's words about being "born again" or "born twice."
True Humility
Rev. Albert Gillin, Pastor of Walla Walla Presbyterian Church 8 March 2017
Pastor Gillin's text was Matthew 18:1-4. Ancient people did not think humility was a virtue, but from Moses to Jesus humility was highlighte... [more]
Pastor Gillin's text was Matthew 18:1-4. Ancient people did not think humility was a virtue, but from Moses to Jesus humility was highlighted as a virtue. [less]
They Are Not Identical Twins: Comparing the First and Last Adam
Mark Koonz 5 March 2017
We are looking at the pattern shared between Genesis 3 and Matthew 4:1-11, together with Romans 5:12-21 and 1 Corinthians 15:20-49. This is... [more]
We are looking at the pattern shared between Genesis 3 and Matthew 4:1-11, together with Romans 5:12-21 and 1 Corinthians 15:20-49. This is one of Pastor Mark's more controversial sermons, but it is important. [less]
The Hardest Form of Discipleship: Forgiving an Enemy
Mark Koonz 19 February 2017
Some things are humanly impossible. Jesus talks about impossible things becoming possible in his Kingdom where the Holy Spirit operates for... [more]
Some things are humanly impossible. Jesus talks about impossible things becoming possible in his Kingdom where the Holy Spirit operates for good. [less]
Words for People Comfortable with the Ten Commandments
Mark Koonz 12 February 2017
This goes together with Matthew 5:21-30, with a focus on the inner life of mind and heart.
This goes together with Matthew 5:21-30, with a focus on the inner life of mind and heart.
Was the Cross a Mistake in Strategy? Something about the Jewish Apocalyptic Worldview
Mark Koonz 5 February 2017
An examination of the Apostle Paul's strange use of language in 1 Corinthians 2:8, in the context of 1 Cor. 2:1-11.
An examination of the Apostle Paul's strange use of language in 1 Corinthians 2:8, in the context of 1 Cor. 2:1-11.
Looking for a Beatitude
Mark Koonz 29 January 2017
With Matthew 5:1-12, asking the question "Who Can Be Blessed?"
With Matthew 5:1-12, asking the question "Who Can Be Blessed?"
Something about the Twelve
Mark Koonz 22 January 2017
Jesus's selection of his disciples included all variety, and the door is still open for people like you and me to be included in service.
Jesus's selection of his disciples included all variety, and the door is still open for people like you and me to be included in service.
Something about Andrew
Mark Koonz 15 January 2017
A reflection on the disciple Andrew, beginning with John 1:29-42, and with reference to James S. Stewart.
A reflection on the disciple Andrew, beginning with John 1:29-42, and with reference to James S. Stewart.
Ancient Promises and God's Options
Mark Koonz 8 January 2017
With Isaiah 42:1-9 and Matthew 3:13-17; God has more than one way to surprise us when fulfilling ancient promises and predictions.
With Isaiah 42:1-9 and Matthew 3:13-17; God has more than one way to surprise us when fulfilling ancient promises and predictions.
God Wove a Pattern in spite of Herod's Design
Mark Koonz 1 January 2017
Where was God at work when the Messiah was born and King Herod attempted to kill him? Can we see any pattern superimposed over human events... [more]
Where was God at work when the Messiah was born and King Herod attempted to kill him? Can we see any pattern superimposed over human events? [less]
Christmas Eve - One Gift the Same but Always More Under the Tree
Mark Koonz 24 December 2016
What comes after forgiveness? The giftings of the Holy Spirit.
What comes after forgiveness? The giftings of the Holy Spirit.