The Soul of Civility: Building Bridges In A World of Rifts and Walls

First-Centenary United Methodist

The Soul of Civility: Building Bridges In A World of Rifts and Walls

September 29, 2024 • Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback • Ruth 1

Ruth’s dedication to Naomi and how their life together went against the cultural norms of the day. What does it look like for us to model civility in such a way that we build bridges and heal rifts in a world of walls and division.

The Soul of Civility: Being a Citizen of the Kingdom of God

October 13, 2024 • Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback • John 15:1–17

Where does our true identity come from? From where do we draw our source of life and strength? In a world that has become hyper focused on partisan identities and divisions, what does it look like for us to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God who happen to live in the United States of America?

The Soul of Civility: Civic Responsibility of Christians

October 6, 2024 • Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback

It's a world of “keep your politics out of the pulpit and vice versa” what does it mean for us to have a faith that is impacting our politics (little p… not partisan but political… that is the way people work together). What does it look like for us to live transformed lives? Jesus and Caesar. Wesley’s advice to Voters (actually on October 6th 1774). How do we live lives that witness to government but don't impose our theological beliefs on other religions and honor the separation of church and state. How do we handle the need to be a voice for the voiceless in the face of unjust government (Bonhoeffer)?

The Soul of Civility: Thou Shalt Not Be A Jerk

September 15, 2024 • Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback • Luke 15:11–32

Parable of the Loving Father and two lost sons. Focus on the older brother.