The author J.R. Dolan was traveling in Austria. He rang the bell at the entrance of an old monastery, hoping he could get a tour. A brown-clad monk opened the door. Dolan asked, “Is the monastery open for visitors today?” The monk replied, “Mein Herr, this door has been open every day for more than 812 years. Come in, please.” In like manner, the doors of the church have been open for 2,000 years to rich and poor, to powerful and powerless, to free and enslaved.


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About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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At the Korean DMZ, you can see into North Korea far enough to see the largest flag pole in the world. The flag by itself weighs 300 kilograms. In Seoul, South Korea, by contrast, you can see churches everywhere, each with a neon cross lighted at night. Sometimes we are prone to wonder if the church makes any difference. It does.


View more sermon illustrations for inspiration for your next message.

About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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