In this episode of "Day1 Classics," we revisit a profound message from Rev. John Vannorsdall, a distinguished Lutheran preacher, former chaplain at Gettysburg College and Yale University, and past president of the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia.

Originally preached in 1986 on The Protestant Hour, his sermon "Renouncing the Devil," based on Luke 13 v1-9, challenges us to reflect on the fundamental question of faith: Whose side are you on?

Joined by Rev. Dr. Tom Long and Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara, host Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime explores how Vannorsdall’s call to repentance, allegiance, and spiritual realignment remains just as relevant today.

Renouncing the Devil - Episode 4174 | Rev. John Vannorsdall | Luke 13 v1-9

Join us for Episode 4197 of Day1 Classics featuring Rev. Dr. Jorge Lara-Braud, founding director of the Hispanic American Institute in Austin, Texas. In his powerful 1976 sermon, "In Search of Another City," based on Hebrews 13:10-16, Lara-Braud calls us to live as pilgrims pursuing God's future, challenging nationalism, religious complacency, and false superiority. This bold message is especially fitting for the 12th Sunday after Pentecost, offering hope rooted in Christ's liberating presence. Tune in for this timeless and prophetic word that still speaks today.

In Search of Another City - Ep 4197 | Rev. Dr. Jorge Lara-Braud | Hebrews 13:10-16 | August 31, 2025

Join us for Episode 4198 of Day1 with Rev. Dr. Barry Jones, Senior Pastor of Irving Bible Church in Dallas-Fort Worth. In his sermon “Seen, Known, Loved,” based on Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, Dr. Jones explores what it means to be fully seen, deeply known, and unconditionally loved by God. Speaking into the chaos, shame, and suffering we face, he reminds us of God’s abiding presence and grace. As we mark the 13th Sunday after Pentecost, tune in for this message of hope and encouragement!


Seen, Known, Loved - Episode #4198 | Rev. Dr. Barry Jones | Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 | September 7, 2025

Join us for Day1 Episode 4199 with the Rev. Dr. Theodore A. Gill of San Francisco Theological Seminary. In his sermon, "Our Lover's Quarrel with the World," based on John 3:13-17, Dr. Gill explores how Christians are called to both critique and cherish the world, holding together the tension of God’s judgment and God’s love. Originally preached in 1963, this message still speaks powerfully to Holy Cross Sunday, Year C. Tune in for this timeless word of faith, challenge, and hope.


Our Lover's Quarrel with the World - Episode 4199 | Rev. Dr. Theodore A. Gill | John 3:13-17 | September 14, 2025

In this landmark 4,200th episode of Day1, Rev. Dr. Jason Byassee of Timothy Eaton Memorial Church in Toronto and Rabbi Yael Splansky of Holy Blossom Temple reflect on Psalm 79 v1-13. In two powerful sermons—“Through, Not For” and “Insisting on Song: Cracking the Code of Psalm 79”—they explore themes of blessing, lament, resilience, and praise across Christian and Jewish traditions. Together, they invite us to consider how faith endures in times of devastation and how communities can embody hope and defiance through prayer and song. Tune in for this historic interfaith dialogue and message of enduring faith.

Insisting on Praise: Reading Psalm 79 Together

Join us for Episode 4201 as Rev. Jody Andrade (Presbytery of Greater Atlanta) shares “Dinner with a Prophet,” reflecting on Jeremiah 32:1–3a, 6–15. Drawing from Jeremiah’s bold witness, Jody explores how prophetic truth-telling, courageous love of neighbor, and everyday hospitality become investments in hope. Set in the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22, Year C), this message invites us to pray, act, and trust God’s future even amid turmoil. Tune in for a thoughtful, faith-deepening conversation and sermon you can carry into your week.

Dinner with a Prophet - Episode #4201 | Rev. Jody Andrade | Jeremiah 32:1–3a, 6–15 | September 28, 2025

Join us for Episode 4202 with Rev. Mark Birch, Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey (London), preaching “Keep Faith and Guard the Good Deposit” on 2 Timothy 1:1–14. Drawing on coronation imagery and baptismal themes, Rev. Birch reflects on handing down a rich, sometimes mysterious faith—beyond metrics, success, or failure. In this Proper 22 (27), 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Year C) message, he encourages us to hold fast to the gospel entrusted to us with courage and hope. 

Tune in to be encouraged and inspired by a seasoned Anglican pastor.


Keep Faith and Guard the Good Deposit - Ep. 4202 | Rev. Mark Birch | 2 Timothy 1:1–14 | Oct 5, 2025

In Episode 4203 of Day1, Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls, senior pastor of Franklin Baptist Church in Virginia, offers “Called to Trust God” rooted in 2 Kings 5 v1-14. Reflecting on Naaman’s story, Rev. Dr. Qualls explores why faith invites us beyond comfort—toward trust, humility, and obedience. He contrasts our instinct to ask “how?” with Scripture’s deeper “why?,” urging listeners to make room for God amid a frenetic world. From Advent’s call to quiet to the Jordan’s lessons in surrender, this message invites courage, integrity, and spiritual renewal. 

Called to Trust God - Episode 4203 | Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls | 2 Kings 5:1-14 | October 12, 2025

Join us for Episode 4204 with Rev. Grace Imathiu of First United Methodist Church (Evanston, IL). In “Prayer as Prophetic Imagination,” rooted in Luke 18:1-8, Grace invites us to see prayer not as passive pleading but as a resilient, justice-seeking life with God. Drawing on themes of lament, hope, and persistence, she explores how prayer strengthens us against despair—especially in this season after Pentecost (Proper 24, Year C). Tune in for a thoughtful, faith-deepening message from a globally respected preacher and teacher.


Prayer as Prophetic Imagination - Episode 4204 | Rev. Grace Imathiu | Luke 18:1-8 | October 19, 2025

Join us for Day1 Episode 4205 as Rev. Dr. Sam Wells, vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields (London), preaches “The Light We Cannot See” on Luke 18:9–14. Drawing on the Pharisee and the tax collector, Wells explores humility, grace, and the dangers of self-righteousness—inviting us to see one another as gifts rather than rivals. In this Proper 25, Year C message, he weaves story and theology into a hopeful call toward community, mercy, and “being with.” Tune in for a thoughtful, timely word that will deepen your walk of faith.

The Light We Cannot See - Episode 4205 | Rev. Dr. Sam Wells | Luke 18:9-14 | October 26, 2025

Day1 has been a trusted voice of hope and inspiration in the mainline Protestant tradition for 80 years. Founded in 1945 as a pioneering radio ministry known as "The Protestant Hour," Day1 has evolved into a multimedia platform that uplifts and connects faith and life. Through powerful sermons and engaging conversations with some of the nation’s most gifted preachers, we proclaim God’s love and grace across the airwaves, podcasts, and online platforms. Join us in continuing this legacy of sharing messages that inspire and transform lives around the world.

Renouncing the Devil - Episode 4174 | Rev. John Vannorsdall | Luke 13 v1-9

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