Beyond Santa Claus: Choosing Life-Giving Models of God

Choosing the Right Model of God: From Judgment to Creation

This sermon explores how models shape our decisions—fromweather forecasts to spiritual beliefs. Models simplify reality, but they’re inherently incomplete. One widely used theological model is the “Santa Claus model” of God: a divine judge who rewards the good and punishes the bad. Foundin creeds and scripture, this model offers moral clarity but risks distorting divine mystery when taken as literal truth.

Through readings from Job, Psalms, Thessalonians, and theGospel, the sermon critiques this model’s limitations. Job’s suffering challenges the fairness of divine judgment. Paul’s early followers misinterpret the urgency of Christ’s return, abandoning daily responsibilities. The Sadducees question resurrection, clinging to Torah law. Jesus responds byreframing God not as judge, but as creator—one who brings life that cannot be uncreated.

This “creating life” model shifts focus from punishment topossibility. It invites believers to partner with God in cultivating life, justice, and renewal. Rather than asking “Why did this happen?” we ask, “What can God create now?” Jesus’ resurrection becomes the ultimate affirmation that death cannot undo divine creation.

The sermon encourages listeners to discern which model bestguides their actions today. It calls for less reliance on retributive frameworks and more engagement with life-giving ones. Supported by community, tradition, and Spirit, we’re invited to co-create with God—bringing hope, healing, and transformation to our lives, churches, and world.