Every Moment His: Recent Episodes
Pastor John + Pastor Tim
The Gospel makes a claim on every moment of your life. Join Pastor John and Pastor Tim as they wrestle with the application of our weekly sermon in the trenches of everyday life. Podcast of Holy Cross in Kearney, NE
As those who have been exalted with Christ, we are placed back into this world where we serve others just as Christ did.
Christianity is not a solo act. God calls us into His body of believers, and more specifically, into a local gathering of His beloved people.
One of the major themes of Colossians is the freedom that Christians enjoy in Christ. Freedom from Sin and freedom from unbiblical restrictions.
The Christian life is not static. We are called to grow to our ultimate form, which is to be like-Christ in everything.
The pastors unpack key themes in the book of Colossians and talk about some of the key problems facing the church at Colossae.
đ What Happens in a Lutheran Worship Service? Lutheran Liturgy Explained
This video breaks down the key elements of Confessional Lutheran worship (Divine Service), explaining the structure, purpose, and theology behind each part. Rooted in Scripture and the historic Christian tradition, the Lutheran liturgy centers on Christâs gifts of Word and Sacrament.
đď¸ Here's a quick overview of each part of the service:
âIn the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.â
Begins worship in the Triune name, reminding us of Baptism and Godâs presence.
We confess our sins; the pastor proclaims forgiveness in Christâpure grace.
A Psalm sets the tone and theme of the day, linking us to biblical worship.
âLord, have mercyâŚâ
A humble, Christ-centered plea for Godâs help and compassion.
âGlory to God in the highestâŚâ
A hymn of praise celebrating Jesus' incarnation and saving work.
A sacred dialogue and prayer that gather the dayâs themes before God.
Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel readings deliver Godâs living Word.
Sung between readingsâjoyful, seasonal responses to the Gospel.
The Gospel may be read among the people, symbolizing Christ among us.
Christ-centered preaching that proclaims Law and Gospel for salvation.
A shared confession of faith in the Triune God and Christâs redemptive work.
Intercessions for the Church, world, and all in needâour priestly calling.
A thankful response to Godâs gifts, supporting mission and mercy.
âWhat shall I render to the LordâŚâ
A song of thanksgiving as we prepare for Holy Communion.
âLift up your heartsâŚâ
Hearts are lifted to the Lord, preparing for Christâs real presence.
âHoly, holy, holyâŚâ
A heavenly hymn welcoming Jesus, who comes in the Sacrament.
We pray as Jesus taught, just before the Words of Institution.
âTake, eat⌠Drink of it, all of youâŚâ
Jesusâ words make the Sacrament what He promisesâHis true body and blood.
âThe peace of the Lord be with you always.â
Christâs peace is declared and given before Communion.
âLamb of God, You take away the sin of the worldâŚâ
A hymn of adoration for Christ, our sacrificial Lamb.
We receive Christâs body and blood for forgiveness, life, and salvation.
âLord, now You let Your servant go in peaceâŚâ
Simeonâs song after seeing Jesusânow our song after receiving Him.
A final prayer of thanksgiving for the gifts received.
âThe Lord bless you and keep youâŚâ
God sends us out with His Name and peace.
One last song of praise as we go out to live in faith and service.
âď¸ Worship in the Lutheran Church isnât about performanceâitâs about Christ.
Itâs called Divine Service (Gottesdienst) because God serves us through Word and Sacrament, and we respond in faith and thanksgiving.
đ Want to learn more?
Explore the Lutheran Confessions, especially the Apology of the Augsburg Confession and Small Catechism on worship and the Sacrament.
Lutheran #Worship #DivineService #Liturgy #ConfessionalLutheran #HolyCommunion #LutheranChurch #Reformation #ChurchService #LiturgicalWorship #Christianity #JesusChrist #WordAndSacrament
đš Invocationđš Confession & Absolutionđš Introitđš Kyrie Eleisonđš Gloria in Excelsisđš Salutation & Collectđš Scripture Readingsđš Gradual / Alleluiađš Gospel Procession (optional)đš Sermonđš Creedđš Prayer of the Churchđš Offeringđš Offertoryđš Preface & Proper Prefaceđš Sanctusđš Lordâs Prayerđš Words of Institutionđš Pax Dominiđš Agnus Deiđš Distributionđš Nunc Dimittisđš Post-Communion Collectđš Benedictionđš Closing Hymn
A classic theological query - if God is all powerful and all knowing, and He is the one who causes our salvation, is He also causing our damnation? If so, what is the point of caring about it since we are powerless to change the outcome?
In this Ask The Pastor Anything episode, pastors John and Tim consider how should Christians consider the possibility of extra-terrestrial life. X-Files vibes for sure.
Can people be demon possessed? How would we know? John and Tim tackle this question biblically and point you to some useful resources.
In this episode:
- How can we resist pressures that say the bible is outdated when it comes to sexual ethics?
- A follow up question about euthanasia
Pastors John and Tim answer questions from their congregation - Is the church too exclusive? What is the biblical stance on doctor assisted suicide?
Ask the Pastor Anything - The pastors tackle a difficult question about someone struggling with #faith because of great #evil that happened in their life.
All sin stems from incorrect worship. Take a listen as Pastors John and Tim breakdown why it's so critical to worship the TRUE GOD - Jesus Christ, even in Maycember.
Pastor Tim and Director of Christian Education Susie Danner talk about three key ways that parents can influence their children to know and love Jesus for life.
How does the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus inform how we live in this political world?
John 18â19
Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus
[1] When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. [2] Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. [3] So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. [4] Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, âWhom do you seek?â [5] They answered him, âJesus of Nazareth.â Jesus said to them, âI am he.â Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. [6] When Jesus said to them, âI am he,â they drew back and fell to the ground. [7] So he asked them again, âWhom do you seek?â And they said, âJesus of Nazareth.â [8] Jesus answered, âI told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.â [9] This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: âOf those whom you gave me I have lost not one.â [10] Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priestâs servant and cut off his right ear. (The servantâs name was Malchus.) [11] So Jesus said to Peter, âPut your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?â
Jesus Faces Annas and Caiaphas
[12] So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. [13] First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. [14] It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.
Peter Denies Jesus
[15] Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, [16] but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. [17] The servant girl at the door said to Peter, âYou also are not one of this manâs disciples, are you?â He said, âI am not.â [18] Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.
[19] The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. [20] Jesus answered him, âI have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. [21] Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.â [22] When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, âIs that how you answer the high priest?â [23] Jesus answered him, âIf what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?â [24] Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.
Jesus Before Pilate
[28] Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governorâs headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governorâs headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. [29] So Pilate went outside to them and said, âWhat accusation do you bring against this man?â [30] They answered him, âIf this man were not doing evil, we would not have delivered him over to you.â [31] Pilate said to them, âTake him yourselves and judge him by your own law.â The Jews said to him, âIt is not lawful for us to put anyone to death.â [32] This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die.
John 13:1â15, 34-35
Jesus Washes the Disciplesâ Feet
[1] Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. [2] During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simonâs son, to betray him, [3] Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, [4] rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. [5] Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciplesâ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. [6] He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, âLord, do you wash my feet?â [7] Jesus answered him, âWhat I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.â [8] Peter said to him, âYou shall never wash my feet.â Jesus answered him, âIf I do not wash you, you have no share with me.â [9] Simon Peter said to him, âLord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!â [10] Jesus said to him, âThe one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.â [11] For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, âNot all of you are clean.â
[12] When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, âDo you understand what I have done to you? [13] You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. [14] If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one anotherâs feet. [15] For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
[34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. [35] By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.â (ESV)
Matthew 27:11â54
Jesus Before Pilate
[11] Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, âAre you the King of the Jews?â Jesus said, âYou have said so.â [12] But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer. [13] Then Pilate said to him, âDo you not hear how many things they testify against you?â [14] But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed.
The Crowd Chooses Barabbas
[15] Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. [16] And they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. [17] So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, âWhom do you want me to release for you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?â [18] For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up. [19] Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, âHave nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.â [20] Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. [21] The governor again said to them, âWhich of the two do you want me to release for you?â And they said, âBarabbas.â [22] Pilate said to them, âThen what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?â They all said, âLet him be crucified!â [23] And he said, âWhy? What evil has he done?â But they shouted all the more, âLet him be crucified!â
Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified
[24] So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, âI am innocent of this manâs blood; see to it yourselves.â [25] And all the people answered, âHis blood be on us and on our children!â [26] Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified.
Jesus Is Mocked
[27] Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the governorâs headquarters, and they gathered the whole battalion before him. [28] And they stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, [29] and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, âHail, King of the Jews!â [30] And they spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head. [31] And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him and led him away to crucify him.
The Crucifixion
[32] As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross. [33] And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), [34] they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. [35] And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. [36] Then they sat down and kept watch over him there. [37] And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, âThis is Jesus, the King of the Jews.â [38] Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. [39] And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads [40] and saying, âYou who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.â [41] So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, [42] âHe saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. [43] He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, âI am the Son of God.ââ [44] And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.
In this episode John and Tim explore the theology of the cross a.k.a God using suffering to our benefit.
John 7:11â17
[11] The Jews were looking for him at the feast, and saying, âWhere is he?â [12] And there was much muttering about him among the people. While some said, âHe is a good man,â others said, âNo, he is leading the people astray.â [13] Yet for fear of the Jews no one spoke openly of him.
[14] About the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple and began teaching. [15] The Jews therefore marveled, saying, âHow is it that this man has learning, when he has never studied?â [16] So Jesus answered them, âMy teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. [17] If anyoneâs will is to do Godâs will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority. (ESV)
John 8:42â46
[42] Jesus said to them, âIf God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but he sent me. [43] Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. [44] You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your fatherâs desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. [45] But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. [46] Which one of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? (ESV)
Pastor Tim tells Pastor John a joke that makes him tear up. Also, the pastors talk about suffering and how faith in Jesus shapes and transforms our experience of it.
John 3:11â18
[11] Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. [12] If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? [13] No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. [14] And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, [15] that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
[16] âFor God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. [18] Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
John 6:1â15
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
[1] After this Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. [2] And a large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. [3] Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. [4] Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. [5] Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, âWhere are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?â [6] He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. [7] Philip answered him, âTwo hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.â [8] One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peterâs brother, said to him, [9] âThere is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?â [10] Jesus said, âHave the people sit down.â Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. [11] Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted. [12] And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, âGather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.â [13] So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. [14] When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, âThis is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!â
[15] Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself. (ESV)
How can the church become a refuge for those who are dealing with shame? Pastors John and Tim discuss.
Luke 9:37â43
Jesus Heals a Boy with an Unclean Spirit
[37] On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. [38] And behold, a man from the crowd cried out, âTeacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. [39] And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out. It convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and shatters him, and will hardly leave him. [40] And I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.â [41] Jesus answered, âO faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.â [42] While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. [43] And all were astonished at the majesty of God.
Luke 11:14â28
Jesus and Beelzebul
[14] Now he was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. [15] But some of them said, âHe casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons,â [16] while others, to test him, kept seeking from him a sign from heaven. [17] But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, âEvery kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. [18] And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. [19] And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. [20] But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. [21] When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe; [22] but when one stronger than he attacks him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his spoil. [23] Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
Return of an Unclean Spirit
[24] âWhen the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, âI will return to my house from which I came.â [25] And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. [26] Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there. And the last state of that person is worse than the first.â
True Blessedness
[27] As he said these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, âBlessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed!â [28] But he said, âBlessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!â (ESV)
Matthew 15:21â28
The Faith of a Canaanite Woman
[21] And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. [22] And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, âHave mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.â [23] But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, âSend her away, for she is crying out after us.â [24] He answered, âI was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.â [25] But she came and knelt before him, saying, âLord, help me.â [26] And he answered, âIt is not right to take the childrenâs bread and throw it to the dogs.â [27] She said, âYes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their mastersâ table.â [28] Then Jesus answered her, âO woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.â And her daughter was healed instantly. (ESV)
Matthew 14:22â33
Jesus Walks on the Water
[22] Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. [23] And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, [24] but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. [25] And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. [26] But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, âIt is a ghost!â and they cried out in fear. [27] But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, âTake heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.â
[28] And Peter answered him, âLord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.â [29] He said, âCome.â So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, âLord, save me.â [31] Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, âO you of little faith, why did you doubt?â [32] And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. [33] And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, âTruly you are the Son of God.â (ESV)
Matthew 4:1â11
The Temptation of Jesus
[1] Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. [2] And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. [3] And the tempter came and said to him, âIf you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.â [4] But he answered, âIt is written,
ââMan shall not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.ââ
[5] Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple [6] and said to him, âIf you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,
ââHe will command his angels concerning you,â
and
ââOn their hands they will bear you up,
lest you strike your foot against a stone.ââ
[7] Jesus said to him, âAgain it is written, âYou shall not put the Lord your God to the test.ââ [8] Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. [9] And he said to him, âAll these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.â [10] Then Jesus said to him, âBe gone, Satan! For it is written,
ââYou shall worship the Lord your God
and him only shall you serve.ââ
[11] Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. (ESV)
Matthew 6:1â6
Giving to the Needy
[1] âBeware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.
[2] âThus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. [3] But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, [4] so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
The Lordâs Prayer
[5] âAnd when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. [6] But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (ESV)
Should Christians fast? Why? How should we go about doing that? What should we chose what to give up? Pastor Tim answers some of these questions in this brief primer on the practice of fasting.
Luke 18:31â43
Jesus Foretells His Death a Third Time
[31] And taking the twelve, he said to them, âSee, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. [32] For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. [33] And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.â [34] But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
[35] As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. [36] And hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what this meant. [37] They told him, âJesus of Nazareth is passing by.â [38] And he cried out, âJesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!â [39] And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, âSon of David, have mercy on me!â [40] And Jesus stopped and commanded him to be brought to him. And when he came near, he asked him, [41] âWhat do you want me to do for you?â He said, âLord, let me recover my sight.â [42] And Jesus said to him, âRecover your sight; your faith has made you well.â [43] And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (ESV)
Pastor Tim and Susie Danner talk about 3 key behaviors (with a 4th as a bonus) for shaping your children to know and love Jesus.
What does close(d) communion look like on a typical Sunday? How can we effectively communicate with those who don't understand our position without needlessly offending them?
Do the scriptures teach that we should allow anyone who wants communion to take part in our altar? Or do they teach caution and order?
Luke 8:4â15
The Parable of the Sower
[4] And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable, [5] âA sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured it. [6] And some fell on the rock, and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. [7] And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. [8] And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold.â As he said these things, he called out, âHe who has ears to hear, let him hear.â
The Purpose of the Parables
[9] And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, [10] he said, âTo you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God, but for others they are in parables, so that âseeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.â [11] Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. [12] The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. [13] And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. [14] And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. [15] As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience. (ESV)
In this episode Pastor's John and Tim talk through some of the reasons why close(d) communion is a difficult concept in our culture even though it has been the Church's practice for all of it's history.
Why would a church practice closed communion? What are some ideas that would influence a church to practiced open communion? Most importantly, what is faithful? This episode is an introduction to these often-contested questions within the church.
1 Corinthians 9:24â27
[24] Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. [25] Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. [26] So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. [27] But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV)
1 Corinthians 10:1â5
Warning Against Idolatry
[1] For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, [2] and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, [3] and all ate the same spiritual food, [4] and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. [5] Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness. (ESV)
Matthew 20:1â16
Laborers in the Vineyard
[1] âFor the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. [2] After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. [3] And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, [4] and to them he said, âYou go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.â [5] So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. [6] And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, âWhy do you stand here idle all day?â [7] They said to him, âBecause no one has hired us.â He said to them, âYou go into the vineyard too.â [8] And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, âCall the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.â [9] And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. [10] Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. [11] And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, [12] saying, âThese last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.â [13] But he replied to one of them, âFriend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? [14] Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. [15] Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?â [16] So the last will be first, and the first last.â (ESV)
Why do churches use a common cup for their services? What's the symbolism? Isn't it germy? These and many other questions answered on this episode.
Matthew 17:1â9
The Transfiguration
[1] And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. [2] And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. [3] And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. [4] And Peter said to Jesus, âLord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.â [5] He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, âThis is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.â [6] When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. [7] But Jesus came and touched them, saying, âRise, and have no fear.â [8] And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.
[9] And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, âTell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.â (ESV)
Matthew 8:23â27
Jesus Calms a Storm
[23] And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. [24] And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. [25] And they went and woke him, saying, âSave us, Lord; we are perishing.â [26] And he said to them, âWhy are you afraid, O you of little faith?â Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. [27] And the men marveled, saying, âWhat sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?â (ESV)
Why is our church and many others moving toward a practice of weekly communion? Tim and John break it down.
Matthew 8:1â13
Jesus Cleanses a Leper
[1] When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. [2] And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, âLord, if you will, you can make me clean.â [3] And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, âI will; be clean.â And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. [4] And Jesus said to him, âSee that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.â
The Faith of a Centurion
[5] When he had entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him, [6] âLord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.â [7] And he said to him, âI will come and heal him.â [8] But the centurion replied, âLord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. [9] For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. And I say to one, âGo,â and he goes, and to another, âCome,â and he comes, and to my servant, âDo this,â and he does it.â [10] When Jesus heard this, he marveled and said to those who followed him, âTruly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith. [11] I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, [12] while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.â [13] And to the centurion Jesus said, âGo; let it be done for you as you have believed.â And the servant was healed at that very moment. (ESV)
Pastors Tim and John talk through the history and purpose of the prescribed readings of the church year.
John 2:1â11
The Wedding at Cana
[1] On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. [2] Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. [3] When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, âThey have no wine.â [4] And Jesus said to her, âWoman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.â [5] His mother said to the servants, âDo whatever he tells you.â
[6] Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. [7] Jesus said to the servants, âFill the jars with water.â And they filled them up to the brim. [8] And he said to them, âNow draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.â So they took it. [9] When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom [10] and said to him, âEveryone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.â [11] This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him. (ESV)
Why do we observe seasons in the church such as Advent, Christmas and Epiphany? Why do other churches not do this? Pastors John and Tim break it down.
Matthew 3:13â17
The Baptism of Jesus
[13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. [14] John would have prevented him, saying, âI need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?â [15] But Jesus answered him, âLet it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.â Then he consented. [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, âThis is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.â (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what it means to keep the sabbath.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it.
Matthew 2:13â23
The Flight to Egypt
[13] Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, âRise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.â [14] And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt [15] and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, âOut of Egypt I called my son.â
Herod Kills the Children
[16] Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. [17] Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:
[18] âA voice was heard in Ramah,
weeping and loud lamentation,
Rachel weeping for her children;
she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.â
The Return to Nazareth
[19] But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, [20] saying, âRise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the childâs life are dead.â [21] And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. [22] But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. [23] And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene. (ESV)
Luke 2:22â40
Jesus Presented at the Temple
[22] And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord [23] (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, âEvery male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lordâ) [24] and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, âa pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.â [25] Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. [26] And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lordâs Christ. [27] And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, [28] he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
[29] âLord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
[30] for my eyes have seen your salvation
[31] that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
[32] a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.â
[33] And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. [34] And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, âBehold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed [35] (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.â
[36] And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, [37] and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. [38] And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.
The Return to Nazareth
[39] And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. [40] And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. (ESV)
John 1:1â18
The Word Became Flesh
[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. [4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. [7] He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. [8] He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.
[9] The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. [10] He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. [11] He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, [13] who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
[14] And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. [15] (John bore witness about him, and cried out, âThis was he of whom I said, âHe who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.ââ) [16] For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. [17] For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. [18] No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Fatherâs side, he has made him known. (ESV)
Luke 2:1â20
The Birth of Jesus Christ
[1] In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. [2] This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. [3] And all went to be registered, each to his own town. [4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, [5] to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. [6] And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. [7] And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels
[8] And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. [9] And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. [10] And the angel said to them, âFear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. [11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. [12] And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.â [13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
[14] âGlory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!â
[15] When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, âLet us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.â [16] And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. [17] And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. [18] And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what it means to use Godâs name rightly.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks.
Philippians 4:4â7
[4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (ESV)
PJ and PT talk about Godâs gift of sexuality and the many questions that come with that gift in our era.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other.
John 14:1â11
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
[1] âLet not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. [2] In my Fatherâs house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. [4] And you know the way to where I am going.â [5] Thomas said to him, âLord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?â [6] Jesus said to him, âI am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. [7] If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.â
[8] Philip said to him, âLord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.â [9] Jesus said to him, âHave I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, âShow us the Fatherâ? [10] Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. [11] Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. (ESV)
Matthew 11:2â11
[2] Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples [3] and said to him, âAre you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?â [4] And Jesus answered them, âGo and tell John what you hear and see: [5] the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. [6] And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.â
[7] As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: âWhat did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? [8] What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kingsâ houses. [9] What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. [10] This is he of whom it is written,
ââBehold, I send my messenger before your face,
who will prepare your way before you.â
[11] Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. (ESV)
Luke 7:24â29
[24] When Johnâs messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: âWhat did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? [25] What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in kingsâ courts. [26] What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. [27] This is he of whom it is written,
ââBehold, I send my messenger before your face,
who will prepare your way before you.â
[28] I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.â [29] (When all the people heard this, and the tax collectors too, they declared God just, having been baptized with the baptism of John, (ESV)
Luke 21:25â36
The Coming of the Son of Man
[25] âAnd there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, [26] people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [27] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.â
The Lesson of the Fig Tree
[29] And he told them a parable: âLook at the fig tree, and all the trees. [30] As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. [31] So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. [32] Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. [33] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Watch Yourselves
[34] âBut watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. [35] For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. [36] But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.â (ESV)
John 5:16â18
[16] And this was why the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because he was doing these things on the Sabbath. [17] But Jesus answered them, âMy Father is working until now, and I am working.â [18] This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.
John 8:48â59
[48] The Jews answered him, âAre we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon?â [49] Jesus answered, âI do not have a demon, but I honor my Father, and you dishonor me. [50] Yet I do not seek my own glory; there is One who seeks it, and he is the judge. [51] Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.â [52] The Jews said to him, âNow we know that you have a demon! Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet you say, âIf anyone keeps my word, he will never taste death.â [53] Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you make yourself out to be?â [54] Jesus answered, âIf I glorify myself, my glory is nothing. It is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say, âHe is our God.â [55] But you have not known him. I know him. If I were to say that I do not know him, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and I keep his word. [56] Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.â [57] So the Jews said to him, âYou are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?â [58] Jesus said to them, âTruly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.â [59] So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. (ESV)
Matthew 21:1â9
The Triumphal Entry
[1] Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, [2] saying to them, âGo into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. [3] If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, âThe Lord needs them,â and he will send them at once.â [4] This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying,
[5] âSay to the daughter of Zion,
âBehold, your king is coming to you,
humble, and mounted on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.ââ
[6] The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. [7] They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. [8] Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. [9] And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, âHosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!â (ESV)
Matthew 25:1â13
The Parable of the Ten Virgins
[1] âThen the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. [3] For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, [4] but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. [5] As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept. [6] But at midnight there was a cry, âHere is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.â [7] Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. [8] And the foolish said to the wise, âGive us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.â [9] But the wise answered, saying, âSince there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.â [10] And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. [11] Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, âLord, lord, open to us.â [12] But he answered, âTruly, I say to you, I do not know you.â [13] Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. (ESV)
Exodus 32:1â20
The Golden Calf
[1] When the people saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mountain, the people gathered themselves together to Aaron and said to him, âUp, make us gods who shall go before us. As for this Moses, the man who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.â [2] So Aaron said to them, âTake off the rings of gold that are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me.â [3] So all the people took off the rings of gold that were in their ears and brought them to Aaron. [4] And he received the gold from their hand and fashioned it with a graving tool and made a golden calf. And they said, âThese are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!â [5] When Aaron saw this, he built an altar before it. And Aaron made a proclamation and said, âTomorrow shall be a feast to the LORD.â [6] And they rose up early the next day and offered burnt offerings and brought peace offerings. And the people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.
[7] And the LORD said to Moses, âGo down, for your people, whom you brought up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves. [8] They have turned aside quickly out of the way that I commanded them. They have made for themselves a golden calf and have worshiped it and sacrificed to it and said, âThese are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!ââ [9] And the LORD said to Moses, âI have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. [10] Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them, in order that I may make a great nation of you.â
[11] But Moses implored the LORD his God and said, âO LORD, why does your wrath burn hot against your people, whom you have brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand? [12] Why should the Egyptians say, âWith evil intent did he bring them out, to kill them in the mountains and to consume them from the face of the earthâ? Turn from your burning anger and relent from this disaster against your people. [13] Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, your servants, to whom you swore by your own self, and said to them, âI will multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have promised I will give to your offspring, and they shall inherit it forever.ââ [14] And the LORD relented from the disaster that he had spoken of bringing on his people.
[15] Then Moses turned and went down from the mountain with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand, tablets that were written on both sides; on the front and on the back they were written. [16] The tablets were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, engraved on the tablets. [17] When Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said to Moses, âThere is a noise of war in the camp.â [18] But he said, âIt is not the sound of shouting for victory, or the sound of the cry of defeat, but the sound of singing that I hear.â [19] And as soon as he came near the camp and saw the calf and the dancing, Mosesâ anger burned hot, and he threw the tablets out of his hands and broke them at the foot of the mountain. [20] He took the calf that they had made and burned it with fire and ground it to powder and scattered it on the water and made the people of Israel drink it. (ESV)
Matthew 19:16â26
The Rich Young Man
[16] And behold, a man came up to him, saying, âTeacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?â [17] And he said to him, âWhy do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.â [18] He said to him, âWhich ones?â And Jesus said, âYou shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, [19] Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.â [20] The young man said to him, âAll these I have kept. What do I still lack?â [21] Jesus said to him, âIf you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.â [22] When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
[23] And Jesus said to his disciples, âTruly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. [24] Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.â [25] When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, âWho then can be saved?â [26] But Jesus looked at them and said, âWith man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.â (ESV)
Luke 12:22â34
Do Not Be Anxious
[22] And he said to his disciples, âTherefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. [23] For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. [24] Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! [25] And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [26] If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? [27] Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [28] But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! [29] And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. [30] For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. [31] Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
[32] âFear not, little flock, for it is your Fatherâs good pleasure to give you the kingdom. [33] Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. [34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (ESV)
What does Christian Stewardship look like on the ground? How can we utilize the gifts God has blessed us with? who should we bless? PT talks with Preston Van Amburg about what motivates him to participate in community building activities.
Luke 12:13â21
The Parable of the Rich Fool
[13] Someone in the crowd said to him, âTeacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.â [14] But he said to him, âMan, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?â [15] And he said to them, âTake care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for oneâs life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.â [16] And he told them a parable, saying, âThe land of a rich man produced plentifully, [17] and he thought to himself, âWhat shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?â [18] And he said, âI will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. [19] And I will say to my soul, âSoul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.ââ [20] But God said to him, âFool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?â [21] So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.â (ESV)
Matthew 6:19â24
Lay Up Treasures in Heaven
[19] âDo not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, [20] but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. [21] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
[22] âThe eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, [23] but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!
[24] âNo one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. (ESV)
As we begin thinking about being God's consecrated stewards in this life, the pastors talk about how the act of giving to the church has changed them, and what caused that change to occur.
Luke 24:13â35
On the Road to Emmaus
[13] That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, [14] and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. [15] While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. [16] But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. [17] And he said to them, âWhat is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?â And they stood still, looking sad. [18] Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, âAre you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?â [19] And he said to them, âWhat things?â And they said to him, âConcerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, [20] and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. [21] But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. [22] Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, [23] and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. [24] Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.â [25] And he said to them, âO foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! [26] Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?â [27] And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
[28] So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, [29] but they urged him strongly, saying, âStay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.â So he went in to stay with them. [30] When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. [31] And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. [32] They said to each other, âDid not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?â [33] And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, [34] saying, âThe Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!â [35] Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. (ESV)
Pastors John and Tim talk through who should commune at the table of Jesus and reasons why someone should not commune. 1 Corinthians 11 is a key text here.
1 Corinthians 11:17â34
But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. When you come together, it is not the Lordâs supper that you eat. For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not.
For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, âThis is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.â In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, âThis cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.â For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lordâs death until he comes.
Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one anotherâif anyone is hungry, let him eat at homeâso that when you come together it will not be for judgment. About the other things I will give directions when I come. (ESV)
Matthew 9:18â26
A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed
[18] While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, âMy daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.â [19] And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. [20] And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, [21] for she said to herself, âIf I only touch his garment, I will be made well.â [22] Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, âTake heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.â And instantly the woman was made well. [23] And when Jesus came to the rulerâs house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, [24] he said, âGo away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.â And they laughed at him. [25] But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. [26] And the report of this went through all that district. (ESV)
Pastor Tim and Pastor John discuss where the power of the sacrament of the altar comes from... the pastor? the faith of the receiver? or the Word?
Does the bible really teach that Jesus is truly physically present in the Lord's Supper? Let's look into it. 1 Corinthians 10
John 6:35â39
[35] Jesus said to them, âI am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. [36] But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. [37] All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. [38] For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. [39] And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. (ESV)
Does the bible actually teach that Jesus is truly and bodily present in the Lord's Supper?
Luke 22:14â23
Institution of the Lordâs Supper
[14] And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. [15] And he said to them, âI have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. [16] For I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.â [17] And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, âTake this, and divide it among yourselves. [18] For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.â [19] And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, âThis is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.â [20] And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, âThis cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. [21] But behold, the hand of him who betrays me is with me on the table. [22] For the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed!â [23] And they began to question one another, which of them it could be who was going to do this. (ESV)
What is the Sacrament of the Altar?
It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ under the bread and wine, instituted by Christ Himself for us Christians to eat and to drink.
Where is this written?
The holy Evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke, and St. Paul write: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night when He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to the disciples and said: âTake, eat; this is My body, which is given for you. This do in remembrance of Me.â
In the same way also He took the cup after supper, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, âDrink of it, all of you; this cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.â
What is the benefit of this eating and drinking?
These words, âGiven and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins,â show us that in the Sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
How can bodily eating and drinking do such great things?
Certainly not just eating and drinking do these things, but the words written here: âGiven and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.â These words, along with the bodily eating and drinking, are the main thing in the Sacrament. Whoever believes these words has exactly what they say: âforgiveness of sins.â
Who receives this sacrament worthily?
Fasting and bodily preparation are certainly fineoutward training. But that person is truly worthy and well prepared who has faith in these words: âGiven and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.â
But anyone who does not believe these words or doubts them is unworthy and unprepared, for the words âfor youâ require all hearts to believe.
John 20:19â23
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
[19] On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, âPeace be with you.â [20] When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. [21] Jesus said to them again, âPeace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.â [22] And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, âReceive the Holy Spirit. [23] If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.â (ESV)
What is the Office of the Keys?
The Office of the Keys is that special authority which Christ has given to His church on earth to forgive the sins of repentant sinners, but to withhold forgiveness from the unrepentant as long as they do not repent.
Where is this written?
This is what St. John the Evangelist writes in chapter twenty: The Lord Jesus breathed on His disciples and said, âReceive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.â (John 20:22â23)
What do you believe according to these words?
I believe that when the called ministers of Christ deal with us by His divine command, in particular when they exclude openly unrepentant sinners from the Christian congregation and absolve those who repent of their sins and want to do better, this is just as valid and certain, even in heaven, as if Christ our dear Lord dealt with us Himself.
Luke 15:11â32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son
[11] And he said, âThere was a man who had two sons. [12] And the younger of them said to his father, âFather, give me the share of property that is coming to me.â And he divided his property between them. [13] Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. [14] And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. [15] So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. [16] And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
[17] âBut when he came to himself, he said, âHow many of my fatherâs hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! [18] I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, âFather, I have sinned against heaven and before you. [19] I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.ââ [20] And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. [21] And the son said to him, âFather, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.â [22] But the father said to his servants, âBring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. [23] And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. [24] For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.â And they began to celebrate.
[25] âNow his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. [26] And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. [27] And he said to him, âYour brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.â [28] But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, [29] but he answered his father, âLook, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. [30] But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!â [31] And he said to him, âSon, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. [32] It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.ââ (ESV)
Can we lose the blessings of baptism? Pastor Tim walks through several scriptures that teach that we can in fact lose the blessings of baptism by rejecting faith and discipleship.
What is Confession?
Confession has two parts. First, that we confess our sins, and second, that we receive absolution, that is, forgiveness, from the pastor as from God Himself, not doubting, but firmly believing that by it our sins are forgiven before God in heaven.
What sins should we confess?
Before God we should plead guilty of all sins, even those we are not aware of, as we do in the Lordâs Prayer; but before the pastor we should confess only those sins which we know and feel in our hearts.
Which are these?
Consider your place in life according to the Ten Commandments: Are you a father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, or worker? Have you been disobedient, unfaithful, or lazy? Have you been hot-tempered, rude, or quarrelsome? Have you hurt someone by your words or deeds? Have you stolen, been negligent, wasted anything, or done any harm?
Pastor Tim outlines the reasons we should baptize our children.
- They need salvation that Jesus offers there
- Infants can have faith (so says the Bible)
- They are vulnerable to sin and death
Matthew 3:13â17
The Baptism of Jesus
[13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. [14] John would have prevented him, saying, âI need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?â [15] But Jesus answered him, âLet it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.â Then he consented. [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, âThis is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.â (ESV)
Romans 6:1â14
Dead to Sin, Alive to God
[1] What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? [2] By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? [3] Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
[5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. [6] We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [7] For one who has died has been set free from sin. [8] Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. [10] For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. [11] So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
[12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. [13] Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. [14] For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. (ESV)
What else could "Born of water and the Spirit" mean besides being baptized in water?? Pastor Tim walks through John 3
Pastor Tim shows how St. Paul uses the baptism event of the Corinthians to point to their new life in Christ, reminding them of their calling into a holy and forgiven life and encouraging them to leave the godless way of life that they used to be in.
Skye Peterson will be LIVE at Holy Cross on Friday September 27th at 7pm. She was gracious enough to have a conversation with us about her creative process and the joy and struggles of Christian life.
John 3:1â15
You Must Be Born Again
[1] Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. [2] This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, âRabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.â [3] Jesus answered him, âTruly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.â [4] Nicodemus said to him, âHow can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his motherâs womb and be born?â [5] Jesus answered, âTruly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. [6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. [7] Do not marvel that I said to you, âYou must be born again.â [8] The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.â
[9] Nicodemus said to him, âHow can these things be?â [10] Jesus answered him, âAre you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? [11] Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. [12] If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? [13] No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. [14] And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, [15] that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. (ESV)
Typically a text considered during weddings, Ephesians 5 describes the work of Jesus as "washing with water and the word"
Pastor Tim walks through Titus 3:5 another text that explicitly ties salvation to the washing waters of Baptism.
Pastor Tim continues to walk through the keystone passages on the doctrine of Holy Baptism
Luke 11:14â23
Jesus and Beelzebul
[14] Now he was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. [15] But some of them said, âHe casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons,â [16] while others, to test him, kept seeking from him a sign from heaven. [17] But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, âEvery kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. [18] And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. [19] And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. [20] But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. [21] When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe; [22] but when one stronger than he attacks him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his spoil. [23] Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. (ESV)
Pastor Tim examines the words of Acts 2:36-41 Where Peter the Apostles proclaims Christ and relays the new saving marker of the people of God - Baptism
Matthew 28:16â20
The Great Commission
[16] Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. [17] And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. [18] And Jesus came and said to them, âAll authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.â (ESV)
PT begins to outline some of the biblical passages that teach baptismal regeneration, that is, baptism is a saving act of God.
Matthew 7:7â11
Ask, and It Will Be Given
[7] âAsk, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. [9] Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? [10] Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? [11] If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! (ESV)
The Conclusion
For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
What does this mean?
This means that I should be certain that these petitions are pleasing to our Father in heaven, and are heard by Him; for He Himself has commanded us to pray in this way and has promised to hear us. Amen, amen means âyes, yes, it shall be so.â
Matthew 13:24â30
The Parable of the Weeds
[24] He put another parable before them, saying, âThe kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, [25] but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. [26] So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. [27] And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, âMaster, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?â [28] He said to them, âAn enemy has done this.â So the servants said to him, âThen do you want us to go and gather them?â [29] But he said, âNo, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. [30] Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, âGather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.âââ
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
[36] Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, âExplain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.â [37] He answered, âThe one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. [38] The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, [39] and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. [40] Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. [41] The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, [42] and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [43] Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear. (ESV)
The Seventh Petition
But deliver us from evil.
What does this mean?
We pray in this petition, in summary, that our Father in heaven would rescue us from every evil of body and soul, possessions and reputation, and finally, when our last hour comes, give us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this valley of sorrow to Himself in heaven.
Matthew 18:21â35
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
[21] Then Peter came up and said to him, âLord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?â [22] Jesus said to him, âI do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.
[23] âTherefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. [24] When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. [25] And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. [26] So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you everything.â [27] And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. [28] But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, âPay what you owe.â [29] So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you.â [30] He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. [31] When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. [32] Then his master summoned him and said to him, âYou wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. [33] And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?â [34] And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. [35] So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.â (ESV)
The Sixth Petition
And lead us not into temptation.
What does this mean?
God tempts no one. We pray in this petition that God would guard and keep us so that the devil, the world, and our sinful nature may not deceive us or mislead us into false belief, despair, and other great shame and vice. Although we are attacked by these things, we pray that we may finally overcome them and win the victory.
Matthew 18:21â35
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
[21] Then Peter came up and said to him, âLord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?â [22] Jesus said to him, âI do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.
[23] âTherefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. [24] When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. [25] And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. [26] So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you everything.â [27] And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. [28] But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, âPay what you owe.â [29] So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you.â [30] He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. [31] When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. [32] Then his master summoned him and said to him, âYou wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. [33] And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?â [34] And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. [35] So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.â (ESV)
The Fifth Petition
And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
What does this mean?
We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look at our sins, or deny our prayer because of them. We are neither worthy of the things for which we pray, nor have we deserved them, but we ask that He would give them all to us by grace, for we daily sin much and surely deserve nothing but punishment. So we too will sincerely forgive and gladly do good to those who sin against us.
Luke 12:12â34
[12] for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.â
The Parable of the Rich Fool
[13] Someone in the crowd said to him, âTeacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.â [14] But he said to him, âMan, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?â [15] And he said to them, âTake care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for oneâs life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.â [16] And he told them a parable, saying, âThe land of a rich man produced plentifully, [17] and he thought to himself, âWhat shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?â [18] And he said, âI will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. [19] And I will say to my soul, âSoul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.ââ [20] But God said to him, âFool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?â [21] So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.â
Do Not Be Anxious
[22] And he said to his disciples, âTherefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. [23] For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. [24] Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! [25] And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [26] If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? [27] Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [28] But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! [29] And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. [30] For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. [31] Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
[32] âFear not, little flock, for it is your Fatherâs good pleasure to give you the kingdom. [33] Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. [34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (ESV)
The Fourth Petition
Give us this day our daily bread.
What does this mean?
God certainly gives daily bread to everyone without our prayers, even to all evil people, but we pray in this petition that God would lead us to realize this and to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.
What is meant by daily bread?
Daily bread includes everything that has to do with the support and needs of the body, such as food, drink, clothing, shoes, house, home, land, animals, money, goods, a devout husband or wife, devout children, devout workers, devout and faithful rulers, good government, good weather, peace, health, self-control, good reputation, good friends, faithful neighbors, and the like.
What does it mean that we ask God to take care of our daily needs? PT and PJ talk through it. Sorry for the buzzing audio on this episode!
John 6:35â40
[35] Jesus said to them, âI am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. [36] But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. [37] All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. [38] For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. [39] And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. [40] For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.â (ESV)
The Third Petition
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
What does this mean?
The good and gracious will of God is done even without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may be done among us also.
How is Godâs will done?
Godâs will is done when He breaks and hinders every evil plan and purpose of the devil, the world, and our sinful nature, which do not want us to hallow Godâs name or let His kingdom come; and when He strengthens and keeps us firm in His Word and faith until we die.
This is His good and gracious will.
Matthew 4:17â25
[17] From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, âRepent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.â
Jesus Calls the First Disciples
[18] While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. [19] And he said to them, âFollow me, and I will make you fishers of men.â [20] Immediately they left their nets and followed him. [21] And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. [22] Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
Jesus Ministers to Great Crowds
[23] And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. [24] So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, those having seizures, and paralytics, and he healed them. [25] And great crowds followed him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and from Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan. (ESV)
The Second Petition
Thy kingdom come.
What does this mean?
The kingdom of God certainly comes by itself without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may come to us also.
How does Godâs kingdom come?
Godâs kingdom comes when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe His holy Word and lead godly lives here in time and there in eternity.
Matthew 5:13â16
Salt and Light
[13] âYou are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under peopleâs feet.
[14] âYou are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (ESV)
The First Petition
Hallowed be Thy name.
What does this mean?
Godâs name is certainly holy in itself, but we pray in this petition that it may be kept holy among us also.
How is Godâs name kept holy?
Godâs name is kept holy when the Word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, also lead holy lives according to it. Help us to do this, dear Father in heaven! But anyone who teaches or lives contrary to Godâs Word profanes the name of God among us. Protect us from this, heavenly Father!
Luke 11:1â13
The Lordâs Prayer
[1] Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, âLord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.â [2] And he said to them, âWhen you pray, say:
âFather, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
[3] Give us each day our daily bread,
[4] and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And lead us not into temptation.â
[5] And he said to them, âWhich of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, âFriend, lend me three loaves, [6] for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before himâ; [7] and he will answer from within, âDo not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anythingâ? [8] I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence he will rise and give him whatever he needs. [9] And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. [10] For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. [11] What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; [12] or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? [13] If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!â (ESV)
Our Father who art in heaven.
What does this mean? With these words God tenderly invites us to believe that He is our true Father and that we are His true children, so that with all boldness and confidence we may ask Him as dear children ask their dear father.
John 5:25â29
[25] âTruly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. [26] For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. [27] And he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. [28] Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice [29] and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. (ESV)
From Luther's Small Catechism:
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers.On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.
This is most certainly true.
John 15:1â11
I Am the True Vine
[1] âI am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. [2] Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. [3] Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. [4] Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. [5] I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. [6] If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. [7] If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. [8] By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. [9] As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. [10] If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Fatherâs commandments and abide in his love. [11] These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (ESV)
From Luther's Small Catechism
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers.On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.
This is most certainly true.
John 3:1â15
You Must Be Born Again
[1] Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. [2] This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, âRabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.â [3] Jesus answered him, âTruly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.â [4] Nicodemus said to him, âHow can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his motherâs womb and be born?â [5] Jesus answered, âTruly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. [6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. [7] Do not marvel that I said to you, âYou must be born again.â [8] The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.â
[9] Nicodemus said to him, âHow can these things be?â [10] Jesus answered him, âAre you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? [11] Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. [12] If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? [13] No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. [14] And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, [15] that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. (ESV)
From Luther's Small Catechism
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers.On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.
This is most certainly true.
Luke 24:36â53
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
[36] As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, âPeace to you!â [37] But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. [38] And he said to them, âWhy are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? [39] See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.â [40] And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. [41] And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, âHave you anything here to eat?â [42] They gave him a piece of broiled fish, [43] and he took it and ate before them.
[44] Then he said to them, âThese are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.â [45] Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, [46] and said to them, âThus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, [47] and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. [48] You are witnesses of these things. [49] And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.â
The Ascension
[50] And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. [51] While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. [52] And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, [53] and were continually in the temple blessing God. (ESV)
From Luther's Catechism:
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord,who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death,that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity.
This is most certainly true.
In this episode PT and PJ discuss three explanations held by the Church of what Christ did for us on the cross.
From Luther's Catechism:
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord,who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death,that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity.
This is most certainly true.
John 3:13â21
[13] No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. [14] And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, [15] that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
For God So Loved the World
[16] âFor God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. [18] Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. [19] And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. [20] For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. [21] But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.â (ESV)
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord,who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death,that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity.
This is most certainly true.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord,who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death,that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity.
This is most certainly true.
John 1:1â19
The Word Became Flesh
[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. [4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. [7] He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. [8] He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.
[9] The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. [10] He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. [11] He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, [13] who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
[14] And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. [15] (John bore witness about him, and cried out, âThis was he of whom I said, âHe who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.ââ) [16] For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. [17] For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. [18] No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Fatherâs side, he has made him known.
[19] And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, âWho are you?â (ESV)
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them.
He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil.
All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him.
This is most certainly true.
Matthew 7:7â11
Ask, and It Will Be Given
[7] âAsk, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. [9] Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? [10] Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? [11] If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! (ESV)
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them.
He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil.
All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him.
This is most certainly true.
Matthew 6:25â34
Do Not Be Anxious
[25] âTherefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? [26] Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? [27] And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [28] And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, [29] yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [30] But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? [31] Therefore do not be anxious, saying, âWhat shall we eat?â or âWhat shall we drink?â or âWhat shall we wear?â [32] For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. [33] But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
[34] âTherefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (ESV)
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them.
He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil.
All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him.
This is most certainly true.
Matthew 11:25â30
Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest
[25] At that time Jesus declared, âI thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; [26] yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. [27] All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. [28] Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â (ESV)
Why do we even need creeds? What function do they play in the life of the church? The Apostles Creed, Nicean Creed and the Athanasian Creed all shape the Christian Church and show us the boundaries of what teachings are Christian, and which are heresy.
Mark 16:1â8
The Resurrection
[1] When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. [2] And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. [3] And they were saying to one another, âWho will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?â [4] And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled backâit was very large. [5] And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. [6] And he said to them, âDo not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. [7] But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.â [8] And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. (ESV)
2 Corinthians 5:14â21
[14] For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; [15] and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.
[16] From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. [18] All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; [19] that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. [20] Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. [21] For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV)
Mark 14:22â26
Institution of the Lordâs Supper
[22] And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, âTake; this is my body.â [23] And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. [24] And he said to them, âThis is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. [25] Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.â [26] And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (ESV)
We continue this conversation in an attempt to fortify your confidence in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What potentially changes in your life if you believe this whole-heartedly?
John 12:12â19
The Triumphal Entry
[12] The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. [13] So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, âHosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!â [14] And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written,
[15] âFear not, daughter of Zion;
behold, your king is coming,
sitting on a donkeyâs colt!â
[16] His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written about him and had been done to him. [17] The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness. [18] The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. [19] So the Pharisees said to one another, âYou see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.â (ESV)
This is the most important question in all human history.
Check out this article for a concise summary of the facts in question.
James 5:13â20
The Prayer of Faith
[13] Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. [14] Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. [15] And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. [16] Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. [17] Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. [18] Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.
[19] My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, [20] let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins. (ESV)
Luke 18:9â14
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector
[9] He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: [10] âTwo men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. [11] The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: âGod, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. [12] I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.â [13] But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, âGod, be merciful to me, a sinner!â [14] I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.â (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss the dire consequence of ignoring Godâs Commands for his World. He says, âI, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.â (Ex. 20: 5â6)
What does this mean?
God threatens to punish all who break these commandments. Therefore, we should fear His wrath and not do anything against them. But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments. Therefore, we should also love and trust in Him and gladly do what He commands.
James 4:1â12
Warning Against Worldliness
[1] What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? [2] You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. [3] You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. [4] You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. [5] Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, âHe yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in usâ? [6] But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, âGod opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.â [7] Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
[11] Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. [12] There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor? (ESV)
Luke 12:13â21
The Parable of the Rich Fool
[13] Someone in the crowd said to him, âTeacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.â [14] But he said to him, âMan, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?â [15] And he said to them, âTake care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for oneâs life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.â [16] And he told them a parable, saying, âThe land of a rich man produced plentifully, [17] and he thought to himself, âWhat shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?â [18] And he said, âI will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. [19] And I will say to my soul, âSoul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.ââ [20] But God said to him, âFool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?â [21] So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.â (ESV)
James 3:1â12
Taming the Tongue
[1] Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. [2] For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. [3] If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. [4] Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. [5] So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! [6] And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. [7] For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, [8] but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. [9] With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. [10] From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. [11] Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? [12] Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water. (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what gift God wishes us to have when he commands our hearts not to lust after other people's house - that is, their status in this life - or their possessions.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not scheme to get our neighborâs inheritance or house, or get it in a way which only appears right, but help and be of service to him in keeping it.
Matthew 26:57â68
Jesus Before Caiaphas and the Council
[57] Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. [58] And Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end. [59] Now the chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death, [60] but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came forward [61] and said, âThis man said, âI am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.ââ [62] And the high priest stood up and said, âHave you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?â [63] But Jesus remained silent. And the high priest said to him, âI adjure you by the living God, tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.â [64] Jesus said to him, âYou have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.â [65] Then the high priest tore his robes and said, âHe has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy. [66] What is your judgment?â They answered, âHe deserves death.â [67] Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him, [68] saying, âProphesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?â (ESV)
PJ and PT talk through the meaningful gift of our names and how God wants our names to be used.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.
James 2:14â26
Faith Without Works Is Dead
[14] What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? [15] If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, [16] and one of you says to them, âGo in peace, be warmed and filled,â without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? [17] So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
[18] But someone will say, âYou have faith and I have works.â Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. [19] You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believeâand shudder! [20] Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? [21] Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? [22] You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; [23] and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, âAbraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousnessââand he was called a friend of God. [24] You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. [25] And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? [26] For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (ESV)
Luke 19:1â10
Jesus and Zacchaeus
[1] He entered Jericho and was passing through. [2] And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. [3] And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. [4] So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. [5] And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, âZacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.â [6] So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. [7] And when they saw it, they all grumbled, âHe has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.â [8] And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, âBehold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.â [9] And Jesus said to him, âToday salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.â (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what it means to steal and what gift God is preserving for us when he commands us to refrain from doing so.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not take our neighborâs money or possessions, or get them in any dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his possessions and income.
James 1:2â18
Testing of Your Faith
[2] Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, [3] for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. [4] And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
[5] If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. [6] But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. [7] For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; [8] he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
[9] Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, [10] and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. [11] For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.
[12] Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. [13] Let no one say when he is tempted, âI am being tempted by God,â for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. [14] But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. [15] Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
[16] Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. [17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. [18] Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (ESV)
Mark 10:1â12
Teaching About Divorce
[1] And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again. And again, as was his custom, he taught them.
[2] And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, âIs it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?â [3] He answered them, âWhat did Moses command you?â [4] They said, âMoses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to send her away.â [5] And Jesus said to them, âBecause of your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment. [6] But from the beginning of creation, âGod made them male and female.â [7] âTherefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, [8] and the two shall become one flesh.â So they are no longer two but one flesh. [9] What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.â
[10] And in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. [11] And he said to them, âWhoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, [12] and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.â (ESV)
PJ and PT talk about Godâs gift of sexuality and the many questions that come with that gift in our era.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other.
James 4:13â17
Boasting About Tomorrow
[13] Come now, you who say, âToday or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profitââ[14] yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. [15] Instead you ought to say, âIf the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.â [16] As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. [17] So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin. (ESV)
1 John 3:11â15
Love One Another
[11] For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. [12] We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brotherâs righteous. [13] Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you. [14] We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death. [15] Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. (ESV)
PJ and PT talk about the good gift of our bodies and why God wants them to be honored and cared for.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and support him in every physical need.
Luke 2:41â52
The Boy Jesus in the Temple
[41] Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. [42] And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. [43] And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, [44] but supposing him to be in the group they went a dayâs journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, [45] and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. [46] After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. [47] And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. [48] And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, âSon, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.â [49] And he said to them, âWhy were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Fatherâs house?â [50] And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. [51] And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.
[52] And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man. (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss the goodness of the God given authority in our lives.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them.
Luke 10:38â42
Martha and Mary
[38] Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. [39] And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lordâs feet and listened to his teaching. [40] But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, âLord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.â [41] But the Lord answered her, âMartha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, [42] but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.â (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what it means to keep the sabbath.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it.
John 17:1â19
The High Priestly Prayer
[1] When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, âFather, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, [2] since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. [3] And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. [4] I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. [5] And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.
[6] âI have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. [7] Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. [8] For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. [9] I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. [10] All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. [11] And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. [12] While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. [13] But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. [14] I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. [15] I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. [16] They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. [17] Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. [18] As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. [19] And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. (ESV)
PJ and PT discuss what it means to use Godâs name rightly.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks.
Matthew 10:26â39
Have No Fear
[26] âSo have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. [27] What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. [28] And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. [29] Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. [30] But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. [31] Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. [32] So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, [33] but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.
Not Peace, but a Sword
[34] âDo not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. [35] For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. [36] And a personâs enemies will be those of his own household. [37] Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. [38] And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. [39] Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. (ESV)
Romans 13:8â10
Fulfilling the Law Through Love
[8] Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. [9] For the commandments, âYou shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,â and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: âYou shall love your neighbor as yourself.â [10] Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. (ESV)
Luke 2:22â40
Jesus Presented at the Temple
[22] And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord [23] (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, âEvery male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lordâ) [24] and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, âa pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.â [25] Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. [26] And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lordâs Christ. [27] And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, [28] he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
[29] âLord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
[30] for my eyes have seen your salvation
[31] that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
[32] a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.â
[33] And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. [34] And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, âBehold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed [35] (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.â
[36] And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, [37] and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. [38] And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.
The Return to Nazareth
[39] And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. [40] And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. (ESV)
Isaiah 61:10â11
[10] I will greatly rejoice in the LORD;
my soul shall exult in my God,
for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
[11] For as the earth brings forth its sprouts,
and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up,
so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise
to sprout up before all the nations. (ESV)
Isaiah 62:1â3
Zionâs Coming Salvation
[1] For Zionâs sake I will not keep silent,
and for Jerusalemâs sake I will not be quiet,
until her righteousness goes forth as brightness,
and her salvation as a burning torch.
[2] The nations shall see your righteousness,
and all the kings your glory,
and you shall be called by a new name
that the mouth of the LORD will give.
[3] You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD,
and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. (ESV)
Galatians 4:4â7
[4] But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. [6] And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, âAbba! Father!â [7] So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. (ESV)
Hebrews 1:1â4
The Supremacy of Godâs Son
[1] Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, [2] but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. [3] He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, [4] having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. (ESV)
1 John 4:7â16
God Is Love
[7] Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. [8] Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. [9] In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. [10] In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. [11] Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. [12] No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.
[13] By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. [14] And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. [15] Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. [16] So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. (ESV)
PT and PJR walk through Lutherâs Small Catechism on the topic of Baptism. Luther sought to explain baptism in a simple and accessible way.
Isaiah 61:1â4, 8-11
The Year of the LORDâs Favor
[1] The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
[2] to proclaim the year of the LORDâs favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
[3] to grant to those who mourn in Zionâ
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.
[4] They shall build up the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.
[8] For I the LORD love justice;
I hate robbery and wrong;
I will faithfully give them their recompense,
and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.
[9] Their offspring shall be known among the nations,
and their descendants in the midst of the peoples;
all who see them shall acknowledge them,
that they are an offspring the LORD has blessed.
[10] I will greatly rejoice in the LORD;
my soul shall exult in my God,
for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
[11] For as the earth brings forth its sprouts,
and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up,
so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise
to sprout up before all the nations. (ESV)
PT and PJR introduce the concept of baptism for this series and discuss some of the different teachings about baptism within different Christian denominations.
Mark 1:1â8
John the Baptist Prepares the Way
[1] The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
[2] As it is written in Isaiah the prophet,
âBehold, I send my messenger before your face,
who will prepare your way,
[3] the voice of one crying in the wilderness:
âPrepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight,ââ
[4] John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. [5] And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. [6] Now John was clothed with camelâs hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. [7] And he preached, saying, âAfter me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. [8] I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.â (ESV)
Mark 13:24â37
The Coming of the Son of Man
[24] âBut in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, [25] and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. [26] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. [27] And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
The Lesson of the Fig Tree
[28] âFrom the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. [29] So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. [30] Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. [31] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
No One Knows That Day or Hour
[32] âBut concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. [33] Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. [34] It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. [35] Therefore stay awakeâfor you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morningâ[36] lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. [37] And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.â (ESV)
2 Corinthians 8:1â15
Encouragement to Give Generously
[1] We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, [2] for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. [3] For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, [4] begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saintsâ[5] and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. [6] Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. [7] But as you excel in everythingâin faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for youâsee that you excel in this act of grace also.
[8] I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. [10] And in this matter I give my judgment: this benefits you, who a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it. [11] So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have. [12] For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. [13] For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness [14] your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. [15] As it is written, âWhoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.â (ESV)
2 Corinthians 9
[1] Now it is superfluous for me to write to you about the ministry for the saints, [2] for I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them. [3] But I am sending the brothers so that our boasting about you may not prove empty in this matter, so that you may be ready, as I said you would be. [4] Otherwise, if some Macedonians come with me and find that you are not ready, we would be humiliatedâto say nothing of youâfor being so confident. [5] So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance for the gift you have promised, so that it may be ready as a willing gift, not as an exaction.
The Cheerful Giver
[6] The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. [7] Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. [8] And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. [9] As it is written,
âHe has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.â
[10] He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. [11] You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. [12] For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. [13] By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, [14] while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. [15] Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! (ESV)
Matthew 25:14â30
The Parable of the Talents
[14] âFor it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. [15] To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. [16] He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. [17] So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. [18] But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his masterâs money. [19] Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. [20] And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, âMaster, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.â [21] His master said to him, âWell done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.â [22] And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, âMaster, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.â [23] His master said to him, âWell done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.â [24] He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, âMaster, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, [25] so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.â [26] But his master answered him, âYou wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? [27] Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. [28] So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. [29] For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. [30] And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.â (ESV)
Matthew 25:1â13
The Parable of the Ten Virgins
[1] âThen the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. [3] For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, [4] but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. [5] As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept. [6] But at midnight there was a cry, âHere is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.â [7] Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. [8] And the foolish said to the wise, âGive us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.â [9] But the wise answered, saying, âSince there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.â [10] And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. [11] Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, âLord, lord, open to us.â [12] But he answered, âTruly, I say to you, I do not know you.â [13] Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. (ESV)
1 John 3:1â3
[1] See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. [2] Beloved, we are Godâs children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. [3] And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. (ESV)
John 8:31â36
The Truth Will Set You Free
[31] So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, âIf you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, [32] and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.â [33] They answered him, âWe are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, âYou will become freeâ?â
[34] Jesus answered them, âTruly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. [35] The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. [36] So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (ESV)
In response to an event on the campus of University Nebraska Kearney, Pastor Tim and Director of Campus Ministries Megan discuss the perils of inviting demonic forces into our lives.
Matthew 22:15â22
Paying Taxes to Caesar
[15] Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. [16] And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, âTeacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyoneâs opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. [17] Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?â [18] But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, âWhy put me to the test, you hypocrites? [19] Show me the coin for the tax.â And they brought him a denarius. [20] And Jesus said to them, âWhose likeness and inscription is this?â [21] They said, âCaesarâs.â Then he said to them, âTherefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesarâs, and to God the things that are Godâs.â [22] When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away. (ESV)
Matthew 22:1â14
The Parable of the Wedding Feast
[1] And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, [2] âThe kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, [3] and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. [4] Again he sent other servants, saying, âTell those who are invited, âSee, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.ââ [5] But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, [6] while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. [7] The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. [8] Then he said to his servants, âThe wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. [9] Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.â [10] And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.
[11] âBut when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. [12] And he said to him, âFriend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?â And he was speechless. [13] Then the king said to the attendants, âBind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.â [14] For many are called, but few are chosen.â (ESV)
Director of Campus Discipleship Megan Barone Joins PJR and PT to talk about how young Christians might adopt a mature mindset as they transition into adulthood.
Matthew 21:33â46
The Parable of the Tenants
[33] âHear another parable. There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a winepress in it and built a tower and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. [34] When the season for fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to get his fruit. [35] And the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. [36] Again he sent other servants, more than the first. And they did the same to them. [37] Finally he sent his son to them, saying, âThey will respect my son.â [38] But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, âThis is the heir. Come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.â [39] And they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. [40] When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?â [41] They said to him, âHe will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.â
[42] Jesus said to them, âHave you never read in the Scriptures:
ââThe stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone;
this was the Lordâs doing,
and it is marvelous in our eyesâ?
[43] Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits. [44] And the one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.â
[45] When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. [46] And although they were seeking to arrest him, they feared the crowds, because they held him to be a prophet. (ESV)
Matthew 21:23â32
The Authority of Jesus Challenged
[23] And when he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, âBy what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?â [24] Jesus answered them, âI also will ask you one question, and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things. [25] The baptism of John, from where did it come? From heaven or from man?â And they discussed it among themselves, saying, âIf we say, âFrom heaven,â he will say to us, âWhy then did you not believe him?â [26] But if we say, âFrom man,â we are afraid of the crowd, for they all hold that John was a prophet.â [27] So they answered Jesus, âWe do not know.â And he said to them, âNeither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.
The Parable of the Two Sons
[28] âWhat do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, âSon, go and work in the vineyard today.â [29] And he answered, âI will not,â but afterward he changed his mind and went. [30] And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, âI go, sir,â but did not go. [31] Which of the two did the will of his father?â They said, âThe first.â Jesus said to them, âTruly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. [32] For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him. (ESV)
PT and PJR encourage Chistians who are not in a covenant membership with a church to consider the scriptures council on the topic.
In this episode, Pastors Tim and John discuss the origins of the Non-Denominational movement and see how it compares to the beliefs of the LCMS.
Matthew 20:1â16
Laborers in the Vineyard
[1] âFor the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. [2] After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. [3] And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, [4] and to them he said, âYou go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.â [5] So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. [6] And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, âWhy do you stand here idle all day?â [7] They said to him, âBecause no one has hired us.â He said to them, âYou go into the vineyard too.â [8] And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, âCall the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.â [9] And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. [10] Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. [11] And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, [12] saying, âThese last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.â [13] But he replied to one of them, âFriend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? [14] Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. [15] Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?â [16] So the last will be first, and the first last.â (ESV)
In this episode, Pastors Tim and John discuss the origins of the Baptist movement and see how it compares to the beliefs of the LCMS.
Matthew 18:21â35
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
[21] Then Peter came up and said to him, âLord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?â [22] Jesus said to him, âI do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.
[23] âTherefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. [24] When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. [25] And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. [26] So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you everything.â [27] And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. [28] But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, âPay what you owe.â [29] So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you.â [30] He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. [31] When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. [32] Then his master summoned him and said to him, âYou wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. [33] And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?â [34] And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. [35] So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.â (ESV)
In this episode, Pastors Tim and John discuss the origins of the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements and see how they compare to the beliefs of the LCMS.
Matthew 18:1â20
Who Is the Greatest?
[1] At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, âWho is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?â [2] And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them [3] and said, âTruly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. [4] Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
[5] âWhoever receives one such child in my name receives me, [6] but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Temptations to Sin
[7] âWoe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes! [8] And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. [9] And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire.
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
[10] âSee that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. [12] What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? [13] And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. [14] So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
If Your Brother Sins Against You
[15] âIf your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. [16] But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. [17] If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. [18] Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. [19] Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. [20] For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.â (ESV)
In this episode Pastor Tim and Pastor John have a discussion about theological liberalism and the differences between the beliefs of the ELCA and the LCMS.
Matthew 16:21â28
Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection
[21] From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. [22] And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, âFar be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.â [23] But he turned and said to Peter, âGet behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.â
Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus
[24] Then Jesus told his disciples, âIf anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. [25] For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. [26] For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? [27] For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. [28] Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.â (ESV)
Matthew 16:13â20
Peter Confesses Jesus as the Christ
[13] Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, âWho do people say that the Son of Man is?â [14] And they said, âSome say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.â [15] He said to them, âBut who do you say that I am?â [16] Simon Peter replied, âYou are the Christ, the Son of the living God.â [17] And Jesus answered him, âBlessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. [18] And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.â [20] Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. (ESV)
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the origins of and beliefs held by the Presbyterian church, and how they compare to the beliefs of the LCMS.
Pastor Tim digs into Jesus's Parable of the Tenants. This is a parable of judgement that Jesus speaks against the leaders of Jerusalem who question and reject the coming of his Divine Kingdom.
The Parable of the Tenants
33 âHear another parable. There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a winepress in it and built a tower and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. 34 When the season for fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to get his fruit. 35 And the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. 36 Again he sent other servants, more than the first. And they did the same to them. 37 Finally he sent his son to them, saying, âThey will respect my son.â 38 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, âThis is the heir. Come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.â 39 And they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. 40 When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?â 41 They said to him, âHe will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.â
42 Jesus said to them, âHave you never read in the Scriptures:
â âThe stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone;
this was the Lordâs doing,
and it is marvelous in our eyesâ?
43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits. 44 And the one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.â
45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. 46 And although they were seeking to arrest him, they feared the crowds, because they held him to be a prophet.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Mt 21:33â46.
Matthew 15:21â28
The Faith of a Canaanite Woman
[21] And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. [22] And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, âHave mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.â [23] But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, âSend her away, for she is crying out after us.â [24] He answered, âI was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.â [25] But she came and knelt before him, saying, âLord, help me.â [26] And he answered, âIt is not right to take the childrenâs bread and throw it to the dogs.â [27] She said, âYes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their mastersâ table.â [28] Then Jesus answered her, âO woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.â And her daughter was healed instantly. (ESV)
In this episode, Pastors John and Tim take a closer look at the scriptural positions held by the Methodist denomination. They highlight some things we can appreciate from an LCMS position, and some views that differ from the LCMS position.
Matthew 14:22â33
Jesus Walks on the Water
[22] Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. [23] And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, [24] but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. [25] And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. [26] But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, âIt is a ghost!â and they cried out in fear. [27] But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, âTake heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.â
[28] And Peter answered him, âLord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.â [29] He said, âCome.â So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, âLord, save me.â [31] Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, âO you of little faith, why did you doubt?â [32] And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. [33] And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, âTruly you are the Son of God.â (ESV)
Jesus speaks this parable in order to teach the disciples about the grace of God's kingdom as opposed to the earned status of human kingdoms.
Matthew 20:1â16
Laborers in the Vineyard
[1] âFor the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. [2] After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. [3] And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, [4] and to them he said, âYou go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.â [5] So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. [6] And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, âWhy do you stand here idle all day?â [7] They said to him, âBecause no one has hired us.â He said to them, âYou go into the vineyard too.â [8] And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, âCall the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.â [9] And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. [10] Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. [11] And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, [12] saying, âThese last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.â [13] But he replied to one of them, âFriend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? [14] Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. [15] Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?â [16] So the last will be first, and the first last.â (ESV)
Matthew 14:13â21
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
[13] Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. [15] Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, âThis is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.â [16] But Jesus said, âThey need not go away; you give them something to eat.â [17] They said to him, âWe have only five loaves here and two fish.â [18] And he said, âBring them here to me.â [19] Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. [20] And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. [21] And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. (ESV)
Pastor Tim walks you through the last three parables in the 13th chapter of Matthew and explains why he thinks the non-majority reading of the parable of the treasure is correct.
Matthew 13:44â50
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
[44] âThe kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value
[45] âAgain, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, [46] who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
[47] âAgain, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. [48] When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. [49] So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous [50] and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (ESV)
Matthew 13:44â52
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
[44] âThe kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value
[45] âAgain, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, [46] who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
[47] âAgain, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. [48] When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. [49] So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous [50] and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
New and Old Treasures
[51] âHave you understood all these things?â They said to him, âYes.â [52] And he said to them, âTherefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.â (ESV)
In this bonus episode, Pastor John plays a sermon preached at Concordia Seminary Saint Louis by professor Joel Biermann on the Parable of the Weeds.
Matthew 13:24â30
The Parable of the Weeds
[24] He put another parable before them, saying, âThe kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, [25] but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. [26] So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. [27] And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, âMaster, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?â [28] He said to them, âAn enemy has done this.â So the servants said to him, âThen do you want us to go and gather them?â [29] But he said, âNo, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. [30] Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, âGather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.âââ (ESV)
Matthew 13:36â43
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
[36] Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, âExplain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.â [37] He answered, âThe one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. [38] The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, [39] and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. [40] Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. [41] The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, [42] and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [43] Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear. (ESV)
The pastors give 5 reasons why we should pay close attention to the famous/infamous parables of Jesus.
Matthew 13:1â9
The Parable of the Sower
[1] That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. [2] And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. [3] And he told them many things in parables, saying: âA sower went out to sow. [4] And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. [5] Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, [6] but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. [7] Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. [8] Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. [9] He who has ears, let him hear.â (ESV)
Matthew 13:18â23
The Parable of the Sower Explained
[18] âHear then the parable of the sower: [19] When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. [20] As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, [21] yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. [22] As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. [23] As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.â (ESV)
Matthew 11:25â30
Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest
[25] At that time Jesus declared, âI thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; [26] yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. [27] All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. [28] Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â (ESV)
Matthew 10:34â42
Not Peace, but a Sword
[34] âDo not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. [35] For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. [36] And a personâs enemies will be those of his own household. [37] Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. [38] And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. [39] Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Rewards
[40] âWhoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. [41] The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophetâs reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous personâs reward. [42] And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.â (ESV)
Matthew 10:5a
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles
[5] These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them...
Matthew 10:21â33
[21] Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, [22] and you will be hated by all for my nameâs sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. [23] When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
[24] âA disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. [25] It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
Have No Fear
[26] âSo have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. [27] What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. [28] And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. [29] Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. [30] But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. [31] Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. [32] So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, [33] but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. (ESV)
Matthew 9:35â38
The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few
[35] And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. [36] When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. [37] Then he said to his disciples, âThe harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; [38] therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.â (ESV)
Matthew 10:1â8
The Twelve Apostles
[1] And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. [2] The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; [3] Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; [4] Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles
[5] These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, âGo nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, [6] but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. [7] And proclaim as you go, saying, âThe kingdom of heaven is at hand.â [8] Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. (ESV)
Matthew 9:9â13
Jesus Calls Matthew
[9] As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, âFollow me.â And he rose and followed him.
[10] And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. [11] And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, âWhy does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?â [12] But when he heard it, he said, âThose who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. [13] Go and learn what this means: âI desire mercy, and not sacrifice.â For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.â (ESV)
1 Peter 4:1â11
Stewards of Godâs Grace
[1] Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, [2] so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. [3] For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. [4] With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; [5] but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. [6] For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.
[7] The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. [8] Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. [9] Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. [10] As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of Godâs varied grace: [11] whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God suppliesâin order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)
1 Peter 3:8â22
Suffering for Righteousnessâ Sake
[8] Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. [9] Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. [10] For
âWhoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
[11] let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
[12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.â
[13] Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? [14] But even if you should suffer for righteousnessâ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, [15] but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, [16] having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. [17] For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be Godâs will, than for doing evil.
[18] For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, [19] in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, [20] because they formerly did not obey, when Godâs patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. [21] Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, [22] who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him. (ESV)
1 Peter 2:1â10
A Living Stone and a Holy People
[1] So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. [2] Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvationâ[3] if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
[4] As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, [5] you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. [6] For it stands in Scripture:
âBehold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.â
[7] So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,
âThe stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,â
[8] and
âA stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense.â
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.
[9] But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. [10] Once you were not a people, but now you are Godâs people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (ESV)
1 Peter 1:13â25
Called to Be Holy
[13] Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. [14] As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, [15] but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, [16] since it is written, âYou shall be holy, for I am holy.â [17] And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each oneâs deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, [18] knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, [19] but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. [20] He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you [21] who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
[22] Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, [23] since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; [24] for
âAll flesh is like grass
and all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
and the flower falls,
[25] but the word of the Lord remains forever.â
And this word is the good news that was preached to you. (ESV)
April 23 2023 recording of âSEE WHAT TODAY IS DONEâ â By David Von Kampen
Led by Jolene Burke, 40 singers, 15 strings, and a pianist combined to bring this worshipful sound of joy to God in celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. Pastor Tim provides some commentary on each of the 5 songs and then the Cantata is played in entirety. Music begins at the 9 minute mark and the lyrics are below.
Movement 1: âHe is Arisen! Glorious Word!â
He is arisen! Glorious Word!
Now reconciled is God, my Lord;
The gates of heav'n are open.
My Jesus did triumphant die,
And Satan's arrows broken lie,
Destroyed hell's fiercest weapon.
Oh, hear what cheer!
Christ victorious Rising glorious,
Life is giving.
He was dead but now is living!
Text by Brigitte Katerine Boye (1742-1824), tr. George A.T.Rygh (1860-1942)
Movement 2:âA Sound of Exultationâ
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his mercy endures for ever.
Let Israel now proclaim,
"His mercy endures for ever."
The Lord is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.
There is a sound of exultation and victory
in the tents of the righteous:
"The right hand of the Lord has triumphed!
the right hand of the Lord is exalted!
the right hand of the Lord has triumphed!"
I shall not die, but live,
and declare the works of the Lord.
This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118: 1-2, 14-17, 24 (ESV)
Movement 3: âChrist Jesus Lay in Deathâs Strong Bandsâ
Christ Jesus lay in death's strong bands
For our offenses given;
But now at God's right hand He stands
And brings us life from heaven.
Therefore let us joyful be
And sing to God right thankfully
Loud songs of alleluia!
Christ Jesus, God's own Son, came down,
His people to deliver;
Destroying sin, He took the crown
From death's pale brow forever:
Stripped of pow'r, no more it reigns;
An empty form alone remains;
Its sting is lost forever.
Alleluia!
Text by Martin Luther (1483-1546), tr. Richard Massie (1800-87)
Movement 4: âJob 19:25â
For I know that my Redeemer lives,
and at the last he will stand upon the earth.
Movement 5: âAwake, My Heart, With Gladnessâ
Awake, my heart, with gladness,
See what today is done;
Now, after gloom and sadness,
Comes forth the glorious sun.
My Savior there was laid
Where our bed must be made
When to the realms of light
Our spirit wings its flight.
Text by Paul Gerhardt (1607-76), tr. John Kelly (1833-90)
1 Peter 1:1â12
Greeting
[1] Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, [2] according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood:
May grace and peace be multiplied to you.
Born Again to a Living Hope
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, [5] who by Godâs power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. [6] In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, [7] so that the tested genuineness of your faithâmore precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fireâmay be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. [8] Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, [9] obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
[10] Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, [11] inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. [12] It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look. (ESV)
John 21:15â19
Jesus and Peter
[15] When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, âSimon, son of John, do you love me more than these?â He said to him, âYes, Lord; you know that I love you.â He said to him, âFeed my lambs.â [16] He said to him a second time, âSimon, son of John, do you love me?â He said to him, âYes, Lord; you know that I love you.â He said to him, âTend my sheep.â [17] He said to him the third time, âSimon, son of John, do you love me?â Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, âDo you love me?â and he said to him, âLord, you know everything; you know that I love you.â Jesus said to him, âFeed my sheep. [18] Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.â [19] (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, âFollow me.â (ESV)
Luke 23:39â43
[39] One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, âAre you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!â [40] But the other rebuked him, saying, âDo you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? [41] And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.â [42] And he said, âJesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.â [43] And he said to him, âTruly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.â (ESV)
1 Corinthians 11:17â34
The Lordâs Supper
[17] But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. [18] For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, [19] for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. [20] When you come together, it is not the Lordâs supper that you eat. [21] For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. [22] What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not.
[23] For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, [24] and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, âThis is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.â [25] In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, âThis cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.â [26] For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lordâs death until he comes.
[27] Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. [28] Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. [29] For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. [30] That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. [31] But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. [32] But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
[33] So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one anotherâ[34] if anyone is hungry, let him eat at homeâso that when you come together it will not be for judgment. About the other things I will give directions when I come. (ESV)
Matthew 26:26â29
Institution of the Lordâs Supper
[26] Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, âTake, eat; this is my body.â [27] And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, âDrink of it, all of you, [28] for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. [29] I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Fatherâs kingdom.â (ESV)
Matthew 26:30â35
Jesus Foretells Peterâs Denial
[30] And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. [31] Then Jesus said to them, âYou will all fall away because of me this night. For it is written, âI will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.â [32] But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.â [33] Peter answered him, âThough they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away.â [34] Jesus said to him, âTruly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.â [35] Peter said to him, âEven if I must die with you, I will not deny you!â And all the disciples said the same. (ESV)
Matthew 26:69â75
Peter Denies Jesus
[69] Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, âYou also were with Jesus the Galilean.â [70] But he denied it before them all, saying, âI do not know what you mean.â [71] And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, âThis man was with Jesus of Nazareth.â [72] And again he denied it with an oath: âI do not know the man.â [73] After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, âCertainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you.â [74] Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, âI do not know the man.â And immediately the rooster crowed. [75] And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, âBefore the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.â And he went out and wept bitterly. (ESV)
Matthew 18:21â35
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
[21] Then Peter came up and said to him, âLord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?â [22] Jesus said to him, âI do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.
[23] âTherefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. [24] When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. [25] And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. [26] So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you everything.â [27] And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. [28] But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, âPay what you owe.â [29] So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, âHave patience with me, and I will pay you.â [30] He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. [31] When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. [32] Then his master summoned him and said to him, âYou wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. [33] And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?â [34] And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. [35] So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.â (ESV)
Pastor Tim sits down with church reconciler Pastor Doug Gaunt and why he would want to wade into the murky waters of reconciling groups of Christians. Pastor Tim asks what advice he has for the process of reconciliation and Pastor Doug shares hopeful stories of successful reconciliation.
Matthew 11:1â6
Messengers from John the Baptist
[1] When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities.
[2] Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples [3] and said to him, âAre you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?â [4] And Jesus answered them, âGo and tell John what you hear and see: [5] the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. [6] And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.â (ESV)
Matthew 18:15â20
If Your Brother Sins Against You
[15] âIf your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. [16] But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. [17] If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. [18] Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. [19] Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. [20] For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.â (ESV)
In this episode Pastors John and Tim examine the common belief that all sin is the same in the eyes of God, and how that influences reconciliation within the Church.
Acts 9:1â19
The Conversion of Saul
[1] But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest [2] and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. [3] Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. [4] And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, âSaul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?â [5] And he said, âWho are you, Lord?â And he said, âI am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. [6] But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.â [7] The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. [8] Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. [9] And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
[10] Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, âAnanias.â And he said, âHere I am, Lord.â [11] And the Lord said to him, âRise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, [12] and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.â [13] But Ananias answered, âLord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. [14] And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.â [15] But the Lord said to him, âGo, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. [16] For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.â [17] So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, âBrother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.â [18] And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; [19] and taking food, he was strengthened.
Saul Proclaims Jesus in Synagogues
For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. (ESV)
Matthew 18:10â14
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
[10] âSee that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. [12] What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? [13] And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. [14] So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish. (ESV)
In this episode Pastors John and Tim take a look at why the common practice of minimizing offenses is not OK in a community of disciples.
Luke 15:11â32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son
[11] And he said, âThere was a man who had two sons. [12] And the younger of them said to his father, âFather, give me the share of property that is coming to me.â And he divided his property between them. [13] Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. [14] And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. [15] So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. [16] And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
[17] âBut when he came to himself, he said, âHow many of my fatherâs hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! [18] I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, âFather, I have sinned against heaven and before you. [19] I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.ââ [20] And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. [21] And the son said to him, âFather, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.â [22] But the father said to his servants, âBring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. [23] And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. [24] For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.â And they began to celebrate.
[25] âNow his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. [26] And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. [27] And he said to him, âYour brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.â [28] But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, [29] but he answered his father, âLook, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. [30] But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!â [31] And he said to him, âSon, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. [32] It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.ââ (ESV)
Matthew 18:5â9
[5] âWhoever receives one such child in my name receives me, [6] but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Temptations to Sin
[7] âWoe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes! [8] And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. [9] And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire. (ESV)
Luke 7:36â50
A Sinful Woman Forgiven
[36] One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Phariseeâs house and reclined at table. [37] And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Phariseeâs house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, [38] and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment. [39] Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, âIf this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.â [40] And Jesus answering said to him, âSimon, I have something to say to you.â And he answered, âSay it, Teacher.â
[41] âA certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. [42] When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?â [43] Simon answered, âThe one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.â And he said to him, âYou have judged rightly.â [44] Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, âDo you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. [45] You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. [46] You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. [47] Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgivenâfor she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.â [48] And he said to her, âYour sins are forgiven.â [49] Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, âWho is this, who even forgives sins?â [50] And he said to the woman, âYour faith has saved you; go in peace.â (ESV)
Pastors John and Tim discuss what it looks like to live a lifestyle of self-examination.
Matthew 18:1â6
Who Is the Greatest?
[1] At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, âWho is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?â [2] And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them [3] and said, âTruly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. [4] Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
[5] âWhoever receives one such child in my name receives me, [6] but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. (ESV)
2 Samuel 12:1â15
Nathan Rebukes David
[1] And the LORD sent Nathan to David. He came to him and said to him, âThere were two men in a certain city, the one rich and the other poor. [2] The rich man had very many flocks and herds, [3] but the poor man had nothing but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought. And he brought it up, and it grew up with him and with his children. It used to eat of his morsel and drink from his cup and lie in his arms, and it was like a daughter to him. [4] Now there came a traveler to the rich man, and he was unwilling to take one of his own flock or herd to prepare for the guest who had come to him, but he took the poor manâs lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.â [5] Then Davidâs anger was greatly kindled against the man, and he said to Nathan, âAs the LORD lives, the man who has done this deserves to die, [6] and he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.â
[7] Nathan said to David, âYou are the man! Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, âI anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you out of the hand of Saul. [8] And I gave you your masterâs house and your masterâs wives into your arms and gave you the house of Israel and of Judah. And if this were too little, I would add to you as much more. [9] Why have you despised the word of the LORD, to do what is evil in his sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and have taken his wife to be your wife and have killed him with the sword of the Ammonites. [10] Now therefore the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised me and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.â [11] Thus says the LORD, âBehold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house. And I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun. [12] For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun.ââ [13] David said to Nathan, âI have sinned against the LORD.â And Nathan said to David, âThe LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die. [14] Nevertheless, because by this deed you have utterly scorned the LORD, the child who is born to you shall die.â [15] Then Nathan went to his house.
Davidâs Child Dies
And the LORD afflicted the child that Uriahâs wife bore to David, and he became sick. (ESV)
Jonah 3
Jonah Goes to Nineveh
[1] Then the word of the LORD came to Jonah the second time, saying, [2] âArise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it the message that I tell you.â [3] So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, three daysâ journey in breadth. [4] Jonah began to go into the city, going a dayâs journey. And he called out, âYet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!â [5] And the people of Nineveh believed God. They called for a fast and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least of them.
The People of Nineveh Repent
[6] The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. [7] And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh, âBy the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything. Let them not feed or drink water, [8] but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them call out mightily to God. Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. [9] Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.â
[10] When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it. (ESV)
Jonah 4:1â4
Jonahâs Anger and the LORDâs Compassion
[1] But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. [2] And he prayed to the LORD and said, âO LORD, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster. [3] Therefore now, O LORD, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.â [4] And the LORD said, âDo you do well to be angry?â (ESV)
Pastors Tim and John take on the topic of reconciliation and explore why we should be reconciled to God and each other.
The sixth and final sermon on our new mission statement at Holy Cross:
Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life
In this sermon Pastor John helps us to consider where God will lead us through our growth as disciples.
The fourth sermon on our new mission statement at Holy Cross:
Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life
In this sermon, Pastor John explains what it means for our spiritual growth to be rooted in the Gospel.
The fourth sermon on our new mission statement at Holy Cross:
Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life
In this sermon, Pastor John instructs us on how to think about growth as a church and shares some helpful ways we can measure our growth as disciples.
The third sermon on our new mission statement at Holy Cross:
Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life
This week we focus on the dichotomy of a membership mindset versus a discipleship mindset.
The second sermon in the series on our new mission statement at Holy Cross: Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life.
The first sermon in the series on our new mission statement: Growing Gospel-Centered Disciples of Jesus Christ for Life.
Matthew 3:13â17
The Baptism of Jesus
[13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. [14] John would have prevented him, saying, âI need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?â [15] But Jesus answered him, âLet it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.â Then he consented. [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, âThis is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.â (ESV)
Matthew 2:13â15
The Flight to Egypt
[13] Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, âRise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.â [14] And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt [15] and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, âOut of Egypt I called my son.â (ESV)
Pray
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What habit of daily prayer will I take up in the new year?
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When is the best time for me to pray each day?
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How can I invite other Christians in to this habit of prayer with me?
Study
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How will I get into God's Word this year?
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Who will I study with?
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When will I do this?
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Who can I ask for help if I'm having some trouble or need some accountability?
Suffer
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Where am I experiencing suffering, trial, and temptation in my life?
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How are these things an opportunity to find refuge in the love of Christ through deeper prayer and study?
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How might God be getting my attention through these difficulties, showing me my need for deeper study and prayer?
Repeat!
Isaiah 52:9
[9] Break forth together into singing,
you waste places of Jerusalem,
for the LORD has comforted his people;
he has redeemed Jerusalem. (ESV)
Isaiah 9:6
[6] For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (ESV)
Isaiah 7:10â25
The Sign of Immanuel
[10] Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz: [11] âAsk a sign of the LORD your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.â [12] But Ahaz said, âI will not ask, and I will not put the LORD to the test.â [13] And he said, âHear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? [14] Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. [15] He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. [16] For before the boy knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land whose two kings you dread will be deserted. [17] The LORD will bring upon you and upon your people and upon your fatherâs house such days as have not come since the day that Ephraim departed from Judahâthe king of Assyria!â
[18] In that day the LORD will whistle for the fly that is at the end of the streams of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria. [19] And they will all come and settle in the steep ravines, and in the clefts of the rocks, and on all the thornbushes, and on all the pastures.
[20] In that day the Lord will shave with a razor that is hired beyond the Riverâwith the king of Assyriaâthe head and the hair of the feet, and it will sweep away the beard also.
[21] In that day a man will keep alive a young cow and two sheep, [22] and because of the abundance of milk that they give, he will eat curds, for everyone who is left in the land will eat curds and honey.
[23] In that day every place where there used to be a thousand vines, worth a thousand shekels of silver, will become briers and thorns. [24] With bow and arrows a man will come there, for all the land will be briers and thorns. [25] And as for all the hills that used to be hoed with a hoe, you will not come there for fear of briers and thorns, but they will become a place where cattle are let loose and where sheep tread. (ESV)
James 5:7â11
Patience in Suffering
[7] Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. [8] You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. [9] Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. [10] As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. [11] Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. (ESV)
Matthew 3:1â12
John the Baptist Prepares the Way
[1] In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, [2] âRepent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.â [3] For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said,
âThe voice of one crying in the wilderness:
âPrepare the way of the Lord;
make his paths straight.ââ
[4] Now John wore a garment of camelâs hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. [5] Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, [6] and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.
[7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, âYou brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. [9] And do not presume to say to yourselves, âWe have Abraham as our father,â for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. [10] Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
[11] âI baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. [12] His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.â (ESV)
Matthew 24:36â44
No One Knows That Day and Hour
[36] âBut concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. [37] For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. [38] For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, [39] and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. [40] Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. [41] Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left. [42] Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. [43] But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. [44] Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (ESV)
Exodus 36:2â7
[2] And Moses called Bezalel and Oholiab and every craftsman in whose mind the LORD had put skill, everyone whose heart stirred him up to come to do the work. [3] And they received from Moses all the contribution that the people of Israel had brought for doing the work on the sanctuary. They still kept bringing him freewill offerings every morning, [4] so that all the craftsmen who were doing every sort of task on the sanctuary came, each from the task that he was doing, [5] and said to Moses, âThe people bring much more than enough for doing the work that the LORD has commanded us to do.â [6] So Moses gave command, and word was proclaimed throughout the camp, âLet no man or woman do anything more for the contribution for the sanctuary.â So the people were restrained from bringing, [7] for the material they had was sufficient to do all the work, and more. (ESV)
Following Jesus can be uncomfortable. Â As Godâs Holy Spirit sanctifies and purifies us, we can often sense a war raging within us as our sin rages against God. Â Therefore, it is imperative that you donât âgo it alone.â If you have spiritual questions you should immediately seek out answers from your pastor, church, and through the scriptures.
Reverend Dr. Gerard Bolling, Sr. Pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri visits and shares his insights and reflections on Jesus' relationship with sorrow.
John 11:35
[35] Jesus wept. (ESV)
Ways of leaving a congregation:
- Death â the Christian is buried in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection as the church mourns and praises God for His grace. They move from the âchurch militantâ to the âchurch triumphant.â
- Transfer â the Christian is given a farewell and transfers his or her membership to another congregation of the same confession.
- Peaceful release â the Christian leaves to another Christian tradition if he or she finds they cannot in good conscience continue in the Confessional Lutheran Faith.
- Excommunication â a Christian who refuses to be disciplined according to the Word of God is, after much patience, told they are no longer a Christian under Godâs grace.
Revelation 7:9â17
A Great Multitude from Every Nation
[9] After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, [10] and crying out with a loud voice, âSalvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!â [11] And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, [12] saying, âAmen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.â
[13] Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, âWho are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?â [14] I said to him, âSir, you know.â And he said to me, âThese are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
[15] âTherefore they are before the throne of God,
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.
[16] They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore;
the sun shall not strike them,
nor any scorching heat.
[17] For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.â (ESV)
You can expect that a pastor or other leaders in the church will help you in time of crisis or need. You too are called to care for your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Pastoral services offered to members (and others in some circumstances) include: Baptisms, marriages, funerals, blessing of homes, prayers of celebration at times of joy, spiritual counsel, communing of the sick or distressed, exorcism, offering prayers, anointing the sick with oil, service of commendation of the dying etc.
Luke 19:1â10
Jesus and Zacchaeus
[1] He entered Jericho and was passing through. [2] And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. [3] And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. [4] So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. [5] And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, âZacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.â [6] So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. [7] And when they saw it, they all grumbled, âHe has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.â [8] And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, âBehold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.â [9] And Jesus said to him, âToday salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.â (ESV)
Questions to think about:
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What currently motivates my giving? If it's not God's Grace and Mercy, what would it look like for my giving to be motivated by His Grace and Mercy? How might starting from that place transform the way I approach this invitation from God?
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If I currently do not give anything to my congregation why is this? How might Jesus be inviting me to grow in this area?
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Regardless of my income, age, or life situation, when it comes to the amount I give does my giving show a heart moved an motivated by the Gospel? What would it look like for the amount that I give to be shaped by the amount of Grace and Mercy God has shown me?
Romans 16
Personal Greetings
[1] I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, [2] that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.
[3] Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, [4] who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. [5] Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. [6] Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. [7] Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. [8] Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. [9] Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys. [10] Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. [11] Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. [12] Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. [13] Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. [14] Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers who are with them. [15] Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. [16] Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.
Final Instructions and Greetings
[17] I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. [18] For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. [19] For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. [20] The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
[21] Timothy, my fellow worker, greets you; so do Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.
[22] I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord.
[23] Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.
Doxology
[25] Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages [26] but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faithâ[27] to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. (ESV)
Romans 15:22â33
Paulâs Plan to Visit Rome
[22] This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. [23] But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, [24] I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. [25] At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. [26] For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. [27] For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. [28] When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you. [29] I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.
[30] I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, [31] that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, [32] so that by Godâs will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. [33] May the God of peace be with you all. Amen. (ESV)
Romans 15:14â21
Paul the Minister to the Gentiles
[14] I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. [15] But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God [16] to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. [17] In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. [18] For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedienceâby word and deed, [19] by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of Godâso that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; [20] and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone elseâs foundation, [21] but as it is written,
âThose who have never been told of him will see,
and those who have never heard will understand.â (ESV)
Romans 15:14â21
Paul the Minister to the Gentiles
[14] I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. [15] But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God [16] to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. [17] In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. [18] For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedienceâby word and deed, [19] by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of Godâso that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; [20] and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone elseâs foundation, [21] but as it is written,
âThose who have never been told of him will see,
and those who have never heard will understand.â (ESV)
Romans 15:8â13
Christ the Hope of Jews and Gentiles
[8] For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show Godâs truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, [9] and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,
âTherefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,
and sing to your name.â
[10] And again it is said,
âRejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.â
[11] And again,
âPraise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and let all the peoples extol him.â
[12] And again Isaiah says,
âThe root of Jesse will come,
even he who arises to rule the Gentiles;
in him will the Gentiles hope.â
[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (ESV)
Romans 15:1â7
The Example of Christ
[1] We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. [2] Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. [3] For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, âThe reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.â [4] For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. [5] May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, [6] that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. [7] Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. (ESV)
Pastors are sworn to hold personal information in confidence. Â You should feel totally comfortable in confessing personal realities to your pastor knowing that his job is to advise and to pronounce the forgiveness of your sins in Jesus name. Â If pastors break this oath they can and should be removed from office.
Romans 14:13â23
Do Not Cause Another to Stumble
[13] Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. [14] I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. [15] For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. [16] So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. [17] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. [18] Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. [19] So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
[20] Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats. [21] It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. [22] The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. [23] But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin. (ESV)
Your pastor is functioning as a servant of Godâs Word. Â He is at all times to convey what Godâs Word says to you. Â According to the Bible, Jesus will hold him accountable if he wrongfully advises you about what God says. Your pastor is not worthy of your faith (they are sinful humans), but they represent the God who is worthy of your faith.
Romans 14:1â12
Do Not Pass Judgment on One Another
[1] As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. [2] One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. [3] Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. [4] Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
[5] One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. [6] The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. [7] For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. [8] For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lordâs. [9] For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
[10] Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; [11] for it is written,
âAs I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me,
and every tongue shall confess to God.â
[12] So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. (ESV)
The Spirituality of the Lutheran Church is centered on the Word and the Sacraments (baptism, the Lordâs Supper, Confession Absolution). Â This is where God has placed his saving promises, and nowhere else. Â To participate in these things is to participate in Christ. Â To exclude yourself from these things is to exclude yourself from Christ. Â Refusing to dedicate yourself to the God-given rhythm of grace found in the Word and Sacraments will result in removal from membership at Holy Cross. Indeed, it may result in being condemned.
Romans 13:8â14
Fulfilling the Law Through Love
[8] Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. [9] For the commandments, âYou shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,â and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: âYou shall love your neighbor as yourself.â [10] Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
[11] Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. [12] The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. [13] Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. [14] But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. (ESV)
Romans 13:1â7
Submission to the Authorities
[1] Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. [2] Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. [3] For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, [4] for he is Godâs servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out Godâs wrath on the wrongdoer. [5] Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid Godâs wrath but also for the sake of conscience. [6] For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. [7] Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed. (ESV)
- The official interpretation of the Bible that we use is set forth in the Book of Concord (http://www.bookofconcord.org/)which is a collection of writings by Martin Luther and friends presented by the Lutheran Reformers in 1580. Your pastors have vowed to teach and preach based on this interpretation of the Bible. God doesnât change, His Word doesnât change, and therefore our faith doesnât change. In a world of trends and contradictions, we are able to anchor ourselves in an unchanging confession of faith. This Word is our sure foundation that will last longer than the heavens and the earth.
- Our faith is based on Scripture Alone. The Bible is the final authority on everything for faith and life because they are from God. Other authorities such as church traditions, science, politics, reason and feelings can be useful and true, but they are always placed under the authority of the scriptures. Â We believe the bible is God-breathed and is the most reliable source of truth that exists.
Romans 12:9â21
Marks of the True Christian
[9] Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. [10] Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. [11] Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. [12] Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. [13] Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
[14] Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. [15] Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. [16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. [17] Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. [18] If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. [19] Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, âVengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.â [20] To the contrary, âif your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.â [21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (ESV)
Romans 12:3â8
Gifts of Grace
[3] For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. [4] For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, [5] so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6] Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; [7] if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; [8] the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. (ESV)
Romans 12:1â2
A Living Sacrifice
[1] I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. [2] Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (ESV)
Romans 11:25â36
The Mystery of Israelâs Salvation
[25] Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. [26] And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written,
âThe Deliverer will come from Zion,
he will banish ungodliness from Jacobâ;
[27] âand this will be my covenant with them
when I take away their sins.â
[28] As regards the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. [29] For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. [30] For just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, [31] so they too have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy. [32] For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.
[33] Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
[34] âFor who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?â
[35] âOr who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?â
[36] For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. (ESV)
Romans 11:11â24
Gentiles Grafted In
[11] So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather, through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. [12] Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!
[13] Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry [14] in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. [15] For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead? [16] If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches.
[17] But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, [18] do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. [19] Then you will say, âBranches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.â [20] That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. [21] For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. [22] Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but Godâs kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. [23] And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. [24] For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree. (ESV)
Romans 11:1â10
The Remnant of Israel
[1] I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. [2] God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? [3] âLord, they have killed your prophets, they have demolished your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.â [4] But what is Godâs reply to him? âI have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.â [5] So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. [6] But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.
[7] What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened, [8] as it is written,
âGod gave them a spirit of stupor,
eyes that would not see
and ears that would not hear,
down to this very day.â
[9] And David says,
âLet their table become a snare and a trap,
a stumbling block and a retribution for them;
[10] let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see,
and bend their backs forever.â (ESV)
Romans 10:5â21
The Message of Salvation to All
[5] For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. [6] But the righteousness based on faith says, âDo not say in your heart, âWho will ascend into heaven?ââ (that is, to bring Christ down) [7] âor âWho will descend into the abyss?ââ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). [8] But what does it say? âThe word is near you, in your mouth and in your heartâ (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); [9] because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. [11] For the Scripture says, âEveryone who believes in him will not be put to shame.â [12] For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. [13] For âeveryone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.â
[14] How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? [15] And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, âHow beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!â [16] But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, âLord, who has believed what he has heard from us?â [17] So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
[18] But I ask, have they not heard? Indeed they have, for
âTheir voice has gone out to all the earth,
and their words to the ends of the world.â
[19] But I ask, did Israel not understand? First Moses says,
âI will make you jealous of those who are not a nation;
with a foolish nation I will make you angry.â
[20] Then Isaiah is so bold as to say,
âI have been found by those who did not seek me;
I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me.â
[21] But of Israel he says, âAll day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people.â (ESV)
Romans 9:30â33
Israelâs Unbelief
[30] What shall we say, then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith; [31] but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. [32] Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, [33] as it is written,
âBehold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense;
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.â (ESV)
Romans 10:1â4
[1] Brothers, my heartâs desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. [2] For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. [3] For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to Godâs righteousness. [4] For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. (ESV)
Romans 9:14â29
[14] What shall we say then? Is there injustice on Godâs part? By no means! [15] For he says to Moses, âI will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.â [16] So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. [17] For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, âFor this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.â [18] So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.
[19] You will say to me then, âWhy does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?â [20] But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, âWhy have you made me like this?â [21] Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use? [22] What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, [23] in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for gloryâ[24] even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles? [25] As indeed he says in Hosea,
âThose who were not my people I will call âmy people,â
and her who was not beloved I will call âbeloved.ââ
[26] âAnd in the very place where it was said to them, âYou are not my people,â
there they will be called âsons of the living God.ââ
[27] And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: âThough the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved, [28] for the Lord will carry out his sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.â [29] And as Isaiah predicted,
âIf the Lord of hosts had not left us offspring,
we would have been like Sodom
and become like Gomorrah.â (ESV)
Romans 9:1â13
Godâs Sovereign Choice
[1] I am speaking the truth in ChristâI am not lying; my conscience bears me witness in the Holy Spiritâ[2] that I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. [3] For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh. [4] They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. [5] To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.
[6] But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel, [7] and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but âThrough Isaac shall your offspring be named.â [8] This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring. [9] For this is what the promise said: âAbout this time next year I will return, and Sarah shall have a son.â [10] And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac, [11] though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or badâin order that Godâs purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who callsâ[12] she was told, âThe older will serve the younger.â [13] As it is written, âJacob I loved, but Esau I hated.â (ESV)
Romans 8:31â39
Godâs Everlasting Love
[31] What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? [33] Who shall bring any charge against Godâs elect? It is God who justifies. [34] Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who diedâmore than that, who was raisedâwho is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? [36] As it is written,
âFor your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.â
[37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, [39] nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ESV)
Romans 8:18â30
Future Glory
[18] For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. [19] For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. [20] For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope [21] that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. [22] For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. [23] And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. [24] For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? [25] But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
[26] Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. [27] And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. [28] And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. [29] For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. [30] And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (ESV)
Romans 8:12â17
Heirs with Christ
[12] So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. [13] For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. [14] For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. [15] For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, âAbba! Father!â [16] The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, [17] and if children, then heirsâheirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. (ESV)
Romans 8:1â11
Life in the Spirit
[1] There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. [2] For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. [3] For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, [4] in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. [5] For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. [6] For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. [7] For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to Godâs law; indeed, it cannot. [8] Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
[9] You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. [10] But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. [11] If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. (ESV)
In this new series, we discuss things that everyone in the church should totally know about being a member of a church. Â #1 is this:Â
In becoming a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, you are making a life-long commitment to the Holy Christian Faith as taught by the scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions (what weâve been working on). The promise to you, is that by binding yourself to these God-given teachings and practices, you will obtain everlasting life. If you move to another area of the world, you should seek out a church that also holds to this same confession of the Christian Faith.
In this episode, Pastor Tim and Music Director Jolene Berke  talks with artist Stephen Lufkin of the group LOVKN about what motivates him to write and perform music that glorifies God and communicates the Gospel to peoples hearts.  #Art #CreatingwithGod #Music  Â
In this episode based on a recent sermon, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss how the law can provide guidance to parents to raise their kids.Â
Pastor John explains how God's law impacts us in three ways. Â He also clearly shows what God's law cannot do... namely, it cannot save us, OR sanctify us. Â
Romans 7:1â6
Released from the Law
[1] Or do you not know, brothersâfor I am speaking to those who know the lawâthat the law is binding on a person only as long as he lives? [2] For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies she is released from the law of marriage. [3] Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, and if she marries another man she is not an adulteress.
[4] Likewise, my brothers, you also have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God. [5] For while we were living in the flesh, our sinful passions, aroused by the law, were at work in our members to bear fruit for death. [6] But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code. (ESV)
Romans 6:15â23
Slaves to Righteousness
[15] What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! [16] Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? [17] But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, [18] and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. [19] I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification.
[20] For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. [21] But what fruit were you getting at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. [22] But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. [23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ESV)
Pastor Tim once again meets with our DCE team, but this time to discuss vocations. How do you know what's right for you? What led them to church work? This great discussion is applicable to all ages and stages of life and is just in time for graduation.
PT sits down with the three best Directors of Christian Education in the world to discuss how they survive in busy seasons while staying connected to Jesus. Â
[5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. [6] We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [7] For one who has died has been set free from sin. [8] Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. [10] For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. [11] So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
[12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. [13] Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. [14] For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. (ESV)
We're BACK! Â PT and PJ discuss how the law interacts with those who are baptized into Christ. Â Check out what St. Paul says about it in Romans 6!
Romans 6:1â3
Dead to Sin, Alive to God
[1] What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? [2] By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? [3] Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? (ESV)
Pastor John preaches through Romans 6:1-14 focusing on the question, "Should we keep on sinning so that grace abound?"
Romans 6:1â14
Dead to Sin, Alive to God
[1] What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? [2] By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? [3] Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
[5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. [6] We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [7] For one who has died has been set free from sin. [8] Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. [10] For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. [11] So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
[12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. [13] Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. [14] For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. (ESV)
Good Friday 2022Â
Holy Cross was led in a meditation on the 10 commandments in order to be rid of sins in Jesus name. Â The congregation then received individual forgiveness spoken by the pastors of Holy Cross and the sign of the cross upon their heads completing the journey of Lent which began with ashes in the sign of the cross placed upon their heads. Â
Romans 5:12â21
Death in Adam, Life in Christ
[12] Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinnedâ[13] for sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. [14] Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come.
[15] But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one manâs trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. [16] And the free gift is not like the result of that one manâs sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification. [17] For if, because of one manâs trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.
[18] Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. [19] For as by the one manâs disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one manâs obedience the many will be made righteous. [20] Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, [21] so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (ESV)
Romans 5:1â11
Peace with God Through Faith
[1] Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. [2] Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. [3] Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, [4] and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, [5] and hope does not put us to shame, because Godâs love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
[6] For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. [7] For one will scarcely die for a righteous personâthough perhaps for a good person one would dare even to dieâ[8] but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [11] More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. (ESV)
Romans 4:13â25
The Promise Realized Through Faith
[13] For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. [14] For if it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. [15] For the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression.
[16] That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspringânot only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, [17] as it is written, âI have made you the father of many nationsââin the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. [18] In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, âSo shall your offspring be.â [19] He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarahâs womb. [20] No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, [21] fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. [22] That is why his faith was âcounted to him as righteousness.â [23] But the words âit was counted to himâ were not written for his sake alone, [24] but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, [25] who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. (ESV)
Romans 4:1â12
[1] What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? [2] For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. [3] For what does the Scripture say? âAbraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.â [4] Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. [5] And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, [6] just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works:
[7] âBlessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven,
and whose sins are covered;
[8] blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.â
[9] Is this blessing then only for the circumcised, or also for the uncircumcised? For we say that faith was counted to Abraham as righteousness. [10] How then was it counted to him? Was it before or after he had been circumcised? It was not after, but before he was circumcised. [11] He received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. The purpose was to make him the father of all who believe without being circumcised, so that righteousness would be counted to them as well, [12] and to make him the father of the circumcised who are not merely circumcised but who also walk in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised. (ESV)
Romans 3:21â31
The Righteousness of God Through Faith
[21] But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to itâ[22] the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show Godâs righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. [26] It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
[27] Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. [28] For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. [29] Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, [30] since God is oneâwho will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. [31] Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law. (ESV)
Romans 3:9â20
[9] What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, [10] as it is written:
âNone is righteous, no, not one;
[11] no one understands;
no one seeks for God.
[12] All have turned aside; together they have become worthless;
no one does good,
not even one.â
[13] âTheir throat is an open grave;
they use their tongues to deceive.â
âThe venom of asps is under their lips.â
[14] âTheir mouth is full of curses and bitterness.â
[15] âTheir feet are swift to shed blood;
[16] in their paths are ruin and misery,
[17] and the way of peace they have not known.â
[18] âThere is no fear of God before their eyes.â
[19] Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. [20] For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. (ESV)
Romans 3:1â8
[1] Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? [2] Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. [3] What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God? [4] By no means! Let God be true though every one were a liar, as it is written,
âThat you may be justified in your words,
and prevail when you are judged.â
[5] But if our unrighteousness serves to show the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unrighteous to inflict wrath on us? (I speak in a human way.) [6] By no means! For then how could God judge the world? [7] But if through my lie Godâs truth abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner? [8] And why not do evil that good may come?âas some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just.Â
Pastor Tim and Director of Campus Ministries Megan Barone continue to answer a college students questions on Christianity and in particular, what it "feels like" to be a Christian. Â
In this episode, Pastor Tim and Megan, the director of campus ministries answer some perceptive questions about Christianity that a college student asked. Â
How does God Judge us? Who will be acquitted? Who will be condemned? What does the Holy Spirit mean when He said through Paul, that we have been Justified as a gift?
Romans 2:12â29
Godâs Judgment and the Law
[12] For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. [13] For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. [14] For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. [15] They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them [16] on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
[17] But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God [18] and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; [19] and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, [20] an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truthâ[21] you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? [22] You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? [23] You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. [24] For, as it is written, âThe name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.â
[25] For circumcision indeed is of value if you obey the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision. [26] So, if a man who is uncircumcised keeps the precepts of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision? [27] Then he who is physically uncircumcised but keeps the law will condemn you who have the written code and circumcision but break the law. [28] For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. [29] But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God. (ESV)
In this special episode, the pastors have a question and answer with Michael Middendorf, Professor of Theology at Christ College at Concordia University Irvine. Â Michael wrote a two volume academic commentary on the book of Romans! Â Quite an undertaking. Â The pastors ask him a series of questions about the unique position of Romans in the Bible and ask him to define some of the key concepts we find in that book likegospel,salvation, righteousness, faith, wrath, justified, grace, gift. Â Â Â
Godâs Righteous Judgment
[1] Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. [2] We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. [3] Do you suppose, O manâyou who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourselfâthat you will escape the judgment of God? [4] Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that Godâs kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? [5] But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when Godâs righteous judgment will be revealed.
[6] He will render to each one according to his works: [7] to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; [8] but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. [9] There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, [10] but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek. [11] For God shows no partiality. (ESV)
The wrath of God is not generally a good dinner topic - It's a little hard to swallow. Â Â The pastors are serving it up none the less. Â Â We'll examine the topic as we walk through the book of Romans on this episode.Â
God's Wrath on Unrighteousness 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world,[g] in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.
24Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.
Romans 1:24-30Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.
26For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; 27and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.
28And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. 29They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, 30slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32Though they know Godâs righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.
Longing to Go to Rome 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I mention you 10 always in my prayers, asking that somehow by God's will I may now at last succeed in coming to you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen youâ 12 that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine. 13 I do not want you to be unaware, brothers,[c] that I have often intended to come to you (but thus far have been prevented), in order that I may reap some harvest among you as well as among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians,[d] both to the wise and to the foolish. 15 So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.
The Righteous Shall Live by Faith 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith,[e] as it is written, âThe righteous shall live by faith.â[f]
Well, what is it? Is it the thing that the nuns smack your hands for? You may be surprised by the depth of this biblical word. The pastors take a look at it from the book of Romans.Â
Pastor John preaches on Romans 1 - explaining what this "power of God" is that comes in the Gospel for YOU. Â
Pastor John addresses those who will confess their faith in the salvation that God has given them in Jesus through their baptisms. Â
Who is this guy anyway? The pastors discuss some key insights into the author of Romans... the infamous Saul of Tarsus. Â
We're back! PJ and PT talk about why Romans is such a keystone book for the Christian faith and why it's worthy of our attention. Â
The Return to Nazareth 39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.
The Boy Jesus in the Temple 41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. 43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day's journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, 45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 And when his parents[g] saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, âSon, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.â 49 And he said to them, âWhy were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?â[h] 50 And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature[i] and in favor with God and man.
Stephen the Martyr 54When they heard these things they were [a]cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth. 55But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, 56and said, âLook! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!â
57Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; 58and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, âLord Jesus, receive my spirit.â 60Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, âLord, do not charge them with this sin.â And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Isaiah 7:10â14
The Sign of Immanuel
[10] Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz: [11] âAsk a sign of the LORD your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.â [12] But Ahaz said, âI will not ask, and I will not put the LORD to the test.â [13] And he said, âHear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? [14] Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. (ESV)
2 3 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me
one who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose coming forth is from of old,
from ancient days.
3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time
when she who is in labor has given birth;
then the rest of his brothers shall return
to the people of Israel.
4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock yin the strength of the Lord,
in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great
to the ends of the earth.
5 And he shall be their peace.
Sing, Daughter Zion;
shout aloud, Israel!
Be glad and rejoice with all your heart,
Daughter Jerusalem!
15The Lord has taken away your punishment,
he has turned back your enemy.
The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you;
never again will you fear any harm.
16On that day
they will say to Jerusalem,
âDo not fear, Zion;
do not let your hands hang limp.
17The Lord your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.â
We continue our conversation with John and Gerrard about how the church can reach out into impoverished areas like North St. Louis. Â
Malachi 2:17 - 3:1â7
The Messenger of the LORD
[17] You have wearied the LORD with your words. But you say, âHow have we wearied him?â By saying, âEveryone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them.â Or by asking, âWhere is the God of justice?â (ESV)
[1] âBehold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. [2] But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refinerâs fire and like fullersâ soap. [3] He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the LORD. [4] Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the LORD as in the days of old and as in former years.
[5] âThen I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the LORD of hosts.
[6] âFor I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. [7] From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD of hosts. But you say, âHow shall we return?â (ESV)
We sit down with Pastor's Gerard Bolling and John Schmidtke and talk about the intrepid ministry they are doing reaching the impoverished community of north Saint Louis. Â Hear about their challenges and their triumphs. An inspiring story. Â Â Â
Jesus prophesies about the end of Jerusalem and warns His followers to be ready for His return at the end of the world. Â
The Widowâs Offering
41And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. 42And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny.6 43And he called his disciples to him and said to them, âTruly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.â
How do we practically implement a godly sabbath rhythm into our lives? Â PT and PJ continue their conversation with Dr. Vanessa Seifert about the role of Sabbath in Christian's life. Â
Pastor John and Pastor Tim sit down with Coach/Scholar Dr. Vanessa Seifert to talk about the underrated spiritual discipline of Sabbath. Â
Mark 12:28â34
[28] And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, âWhich commandment is the most important of all?â [29] Jesus answered, âThe most important is, âHear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.â [31] The second is this: âYou shall love your neighbor as yourself.â There is no other commandment greater than these.â [32] And the scribe said to him, âYou are right, Teacher. You have truly said that he is one, and there is no other besides him. [33] And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love oneâs neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.â [34] And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, âYou are not far from the kingdom of God.â And after that no one dared to ask him any more questions. (ESV)
Pastor John and Pastor Tim continue their conversation with Tais about family discipleship, focusing on practical ways to easily bring discipleship into everyday home life. Â
What do we give up for the gospel? Â What do we get? Pastor John shows how the Grace of God is both free and costly at the same time. Â
Tais Brekke sits down with Pastor John and Pastor Tim to talk about the critical shift ti family discipleship from children's ministry.Â
Mark 10:46â52
Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus
[46] And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. [47] And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, âJesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!â [48] And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, âSon of David, have mercy on me!â [49] And Jesus stopped and said, âCall him.â And they called the blind man, saying to him, âTake heart. Get up; he is calling you.â [50] And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. [51] And Jesus said to him, âWhat do you want me to do for you?â And the blind man said to him, âRabbi, let me recover my sight.â [52] And Jesus said to him, âGo your way; your faith has made you well.â And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way. (ESV)
The pastors talk with new Family Discipleship DCE Tais Brekke about mindset shift toward family discipleship. Â
13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them.
14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."
16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
Part three of our series on Acts 2. Â What does it look like when the Holy Spirit gets a hold of a community? Â Â
Part two our our series on Acts 2 - What does it look like when the Holy Spirit gets ahold of a community?
What does it look like when the Spirit of God gets ahold of a community?
Part one of the three part sermon series on the description of the Church after the Holy Spirit descends upon them. Â Â
Acts 2:42â47
The Fellowship of the Believers
[42] And they devoted themselves to the apostlesâ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. [43] And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. [44] And all who believed were together and had all things in common. [45] And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. [46] And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, [47] praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. (ESV)
How should Biblically formed Christians respond to people who are struggling with transgenderism?Â
This episode contains content not suitable for children
In this podcast, John and Tim discuss the variety of responses that people have toward those who express transgender feelings and experiences. Â This conversation includes frank discussion of sexuality and heavy topics like suicide and so is not for young children. Â Â
When an unclean woman from an unclean place asks Jesus to cast out an unclean spirit from her daughter. Â Jesus resists and the woman presses through that resistance until he marvels at her faith and cleanses her daughter. Â
Part 1 of 3 on Transgenderism. Â Pastor Tim and Pastor John discuss the nuances of transgenderism.
Resources:
Transgender by Vaughan RobertsÂ
Understanding Gender Dysphoria by Mark A. Yarhouse
Mark 7:14â23
[14] And he called the people to him again and said to them, âHear me, all of you, and understand: [15] There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.â [17] And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. [18] And he said to them, âThen are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, [19] since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?â (Thus he declared all foods clean.) [20] And he said, âWhat comes out of a person is what defiles him. [21] For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, [22] coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. [23] All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.â (ESV)
Pastor John Preaches on Jesus teaching about human traditions vs. God's commands and what it means to be a hypocrite in denial vs a hypocrite in recovery. Â Â
PT preaches on the controversial words of Jesus - that we must eat his flesh and drink his blood or we have no life in us. Â
Gary Thies from Mission Central relays stories of victory of suffering as the Church grows throughout the world and relays the critical importance of supporting global missions throughout the world. Â Check out what Mission Central is up to at https://missioncentral.us/
In this episode John and Tim highlight the surprising stars of the Gospel of Mark: the outsiders. Â While the disciples often fumble and fail, outsiders who are unlikely to be in the know both correctly identify Jesus as the Son of God and correctly respond to him in faith. Â Part 3 of our series on the Gospel of Mark. Â
The disciples are painfully dense in the Gospel of Mark. Â PJ and PT laugh about them a little bit and then talk about what the Gospel is doing as it presents these characters in a TRAGIC light to press us into the correct response to the person and work of Jesus. Â Part 2 of our series on the Gospel of Mark.Â
This summer and fall we're preaching through Mark's Gospel, and you may have noticed that many of the things Jesus does and says come off as strange. Why is this? What does this communicate about who Jesus is and what he came to do?
"He had compassion on them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd." Like the crowds that followed Jesus into the wilderness, we are often weary and fatigued. However, the love of Jesus Christ does not grow weary of us. In fact, the more we are in need, the more his compassion increases for us. He invites us to come to him, even if all we have to offer him is our need!
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim continue their series on biblical sexual ethics by drawing in a special guest - the one and only author and intellectual C.S. Lewis. Although Lewis has been with the Lord for more than 50 years, his witness to the Christian faith continues, especially his insights on the Christian approach to sexual morality, or as he calls it, "the virtue of Christian chastity." Be sure to check out his book "Mere Christianity," or experience his thinking through "C.S Lewis Doodles" on YouTube.
Israel was certainly a rebellious people, and yet in todayâs Old Testament Reading, God sends Ezekiel to speak to them. They were being punished as exiles in Babylon, but now they would know that God had not forgotten them; a prophet was among them! The future was full of grace, for they would return to the Promised Land when Cyrus came to power. In the Gospel, our Lord was speaking graciously even after being rejected in His hometown; He sent the Twelve to other towns. Although they might also be rejected, they would have opportunity to speak peace and to heal. And now, in our day, though we are all rebellious at times, the Gospel comes to us in power. Indeed, Paul says that Godâs power shows through his weakness. Through the Gospel, God enables us to change even our rebellious selves and to urge others to live as people pleasing to Him.
Do you forget to pray now and then? This is fallen human nature. God never forgets to listen. The Lordâs steadfast love never ceases. When Jesus walked this earth, this was evident as He raised Jairusâs daughter, who had died between the request and Jesusâ arrival at his home. And He cured a hemorrhaging woman whose only prayer was touching His robe. But God does more than restore us to physical life and health. Jesus left the riches of heaven, becoming a poor and despised human being so that we might become rich with everlasting life. How can we ever thank Him? Paul encourages us to share generously and joyfully whatever God has so graciously given us.
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the practical question of what couples should do if they are living together before marriage. They also focus on the amazing gift of God's mercy, the beauty of restarting with God's blessing, and how families and church communities can support couples in being faithful to Christ. This episode goes well with iced coffee, flip flops, and long walks on the beach.
In todayâs Gospel, Jesus commands the wind and the sea to become calm, which understandably stuns the disciples. âWho is this?â they wonder. The other Readings today reaffirm that we know that Jesus is one person of the Holy Trinity. The Creator puts creature Job in his place. We also ought to remember with whom we are dealing when we request or complain. Paul encourages his readers, then and now, to put their circumstances into the context of the whole Church. Our situations do not define us! Sure of Godâs care and emboldened by the strength He provides, we are called to live out our faith confidently. We know who this is: He is Jesus, our Savior.
Many of the parables of Jesus have to do with agricultureâfrom the parable of the sower to this short description of the Kingdom like a mustard seed. There are so many little details with application to our lives, but today the focus is on the seed and the mystery of how it grows. What brings the seed from planting to harvest is the providence of God and His goodness and power. This is both the object of our interest and the domain of faith that trusts what the eye does not see and the mind does not comprehend. At the end of it all is the harvest; God brings into His storehouse all the fruits of His seed planted in good soil. The blissful ignorance we have of this process should not deprive us of the joy of its outcome.
Sex is a beautiful gift from God. Marriage is also a beautiful gift. These two gifts go hand in hand. But what about experiencing this gift before marriage? Is it OK for couples to move in together and sleep together before the big wedding day? Have times changed? Does the church need to get with the times? Or have the times forgotten about Jesus? This is the first part of a very important conversation, so plug in those ear buds and join us!
âWhoever does the will of God, He is My brother and sister and mother,â said Jesus. What is the will of the God? That all people would come to the knowledge of the truth in Christ and be saved by His mercy. Faith is the will of God and family is the fruit of this faithâa people united in Christâs death and resurrection by Baptism. A house divided cannot stand. We know this to be true in an earthly sense, but it is an eternal truth. We belong to the Lord, not just in part but in whole. God was even willing to own our sins to restore us from Satan and his dominion. What keeps us from this wonderful identity and this future is only this: our refusal of Godâs mercy and our rejection of His work to save us. The goal of God in all that He is doing is faith, for by this faith we are made one with Him and are united together as His family, the Church.
Before we begin a series in the Gospel of Mark this summer, we go back to the Old Testament prophet Isaiah, who experienced the life-changing holiness of God, as well as his healing grace. God's holiness and grace are at work in your lives as well, changing our complacency into purpose.
3] And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. [4] And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (ESV)
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim continue with the topic of homosexuality, discussing some of the important biblical texts that speak to this issue, as well as some of the objections that have recently arisen in opposition to the traditional sexual ethic of the church. Overall, the aim of this episode is to help our listeners embrace love that is shaped by truth, and truth that is shared in love.
As we end Johnâs first letter, the Apostle circles back to the theme of certainty - the certainty of his witness to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the certainty that we have life in Jesus. Join us as John takes us from being âpretty sureâ to being âcertainâ about the life we have in Christ.
On this episode, we begin a two-part discussion of the issue of homosexuality. First, we hear the stories of Christian men and women who have experience homosexual desires, and yet have chosen a different path than the one our culture offers. Next episode, we will dig into the Bible and see what the Scriptures teach about God's plan for human sexuality with regard to homosexual relationships. We pray that God will continue to give us open minds and open hearts we learn together.
Love your family. That's one of the primary messages of 1st John. Do you love God? Then you will love His children. Are you born of God? Then you will love the other's who are born of God.
How do we know if we're loving our brothers and sisters in the church? The haunting answer from John is this: When we obey God's commandments. The one who honestly considers this will despair. Love of God and love of Church are inseparable and have we loved the Church? Yes, in a weak way. Yes, in a selfish way. Yes, in an incomplete way. This will always call us to call out to God for mercy as we strive to love each other even in our brokenness.
It's hard to find a reasonable conversation these days about controversial issues. But God calls us to go beyond memes, slogans, or easy answers to arrive at truth about things that really matter. Join Pastor John and Pastor Tim as they introduce a series of podcast episodes on the topics of homosexuality, same-sex marriage, transgenderism, cohabitation, and divorce. These are often issues we avoid talking about, but the Gospel is such good news that we're able to talk about these things in the security of God's love in Christ.
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the research of sociologists Christian Smith and Melinda Denton on the religious beliefs of American teenagers. Often called "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism," the pastors discuss how this counterfeit faith often puts down roots in congregations, creating confusion about who God is and what he has done for us in Jesus Christ.
On Thursday, May 13th, Holy Cross will be gathering with churches around our circuit to celebrate one of the most important dates on the church calendar. Join us for this episode as Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss this very important event on Jesus' calendar!
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim talk about how the same factors that tore apart the early church at Ephesus (the community John wrote his letter to) also often harm our Christian community in the modern church.
In this second of two episodes, Pastor John and Pastor Tim continue their discussion of a very important question - "Was Jesus raised from the dead?" As the religion scholar Jaroslav Pelikan once put it, "If Christ is risen, nothing else matters. And if Christ is not risen, nothing else matters." Enjoy!
In this first of two episodes, Pastor John and Pastor Tim tackle a very important question - "Was Jesus raised from the dead?" If he wasn't, then you should probably party hard now, because there's no hope. But if he was raised from the dead, then this has HUGE implications for our lives, both now and forever.
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim welcome a special guest - our new DCE Jaymes Hayes. In our conversation, we get to know Jaymes, and talk about some topics in his wheelhouse - confirmation, senior youth, and small groups.
In the final sermon of the Lent series on The Lord's Supper, Pastor John discusses how we should prepare for the Sacrament.Â
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim go deeper into the text of Ephesians 6:10-20, talking about the reality of spiritual conflict in our lives - often in ways we're not even aware of - and the armor God has given us to stand our ground.
In the fourth installment of the Lent sermon series, Pastor John talks about taking the Sacrament worthily.Â
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim talk about the best Bible translations, the best study Bibles to use, some easy to access online resources for helping us understand what we're reading, and some strategies for being in the Scriptures daily. Enjoy!
In this second of two episodes, President Sommerfeld shares some thoughts on the future of Concordia, some of the great opportunities for new students, and responds to the question often asked by parents, "How much does Concordia cost?" This is an excellent episode for students and families considering Concordia.
In the second installment of the Lent sermon series, Pastor John describes the benefits of taking the Sacrament.
In this first of two episodes, we welcome a familiar voice to many at Holy Cross - the Rev. Dr. Russ Sommerfeld, Interim President of Concordia University Nebraska. President Sommerfeld shares a joke that makes Pastor John and Pastor Tim look like amateurs, and reflects on his experience at Concordia and what makes it unique.
In this first episode of the Lent sermon series, Pastor John Rasmussen describes the Sacrament.
On this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim reflect on Lent and the battle every Christian has with the unholy trinity.
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the meaning of Lent, polar vortexes, fish frys, and some good and not so good reasons to give something up for Lent... as well as some thoughts about what to give up.
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the best kind of coffee, inspirational wall quotes, and the difference between nominal and genuine Christianity.
On this episode, Pastor John, Pastor Tim, and Spencer (a Zion alum), welcome Tony Splittgerber, the principal of Zion Lutheran School, to discuss what makes classical Christian education a unique resource in helping parents teach their children God's word.
In this episode, a group of millennials - Pastor John, Pastor Tim, and Megan - discuss the question of why millennials are leaving the church, as well as how the church can better serve this age group.
What does the world need right now? Political stability? Access to vaccines? Economic recovery? Sure. But what the world really needs now, more than ever, is... meekness. In the end, only meekness wins. Join us as we learn what meekness is, what it's not, and the true source of meekness - Jesus Christ.
Sermon Text: Matthew 5:5
On this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim try to get to the roots of why our nation is so divided right now.
Martin Luther said, "IÂ have no use for cranks who despise music, because it is a gift of God. Music drives away the Devil and makes people joyful; they forget thereby all wrath, unchastity, arrogance, and the like."Â Join Pastor Tim and Music Director Jolene as they talk about the power of holy music in disturbing times and look forward to Holy Cross's Lenten musical sanctuary - Holden Evening Prayer.
This episode we hear Pastor John read chapter three from the book he authored, "Head, Heart, Habits".
In this brief episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss ugly Christmas sweaters, why you can't rush Christmas, and a preview of our first sermon series of 2021 - #Blessed: The Beatitudes. This episode is better than egg nog!
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim devote an entire episode to a question asked by one of our listeners - "How do I overcome sexual temptation?" This episode is for single and married listeners alike. Pastor Tim also tells a rated G dad joke that is suitable for all audiences. Enjoy.
This episode we hear Pastor John read chapter two from the book he authored, "Head, Heart, Habits".
This episode we hear Pastor John read chapter one from the book he authored, "Head, Heart, Habits".
This episode is the introduction to the book "Head, Heart, Habits" written and read by Pastor John.Â
Unable to speak for the 9 months his son was in the womb of Elizabeth, Zechariah finally is given his powers of speech back. What comes out of his mouth? Complaint? No. Doubt? No. Instead, Zechariah sings a song blessing God for his faithfulness to his promises. God has fulfilled his promises to Abraham by sending a "horn of salvation" for David's house - One who would rise with power to liberate his people so that they may freely serve him. Â
Sermon Text:Luke 1:68-79
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim shoot the breeze about Advent, reflect on the not very nice words of the Magnificat, and answer two bonus questions about waiting for answered prayers and discovering the will of God for our lives. Pastor John even succumbs to telling a dad joke. Enjoy.
The Magnificat - or Mary's Song - is a bold expression of faith in the God who reverses the fortunes of this World. When the powerful put their thumbs on the weak, when God's people are down-trodden and abused, God bears his mighty arm. He throws down the exalted and lifts up the humble. God does not forget his promises, and all who trust in them have their faith rewarded.
Sermon Text:Luke 1:47-55
In the last of our three-part sermon series on generosity, we explore the "why" of generosity. God uses our gifts to accomplish great things - even things that are eternal. When we grasp the eternal significance of our giving, the practice of generosity becomes a way of life for us.
In this episode, we invite a man of many skills to join us on the podcast - Spencer Hinrichs, our Parish Administrator. After giving a brief overview of his position, we discuss some of the successes and challenges of doing ministry this past year, as well as look ahead to 2021.
Last week in our "Generous God, Generous Church" series, we saw how the grace of God given to us freely in Jesus Christ is the motivation for our generosity. We give because he first gave to us. This week we see what God's word has to say about how we give. Like with any gift we give, it's not just the gift that matters, but also the way we give such a gift. Join us as we see how the grace of God not only motivates our giving, but also shapes the way we give.
Sermon Text:2 Corinthians 9:7
In this episode, Pastor Tim generously unveils the long awaited Baptist joke, as well as discusses with Pastor John how God has worked to shape their understanding and practice of generosity. This is truly a generous episode, as Pastor Tim also promises a generous helping of Lutheran jokes in the next episode.
Have you ever experienced radical, surprising generosity from someone? How did it make you feel? In our text today, Paul talks about the radical, surprising generosity of the Macedonian churches (Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea) in response to the suffering Christians in Jerusalem. Paul shares with the Corinthians, who were lagging in generosity, how these churches acted with amazing generosity in the midst of their own persecution and poverty. While the generosity of these churches is amazing, it is nothing in comparison to the radical, surprising generosity of Jesus Christ, who "though he was rich, became poor," so that we "by his poverty might become rich" (2 Cor. 8:9). This is the greatest, most radical demonstration of generosity ever, which in turn inspires our generosity as well.
Did you hear the sweet new beats in the podcast intro?! Thanks Spencer! Following an amazing musical intro, only to be followed by an amazing set of dad jokes, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss why Lutheran Christians don't pray to Mary or the saints... but still have lots of respect for them.
For All Saints Day, we focus on the reality of the Church. The Church exists in two realities which can hardly be any different. First there is the church militant, where the church on earth strives through suffering and persecutions. Second, there is the church triumphant which celebrates at rest in the presence of God. We see ourselves in both of these pictures. Now we march. Then we rejoice.
Sermon Text: Revelation 7:2-17; Matthew 5:1-12
In this episode, we continue the theme of Reformation by exploring some of the differences between Roman Catholicism and Lutheranism on the topics of the Pope and Purgatory. It's not all critique - we offer some thoughts on what we appreciate about this branch of the Christian church as well. Fun times!
This reformation we look closely at Psalm 46. This Psalm proclaims to us that God is our fortress.  When all other things fall. When the Earth melts and the sea roar, when everything we thought we could count on crumble, we have a sure and steady shelter. The God who can melt the earth with his voice, or shatter the wars of our world, He is with us. He surrounds us like a fortress where we peacefully prosper by his nourishment. Therefore we don't have to be afraid. Come take refuge in God through the kind invitation of His Son Jesus Christ.
Sermon Text: Psalm 46
Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss what it means to be truly "catholic" in the Lutheran sense rather than Roman sense. Join us as we talk about some of the important differences between these two Christian traditions. If you want to know more about the Pope, purgatory, indulgences, the antichrist, grace, faith, etc., be sure to check this episode out.
In the final sermon of our Saved to Serve Series, we take a look at how we are saved to serve as citizens. As Christians, we hold dual citizenship. We are eternal citizens of God's kingdom. We are also temporary citizens of this nation. We are called to keep these citizenships in tension, never worshiping this nation or our citizenship, but also never neglecting the responsibilities that come with our temporary American citizenship. Join us as we see what God's word has to say about keeping our dual citizenship in tension!Â
Sermon Text:Â 1 Peter 2:4-17
On this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss important questions such as... is there a difference between sweet potatoes and yams? And how can I have a more robust prayer life? What are some strategies we can employ to be more faithful in prayer?
The chief reason that we serve our neighbors in this life is to love them as God has loved us. As we love them, we will want to share the Ultimate Love with them as well - Jesus. We must always be praying for, and seeking the good of our neighbors, so that ultimately God might open a door to share the hope of eternal life that we have in Christ Jesus.
Sermon Text:Â Colossians 4:5
Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss how God is glorified in our work - even when our work is difficult or seemingly insignificant. They share the worst jobs they've had, and discuss the heresy that's worse than lawn gnomes...and how it often hurts our work. Enjoy!
Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.Â
The Good News of Jesus and His eternal Kingdom permeates every relationship in our lives.  This week we focus on our relationships in our places of work and discover how in Christ our work has eternal significance. No longer do we simply do our work to receive a wage, but we do it as a way of making the Kingdom of God evident to those we serve. First and foremost, we are in the service of Jesus.
Sermon Text: Ephesians 6:5â6
Joyce Lieske and Sandy Brehmer join us to talk about how God used their coffee group to meet a need in our community. It's a great story of how the Holy Spirit is at work in the people of God to do the work of God!
Opportunities create problems, but problems also create opportunities. In Acts 6, the church runs into a problem - the growth that God had given the church had apparently led to some balls being dropped in the ministry of caring for its widows. Naturally, a complaint followed. However, the Holy Spirit led the apostles to use this complaint as an opportunity for Christians to use their gifts to serve others. The same is true for us at Holy Cross. When we face problems, the Holy Spirit is at work in us too, leading us from complaint to service. The Holy Spirit is at work in the people of God (you!) to do the work of God.Â
Sermon Text:Â Â Acts 6:1-7
In this episode, Pastor John shares some words of encouragement to Christian college students. He also thinks through the question of why atheism is often so popular on college campuses.
Can you be a Christian outside of the church? The resounding answer from scripture is "No." To be a friend of Jesus means that you follow His commands, specifically that you "love one another." Who should we love? We should love our brothers and sisters in the church. We are one body, saved to serve one another in community as we do this we bear eternal fruit for His kingdom. Â
Sermon Text: Act 2:42-47 & 2:32-37
In this episode, we welcome our music director, Jolene Berke, to join us in a conversation about worship. Beyond talking about Diet Coke, favorite hymns, and Every Moment His merchandise, we talk about why worship is so important, how worship can become idolatry when we're looking for everything to be just right, and some recent shifts in the American church toward liturgical worship. Fun times!
What does it mean to worship? It may not be what you think! Join us as we grow in what it means to be saved to serve in worship.
John 15:5-6
On this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the issue of changing churches. Are there good reasons? Maybe some not so good reasons we're not even aware of? Also, did people church hop in the early church? Or is this something we're more prone to in 21st century America? As a bonus, they spend some time experimenting with some attractional new church names.
We have seen that we are saved to serve in our families roles, next we look at what it means to be saved to serve in our relationships in the Church. We who have been saved have been called by Jesus to be a part of a Holy People. This week we look at the wonderful and unique characteristics of the people of Jesus as described in Acts Chapter 2:42-47 - Devotion, Commitment, Generosity, and Hospitality.
As we enter the second part of our Saved to Serve series, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss whether or not Christians need a church community, as well as some of the reasons we might think we don't.
God's Word speaks extensively about the responsibilities of children to their parents. While our sinful nature gravitates toward rebellion and away from obedience, the Gospel calls us to see our parents as gifts to bless our lives with wisdom and stability. We obey and honor them because they have a God-given responsibility to guide us according to God's Word.
On this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim are joined again by their wives, Kelly and Megan, to discuss the importance of having kids in worship, some of the challenges, as well as some encouragement for parents in the pews. For those without young children, they share some thoughts on how the wider body of Christ can support parents. As a bonus, they share some stories of when taking kids to church was a train wreck, but also still worth it.
Pastor John preaches on Ephesians 6:1-4 - how can we raise our kids to fear, love and trust the Lord? Â
In this first of three episodes on parenting, Pastor John and Pastor Tim address the question of how we can best parent children who are wrestling with doubts or have walked away from the faith.
Pastor John and Pastor Tim welcome some very special guests to talk about marriage... their wives! Kelly and Megan share their thoughts on how we can foster healthy marriages, how husbands and wives can best love one another, and some thoughts on what to do when things inevitably get tough during seasons of marriage.
The Scriptures portray marriage and singleness as places where Christians can serve others in unique ways. In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the often neglected - but very important - vocation of singleness. While modern churches often cater to married couples with families, the New Testament and church history tell a different story. Jesus, Paul, St. Augustine, St. Theresa... the list goes on and on of those who lived the single life for God's glory and the good of others.
NEW SERMON SERIES introduction. The Pastors of Holy Cross talk about the tensions of being saved fully and freely by the work of Jesus and ALSO called to work for the sake of our neighbors. Two major pitfalls: LEGALISM and ANTINOMIANISM are defined and discussed.
Ephesians 2:8â10
[8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast. [10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (ESV)
We end our "Rooted" sermon series with a CoronaVirus joke and Covid-19 counseling session, and a discussion of the hidden nature of the Kingdom of heaven as told by Jesus in the "leftover parables" of Matthew 13.
Matthew 13:31â35, 44-45
The Mustard Seed and the Leaven
[31] He put another parable before them, saying, âThe kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. [32] It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.â
[33] He told them another parable. âThe kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.â
Prophecy and Parables
[34] All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed, he said nothing to them without a parable. [35] This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet:
âI will open my mouth in parables;
I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.â
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
[44] âThe kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value
[45] âAgain, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, [46] who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Pastor John is joined by Pastor Quintin Cundiff of Trinity Lutheran in Amherst as they discuss the uncomfortable words of Jesus in the parables of the weeds and the net regarding "the fiery furnace" and "weeping and gnashing of teeth" (Matthew 13:42, 50). They discuss the biblical doctrine of hell, what it is, why we're uncomfortable with it, why people go there, and how we escape it. Sorry, no dad jokes this time.
Pastor Rob Kuefner from Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington joins Pastor John as they discuss why Jesus spoke in confusing parables. Hint: it's probably not why you think! To top off a great discussion, Pastor Rob lives up to his reputation as a five-star teller of dad jokes. Groans and knee slaps follow.
Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss the very real threat of making Jesus into our own image and using him for our own ends. Dogma, Buddy christ, surprise dad jokes, and the many versions of Jesus you will encounter in 2020.
Text: Matthew 11:20-30
Woe to Unrepentant Cities 20 Then he began to denounce the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. 21 âWoe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades. For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more tolerable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom than for you.â
Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest 25 At that time Jesus declared, âI thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â
Pastor Tim is joined by Pastor James Deloach from Zion in Kearney, NE to discuss some difficult teachings by Jesus on divisions within families. A few new jokes, common pitfalls in faith and family, and the surprising encouragement that Jesus gives to those who lose family relationships for the sake of His Gospel.
Text:
Not Peace, but a Sword 34 râDo not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. sI have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 rFor I have come tto set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 uAnd a person's enemies will be those of his own household. 37 vWhoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And wwhoever does not take his cross and xfollow me is not worthy of me. 39 yWhoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Rewards 40 zâWhoever receives you receives me, and awhoever receives me receives him who sent me. 41 bThe one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person's reward. 42 And cwhoever gives one of dthese little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.â
Pastor Tim tells a Dad Joke that fails to impress Pastor John. Discussed in this podcast: Planting trees in 60mph winds, fainting goats, self-salvation treadmills, cultural Christianity, and the reality of suffering as a Christian.
Based on the sermon from June 21, 2020
Matthew 10:16â33
Persecution Will Come
[16] âBehold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. [17] Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, [18] and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. [19] When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. [20] For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. [21] Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, [22] and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. [23] When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
[24] âA disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. [25] It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
[26] âSo have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. [27] What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. [28] And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. [29] Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. [30] But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. [31] Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. [32] So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, [33] but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. (ESV)
Is it really necessary to have a pastor and a church community? Â Or is that just a man made institution? Â PJR and PTB discuss if Hallmark should start a new line of sympathy cards that say "from the bottom of my kidneys", Â doctrinal unicorns that come into the church, and why church-hopping is a serious spiritual threat to modern people. Â
Bible Reference:Â
Ephesians 4
In this conversation PJR and PTB sit down with Gerard Bolling, a black pastor serving a Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis Missouri, about race relationships inside and outside the church in the wake of the George Floyd murder and the subsequent civil unrest that has followed. We talk candidly about his experiences growing up and ministering to his church, and ask clarifying questions about helpful and not so helpful responses that Christians who are white might have at this time.
Resources mentioned in the podcast:
White Awake
Witnessing Whiteness
One Nation Under God: Healing Racial Divides in America
Layla F. Saad's Podcast - Good Ancestor
Does the abuse of authority, such as police brutality, clergy sexual abuse scandals, and neglectful parents give us permission to reject police, pastors, and parents? Also discussed: Pinky and the Brain, Ren and Stimpy, Pokemon, and other menaces to parental authority. Â
In this episode, Pastor John and Pastor Tim don't arrive at a title for the podcast until the very end. Alongside discussing how our view of God and ourselves influences how we approach Jesus, they also delve into the joys of living in Nebraska, wrestle with the exact words of a Bon Jovi song. Â
Why do children's bibles portray Noah's Ark as a fun fairy tale? Â What is the meaning of Jesus' words in Luke 12 that once a demon has been removed it may return with seven others? Â
What's priority? Health concerns or Economic concerns? Â How can the Church remain united during these high-stress moments? Â How can the Church avoid the left/right polarity that our culture is captive to? Â PRJ and PTB discuss how the Ascension of Jesus and His prayer for unity shape our lives toward unity. Â
Bonus questions: "How do I know if I have forgiven someone?" and "What's the best way to eat corn on the cob?"
Sermon here:
https://youtu.be/SzpmhcumLiI
In Part 2 of our conversation about avoiding division during the Covid-19 crisis, PTB and PJR discuss the absolute captivity of the hearts of many to the political affiliations and how as Christians and how those toxic views can break into the Church. Â The ascension of Jesus gives us a kingdom that transcends earthly (and temporary) kingdoms and therefore gives us a way to avoid getting sucked into polarized battles. Â
PJR + PTB muse about why Jesus would grant demons the permission to enter a herd of pigs. Text is Below:
Mark 5:1â20
Jesus Heals a Man with a Demon
[1] They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. [2] And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. [3] He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, [4] for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. [5] Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. [6] And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. [7] And crying out with a loud voice, he said, âWhat have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.â [8] For he was saying to him, âCome out of the man, you unclean spirit!â [9] And Jesus asked him, âWhat is your name?â He replied, âMy name is Legion, for we are many.â [10] And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. [11] Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, [12] and they begged him, saying, âSend us to the pigs; let us enter them.â [13] So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea.
[14] The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. [15] And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. [16] And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. [17] And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. [18] As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. [19] And he did not permit him but said to him, âGo home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.â [20] And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. (ESV)
Pastor John and Pastor Tim discuss John 14. Dad jokes, Napoleon Dynamite quotes, Misconceptions about the Holy Spirit, the presence of Jesus. Â
In this episode, Pastor Tim and Pastor John discuss how having a false expectation of what Jesus is offering can lead to disillusionment and a dying faith. Â Conversely, understanding and trusting what Jesus is ACTUALLY promising gives us a treasure that cannot be taken from us, something that will bolster us through any crisis.
Listen to the sermon HEREÂ
Text discussed: Â
John 14:1-3
1 Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God;believe also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.
John 17:3
3And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Pastor John and Pastor Tim grapple with the calling to suffer with the Good Shepherd as He leads us to abundant life. Â
Listen to the sermon HERE
1 Peter 2:19-25
19For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.