St Andrew's Messages: Recent Episodes
St. Andrew Lutheran Church
In Matthew 22, Jesus tells a parable about a wedding banquet. Some are found to be unworthy and cast out. What makes us worthy or unworthy of a wedding? What are the standards for taking an earthly spouse compared to an eternal one?
The prison padre grimly tells the death row convict, "Son, I'd suggest you get right with God." What did he mean? Many think he's telling the man to be more moral, obey God's Word better, or be more religious. What do you think he means? Jesus told two parables in Matthew 21 to help you know what it means to "get right with God." And it's not what many think. We're glad you're here to gather with others needing and seeking the right answer from Jesus' words.
Have you ever been disappointed upon further examination or after opening a container to reveal the actual contents? That's what happened to Jesus on the Tuesday of Holy Week, but why such an extreme reaction as cursing a fig tree? Let's join his disciples to learn from him.
Have you ever looked at what's going on in the world or in your life and wondered, "God, what are you doing?" The crowds asked that question when Jesus cleansed the temple. This weekend in worship, we'll see that even when we don't understand God's plans, he is always working for our good and his glory!
Americans love to celebrate. Look no further than this past weekend, as our nation celebrated its 250th birthday with parades, fireworks displays, and more. This weekend in worship, we celebrate as well. Not a championship or a birthday, but rather Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. While we celebrate our mighty King, we also marvel at his humility--knowing that the One who rode into Jerusalem is the One who came to pay for our sins and gain for us a salvation we could never earn on our own. All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
Many of us have had moments of defiance where we persisted after being encouraged or instructed to be quiet, settle down, or keep our thoughts and opinions to ourselves. Two blind men did this in Matthew 20:29-34. See what resistance they faced and admire their persistence, but then marvel at our Savior's persistence in coming to save us.
What do you want? Jesus asked this question in a specific context in Matthew 20, but it's one of many questions we can reflect on as we examine some interesting conversations Jesus had with his disciples.
Throughout his ministry on earth, Jesus would go into "teaching mode"—using simple, everyday stories to teach important lessons about eternity and life. He does just that in Matthew 20. In "The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard," we learn that everything we have and are is built on the grace of God. That includes the forgiveness of our every sin. That includes the reality of our salvation in Christ alone.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
Earlier in Matthew 19, we heard how Jesus upheld little children as an example. God's people continue to grow in faith and rely on their Father in heaven. Now we see Jesus further question human's dependency. Specifically, where can we turn to accomplish the impossible?
Jesus has a succinct message in Matthew 19:13-15, saying the kingdom of heaven belongs to "such as these": children who were being brought to him. What did he mean by that? Was it just their age or something else? Let's learn together from the Master Teacher.
Worship continues this weekend in the gymnasium. Besides the change of worship location, many things remain the same, including parking, service times, worship flow, etc. We will keep you updated on any significant changes.
This week, we are back in the book of Matthew. Whatever stage of life you are in, Jesus has a lot to teach you!
Worship continues this weekend in the gymnasium. Besides that change, many things will remain the same, including parking, service times, worship flow, etc. We will keep you updated of any significant changes.
Read 1 Corinthians 12, a beautiful chapter on the unity of ministry. Wherever we are, and whatever gifts we have been given, we serve the world.
We say goodbye to our beloved sanctuary after 25 years of use, but we continue a mission that transcends buildings: Serve the world. Today we let the account of Nehemiah walk us through what serving the world means as we gather one last time in what will soon be "the old sanctuary."
St. Andrew Lutheran Church is a blessing to all who gather to hear our God's gracious Word, sing his praises, and worship his most holy name. In fact, the members of this congregation are family- united in purpose, ministry, and praise of the One who calls us his own. As family, we need to continue loving each other as together we move into an exciting church future. Acts 2 helps us learn how to do just that.
We can call our house of worship a place of peace because of the God we worship there. In Deuteronomy 6, Ancient Israel was called to a committed love for God and his Word. Three thousand five hundred years later, the saints of St. Andrew are called to the same commitment: love God and be faithful to his Word, hungering for it and discipling with it.
In the latter part of Matthew 18, Jesus teaches about those who sin against you. It turns out even the church contains sinners! Jesus' instructions are not intuitive, so let's gather to hear them and praise the one who gave them.
As various GOAT debates rage on and sharp disputes about what constitutes greatness continue, have we forgotten what greatness is to God? In Matthew 18, Jesus reminds us. Let's align our definitions with his and strive for that.
Easter joy continues as Christ is STILL risen. He is risen, indeed! With that joy comes a freedom we have as God's people to daily, continually praise his holy name. As we conclude our look at Matthew 17, it's teaching time, then, as the Master Teacher helps us learn a lesson about both serving him and others with the Easter gospel we hold so dear.
Today we gather in quietness and darkness out of respect for the solemnity of the events we recall. "Good Friday" is, of course, a retroactive designation. At the time, due to their ignorance, Jesus' followers did not see his death as good. And by itself, it doesn't help sinners long term, but because of what happened on Easter morning, we can look back on the death of the Son of God and say that it was good. It was horrible, sad, and a true abomination of justice, but it was good. On Good Friday, sin and darkness lost. Grace and light won. Stand in awe of it today. Then, worship with us in the glorious light of Easter on Sunday.
On Maundy Thursday, Jesus knew his death was coming, but instead of fighting to prevent it, he calmly celebrated the Passover with his disciples so that he could give them an even greater meal. The Lord's Supper is his promise of love, presence, and forgiveness.
As we gather for Palm Sunday, we recall Jesus' entry into Jerusalem: triumphant, yet understated. The shouts of praise were soon revealed to be half-hearted, as are so many of ours. Study Philippians 2:5-11 to see Jesus' wholehearted approach.
"Unable" is a defeating word. It is often used to soften bad news. It often comes as a blow to the pride of humans who like to be able. This week, we can see ourselves in Jesus' disciples' inability as they fail in Matthew 17. But instead of giving them too much focus, we turn our eyes to the one who is able.
"Wow!" is a familiar response when we see, hear, or experience something amazing. In our lives, "Wow!" is exclaimed at seeing a natural wonder, the birth of a child, or an incident of historical importance. None of these can compare, though, to what three disciples witnessed on top of a mountain when Jesus was transfigured before them. In Matthew 17, we both see the Son of God revealed in all of his glory and hear his encouragement to us about how to react to his majesty.
If something "costs too much," that could be about price or about value. It might be that you don't have enough money, but it might also be that you don't think it's a fair trade. The wisdom that guides these decisions is often human wisdom, but we need guidance from God's Word when it comes to the value of our souls. Thankfully, we have it.
A simple question is a vital one. A matter of opinion is not the same as a matter of truth that some people will get wrong. When Jesus asked the question about himself, a lot of people got it wrong, and they still do, but Matthew 16 records the right answer for us.
Jesus Christ is our Savior and Lord. We celebrate this truth throughout life and look ahead to an eternity with our God all because of who Christ is and what he accomplished in saving us from our sins. We also journey through life aware of the dangers that threaten us and seek to drag us away from our God. Matthew 16 urges us to not only be aware of these dangers, but to also flee to our God and his Word for safety and protection.
When we observe how God has caused and allowed history to unfold, so much of it seems unlikely. Why those people? Why those circumstances? In Matthew 15, we see an unlikely conversation and an unlikely result, but our perspective is not God's. May we always remember that God's mode of operating is different from ours; his way is mercy.
What is your favorite tradition for winter or for summer? For Christmas or Independence Day or your birthday? Our lives are full of traditions, and so is the Bible. Matthew 15 gives us some guidance on the value we place on traditions and when it might be appropriate to break them.
As we continue our reading of Matthew, the Holy Scriptures show us believers who had faith in God and his abilities to save them, yet they doubted because of some adversity. The true answer to doubt is not found in the great miracle that removes adversity, but in the voice of our Savior, so we gather as a family to hear his words and sing his praises.
According to a renowned cricket player, there's nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent. If we leave Jesus out of satisfaction, then our satisfaction is bound to be lacking in some way. In Matthew 14, Jesus satisfies both physical and spiritual needs.
Scripture is much more than a guide for holy living. It reveals Jesus to us: our Savior, our Lord, and our friend. Scripture, though, does teach us many lessons we need to know for life and for death. As we continue our journey through the Gospel of Matthew, the soap opera that is John the Baptist's imprisonment and murder does just that, reminding us that "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21).
In Matthew 13:53-58, Jesus is without honor because he is only a prophet in the minds of so many locals. Far be it from us to trivialize who Jesus is and what he has done. It's the same story it has been our whole lives, but it's still amazing and life-changing.
Where are you "supposed to be" in life? Where are you supposed to be at the beginning of 2026? As we gather for the first time in the new year, let's be sure to search for answers to such questions in Scripture. Ephesians 3:2-12 details the mystery of God's revelation to all people.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder. Video music used by permission.
It is easy this time of year to get so wrapped up in the chaos that we forget about the baby in the manger. We also forget that through him we are his children. Paul reminds us that God sent his Son to redeem us; therefore, we are children of God! That is true and lasting joy!
The day that God himself was veiled in flesh in order to save sinners is worth every bit of celebration. From the beginning, the solution to sin was the flesh and blood of the God of the universe. God bless your celebration of Jesus' birth. May the God who made his dwelling among us remind you of his love.
Lord, remind us how reliable our God is when we doubt. Read 1 Peter 2:4-6 and be reminded of God's great promise to you. Then join brothers and sisters in Christ who are experiencing all sorts of doubts, anxieties, and fears. Together we'll be reminded of what our God has done for us.
Bad stuff happens in life. We all know it. We all experience it. This side of heaven, Jesus never tells us otherwise and actually makes it clear, "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33). Despite this humbling reality, we rejoice this Christmas season and always that we have a God who loves us, who carries us, and who leads us forward in his holy name . . . even when bad things happen. What a blessing. What a truth!
Sometimes these little words are the most important and the most important to be reminded of. We can all put happy fronts on social media and Christmas cards. We can also do a pretty good job in person, but we all have moments of loneliness, and they can easily be exacerbated during this Advent season. When that happens, may the Holy Spirit guide us to pray, "Lord, remind me that you are with us."
Advent can get frenzied and full of anxiety. As we await Jesus' final return and anticipate the celebration of his first arrival in our world, we need him to remind us of his lordship in our lives. Exodus 34 gives us insights into what the name of the Lord communicates.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder. Video music used by permission.
Throughout November, we have been thankful for the significant moments in our lives, for the people God puts in our lives, and for the fruits of faith seen around us. Now we thank our Creator for his grace. The God who provides daily bread and necessary weather patterns is the God who provides the salvation we need because of our sins.
It goes without saying that our God gives us so much to be thankful for. At the top of that list is the essence and power of the gospel message we hold so dear. Witnessing how this gospel equips us and others to serve his holy name is not, though, an opportunity to pat ourselves on the back and say, "well done." Instead, it's another opportunity to marvel at the timeless truth that "God is at hand" in our lives and in the lives of so many others.
Last weekend we pondered significant moments in our lives and God's hand for us in them. Today we consider specific individuals in our lives for whom we are thankful, joining in the apostle Paul's gratitude in Philippians 1:3-11.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder. Video music used by permission from Pond5.
This weekend begins a four-part series leading up to Thanksgiving. We will take time to pause and acknowledge the countless blessings God pours into our lives each day. It's easy to get caught up in routines and overlook his hand at work. Through this series, we'll learn to see God's activity in every moment, person, and circumstance.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder. Video music used by permission from Pond5.
Before us on Reformation weekend are more parables from Matthew 13! We all value things differently, but may we always put the highest value on God's Word, which tells us of our salvation in Christ alone.
Matthew 13 contains a number of parables in which Jesus teaches about the kingdom of God. He calls his own followers wheat and followers of the Evil One weeds. St. Andrew's mission is, and always has been, to gather wheat and continue to grow it.
When you communicate, is the message received always the message sent? Is the message received at all? What can influence these things? In Matthew 13, Jesus uses a story about agriculture to teach on different responses to his message. Which response are you?
The following is attributed to Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi: "There are three things that are important to every man in this locker room: his God, his family, and the Green Bay Packers, in that order." Long before football existed, Jesus spoke about the importance of family in Matthew 12.
Have you ever looked for signs that something was right or true? In Matthew 12, Jesus' opponents demanded a sign, but Jesus had already been doing miracles. What do we consider a good sign? What should we consider a good sign? Let's hear from Jesus on the subject.
A loss of power changes everything and makes life much more difficult. How much more doesn't this hold true when it comes to our relationship with our Savior. For both eternity and for day-to-day life, it is of utmost importance to STAY CONNECTED TO JESUS. He is not only our power source when everything else stops working, he is also our guide, protector, and friend to lead us forward in his holy name.
Which is more important, the letter of the law or the spirit of the law? Is separating them ever legitimate? Jesus had something to say about that and more important things in Matthew 12.
We might go to our friends for support or fun, but when it comes to truth, we rely on what God reveals in his Word. Some of Jesus' words in Matthew 11:20-30 are not easy or pleasant, but they are true. And God is good, so Jesus doesn't leave it there; he tells us where we can find rest—in him alone.
How would you describe your life? While many answers could be offered, "chaos" is one that people use over and over again. That's not a new thing. Matthew 11 brings us into a chaotic time early in Christ's ministry, as John the Baptist and his followers look for clarification on who exactly this Jesus of Nazareth really was. As always, though, Christ brings "clarity amidst chaos." That's a promise for today. That's a promise for eternity.
In the second half of Matthew 10, Jesus states that several actions or inactions make one unworthy of him. Are you in these categories? How do we become worthy of Jesus? He has a lot to say about our fear, our confession, and whom we receive, so we learn from Jesus to be his disciples.
Jesus does not send us out the exact same way he sent out his twelve apostles, but he does send us out, so we can learn a lot from his words in Matthew 9 and 10, including, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."
Jesus' miracles keep coming in Matthew 9. This time the Son of David gives sight and speech. He also gives these gifts to us, enabling us to see who he is and praise him for it.
Bad stuff happens in life. That's true for everyone, though the struggles and hardships and issues may vary. And yet Jesus Christ reigns supreme. God's people gather around God's Word knowing that we have a Savior who rules in both life AND death. That gives us hope for today. It also gives us assurance for eternity. We're glad you're here to worship with us today.
Jesus issues a simple invitation to a tax collector. He issues the same invitation to all of us. In the tax collector's case, some objected that he was a sinner, but if Jesus had come to call the righteous, he would not have called anyone. By God's grace, we follow Jesus too.
Perhaps in ignorance or in youth, you have made a bold claim and declared yourself the best at something. Bold claims are easy to disprove if they are wrong, but in Matthew 9, Jesus made bold claims with his words and actions. Unlike us, Jesus can always back up his claims.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder. Video music used by permission from Pond5.
Matthew 8:28-34 is a disturbing account, but as Jesus continues to show who he is with his actions, we can find comfort in his power and in his priority. God's Word before us touches on demon possession, rejecting Jesus, and even the role of creatures with whom we share the planet.
Jesus' miracles in Matthew's Gospel continue, but what we especially notice today is Jesus' authority. In some ways, it is like the authority we see and would expect, but in some ways it is very different. It is unquestionably an authority to follow.
Are you worthy? At times we all think we are worthy of this or that, but God's Word is clear we are not. Today Jesus teaches about the only one who is worthy and what he has done for you. We're glad you're here.
What do you think of when you hear "untouchable"? John Stockton's record number of career assists in the NBA? The Bill of Rights? The skill level of a favorite musician? As we leave the Sermon on the Mount behind, Matthew 8 introduces us to an untouchable leper, but with God, all things are possible. We're glad you're here to marvel at how Jesus has touched our world and believe in his salvation.
Truth is better than untruth. As we pursue truth in God's Word, we notice that not everything we find is immediately appealing to us, but the truth being unlikeable does not make it untrue. Let's shape our hearts to embrace God's truth because God is good.
"Don't judge me!" has become a societal mantra, but we must not believe that all judging is bad because of phrases like "use good judgment." As we resume our study of Matthew, you will notice Jesus himself said "stop judging." Today we explore what he meant and what good judgment is.
Someone so admires you, he or she is watching you, learning from you and wants to imitate you. Maybe it’s a friend or a coworker, or, if you’re a parent, for better or for worse, it’s your child. In a way, that makes him or her your disciple. You’re watching someone and want to imitate someone, too. That makes you a disciple. In a much bigger and different way, Jesus makes us his disciples. We’re glad you’re with us today. May Jesus’ words fill you with joy and confidence in being his disciple.
What do you worry about? At the risk of being simplistic, doesn't it seem that our worries are either about not getting what we want, getting what we want and then losing it, or getting what we don't want? Worry isn't always sinful, but some of it can be. Ancient Christians used the Latin, "deo volente" (God-willing) to temper their expectations and, thus, their worry about the future. That might help, but only if the phrase comes from the heart and is more than just a pious platitude. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches us about worry. We’re glad you’re with us for this journey through the great Gospel according to Matthew. We’re here to sort it out together. Please accept a blue Matthew study guide booklet as our gift.
If you could ask Jesus for anything at all, what would you ask him? His disciples once asked him, "Lord, teach us to pray." They must have noticed something about how he prayed and wanted to know more. So Jesus taught them what we call "The Lord's Prayer." St. Andrew is currently in a worship series on the Gospel of Matthew. Today we find ourselves in chapter 6 (page 45 in the study booklet) where Jesus gives us a model prayer. May the Spirit bless you with a growing appreciation for both the depth of this prayer and the privilege of prayer.
Commitment is an interesting concept. Although it means thorough dedication, we often speak of different levels of commitment. For example, you might be less committed to
your exercise plan than to watching your favorite team on TV. When we think of commitment, we should first think of God. His commitment is not dependent or half-hearted. Read 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 on how our commitment comes from God's commitment. God's people at St. Andrew have committed to making our church a place of peace for more people, and part of that is a significant cost. Today is your opportunity to submit your pledge, your financial commitment to A Place of Peace.
Normally, it’s not such a compliment to be called a sheep. Sheep aren’t fierce, dominant, or self-sufficient. Sheep need help, protection, and guidance. But now you know why Jesus calls us sheep! More than that, the shepherd is the one who helps, feeds, protects, and guides the sheep. But now you know why Jesus calls himself our Good Shepherd! Welcome to the sheep pen where we gather under the beautiful care and watchful eye of our Good Shepherd, Jesus.
The five-year-old squirrels away buttons, bows, shells and rocks in a box under his bed. It's his treasure. What's your treasure? We all treasure something, even if we can no longer fit it into a box under the bed. One of the most famous things Jesus said was, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." We’re glad you’re with us today. May Jesus open our eyes to our real treasure.
Do you remember intertwining the fingers of your hands and saying, "Here’s the church. Here’s the steeple. Open the doors, and see all the people!” It’s a neat little reminder that in the Bible, the church is never a building, but it’s always people—people Jesus lived and died for and brought to trust and love him. But maybe it’s a little misleading, too, because where are all the people? Sure, they're in church, but they're also "out there" where God has called us to live, work, and play. This weekend, remember and celebrate that Jesus is alive. The tomb is empty. And he's with his people in church and out. He's with you. He's with us, St. Andrew, as we pursue his vision for our church.
What would you say has been a crucial time in your life? Was it a time when you made a decision about a career, a move, or marriage? Was it a time when someone else made a decision to reduce staff, offer you a job, or cause an accident? Those were crucial times.
But think bigger. What would you say has been the most crucial hour in the history of the world? That distinction belongs to what took place 2,000 years ago. Jesus of Nazareth paid his last visit to Jerusalem and there determined the destiny of mankind. Never in all of history were the stakes so high or the results so far-reaching. This Holy Week, we’ll examine the biblical record of Jesus in his most crucial hours. May the Holy Spirit bless you with a greater understanding and a deeper appreciation of who you are and what you have because of Jesus’ crucial hours.
We will be suspending our Matthew series until the end of May to accommodate Holy Week and our A Place of Peace series. So, this weekend it’s . . . Matthew. Ha, but not where we were; we will skip ahead to chapter 21 where shouts of “save us now!” were heard on Palm Sunday. The question we need to ask is this: from what are we asking for salvation?
Turn the other cheek--that's probably one of Jesus' most famous statements. No one criticizes Jesus' command to "turn the other cheek" or to "love your enemy" because to do so would be vile or disgusting. Everyone agrees such actions would be lofty and admirable; but to do it is just impossible. Who can do that? Who wants to do that? Only those radically changed by the love of God in Christ can begin to see how it's possible. What would it look like in your life to "turn the other cheek" or to "love your enemy”? Gather with other radically altered brothers and sisters and seek God's answer in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:38-48.
Have you ever been called a prude for the way you think about sex and marriage? Or maybe for not going along with the messages many movies and much music send about sex and marriage? The living Jesus has something to say to us about that. In the sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) Jesus offers us the most relevant, free, and attractive way to think about everything in life.
Everyone has standards. Some have double standards. Read Jesus' words in Matthew 5:17-26, and you'll know that the Son of God upholds standards and the penalties for not living up to them. He says something alarming in verse 20, but he also gives us a solution. Hint: it’s not getting rid of all our standards.
Everybody knows about salt and light, so they should make for easy spiritual comparisons, right? But when Jesus calls you the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16), the difficulty does not lie in understanding, but in embracing and responding. May our Lord and Savior enable and empower us to make everything salty and bright.
This week we come to Matthew 5:1-12, one of the most famous sections of the Bible, the Beatitudes. They sound so appropriate and so honorable. And they are. But when you read them, you must also be horribly unsettled. What do we do when we haven't lived them out? Find an answer in this the first and longest of Jesus' sermons we have on record. Read Jesus' introduction to his sermon on the mount, then gather with others seeking to live out the Beatitudes and find an answer to what to do when we don't.
What happens when you come alongside the hurting? You are, in Paul's words, "participating in Christ's sufferings." Oh, you're not suffering as the substitute for sinners. You're doing it to show the love of Christ, our substitute, to the person who is hurting. That's better than any physical healing. All of Jesus' miracles teach us something about Jesus, but his healing miracles prove who he is, point to where he will take us, and give us a pattern of how he has saved us. May Jesus’ healing for you, for others, or for people who walked the earth with him give you evidence that strengthens your trust in his promises.
If you like what you see in some social media apps, you're invited to "click, like, and subscribe." Other apps are more direct and simply say, "If you like what you see, follow me." They stole that from Jesus! Early in his ministry, Jesus invited four people to "follow me." They did, but why? What did they see in Jesus that made them "click, like, and subscribe"? What do you see in him that makes you do the same, and what does it look like? May God use his Word to help you find those answers today.
What comes as second nature to you now, was once a beginning. That goes for everything from walking to driving a car to writing a computer program. After about 30 years of living a "normal" life, Jesus began his public ministry. Matthew records this beginning with some unique details. What he began then, continues now. By his Word, Jesus continues to live among us and teach us. We’re thrilled that you’re here to receive gifts only he can give.
Imagine that you lived 2,000 years ago and Jesus invited you to follow him. Your first question might be, "Who are you?" Matthew's first record of Jesus' "active ministry," after his baptism, would have given you the answer. He's the one who's not tricked by Satan. He's the one who puts the will of God first. He's the one who won't let his feelings dictate his actions. He's the one who perfectly obeys the Father. He's still that one. He invites you to follow him. May your time with him, his Word and his people today help you do that.
With what or whom are you well pleased? Was it the same a decade ago? Will it be the same in a decade? In Matthew 3, God the Father said he was well pleased with Jesus, and he never withdrew that status. Can God say the same about you? Why or why not?
Of all the good things you can do, and you can do plenty, what could be better than pointing someone to Jesus? That good thing could have eternal results. That good thing was also the special role God gave to John the Baptist and the special role God gives to us, too. Today, the Spirit will not only teach us about John the Baptist, but he will encourage us and give us wisdom for pointing others to Jesus.
Are you impressed by people born in impressive places? A small restaurant chain in the south is named for a man born while his parents were climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, inspiring his parents to carry him to the top. Or was it all a marketing gimmick? Still, no one would name a restaurant after someone born in Possum Grape, Arkansas or Burnt Corn, Alabama. You might not expect much from towns like those. That's the way people felt about Jesus' childhood home of Nazareth. But Jesus turned the world upside down. Smart sophisticated people (like you) don't have a lock on the truth; Jesus does. He unlocks it for all; but maybe not the way you expect. Welcome to a time to marvel at who Jesus is, what he came to do, and his message and ministry.
No one likes a detour. It always means a longer drive in a direction you didn't want to go. It's one thing to encounter a detour on a trip, it's quite another to encounter a detour in your life, a change of plans you can't avoid and don't like. On that kind of detour, when your life takes a turn for the worse, it's tempting to hear Satan's muttering that God has left you. But a detour doesn't mean you won't arrive at your destination; only that you won't arrive as you planned. After Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, the Lord led Mary, Joseph, and Jesus home via quite a detour. That was his plan to protect, help, and save them. He's leading you home, too, even if it's not the way you planned. He's leading you home by another way. May the Spirit encourage you by the Lord's plan for his Son, for the people around his Son, and for you, too.
Come far to follow him. That’s what the wise men, or magi, did. Join us to celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord, which means Jesus was revealed not only to one people, but to all nations. May our response to Jesus’ presence be like that of the wise men. We’re glad you’re here to worship the Savior of the nations with us.
Right on the heels of the joy of Christmas comes the reality of another year. Undoubtedly some of it will be easy to take; some of it will be hard to take. We all pray for more of the former and less of the latter. But we don’t know, do we? How do you plan to face the unknown or even the unpleasant of 2025? God’s children can do so much better than whistle in the dark, think positive thoughts, or hope for the best. Let the inspired author of Psalm 27 fill you with the One Thing you need for the new year, and every year.
One of the privileges of having a child is the authority to name that child. Parents get to name their child because it’s their wonderful privilege to manage their child, to help him or her find his or her talents, to find his or her capacities, to develop their child, and to bring their child to fullness. It's a wonderful thing to be a parent. But Mary and Joseph were not allowed to name their child. They would care for him, sure; but they wouldn’t manage him. He would manage them. Why? Because their son is not just their son. He’s God with us. He will manage you. It’s a bit frightening, don’t you think? Until you know who he is and why he’s come. Then it’s only gloriously joyful. We’re glad you’ve joined us to worship him this Christmas Eve.
The story of David and Bathsheba is probably one of the best-known stories of all time, but not because it's such a good example for anyone to follow. Still, when you think of it, if God was going to take on a human body through a human mother, what choice did he have but to do so through sinful human beings. That's all there are. The most wonderful thing about the story of David and Bathsheba is that through them, they and we received a Savior from sin. Welcome to St. Andrew. We’re glad you’re here to give thanks for how our Savior came to earth the first time and to encourage one another until he comes again in glory.
One of the women Matthew includes in his record of Jesus' family tree is Ruth. Her life would seem to be a series of misfortunes and lucky breaks. But no way. The Lord God was at work through her, her mother-in-law, and her husband Boaz to accomplish his plan to send his Son to be the Savior of the world. We aren't in Jesus' family tree, but the Lord would want us to know he's just as much at work in our lives. It's not luck. It's not fortune. It's the Lord who has promised to take care of us. He daily invites us to repent of our sin, trust that he's already rescued us, and be part of his way of working things out. We’re glad you’re with us today. Please accept as our gift to you a copy of the Matthew study book from the atrium.
Drama. Political spies. Seamy and seedy locations. Life-threatening danger. Chase scenes. Does all that sound like a John le Carré or Ian Fleming novel? Those elements are also part of the story of Rahab, one of five women Matthew includes in the family tree of Jesus. We’re glad you’re with us to not just gain fascinating information about this woman and the events around her, but to recall the unmistakable work of God to redeem a fallen world through her. Rahab isn't ancillary to God's plan to save; she's at the very heart of it.
Drama. Political spies. Seamy and seedy locations. Life-threatening danger. Chase scenes. Does all that sound like a John le Carré or Ian Fleming novel? Those elements are also part of the story of Rahab, one of five women Matthew includes in the family tree of Jesus. We’re glad you’re with us to not just gain fascinating information about this woman and the events around her, but to recall the unmistakable work of God to redeem a fallen world through her. Rahab isn't ancillary to God's plan to save; she's at the very heart of it.
Isn’t it amazing how a minor disagreement can grow into something bigger than you would have thought possible? And maybe even hurt more people than you would have thought possible? Maybe you've met someone who said about a friend or a spouse, “I don’t know exactly when it started. We both got so irritated with each other, and it just grew and grew. We never thought it would end like this.” But it did. When someone hurts us, our natural response is to get defensive—build a wall. But then there’s war and far-reaching consequences. There's another way. Today, in our worship series “You Need a Friend,” we’ll learn from two early church leaders with feet of clay (like ours): Paul and Barnabas. Here’s our prayer: Lord, help me to be friend when we disagree.
Isn’t it amazing how a minor disagreement can grow into something bigger than you would have thought possible? And maybe even hurt more people than you would have thought possible? Maybe you've met someone who said about a friend or a spouse, “I don’t know exactly when it started. We both got so irritated with each other, and it just grew and grew. We never thought it would end like this.” But it did. When someone hurts us, our natural response is to get defensive—build a wall. But then there’s war and far-reaching consequences. There's another way. Today, in our worship series “You Need a Friend,” we’ll learn from two early church leaders with feet of clay (like ours): Paul and Barnabas. Here’s our prayer: Lord, help me to be friend when we disagree.
"Why can't we all just get along?" You've heard that or even said it. Wouldn't it be nice if we could? Because of the world we live in and the condition of human nature, it won't always happen. You will be attacked by sickness, Satan, and, possibly, even friends. What then? You'll need a friend. Today, may the Lord bless you as you learn from two characters in the Bible, David and Jonathon, about the importance of friendship… especially when you're attacked. We’re glad you’ve joined us to worship the greatest friend imaginable, Jesus, and receive from him the greatest gift possible: grace.
Public health journals are filled with studies demonstrating the importance of friendships for a person's well-being. A recent survey (The American Perspectives Survey) finds that Americans report having fewer close friendships than they once did, talking to their friends less often, and relying less on their friends for personal support. It's one thing for us to imagine why that is; it's something else for us to value friendship for what it is: a gift from God. Who gives the gift of friendship to you? To whom are you giving the gift of friendship? This weekend we begin a three-week series on friendship. Each week we'll ask the Spirit to teach us through biblical models of friendship and determine how we might put what we learn into effect in our lives. This week: You need a friend when you're depressed.
Our celebration of the Reformation this weekend is less about lauding Martin Luther and company and more about maintaining God's Word as is. We thank God for preserving his message of free salvation by grace through faith. The "re-" in "reformation" tells us that we are doing something again or going back to something. With God's Word, we never need anything new; we only need to go back to it and read it again and again.
When circumstances force you to rearrange your budget, you still only have so many dollars. When you take a stand in hopes of some kind of a reset, you are still only one person. Ultimately, you don’t have much control, and you’re usually going to be working with the same resources you had before. How much difference was there between what went into the ark and what came out of it? In some ways a lot, but in other ways very little. We find peace in the God who knew the flood was coming and had a plan for it.
Isn't it nice to have an opportunity to reset? This might come with a new house, new job, or new school. For Noah and his family, it came with a new world. After the flood, everything went through Noah. His family established the beginning of culture and civilization. God gave some rules for this reset. Read through them in the first part of Genesis 9. But even in our age, what better time than the present to commit to reestablishing ourselves as God-fearing people? Let's examine the abundant blessings of our lives and consider how we are responding to God's immeasurable grace.
Have you ever felt as though God had forgotten you? Maybe a relationship wasn't working out as you had planned. Maybe your health took a sudden turn for the worse. Maybe the job you thought you'd keep for a long time is going away. God, where are you? The opening words of Genesis 8 are not only written for you; they're written about you. We’re glad you’re here today and pray the Spirit blesses you through his Word
Do you stand by the microwave and tap your fingers? Is your finger ready on the horn if the car ahead of you doesn't move on green? Most of us aren't very patient. God is. Genesis 6 – 9 not only leads us to a deeper understanding of God's covenant of grace, but along the way we grow to appreciate his patience. We’re glad you’re with us today and pray that the Spirit blesses you with valuable lessons about ourselves and about God.
"Righteous" is a word that usually has either a theological connotation or "self-" in front of it. Genesis 6 describes Noah as righteous and blameless. Read the chapter and see his actions. He didn't say a word, but he acted. But these actions showed his righteousness; they didn't establish it. Like ours, Noah's righteousness was through God. Like Noah, our righteousness results in God-pleasing action.
The book of Genesis isn't just about what happened, it's also about what is happening. This weekend, we begin a fall series on the Covenant of Grace described in Genesis 6 – 9. Our day is more like Noah's than we realize. We have cars and power tools, but hearts haven't changed. God warned the people of Noah's day judgment was coming, and he warns people of our day. Just like God was incredibly patient then, he's patient now. Now is our time to live in his patience, walk with him, and finally enjoy the safety not of an ark, but of his grace by faith in Jesus Christ. We’re so glad you’re with us and invite you to let us know if there’s some way we might serve you.
Finishing a book of the Bible is a big deal. It's been God's source of truth and inspiration for us for all of 2024. We'll miss you, Romans. But not really. We still have and we still need the message of Jesus we find in Romans. It's not going anywhere, except going more deeply into our hearts as we read it again. We’re glad you are with us today for the closing words from Paul through the Holy Spirit. Next week, we begin a six-week study on God’s “covenant of grace.” Those are two church-y sounding words, but by the end of the series we pray they are words you treasure.
After Paul plumbed the depths of the knowledge of God for 15 chapters of Romans, he concluded by naming 29 church members and 6 groups of church members in the final chapter. Why? The Spirit wants us to know God's Word matters, and the Spirit wants us to know God's people matter. It's true, we don't know much about Tryphena and Tryphosa. But we know this: they're in the Bible. That's more than I can say about myself or anyone I know. Wouldn't it be embarrassing to get to heaven, meet Tryphena, and say, "I don't think I've ever heard of you." After today, you need not worry about that. You’ll be able to say, “Oh, I read your name in the Bible!” More than that, the Spirit works through the Word you’ll hear to get you there.
“Let the gospel predominate” is an old Lutheran preacher's maxim. As sinners, all of us (not just preachers) have ways of binding up the gospel of Jesus. We hide it. We water it down. We empty it of its comfort. The end of Romans 15 is one part of Scripture that shows us the apostle's Spirit-led thinking: let the gospel not be bound by time, space, culture, or even human deficiencies. Let’s be intentional about the unbounded gospel.
Teachers, parents, and even returning students are often surprised by changes that have occurred over the summer. Some examples from the past week: "You got new furniture in the atrium!!" And, "You must have grown six inches over the summer!" And, "You got glasses! I love them." Those kinds of changes are nothing compared to the changes you see in a person when God the Holy Spirit shows up. Sometimes it's a slow process, and sometimes everything changes at once. One thing is sure, though: when the Spirit shows up, there is change. Paul encouraged the Roman church by pointing out the changes he noticed. May the Spirit encourage you today as you encounter him in his Word.
The first 13 verses of Romans 15 show a theme of acceptance. Acceptance is a word and a concept with a positive connotation in most contexts, but what does God's Word say? How and why have you been accepted? Whom should you accept? How and why? We’re glad you’re here to explore this with us.
Imagine a rich uncle tells you that for your birthday he'd like to buy you a car, "Just go pick it out." You go to the used car lot and choose a 20-year-old rusty compact with 200,000 miles. You didn't fully understand your uncle's offer. He meant for you to pick out a new Cybertruck or Eurocar. You were thinking too small. In his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul corrects our small thinking about the kingdom of God. In chapter 14, he probes the depths of what the kingdom of God. Don’t settle. This is big. We’re glad you’re here with us today to revel in the riches you have in the kingdom of God.
Do you remember COVID? Unless you’re a newborn or have a failing memory, of course you do. Remember the unknowns, the fear, the divisiveness, and the decisions? Leaders of St. Andrew prayed often as we entered that season that the Lord would guide us to make decisions that would reflect our love for Christ and his people, weak or strong. COVID is in the rearview mirror, but we’ll always have to make decisions that have potential to hurt or help. Where do you draw the line? Don’t expect pat answers; expect the God who cared enough to die for you to guide you. Today, he does so through his Word (Romans 14) and the mystery of the Lord’s Supper.
The first half of Romans 13 tells us to give to everyone what we owe them, even to the government. The second half of the chapter gives us one more specific thing we owe everyone. Then, we are encouraged to conduct our lives as if we live in the light, not the darkness. Clothed with Jesus, we stand out.
The Christian and the government
Just those two words together might make you squirm a bit and probably with good reason. Fear not, no preacher here will tell you how to vote. You'll have to decide that for yourself. But the Spirit guides all of our lives, including our relationship with and responsibility to the government. The basic distinction between government and church is this: the government exists to promote peace and order (roads, trade, defense, etc.). The church exists to promote the Word and Sacraments by which the Spirit brings people to faith and keeps them in faith. There are more distinctions, of course, but God's Word in Romans 13 will help us appreciate the nature and authority of the church and the state God has instituted.
Lord, give me patience . . .
You know how that petition concludes, "And give it to me right now!" You know some people who are given to demonstrating patience sometimes, but no one does so all the time. Something "sets off" everyone. What is it you have no patience for? In Romans 12, the apostle Paul is inspired to give us God's plan for how we respond to his mercy. One of those responses is patience. Rather than just give us a command to be patient, he gives us practical things we can do when someone tries our patience. We’re glad you’ve joined us impatient people to receive mercy and grow in our ability to be patient.
“Why are you so gifted?”
That question might make you sit up a little taller. I suppose that's because we focus on the last two words and congratulate ourselves. There might be something to that. After all, the Bible does say each of us is uniquely gifted by God. But let your eyes go back to the first word of that question. Rather than sitting taller, we might be looking inward. Or toward God's Word. Why? After an exhaustive explanation of God and his working among and for us, the Apostle Paul now turns his attention to us and the gifts God has given us. And he answers the question, "Why?" We’re glad you’re here gathering with fellow gifted saints to serve one another and find God's answers for why he has given you the gifts you enjoy.
Have you gazed upon the infinity of the heavens, the vastness of the sea, or the beauty of a child and muttered, "Oh, my." It's not just that you don't know the words to say, it's that words can't express what you're feeling. Paul does something like that at the end of Romans 11. He's not done with the letter. We'll benefit from 5 more chapters. But he's done with eleven chapters of describing our lostness, God's goodness, and the Spirit's faithfulness. All that's left to say is, "Oh, my." We’re so glad you’re with us today to come into God’s presence, receive his grace and, we pray, respond with, “Oh, my.”
Do you know any World War II veterans? Probably not—few are left. Maybe you are part of a group that you would call a remnant. It could be original homeowners in your neighborhood. It could be smartphone holdouts. At one point in our world, 100% of the population knew the true God. That makes you part of a remnant. At times, that reality confronts you starkly. What is your response? We’re glad you joined us to study the Spirit’s Word to us in Romans 11. If you have questions or would like to learn more about our God or our church, please contact Pastor Clinton Kreuziger at clinton.kreuziger@st-andrew-online.org.
In church, the word “testimony” makes some people uncomfortable. It conjures up images of a tearful speech, filled with regret and sadness but then ending with happy outcomes and more ups than downs. Fear not, this Sunday is not "Testimony Day." You won't be asked to "give your testimony." Yet, according to Romans 10, every day is testimony day. Plan your testimony. One day someone will ask you about your hope, and you want to be ready. Your testimony may have all kinds of ups and downs and may not even end on an “up.” Just make sure it's more about what Jesus has done than what you have done. When your testimony includes that Good News, God can use it in beautiful ways to work faith in others. Your story may be dramatic (or not) but nothing beats a man rising from the dead. Jesus’ resurrection is your best testimony.
Trying to do too much - Have you heard that phrase? Used that phrase? Maybe the context was "overacting" in a drama setting or refusing to take a break from work. Can we try to do too much in our spiritual lives? In Romans 10, Paul describes a zeal not based on knowledge. It doesn't end well. Let's focus our zeal where it ought to be focused. We’re glad you’re here.
Have you seen a little quiz or game that asks you what road sign most accurately describes you? Maybe those in the throes of raising children can relate best to speed limit – 70 (or 140). Perhaps a series of rejections in life has you feeling like your motto is do not enter. But when Romans 9 describes God, only one response (and road sign) seems appropriate. Find out which one this weekend.
How do you respond when someone gives you a gift? Do you ask, "Where did you get that? Where did it come from? Where did you buy it? How did you buy it?" Or do you just enjoy it? God has given you a gift that by faith in Jesus you can enjoy. Don't get tripped up in asking questions to which you may not be capable of knowing the answers. The best response is, "Thank you. You must love me." That’s not a bad description of worship. We receive his gift of grace and say thank you. We’re glad you joined us to do both today.
We love security. We must. We have security systems, security alarms, and security dogs. We talk about national security. We want secure jobs. We diversify our financial resources for security. We put some of our money in securities because we aren’t sure social security is all that secure. We buy deodorant, mouthwash, and odor eaters to feel more secure. Have you seen the Peanuts cartoon that shows Linus holding his security blanket saying, “Only one yard of flannel stands between me and a nervous breakdown.” What about security with God? In his Word, he tells you he wants you to be confident of your relationship with him. You can be sure where you stand with him today, next week, and on your last day. How? We’re glad you joined us for God’s answers in Romans 8. Welcome!
A single acorn has within it the power to create a huge oak tree which will then have the power to produce thousands of oak trees, each producing thousands more acorns. In other words, a single acorn has the power to cover the entire earth with wood. But that acorn's potential will never be released unless it goes into the ground and is buried. The Bible constantly talks about that. Unless you're broken of your self-sufficiency and humbled and go into the soil of suffering and weakness, you'll never be strong. Without death, there is no resurrection. You have the potential for greatness, joy, hope, and character; but first, suffering. That's the message of Romans 8. We’re glad you’re with us acorns in Christ today and invite you to come again. If we can answer any questions or serve you, please let us know via the Connection Card you received.
This weekend, we continue the powerful chapter of Romans 8. In verses 5-17, the apostle Paul emphasizes the dichotomy between the sinful nature and the Spirit. Which controls you? How? Why?
Have you heard the expression, "It's like putting lipstick on a pig”? It means the solution to the problem might look good, but it doesn't address the real issue. It's really no solution at all. Some people have the mistaken notion that being a Christian means doing the right things. The old campfire song, "They'll know we are Christians by our love," may be true, but we don't always act that way. That's the problem. Being told to "shape up" only makes it worse. It's like putting lipstick on a pig. God has a different solution. You can read it in Romans 8. Join me in a plan to read Romans 8 every day for a month . . . can't get enough of the real solution!
Are you a "glass half full" or a "glass half empty" kind of person? Most of us are a little of both. If you find yourself in a pickup basketball game with Caitlin Clark, you might be pessimistic about the outcome. But if you plan a night out at your favorite restaurant, you might be optimistic about how much you'll enjoy it. The apostle Paul, in Romans 7, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to paint a pessimistic picture about our human nature. And he was inspired to paint an optimistic picture. The key is moving from one to the other. Today, we ask the Spirit to use his means of grace, the gospel in Word and sacrament, to show us how to do that.
In Robert Louis Stevenson's famous novel by that name, the good Dr. Jekyll fights against an evil man who arises from within him, Mr. Hyde. The apostle Paul speaks for all of us when he writes, "that's our battle." But our battle is real. Although Dr. Jekyll lost his battle, Christ's resurrection is your guarantee that you'll win yours. Welcome to the gathering of sinners/saints to receive grace.
Romans 6 tells us about our response to Jesus' resurrection. It is freedom! But what do we do with our freedom from sin? Freedom from righteousness, that is, living in sin, only leads to death. But now, having been raised with Christ, we are free to be slaves to righteousness, and the result is eternal life.
On Easter Sunday, the white cloth was folded up, no longer covering Jesus’ dead body. He had risen, so it no longer had any use except to serve as the surrender flag of sin, death, and the devil.
On Good Friday, before Jesus was put on the cross, he was given a scepter and mockingly hailed. The king of the world accepted subhuman treatment and shunned earthly glory in order to reign with his people in heaven.
On Maundy Thursday, Jesus was within hours of death, but he offered the bread of life to his followers. He gave his body for the forgiveness of sins and the Lord’s Supper as tangible evidence of his love.
Jesus on a donkey…crowds shouting praise…palm branches on the road. The crowd on the first Paul Sunday welcomed Jesus as a hero and a king. He deserved every bit of it and oh, so much more.
On December 7, 1972, we saw our planet for the first time from outer space. All of a sudden, we were able to see our planet for what it really is. The second half of Romans 5 is like that. It lets us see our planet and our lives from God's perspective. Today we look for our ruin, our rescue, and our reign, and we find the best news ever in Romans 5:12-21.
The Book of Romans is full of deep theology, but the word "peace" occurs for only the fourth time in chapter 5, in which Paul develops this idea: we are at ease because of what God has done in Christ. With so many unknowns in life, so many crises we cannot guarantee we will avoid, so many possibilities that are out of our hands, we can hang our hats on something. We have been justified. Let's rejoice in the blessing of peace together.
Irish singer-songwriter Bono wrote a song called “Grace.” Grace, she takes the blame. She covers the shame. Removes the stain . . . Grace, it's a name for a girl, It's also a thought that changed the world . . . What once was hurt, what once was friction, what left a mark no longer stings because Grace makes beauty out of ugly things. When interviewed about the song, he said, "There is atonement built in [into the world]: an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Then enters Grace and turns that upside down. I love it.” So do we. Grace brings us together to hear the good news of how God, by grace, turns the world upside down. In Romans 4, Paul teaches us through Abraham. Don't expect God to jump for joy over your obedience; instead, you can jump for joy over what he's done for you. It's grace. And we’re delighted you’re here to receive it with us.
Imagine someone gives you a generous gift for your birthday. A new car. A trip. A sailboat. Wouldn't it be ridiculous and wrong for you to tell a friend, "Look what I earned!" To brag about what you've done for the gift would not only be untrue, it would also be an insult to the giver. The only thing you could boast about would be the generosity of another person on your behalf. In Romans 4, the apostle Paul describes a gift the patriarch Abraham received from God but couldn't boast about. We've received the same gift. We can't boast about what we've done to deserve it, but we certainly do boast about the generosity of the One who gave it. We call that worship, and we’re glad you joined us for it today.
Some jobs require you to "beat last quarter's numbers." It drives some to continuous improvement, but it drives others to find employment elsewhere. Who can live with the constant push to do better, do more, and be better? Well, we all do. It is in our fallen nature to imagine that if we're just a little better, God will be on our side. But part of us knows we’ll never get there. It drives some to search for God elsewhere. There’s a better solution. In Romans 3, we find the Spirit's answer to stress we can't bear and the truth we need. We’re glad you’re with us today to enjoy the banquet table of God’s grace. If you want to explore more of what you experience today, please let us know. We’d love to help you.
What kind of advantages have you had that you did not utilize? In what areas have you not lived up to your potential? Last week, the apostle Paul reminded us of our status before God: sinners because of our innate disposition toward evil but holy through the blood of Christ. This status is ours even as Gentiles. So what advantage did the Jews have, if any? What advantage do we have as God's people today? Let's continue to study Romans together, seeking God's wisdom in utilizing our advantages.
Everyone loves a good shortcut, but they’re usually called that for a reason. If it were truly the best option, it would just be the way. With a shortcut you’re sacrificing something or taking a risk. In Romans 2, the apostle Paul warns about spiritual shortcuts, a temptation
that plagued ancient Israel and first century Christians. Today’s world is no different. We want all the credit, but we want things easy. Let God’s Word teach you what the best and only way is through our study of Romans 2:25-29.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
One of the biggest stumbling blocks that keeps people from listening to Christ and giving him a fair hearing is the hypocrisy of religious people. Yep, that would be us. The Spirit inspired the apostle Paul to speak to us about it in the book of Romans. He doesn’t speak to crush us, but to show us every reason we have to rejoice in the kindness, tolerance, and patience of God.
Think of a gigantic spring you're trying to compress. While you're pushing down with all your might, it's resisting you and wanting to spring back up into its original position. In Romans 1, Paul says that's what we do with the truth of God. By nature, we take that truth of God and press it down to get it out of our minds. Yet even with all of the strength we use to suppress that truth of God we just can't get rid of it. It's everywhere. It's pushing back up. Thank God, it's pushing back up. That’s why we gather -- to encourage each other and receive encouragement that the truth of God might have its way with us. If there’s any way we can serve you, please let us know.
John Chrysostom, archbishop of Constantinople in the 4th century AD had the book of Romans read to him four times a week so that he would remain familiar with it throughout his life. English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge said Romans is "The most profound book in existence." Martin Luther wrote, "The epistle to the Romans is the true masterpiece of the New Testament and the very purest gospel, which is well worth and deserving that a Christian should not only learn it by heart, word for word, but also that he should daily deal with it as the daily bread of men's souls. It can never be too much or too well read or studied, and the more it is handled the more precious it becomes, and the better it tastes." St. Augustine of Hippo, a 4th century church father in North Africa, wrote, "I wish to have seen Christ in the flesh and Paul in the pulpit."
Get fired up for our next worship series on Paul's epistle to the Romans. One way to get the most out of our study of Romans is to set aside ten minutes each day to read however far you get. Then the next day, pick up where you left off and read for another ten minutes. Or read chapter one every day for two weeks, then chapter two for two weeks, etc. Whatever your plan, you'll be among those who have found Romans to be a great source of transformation and blessing.
Isn't joy something that happens to you? Can you really control it? A recent Westside Christian School staff Bible study discussed the differences among joy, happiness, and gladness. Maybe the distinctions are arbitrary, but one that was proposed was that joy is more constant and less dependent on precisely what is happening in a given moment. Be inspired by the wise men of Matthew 2:1-12: their deliberate action and their joy.
You know it’s coming. Get ready for it. Someone will ask you, “Will you stay awake until midnight?” If you ask it, you can anticipate a range of answers from, “I’ll just be getting started,” to “The new year will come in whether I’m awake or not.” If someone asks you, “Will you stay awake until midnight?” you might answer, “I’m not sure what I’ll do, but I know I’ll be celebrating a baby who went to church.” His or her quizzical-looking response might give you the chance to explain, “I’m still celebrating Christmas and the truth that God not only came to earth as a baby, but he went to church as a baby.” It’s not the expected answer, but you’re pointing to the best news everyone needs: a Savior has come for the world. We’re so glad you’ve gathered with us today to continue celebrating the truth that will make our new year great: “Christ is born.”
Why did the angels say “fear not” to so many people at the very first Christmas? What’s there to fear about a little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay? What's there to be afraid of? The angels knew any human being coming into the presence of the glory of the Lord would have to be afraid. So do we. We tend to bury that fear with distraction, polish, and the illusion that we have plenty of time to figure it out. The angel announced a better way: “Fear not, for, behold, I bring you good news of great joy.” Let’s marvel at the good news both on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day
In the novel Charlotte’s Web, a pig named Wilbur enjoys an unusual friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte. When a little farm girl discovers Charlotte can write words in her web, the girl’s mother takes her to the doctor, concerned that something is wrong with her. The doctor agrees he can’t understand how a spider can write words in a web, but he points out, it’s just as impossible to understand how a spider can make a web in the first place. We have to leave room for the mysterious. The angels show up at the birth of Christ to keep us from writing off the wonder of God learning how to walk and talk and just staring at things like little babies do. Don’t say, “Impossible.” Just say, “Mysterious.” And let the angel tell you what he told Joseph: “Do not be afraid.” We’ve gathered to revel in the mystery and worship God for it. We’re so glad you’ve joined us!
Immaculate
adjective: free from fault or flaw; free from errors
Can we ever apply this term to any human effort? Luke 1 describes two different encounters between an angel and a human. We can see something immaculate, or very close to it, in the account about Mary. Let's learn together from one of the greatest announcements of all time.
Welcome to Advent, the first season of the church year, the four weeks before Christmas. Advent means "coming." In Advent we celebrate three things: Christ came in the past as a baby in Bethlehem, Christ is coming now as we, his church, gather around his Word and sacrament, and Christ is coming again to make all things new and judge the world in righteousness. Advent is about our lives. When God's angels appeared to tell the Good News, they began with, "Do not be afraid." This Advent season, let their words sink deeply into your heart. Take time to ponder what their message means to you, and in worship give your attention to and give thanksgiving for the gift of our gracious God, in his Son, the Savior of the world. Fear not.
A tradition in Christian worship that goes back to the 400s AD includes a service to celebrate the dates believers of the previous year died, which they called their "birthdays" into eternity. Their names were read at services or sometimes at cemeteries or catacombs. Since then, it's been called Saints Triumphant or commemoration of the departed saints. Whatever you call it, it's a way to allow departed saints, by the grace of God in their lives, to continue to encourage us. Gather with your brothers and sisters to worship the Lord for the rich variety of the young and old, learned and ignorant, people of action and contemplatives, whose common denominator is simply that the grace of God worked mightily in them.
Who doesn't want to encounter God? Ah, yes, with head bowed while soft light streams through stained glass. Ah, yes, like a picture-perfect Facebook or Instagram post, with a cup of coffee steaming next to an open Bible . . . bonus points for a journal next to it. Sure, those are ways to experience God. But Abraham, Moses, Ruth, David, Job, and a host of other Bible heroes would have gladly traded their experiences of meeting God with such idyllic scenes. They met God in suffering. And so might you. Welcome to the end of our series on the Poetical Books of the Bible. Today we'll ask the Spirit to bless us through the conclusion of the book of Job. It’s not just the end of Job’s suffering. May we see in it, the end of our suffering, and maybe some purpose to it.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
They say God gave you two ears and one mouth so would listen twice as much as you speak. This proverb is not in the Bible, but it makes sense, as long as we’re listening to the right sources. Today, we’ll hear some of God’s words of wisdom from Job 38. Wisdom from above can be unexpected and counterintuitive.
God invites us to call him Father. He calls us his children. That makes Jesus our brother and makes us the family of God. In addition, the Bible tells us he places us in families. That's a lot of family. Yet no word likely conjures up more good or bad feelings than the word family. Today, we head back into the book of Proverbs and ask the Spirit to give us God's wisdom for families. Whatever our family situations, this is wisdom for all of us.
"Adversity assails us with hurricane force," has been attributed to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. That was true for him, and it was true for an earlier Dr. Martin Luther who wrote, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." A fortress will outlast a hurricane. So where do you turn when adversity assails you? For millennia, God's people have turned to the inspired words of Psalm 121. We’re glad you’re with us today to find in it our mighty fortress.
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What's the difference between a medication and a placebo? A placebo has no real power; it's only effective because it's believed in. Medicine, on the other hand, has real power and can help you whether you believe in it or not. "Ah," some might say. "I see where you're going: some religions are real, and some are placebo." Not at all. Some religions are real medicine and will heal you, some are poisonous and will kill you, but no religion works because it's believed in. Believe in the revelation God has given us in his Word because it's true, but don't imagine it's only true because you believe in it. One purpose of the book of Ecclesiastes is to show us that it's foolish to imagine this life is all there is—that your belief in God only works because you think it does. Then life is meaningless. But another purpose of the book of Ecclesiastes is to point us to a heavenly solution: wisdom from above. May the Spirit who inspired it bless you through it today.
Solomon's Song of Songs 8:5-7 continues to describe the love of a man and a woman, but we can learn from some of its details about the love of God for his bride, the church. Marvel at the intense love of God that surpasses even the amazing love of a committed married couple.
What can we make of all the inequities of life? Does hard work pay off? How can we find satisfaction in life? Why does King Solomon seem to promote the Epicurean philosophy of "eat, drink, and be merry"? Let’s pursue godly wisdom and a meaningful life today and throughout our lives.
Knowledge is one thing; wisdom is another. Wisdom is the ability to take what you know and translate it into how you live. You can find Part 1 of Sex in the Bible on our website under worship/past sermons/September 10. The text was from the Song of Songs. Today the Spirit speaks to us through words he inspired in the Book of Proverbs. The main message of the Bible, and every book in it, is the salvation God freely gives through Jesus. But throughout the Bible he helps us apply that knowledge to every area of our lives, including our sexuality.
In Psalm 139, David prayed: search me, know me, test me, and lead me. Those simple requests are at first beautiful, but can you see how they may also be frightening. That’s really what you want God to do for you? Those prayers only become beautiful again when you learn to pray them for the same reasons David did: you belong to the Lord. Your life is his. Your times are his. You are his. And you can trust his plan in making you just the way he did. Of all the places to get to answers about who God is and what he’s like, you’ve come to the best place: his Word. We’re so glad you’re with us.
It's one thing to know the "why" of suffering, but even if you manage to get that answer (which many don't), it still leaves you with the "how" question: how do I get through this? The answer is, of course, comfort. Job helps us get the “why” but even more he helps us get the “how”—how do I find comfort? Is your question right now, how do I give comfort? Either way, we’re glad you’re with us, fellow comfort-seekers, to gain from our encounter with the living Word of God. If there’s any way we can serve you, we’d be honored to. Feel free to use your Connection Card to let us know how.
Song of Songs doesn't show up on many lists of preaching texts, but it's in the Bible so it shows up at St. Andrew. We're in a worship series on the Poetical Books of the Bible and that includes Song of Songs. As you read the love poem that is Song of Songs, you learn that God is not anti-sex at all. God created sex, not Satan. Sex isn't dirty, filthy, and disgusting. God intended his gift of sex to be a thrilling, physical, biological happening that's also spiritual. Yes, it's personal and private but we are not ashamed to discuss that which God was not ashamed to create. It's a discussion that's healthy for men and women, married and single, young and old. Oh, you're worried that you haven't gotten it right and might feel out of place for this one? You'll be in good company; no one here today has gotten it right all the time. That claim belongs only to Jesus. And no one here today has out-sinned the grace of God. Our thanks for that goes only to Jesus.
Solitary confinement is used as a punishment for a reason. Research has linked it to extreme negative effects. This doesn’t mean that ever being alone is bad, but God created us with a yearning and need for community. God’s Word in Ecclesiastes 4 gives us insight on the benefits of relationships. Today let’s look into four of those benefits.
Is God really in charge of all things, or do my choices matter? Or is it 50/50 my choices and God's choices? 60/40? 80/20? The book of Proverbs addresses the subject of wisdom: the ability to make wise choices. You’ve joined us as we enter a 15 weeks series on books of the Old Testament called “Poetical” or sometimes, “Wisdom” books. May the Spirit use these words he inspired to guide you in your decisions.
“Real isn't how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.” “Does it hurt?” asked the Rabbit. “Sometimes,” said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. “When you are Real you don't mind being hurt.” “Does it happen all at once, like being wound up,” he asked, “or bit by bit?” “It doesn't happen all at once,” said the Skin Horse. “It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.” ―Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit
That's more than just a poignant and sweet children's story. It's what God is doing in you when you suffer. We’re in a study of the poetical books of the Old Testament. This week: Job. May the Spirit use Job's words to give you resources for when you are suffering.
Many parts of the Bible, including some entire books, were written in poetic style. Over the next few months, we have the privilege of studying God’s wisdom through selected portions of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. Today we focus on the wisdom of Psalm 119: constant pursuit of life in the light of God’s Word because of a deep love for it.
What would you write at the end of a letter to loved ones? This weekend we come to the end of Paul's second letter to the little church in Thessaloniki. His final subject might surprise you, but it’s a subject he’s written about before. Whatever the topic of Paul’s letters, he ends with words that are so very good to hear: "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all." Can’t top that.
Scripture presents two seemingly irreconcilable truths: (1) we can be confident of our salvation
in Christ and (2) we can reject our faith and fall away. Therefore, Paul’s encouragement in
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 is to stand firm and hold onto the truth of Scripture. Let’s examine these truths we hold onto. Why should we stand firm?
The thought of secret power conjures up images of espionage, intrigue, and shadowy conniving. But when Paul warns the Thessalonians about a secret power, he's not referring to James Bond. He lays out for us a mystery that we can't completely unravel, but what we can know of it is immensely helpful. Let's be humble enough to admit we can't know everything but eager enough to learn what we can. We’re glad you’re with us to anticipate “the splendor” of Jesus' return. If you’re new, we’d love to welcome you, make you feel at home, or answer whatever questions we can. A good place to start might be by introducing yourself to one of our pastors or to email Pastor Clinton at clinton.kreuziger@st-andrew-online.org.
To marvel at something is so much more than just to admire it. It's more than just being impressed. To marvel at something is to have that thing radically exceed the expectations of your mind and your heart —whether it's the way someone treats you or a view you never expected. Or Judgment Day? Really? Yes, let the Holy Spirit, through words he gave the apostle Paul, tell you things that can move you to marvel at Judgment Day. That’s what we do. We call it worship and we’re glad you joined us for it today.
Ask the people around church to tell you their favorite Bible doctrine and what do you think you'll hear? Heaven? Forgiveness? Prayer? Baptism? Here's one I don't think you'd hear: Judgment Day and fire from heaven. Nope, that's not going to make it into anyone's top ten list of favorite Bible doctrines. But still, Judgement Day isn't just a doctrine to be tolerated. It's a Bible doctrine full of good news and grace. We are concluding a study of Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians. Today we’re asking the Spirit to give us good news . . . even about Judgement Day. Who knows? It might become your favorite Bible doctrine. Or not.
What do you think about when you're not doing anything else? Where does your mind go? God has given us so much in this world; there's no shortage of options. We don't have to go so far as to say that where our minds go is what we worship, but we can safely say when we come into the presence of God in his Word and sacrament, he pulls us away from our love and affection for those things and puts them on the living God. That's worship. We are here to experience what we are meant to be. And we’re glad you’re with us. If we can serve you in any way, please let us know and may God bless your worship today.
A long time ago, the Holy Spirit inspired the apostle Paul to write a letter to a church in a Greek city called Thessaloniki. Even though it was specific to their situation, much of it applies to us, including Paul's closing exhortations. A good summary of these is kindness to everyone. The visible marks of Christianity are not complicated. We’re glad you’re joining us as we review God's words from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15 and see how they still apply 2,000 years later, over 5,000 miles away.
Life has a way of coming at us fast and furious. This crazy life also creates more questions than it does provide answers. Thankfully, we have God's Word to retreat to as not only our "answer guide,” but also to provide encouragement and comfort about why things are the way they are and how our gracious God works everything out for our good and his glory. This week in worship, we travel back to the Garden of Eden and watch sin rear its ugly head. Sin forcefully enters the world . . . but so does God's mercy and love. We worship together today proclaiming, "That explains everything,” marveling as a Savior is promised for the very first time.
Don’t blame me. Who hasn’t said that? Taking responsibility for a minor faux pas or a major accident is unpleasant at best and devastating at worst. For that and a host of other reasons, the Bible doctrine of Judgment Day is not a popular topic. But it is a prevalent one. When Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, he was even bold enough to say God’s judgment helps Christians build each other up and encourage each other. We’re glad you’re here to sing, pray, fellowship, greet, welcome, commune, and give thanks . . . for Judgment Day.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a French philosopher in the Age of Enlightenment, wrote, "He who pretends to look on death without fear, lies." What words best describe how you look upon death? Paul wrote to a congregation of people in the ancient Greek city of Thessaloniki who had lost loved ones. The Holy Spirit inspired him to give them words of hope and comfort. Now, by God's grace, he gives those same words to us. We are people who have grieved, are grieving, and will grieve but may God the Spirit fill us with the kind of hope only he can give.
God’s Word tells us how to live in order to please him. We are pleased to share this opportunity with you to learn from 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 how our daily vocations, including our work, show brotherly love to each other and to people we do not know.
The Joy of Sex. Didn't expect that for a title, did you? It is the title of a wildly popular book on sexuality from the 1970s, recently republished. There's no shortage of advice and guidance for sex, and no shortage of people who want to influence our thinking about it. God the Holy Spirit inspired the apostle Paul to give us his perfect plan for sex. As you'd expect, it's better than any other source. We’re glad you’re hear to receive from the Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8, and the most accurate information about God's gift of sex. Fear not, this service is suitable for children!
Some first-generation GPS units proudly announced when you pulled up to your destination, "You've arrived." Who doesn't like to hear, "You've arrived. You've made it. You've done it." Seldom, though, does it apply to bigger things in life. You're the best golfer you can be—"You've arrived?" Hardly. You've mastered a subject so well there's nothing left for you to learn? Keep dreaming. You're the perfect spouse—"You've arrived." That's funny. What about this one: "Live in order to please God." The Spirit inspired Paul to encourage Christians to do this "more and more." In a way, your Christian life is complete—you've arrived. Christ has accomplished his mission for you. It is finished. But in another way, such a gift moves us to want to thank him more and more. Enjoy the gift of God's grace—because you've arrived. Strive to please him more and more—because you haven't yet arrived. That’s life in the family of God.
Teflon makes for a better omelet, but a worse heart. If you're going to invest in other people, you have to take the Teflon off your heart. When you see someone in trouble but keep your distance, he or she knows it and so do you. But if your joy is bound up in that person, he or she knows that, too, and you know it. You've made an investment. Paul didn't invest personally in the Thessalonians (a town in ancient Greece, but also the title of the book of the Bible we’re currently studying) as some kind of power play or to manipulate them, but because of their identity: brothers and sisters in Christ. We’re glad you’re here and invite you to join us in investing in each other . . . maybe it will help take the Teflon off our hearts.
Paul was a great missionary because of his passion for the people he served. Most people are not shepherds in the strict sense of being a pastor of a church (the word pastor means shepherd), but with a general love of people, we can all treat people like family, under the care of one Good Shepherd who does delegate his work to many people for specific times and settings. We’re glad you’re here to learn from Paul’s good shepherding and from his teacher, the Good Shepherd.
A famous actress once said, "It's useless to hold a person to anything he says while he's in love, drunk, or running for office." A less punchy way to say the same thing is "integrity matters." Paul discovered that the message, even the message of the gospel, is inextricably tied up in the messenger. Integrity matters. God's grace covers our imperfections, but the same grace moves us to integrity. We're not perfect, but we are redeemed. Today, we gather to learn from Paul's teaching on the subject in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16, to receive grace and to pursue integrity. We’re so glad you’re with us. If we can serve you in any way, please let us know.
Two distinct elements can combine to create something wonderful. Hershey did that with peanut butter and chocolate; the result is the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. The Lord did that with a man and a woman; the result is marriage. This weekend we combine two distinct elements: the miracle of Jesus' resurrection and the beginning of a new study of Paul's letter to the Thessalonians. The result, should the Spirit grant it, is growth in Christian faith and life. Is that what you seek? We'd love to help you. This is the first of our four-month study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. We invite you to study with us, see the difference Easter made for the Christians in Thessalonica, and savor and give thanks for the difference it makes in us.
“It was bound to happen.” When have you said that? The phrase applies equally to an unwelcome event (“The way he drove, an accident was bound to happen”) and to a happier experience (“As gifted as she is, the promotion was bound to happen”).
The phrase applies to Jesus, too. Jesus was “cross-bound”—given his love for sinners, his obedience to his Father, and the weight of guilt, he was bound to suffer and die. But Jesus took up his life again; it was bound to happen because he rules over death, and his sacrifice satisfied the justice of God. After Jesus paid the penalty of sin, he was “cross-freed.” His resurrection, too, was bound to happen. May these worship services help you acknowledge Jesus: both cross-bound and cross-freed.
“It was bound to happen.” When have you said that? The phrase applies equally to an unwelcome event (“The way he drove, an accident was bound to happen”) and to a happier experience (“As gifted as she is, the promotion was bound to happen”).
The phrase applies to Jesus, too. Jesus was “cross-bound”—given his love for sinners, his obedience to his Father, and the weight of guilt, he was bound to suffer and die. But Jesus took up his life again; it was bound to happen because he rules over death, and his sacrifice satisfied the justice of God. After Jesus paid the penalty of sin, he was “cross-freed.” His resurrection, too, was bound to happen. May these worship services help you acknowledge Jesus: both cross-bound and cross-freed.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, and Worshipflow.com. Video music used by permission from Bensound.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
Jesus’ state of humiliation was the time during which he did not make full use of his heavenly power and glory. To many, he looked weak, and he died a criminal’s death. Palm Sunday was a day of humility; Jesus’ triumphal entry was overshadowed by the details of glory that it lacked and by what was coming. Daniel 12 gives answers to those who ask whether their humiliation is part of God’s plan and how long it will endure. Despite Jesus’ humility, he rose, and everyone will eventually acknowledge him as Lord. Vindication was already God’s plan 570 years before Jesus died. Let’s study Daniel 12 and find out what it means for you.
Have you ever confided in someone about a worry and he or she responded, "That'll never happen. Don't worry." Oh really? Unless that person was God, how can he or she know that a car won't roll off that car-carrier ahead of you and crash into you? Or for you spring-breakers who escaped to a warm beach, that a shark won't venture into shallow waters and gobble you up? Or that your portfolio could shrink to half its current value? Or . . . or . . . or . . . "Don't worry. that will never happen," might be the best response some can offer, but it's shallow. Or how about this: "Sure, that could happen. In fact, most of the things we worry about could happen." Where's the comfort in that? God's message in Daniel 10 is, "Sure it could happen, but redirect your fear to something and someone even more terrifying—and to something and someone even more trustworthy. Welcome to God’s house and God’s people where together we untangle God's beautiful and helpful truth.
Ham prayer – As in the pork product? Yes, that ham. Well, not really, but 2500 years ago, a man addressed the God of heaven with seemingly incompatible components. Find out what kind of mnemonic the holiday meat can be to help us pray the way Daniel did.
Have you ever dreamed something terrifying but awakened with great relief that it wasn't real? What was scary wasn't real, so really . . . not scary. But what if the terrifying thing is real? Our God doesn't deal in make-believe. He knows the most frightening things that happen, could happen, or will happen to us. And he has some good news that makes it not scary. Confused? So was Daniel when he received the dream we'll study in Daniel 7. But when it was over, oh my, was he relieved. We’re glad you’re here to enjoy that same kind of relief.
The name Daniel means in Hebrew, "God is my judge." The name fits. Read Daniel 6 and learn how Daniel cared little if his friends judged him for his talent, if King Darius judged him for his faithfulness to God, or if the lions judged him as tasty. God was his judge. He knew it and he lived like it. You have names like his. Jesus, in his sermon on the mount, declared you are salt, you are light, and you are blessed when people falsely speak evil about you. Why? You're his. But you're not alone. We’re glad you’ve gathered with us today to revel in our identity, praise God for it, and learn together how to live like it.
Power can work in opposite ways. Computers are described as powerful when they can handle intensive processes to create useful content. But a storm that destroys everything in its path might earn the same description: powerful. Which direction does God’s power go? How does it affect you and others around you?
With all the things going on in our world and in our lives, can pride really be that much of a problem? In a way, no. There’s a biblical kind of pride. But there’s also a ruinous kind of pride. Today, the Spirit will show us the difference between them through the inspired record of
Daniel 4. Today we also celebrate the Festival of Transfiguration. On a hill outside Jerusalem, Jesus demonstrated that of all the people on earth, he was the one who could be proud! But instead, he went on to humble himself to death on a cross. May the Spirit bless you as you encounter the Son of God in our worship today.
The three men in the fiery furnace is one of the most familiar Old Testament stories. You can read it in Daniel 3. But don't misread it. The Lord didn't promise them and he hasn't promised you that he will deliver you from every fire in this life. He may or he may not give you promotion and prosperity. But he has promised you the gift of eternal life and glory far beyond anything this world can offer. The three men in the story ended up in the furnace because they believed that and were willing to risk their lives for it. You can, too, even if you never have to risk your life for it.
You are in many groups. Some of them are just facts. You can’t change your blood type or your eye color. You are in other groups by choice. You decided your hobbies. You joined particular social circles. Life has a lot of room for overlap, but when these groups clash, which is the most important? Daniel 2:24-49, the description and interpretation of Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, identifies the most important group to be part of.
Can a Lutheran have a spiritual experience? Can we even talk like that? The record of God's dealings with mankind, the Bible, includes dreams from the first book to the last. So it’s not surprising we'll encounter dreams throughout our study of the Book of Daniel. We come to the first in chapter two. Whether you’re here today out of curiosity or seeking a spiritual experience, we’re glad you’re with us. If we can serve you in any way, please contact us.
Read the Bible and you'll encounter dozens of banquets—not the hot dish potluck kind, but the real deal. In some places, the Bible even describes heaven as a banquet. Isaiah wrote, "The Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats and the finest of wines" (Isaiah 25:6). Yet when Daniel was offered a banquet we would gladly settle into, he refused. Why? Read Daniel 1 this week, then gather with your brothers and sisters to determine which banquets to refuse and which ones to enjoy. Salivate over the banquet Jesus prepares for you.
The book of Daniel in the Old Testament was written over 2,500 years ago about events that took place on the opposite side of the world. Yet, the book is about us. It teaches us how God is in control over all things, how believers can deal with a pagan culture and authorities in a pagan culture and how he gives gifts to his people so they can serve him. The book is about us . . . and the grace of God. We'll spend the next few months, until Easter, asking the Spirit to bless us through our study of the book of Daniel. This weekend we find Daniel taken into exile away from God's people and enduring pressure to conform. How will he hold up? How will you? We’re glad you’re with us to receive grace…and hold up under pressure.
You won't find Epiphany greeting cards, and you won't receive Epiphany gifts. We won't blow noisemakers and raise a glass to toast the celebration. Epiphany comes and goes rather silently. But we who find value in a "church year," annual reminders of key events of Christ's life for us, treasure the Festival of Epiphany. The word means "made known." God has made his grace known in Christ not just to the descendants of Abraham and not just to us, but to the whole world. More than that, he's entrusted to us the mission to tell others what Jesus has accomplished for all. It's why we're church. How fitting that this Epiphany weekend, we will install Pastor Clinton Kreuziger as Pastor for Service and Outreach of St. Andrew.
Another year of God’s grace to a sinful world has passed; 365 days of forbearance, an untold number of transgressions forgiven . . . every day. Who can count the stars in the sky, the sand on the seashore, or reckon the crimes of a lifetime? Wisdom can. Psalm 90 is a wisdom psalm written by Moses that assesses man’s stock in life. Moses reveals the tension that God’s people experience as they live their lives. God is eternal, yet we are dust, and to dust we will return. Sin brought death and separated man from life in eternity with a righteous God. That which is holy, blameless, and true endures forever, but we are none of those things. How can we measure the expanse that divides us . . . let alone bridge the gap? We cannot, but God can. God has. God will in Christ, the wisdom of God. The faith he has placed in our hearts looks back to his reconciliation in Christ and sets its hope on the future where all the labors of faith will flower and endure. We’re glad you are joining us, as we unite with God’s people in every generation of time, to receive wisdom and life eternal from our Creator and Redeemer.
New parents have throughout history heralded the birth of a child in different ways: a town When a friend describes someone as, “a straight-shooter,” or says, “you know where you stand with her.” You know your friend means you can trust that person. Christmas is God’s message to you, “You can trust me.” He took a long time to keep his promise to send the Savior, but he did. He is taking a long time to keep his promise to return to earth in glory, but he will. Don’t confuse your agenda of what you want him to do for you with faith in his agenda of what he wants to do for you. You’d be selling yourself way too short. Let Christmas show you what he has in store for you, in his time. We’re so glad you’re with us today to worship God for his faithfulness.
New parents have throughout history heralded the birth of a child in different ways: a town crier, community bulletin board, local paper, U.S. mail, and more recently Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat. But Jesus, a unique baby, received a unique kind of birth announcement. May the Spirit who filled the shepherds with faith, fill you with the same faith through his grace as you encounter it today.
Pregnant women know what it's like to have a baby in the womb give a good kick. Two thousand years ago, a woman named Elizabeth was miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist. Her relative Mary was in the same condition, only with an even more miraculous baby: the Son of God. The Bible says that when the two pregnant women met, John gave Elizabeth a good kick in the diaphragm. The Holy Spirit was at work in that baby already. From that baby's kick, Mary grew in her faith in what God was up to. He was convincing Mary that she could trust his promises. Today, the Spirit uses the gospel in word and sacrament to do the same for us: convince us that we can trust his promises. Welcome to the Spirit’s presence in God's house. May his Good News in word and sacrament strengthen your trust in his promises.
Have you noticed more lights on these days? We light candles and put up lights as reminders: Jesus is the light of the world. The world is filled with darkness: ignorance of God, sinful habits, and the resulting ease with which we end up consumed with ourselves. Jesus comes and turns on a light so we can see our sin, confess it, receive forgiveness from him, and turn away from it. That's peace. This weekend, we learn from an upright man named Zechariah. He showed faithfulness, unfaithfulness and, because of God's grace, faithfulness. Come, all you unfaithful, [all of us] and find light and peace.
An interviewer asked a British philosopher, "What’s wrong with the world?" He replied, “I am.” He got it right. It’s been that way since the fall. But Jesus came to the fallen and made us right. And when he returns, he’ll make the broken world whole again. As you worship with other broken believers, cling to God's promise this Advent season—Christ is born for you.
What does it take to finish well? The answer to that question depends on who you are and what you're finishing: an athlete finishing a competition, a student finishing a degree, or a musician finishing a piece. Think bigger. What about your life? It's a long life. What are you going to do to finish well? The book of Acts ends with little attention to how the apostle Paul finished his life. Paul's life isn't the point of Acts. Jesus' life is. Yet, we know from letters of Paul how he finished. Today we’ll gather around God’s Word to us in 2 Timothy 4 and learn how to finish well.
If the book you're reading has drawn you in and made you feel like a part of the story, "The End" makes your heart sink. What? No! You knew it was coming. You felt the pages in your right hand getting thinner. And you vow to read the sequel or watch the next season as soon as it's available. You've held the Acts of the Apostles study book in your hands for two years. You've felt it getting heavier on the left side and lighter on the right side. Now here we are: "The End." Gather with your fellow Acts sojourners today to thank God for the gifts he's given us in this book and to find ourselves in its ending.
Whoever said, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me," was either lying or just not very bright. God doesn't lie, he's very bright, and he has said, "The tongue has the power of life and death" (Proverbs 18:21). When the apostle Paul finally made it to Italy, brothers and sisters in Christ met him and encouraged him. What do you suppose they said? We don't know, but more important is what WE say. What words do you speak that encourage others? Today, the Spirit teaches us how to encourage others that we might his "power of life." Welcome to church!
The Reformation is often summarized by the five Solas—Sola Scriptura, Sola Gratia, Sola Fide, Sola Christus, Soli Deo Gloria. Each one is a bold confession, each one is a battlefield, and each one finds expression in John 8. Nevertheless, as Jesus teaches these eternal truths restored in the Reformation, the five are reduced to one: In Christ alone, the Word of God comes creating faith and granting grace. This is God glorifying Christ, and in him God alone is glorified. All who believe this truth are freed from sin, death, and the devil. They will walk in the light of life forever. Thank you for joining us for Reformation worship to receive and celebrate the freedom we have in the Son of God.
Throughout our study of Acts, we have witnessed the Lord's power in dangerous circumstances. Life is a voyage. We encounter winds, angry seas, and crises we can't anticipate. The Lord answers our petition to "deliver us from evil"—at times by preventing the storm but at other times by bringing us through the storm. This faith lets us be as calm as Paul was in the storm, during the shipwreck, and on the beach. God doesn't panic. Why should we? He knows the outcome and the destination. So do we. For Paul it was Rome. For us, it's the glory Jesus has prepared for us. You're not alone in this faith. Welcome to church: a gathering to receive God's grace in Word and sacrament, praise him for it, and encourage one another with it.
In the storm, Paul referred to "the God whose I am." In other words, "I'm his." You don't say "My Jennifer" or "My Owen," unless he or she is your son, daughter, or spouse. You don't use that term unless you're close, unless your relationship is intimate. Paul says what you can say in the storm, "I know I'm his. I belong to him. He's mine and I'm his. He loves me. He's committed to me." How can you say that in a storm? Today we seek to understand why it’s true and to grow in our conviction of it. We call this—church.
This week we press pause on “The Storm," our 3-week series from Acts 27, and pick up the gospel of Luke. In Luke 17:11-19 Jesus cleanses ten men from horrific disease but the miraculous healing fades quickly to the background as Jesus draws the attention of all to one thing: a Samaritan man worshiping at his feet. The image is dense and allusive, controversial and challenging, full of mercy and judgement, revelation and prophecy. Jesus tips the world and all its spirituality upside down. He never leaves a place the way he found it. That is why we gather in his presence, hear his Word, and partake in his sacraments. We come to worship him because he has changed us forever; because we never leave the same as we came. Praise be to Christ!
When the missionary Apostle Paul and his companions were caught at sea in a hurricane, "All hope that we would be saved was disappearing." (Acts 27:20) Hope is a combination of trust that the Lord will keep his promises and the Lord perfectly times his invasion into our affairs. It's hard to live without hope. . . whether you’re in a hurricane in the Mediterranean 2,000 years ago, or the one that hit Florida this week, or the one that’s hitting your life with enough force to knock the wind out of you right now. Why does God do that? While there are no pat answers, God does reveal some answers to us. We’re glad you’re here to search for them and worship God for them.
When the missionary Apostle Paul and his companions were caught at sea in a hurricane, "All hope that we would be saved was disappearing." (Acts 27:20) Hope is a combination of trust that the Lord will keep his promises and the Lord perfectly times his invasion into our affairs. It's hard to live without hope. . . whether you’re in a hurricane in the Mediterranean 2,000 years ago, or the one that hit Florida this week, or the one that’s hitting your life with enough force to knock the wind out of you right now. Why does God do that? While there are no pat answers, God does reveal some answers to us. We’re glad you’re here to search for them and worship God for them.
Is your life a pre-planned course of events, already rigged, so the speak? Then what you do or don't do doesn't really matter. Is your life all up to you? Then what you do or don't do determines everything. Which is it? One view leads to complacency, the other to panic. This weekend we begin a three-week series on Acts 27—the storms in our lives. We all have had them, are having them, and will have them. We’re glad you’re with us to learn from how Paul dealt with a literal storm and to seek God’s wisdom for weathering the storms in our lives.
Is your life a pre-planned course of events, already rigged, so the speak? Then what you do or don't do doesn't really matter. Is your life all up to you? Then what you do or don't do determines everything. Which is it? One view leads to complacency, the other to panic. This weekend we begin a three-week series on Acts 27—the storms in our lives. We all have had them, are having them, and will have them. We’re glad you’re with us to learn from how Paul dealt with a literal storm and to seek God’s wisdom for weathering the storms in our lives.
Ever since Aristotle, authors have offered their advice on how to persuade others. Most tell you to us fact, feelings, show humility, care for the other, etc. Persuasion is a complicated effort. If you say only empirical evidence proves anything, how do you prove that statement? If you say all we need are feelings, you've just created chaos. Paul stands before world powers, and his life is on the line. He lays out facts. He bares his heart. But he includes a third element in his attempt to persuade King Agrippa to believe in Christ that Aristotle and best-selling authors miss. Today, gathered in God’s very presence, we receive it. Glad you’re with us.
Ever since Aristotle, authors have offered their advice on how to persuade others. Most tell you to us fact, feelings, show humility, care for the other, etc. Persuasion is a complicated effort. If you say only empirical evidence proves anything, how do you prove that statement? If you say all we need are feelings, you've just created chaos. Paul stands before world powers, and his life is on the line. He lays out facts. He bares his heart. But he includes a third element in his attempt to persuade King Agrippa to believe in Christ that Aristotle and best-selling authors miss. Today, gathered in God’s very presence, we receive it. Glad you’re with us.
Descriptive Paragraph: Welcome to St. Andrew. Today we continue our study of Acts with the meeting of Festus and King Agrippa II. We have very little in common with these ancient men of influence, but we do share one thing. In fact, we meet for the very same reason that Festus met with King Agrippa II. It’s the reason we live, love, hope, and sing. The reason? A certain Jesus was dead and now lives. In his name we teach and preach the gospel of the Living God. Thanks for joining us to worship him. May God bless our time together.
Descriptive Paragraph: Welcome to St. Andrew. Today we continue our study of Acts with the meeting of Festus and King Agrippa II. We have very little in common with these ancient men of influence, but we do share one thing. In fact, we meet for the very same reason that Festus met with King Agrippa II. It’s the reason we live, love, hope, and sing. The reason? A certain Jesus was dead and now lives. In his name we teach and preach the gospel of the Living God. Thanks for joining us to worship him. May God bless our time together.
Sometimes, just a few words define a person.Here I stand. I have a dream. Give me liberty or give me death. Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country. See how it works? Big moments in life often provide the opportunity for such big words. In the last few chapters of Acts, the apostle Paul finds himself in one big moment after another. This week, in Acts 25:1-12, he's facing another threat and speaks defining words, "I appeal to Caesar." The funny thing about those defining moments and big words is that you don't usually see them coming: a child asks a question, a coworker expresses an openness to Jesus, etc. Jesus says to you, his child, "Don't worry about what you will say. I'll supply the words. You just stay faithful to me." We’re glad you’re a part of the fellowship of saints here today and pray that the Spirit uses the gospel to keep you faithful to him.
A “knowing smile” is one that implies that the person smiling is aware of circumstances that put him or her at an advantage in a situation. Watch the opening credits of the old Perry Mason series and you’ll see a great example. The judge hands Mason a manila folder, Mason looks at the contents, turns to the camera, and he smiles. The Bible doesn't come with pictures or video, but you might expect the apostle Paul flashed the same "knowing smile" in the episode before us this weekend, Acts 24. We’re glad you are part of the gathering today. May the Spirit bless you, maybe even with a knowing smile.
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his powerful "We Shall Overcome" speech on March 16, 1966. It took two and half minutes. The refrain, "we shall overcome," didn't sugar-coat the suffering that might be necessary for some but expressed the hope that finally God's grace will lift us out of suffering and into glory. First suffering, then glory. First cross, then crown. It's been a refrain of God's children since the fall into sin. Is it your song? If not, praise God. Don't seek suffering. If it is, praise God. Children of God have this confidence: we shall overcome. We've reached the point in our study of the Book of Acts where the Apostle Paul is a prisoner. He'll never be free again. But in his suffering, he proclaims freedom from sin, death, and suffering through Christ. We’re glad you’re with us today to celebrate that, because of Christ, we shall overcome.
Audio used with permission, crossway.org
At one time or another, all of us have felt burnt out in some way. There are so many things happening to us and around us and around us that cause us to feel stressed and hurt and burdened. When we feel the weight of life and its burdens pressing down on s, we naturally look for something to give us rest and release, at least for a little bit. What is it for me? My career? My relationship? Friends? An addiction? It will look different for each of us, but the truth is, those sources of rest can't last forever. We need something better. And we have it. Hear Jesus' invitation of lasting rest, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are . . .
New? Inexperienced? Different? Short? Tall? How did you complete that sentence? The apostle Paul concluded that sentence this way when the Spirit inspired him to write to Timothy: "young." Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young. He wasn't feeding the young man's ego; he was pointing out how God gives gifts to young and old, and both can use them to fulfill his plan. While Paul was a prisoner in Jerusalem, his young nephew took bold steps to thwart a plot to kill him. You don't forget things like that, and Paul may well have had his nephew's example in mind when he wrote to a young Timothy. Young or old, we’re glad you’re here to give thanks for and value the gifts God gives his young followers.
"And always let your conscience be your guide . . ." Really? Take advice from Jiminy Cricket, bit character in the original Pinocchio? The author of Pinocchio, Carlo Collodi of Florence, Italy, made Jiminy Cricket a minor character killed off in the tragic children's tale. Disney turned him into a whimsical sidekick who becomes Pinocchio's conscience. The problem is he isn't a very good conscience. He's inexperienced, not open to change, and frequently mistaken. We want a better conscience. In Acts 23:1-11, Paul shows us how to get it.
U.S. Embassies are positioned in most countries around the world. One of their functions is to support and assist U.S. travelers. If you lose your passport, get injured, or are wrongfully accused, you get to pull a "But I'm a US citizen" cad. It doesn't make the problem go away, but it does afford you a level of assistance not available to everyone. If you're in need, you'd certainly use it. In Acts 22:22-29, the apostle Paul was in need, and his Roman citizenship came to the rescue. Paul did what he could, where he was, with what he had . . . even his citizenship. We'll end up asking God to show us how to do the same, but only after he shows us how Jesus used what he had, where he was, to do what he, and he alone, could do. Welcome to worship.
Savvy tech operators track your online moves and suggest sites for you. They know your "click words." That's not so bad and might even be helpful. But most of us also have click words that close our minds. We hear them and close our minds. It's a kind of prejudice, really. The apostle Paul knew his audience, so in his great defense to the people of Jerusalem (Acts 22:1-22) he used a click word. It closed their minds, but it's exactly what Paul needed to tell them. Their click word was "Gentile." We barely yawn over it. But mention another word, another subject, and it gets a rise—a rise in pulse, breathing, and blood pressure. What's your click word? Maybe the Lord intends to speak to you about it this weekend. And you will need courage to face it. You are in the company of fellow courage-seekers. Together we look to the hope we have in Christ and find courage.
What's causing stress in your life right now? However you answer that question is also the answer to the question, "For what do you need courage right now?" Try it. Answer the first sentence in this paragraph. Does it also answer the second question in this paragraph? Heady stuff, to be sure, but you can handle it. Paul did. Today we’ll benefit from learning how he did it in Acts 21:27-40. Welcome to a fellowship of stressed-over-something brothers and sisters. We’re here to encourage one another, discover the same courage the Lord gave the apostle Paul and let his courage be ours. And, by the way, if you want to have an effect on others, few things are more contagious than courage.
Get a haircut, even if you don’t need it. Yes, that's in the Bible. Of course, there's more to it: respect for the weak, love for your neighbor, sacrifice for others, giving up your rights for the good of others, etc. In a haircut? Today we encounter the Spirit at work in the church in Acts 21:17-26. Yes, his work involved a haircut! Strange, but true. We’re so glad you’re with us to begin here what we will continue together in heaven: worship. Where we won’t need haircuts. Or will we?
Welcome to our study of Acts. Paul was within a few days of completing a mission trip and getting to Jerusalem. But old friends, new friends, and trusted brothers and sisters in Christ warned him not to continue: “Something bad will happen to you.” They broke Paul’s heart. But he went anyway. They all relented, “May the Lord’s will be done.” Could God’s will be unpleasant for you? Who prays for that? You do, every time you pray, “Your will be done.” We pray the third petition of the Lord’s Prayer so often, it might become trite. Far from trite, this little request is at times upsetting, at other times hard, but at all times how you get in touch with God. We’re glad you’re with us today to pray for yourself and for each other, “Your will be done.”
Blest be the ties that bind - so goes the old hymn. The author may have been recalling the ties the apostle Paul enjoyed with people everywhere he went. From our study of Acts, we know people opposed Paul wherever he went. But others wept to see him leave. The reason? The Word of grace not only unites us with God but also with each other. We’re glad you’re with us today to learn from Paul’s farewell to the Ephesians in Acts 20:13-38 and get a sense of the joy of “the ties that bind.”
The Bible is a funny book. Of course, no book is more serious than the Bible, but read it and you'll find humor. You won’t find knock-knock jokes, but you’ll find plenty to make you smile. When Luke described a night the Apostle Paul preached in Troas, he included a touch of physician's humor. Falling asleep in church isn’t as perilous in our day as it was for Eutychus. We’re less concerned with falling out of windows and more concerned with staying in the fellowship of believers. To that end, may the Holy Spirit bless you through the gospel today. And maybe keep you awake, too.
On one astounding day, God led 3,000 people to be baptized. What happened next, though, was more than astounding. It was preposterous and scandalous. It was generous and beautiful. It is, to our ears, almost incomprehensible. Most of all? It was Christian. Let’s take a look at the godly decision to have “everything in common.”
Forty days after his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven. However, he left things behind. We're glad you're joining us for worship to hear about the power and the promise Jesus left just for you.
Encouragement. The word probably makes you smile. We can never get enough of it, really. Oh, some value the encouragement of a friend more than others, but everyone needs it. The apostle Paul was many things: convert, world traveler, missionary, martyr, but he was also an encourager. Welcome to our study of Acts. In today’s verses, we learn about the entourage accompanying him on his journey from Greece back to Turkey, but notice what he's doing—"speaking many words of encouragement." What would words like that sound like coming from your lips? We’re glad you’re with us today to be encouraged by the gospel of Jesus and pray that what you receive from him moves you to speak words of encouragement to others. We call that, church.
“I like to keep my options open. Something better might come along.” Some people are drawn to new and exciting experiences and relationships, and are reluctant to limit their options. It sounds appealing, but it usually leads to shallow or ruined relationships and careers. Embracing Christianity means limiting options for the sake of following Christ, but it only leads to deeper and more satisfying experiences. Paul taught that to the people of Ephesus. Some could not limit their spiritual pursuit to one god. We call that idolatry. It's an easy trap for pagans and even for Christians. Learn from a mob in a theater in Ephesus about limiting your options to embrace Christ more fully. We’re glad you’re here and pray for the Spirit to bless your worship.
The last thing any of us wants to be is an expert on demons and spirits. It's possible to have an unhealthy interest in such realities. On the other hand, none of us wants to be unaware of such things. The apostle Paul frequently refers to demonic spiritual “powers” which inspire false religions and oppose and undermine God’s work and God’s people. We live in the same world. The same demonic spiritual powers are at work today. But the same God who overcame them in Ephesus overcomes them in our day. And he does it through the same means he used in Paul’s day: the message of Jesus. Paul’s time recorded in Acts 19 is testimony for you today: the risen Jesus, your Good Shepherd, will protect you, his sheep, from every evil spirit.
What helps you to be patient? How about Easter? There's something about the risen Christ that can make us the most patient people in the world. Christ is alive, he’s ruling, and he’s for us. That kind of confidence can make us unhurried, patient, and humble people. Two thousand years ago, God changed the world through two followers of Christ, Aquila and Priscilla, who demonstrated patient confidence. We’re glad you’re with us today to hear how Christ’s resurrection changed their lives. It’s still God's plan to change us…and the world.
Throughout Scripture we see God giving and God taking. In the Garden of Eden, God gave the promise of the Savior to Adam and Eve, and he took away their guilt that they brought on themselves. Or consider David. On the one hand, God gave him the role as the king of the Israelites. On the other hand, after the prophet Nathan rebuked him for his sin with Bathsheba, Nathan said, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die” (2 Samuel 12:13). There is also a divine giving and taking after the resurrection. Today, the apostle John helps us see that Jesus’ triumph over sin, death, and the devil takes away our fear and gives us confidence.
Celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection with us from the points of view of those who were there.
Celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection with us from the points of view of those who were there.
Movies and plays aren't just about the stars. Bit players sometimes play big roles. Someone who appears to play a minor role on Palm Sunday can help us in a major way. We’re glad you joined God’s people reading the account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday (Luke 19:28-44) and waving palm branches to celebrate our Savior.
The big news in the news this past week had to do with billionaire actors slapping each other over golden trophies they hand out once a year. The people who buy tickets to their movies and make them billionaires are more, well, ordinary. Paul met billionaire types in Athens. He met ordinary people in Corinth. This week we'll also meet them in Acts 18. God accomplishes his purposes through ordinary people whose trust in Jesus causes them to change their plans for their lives. Sounds like something we can learn from, since most of us (all of us) are ordinary people.
During World War II, Christian author C.S. Lewis delivered a series of informal radio addresses titled "The Case for Christianity." Through these talks he intended to bring hope to an embattled public. He wasn't the first, though, to present the compelling argument for the reasonableness of Christian faith. Two thousand years ago, the apostle Paul faced a skeptical crowd in Athens and reasoned with them. Our times are no less skeptical of the claims of Christ than people were 2,000 years ago, or 70 years ago. You know people who are skeptical of the claims of Christ. Maybe you're one of them. The book of Acts is God's answer. We’re glad you’ve joined us to find hope and confidence in the case for Christ.
Pain is a reality of life. You know it. I know it. Everyone knows it. We might be very different, though, in how we respond to it. What do you do when you're feeling pain? This weekend, learn from the prophet Jeremiah. His was an exceptionally hard and tragic life. He's even called "The Weeping Prophet!" We’re glad you’re here with your brothers and sisters feeling pain to receive the same comfort, salvation, and the glory God gave Jeremiah.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, Worshipflow.com, and Bensound.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
Nobility sounds British, as in dukes and duchesses or barons and baronesses. But in the Book of Acts noble means something else. The Apostle Paul and his missionary entourage entered a Greek city named Berea where they encountered people whom the author of Acts described as "noble-minded." Even before you know what that word means, you want it. It just sounds that good. May the Spirit inform us of its meaning and then bless our pursuit of being: noble-minded.
You hear of it occasionally: the family of the victim of a horrible crime appears in the courtroom at sentencing to speak to the one convicted. But instead of words of hate, they speak words of grace and forgiveness. How can they do that? Where's the justice? At the end of Acts 16, the apostle Paul and his companion Silas do something like that. Instead of seeking revenge on the man who wronged them, they demonstrated powerful grace. Where's the justice? Satisfied on Jesus' cross. Such grace pulls us here to worship. We’re glad you’re with us.
You know what it's like to groan. When what you feel is beyond words, a groan will have to do. In Romans 8, Paul writes about groaning. Paul, creation, and the Holy Spirit groan. But God not only knows about your groaning, he is eager to encourage you and remind you that you are not alone or empty. You have Jesus as your substitute now, and you have future glory. Through the Word and sacrament you receive today, God removes the heaviness of life and gives you grace, hope, and healing.
All rights reserved. Music used by permission under CCLI #1600166, OneLicense #A-709447, Worshipflow.com, and Bensound.com. Pre-service music all rights reserved by Koine (koinemusic.com) & Michael Schroeder.
Just a few miles into the continent, the apostle Paul and his missionary entourage met a group of God-fearing women near a river, praying, singing, and listening to God's Word. One of the women, Lydia, had a fascinating name, job, and social status. But the most interesting thing about her is how the Good News of Jesus changed her. The joy of the gospel still changes us and always, always, always for the better.
There's no shortage of advisors, commentators, or people with opinions who would love to "share" them with you. But whose voice do you listen to? You can't listen to all of them. Do you listen only to voices that agree with you? That could be dangerous. Do you listen only to voices that disagree with you? That sounds just as dangerous. We want to listen to the voice that speaks the truth. How do you find it? That was the dilemma for the apostle Paul in Acts 16:6-10. We're not given a litmus test to determine which voice to listen to, but we are given an example of a fellow follower of Christ seeking his voice. Let's learn from him. We’re glad you’re with us to seek God's voice.
The apostle Paul met a young man named Timothy while traveling in Turkey. The two struck up a close relationship that lasted a lifetime. But it might not have always been easy. Together, they dealt with issues of an interracial marriage, reputation, traveling, and even minor surgery. The result of it all, though, is what we seek, too: strengthening in faith. Welcome, brothers and sisters, to the means by which the Spirit does that: the gospel in Word and sacrament.
American League baseball umpire Bill Guthrie was working behind the plate, and the catcher for the visiting team was repeatedly protesting his calls. Guthrie put up with it for a few innings, and then pulled the catcher aside. “Son,” he said softly, “you’ve been a big help to me in calling balls and strikes today, and I appreciate it. But I think I’ve got the hang of it now, so I’m going to ask you to go to the clubhouse and show whoever’s there how to take a shower.” Conflicts are unavoidable; how we handle them is optional. Today, let’s learn from the conflict between Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15:36-41. More than that, let the Spirit guide you to respond to your conflicts in ways that bring glory to God and good to his people.
Think of all the ways you respond to snail mail or email. Delete, delete, delete. Or recycle bin, recycle bin, recycle bin. But then comes a letter that makes you smile. You don't delete or recycle it. You anticipate opening it, savor its message, and smile over it. May the Lord give you more of these kinds of letters than any other! Of course, God’s Word is his letter to us. Today, we’re asking God to teach us and shape our minds through a letter sent from one church to another. A letter contained in his Word, Acts 15:22-35. It's an old letter, but it's meant for us today.
There are many decisions we make each day without thinking about them. One question that plays into this decision-making process is, "Is it worth it?" Is it worth it to stay a few extra hours at work? Or is it worth it to go home so you can return the next day refreshed, ready to work? As we enter the season of Epiphany, we learn from the Magi who set out to worship their newborn King. This journey had its detours along the way. So was it worth it for these Magi? This weekend we will dig into the question, "Is it worth it?" We are blessed to be able to gather, just as the Magi did, to worship our newborn King.
What will the market do this year? Will inflation continue to rise? Will the Omicron variant mark the end of COVID fear? And how 'bout them Packers? Everyone has an opinion, but no one can answer those questions with certainty. Together, let us come into God’s presence and ponder spiritual truths with fellow saints. You decide if from the spiritual truths you encounter today develop New Year's resolutions. This much is certain: from God’s truth you will better know your future. Nice to have you with us and happy new year!
Christmas is such a powerful thing that the very word brings to mind many other words: joy, gifts, trees, lights, and maybe even eggnog. Today, let the word Christmas call forth from you another word: miracle. Does that word conjure up images of the waters of the Red Sea parting or Jesus turning water into wine? Good, those are miracles. But they’re nothing compared to the Miracle we celebrate tonight. In fact, those miracles are only possible because of the Miracle of Christmas. We’re glad you’re with us and pray for God to bless your time celebrating the miracle of Christmas.
This Advent we've been asking God to prepare us to celebrate the Miracle of Christmas by teaching us through miracles that led up to Christmas. This weekend it's the miracle of a snake on a pole in Numbers 21. It's one of the more difficult to understand miracles. But Jesus helps us out by referring to it during this ministry. We’re glad you’re with us to better understand the deadly disease that's killing us and the miraculous healing Christmas provides. We need it. It works.
What have you endured that made you question God's promises? Or his plan? Or even his love for you? If you haven't been there yet, hold on. You will be. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego must have had the same questions when they were being thrown into a fiery furnace (Daniel 3). Today we gather to better appreciate their extraordinary response, “Even if the Lord doesn’t rescue us, we'll still worship him.” Miraculously, God was with them in the fire. And, God is with you. Let the Spirit convince you, even in your fiery furnace, you are more than what meets the eye because of the Miracle of Christmas.
How would you respond if someone asked you, “Are you a Christian?” If your answer is, “Well, I’m trying,” you really don’t understand what it is to be a Christian. That’s not meant to alarm anyone as much as it’s meant to make us hunger for the truth about the way God works. The children of Israel witnessed a miracle of crossing over, but so have you. We’re glad your with us today to delight in it and worship God for it.
THE miracle of Christmas is that eternal, unchangeable God became a finite and changing baby -- not to mention a baby who needed changing! The baby in the manger we’ll worship on Christmas is God. God prepared the world for him by other miracles. For the next four weeks, we are asking God to prepare us for him by our study of four miracles that occurred long before Jesus was born but which point to all that God would accomplish through his birth. Welcome to Advent: a season to prepare us to celebrate Jesus’ birth by preparing also for Jesus’ return.
Not many of us like an argument, though some of us do. In Acts 15, we see how the early church resolved a serious argument. It was about bacon. And rare steak. And circumcision. What makes such things serious? Because it would have been possible to take the best news in the universe and twist it into being not good news at all. Thankfully, that didn't happen. We’re glad you’ve joined our family of faith today to praise and thank God for the freedom he's given us and his instructions on how to use it.
No one, given the option, would choose to suffer. No moral person likes to watch another suffer. Yet, the Bible tells us suffering is necessary on our way to the kingdom of God. Moses, Paul, Peter, Jesus, and a host of other biblical characters suffered necessarily. What about you? What good is your suffering? We’re glad you’re with us to seek the answer in the Spirit's truth delivered through the apostle Paul on his first missionary journey. What we find won't make us suffer more, but we will find God's plan for us to suffer better. May God bless you through it and through your worship today.
Welcome to the gathering of saints. This weekend we’re learning from the pattern of the very first Christians. They loved the needy. They called out the idols. Idols? I've never bowed down to anything. Yes, but everybody lives for something. Something gives meaning to your life. That's your god. The good news is that there is a much better one; one who satisfies like nothing else can. His name is Jesus and he’s the only one who will satisfy you when you trust him and forgive you when you fail him. He's the one we’re here to worship.
What’s the most valuable thing you own? Your house or car? Your mind, legacy, or time? While these things may certainly hold some sort of value to us in our lives, the Son of God directs our attention to something else. He points us to the most valuable thing we own: the Truth. Our minds, of course, have other ideas. My mind loves distraction. It lives for it. It cannot wait to find some new thing that will pull me away from the only precious gift I’ve been given—the only gift that changes my life completely. When I begin to let go, however, Jesus is there. He’s there in love to rattle me. He’s there to bring me to repentance. He’s there to forgive me. He is there to encourage me. Today, let's stay focused and to hold on to what matters. Stick to the Word!
That's bold! The last time you said that, were you referring to a gutsy move, an offensive statement, or guacamole? The adjective bold covers a lot of ground, doesn't it? The apostle Paul spoke the word of God boldly. While it's interesting to ponder what that meant, it's more meaningful to determine how we will boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus. Through our hearing of the gospel today and receiving of the gospel in the Lord’s Supper, may the Holy Spirit give us boldness to proclaim Christ to each other and to others. That’s why we’re a church.
Aren't facts bothersome? Your doctor, mechanic, or accountant tells you, "This is the way it is." You wish it wasn’t, but you can't deny the fact. We've come to the first of three of Paul's sermons recorded in the Book of Acts, and it deals with facts of Jesus. Some people found the facts very inconvenient, just like some do today. But stay with Paul's sermon and you will hear what the facts mean and how they're fulfilled. Then and now, it's God's message to bring people into his kingdom and keep us there. We’re glad you’re with us today to consider the facts of Jesus and what they mean. We call it worship.
Paul and Barnabas sailed from Antioch (Syria) and to the island of Cyprus, about 100 miles westward into the Mediterranean Sea. Imagine their excitement. But one of the first people they met was an agent of Satan who does his best to discredit the message of Jesus. Now imagine their confusion. Which will win, the agent of Satan or the agent of God? The answer matters because you, too, are an agent of God commissioned to take the gospel to others. You, too, will encounter agents of Satan. We’re so glad you’re here to journey with Paul and Barnabas…and us.
Have you asked your parents why they gave you the name you have? Sometimes a deep meaning emerges, sometimes not. Either way, most of us want to know how we got our names. Do you know how you got the name Christian? The Bible says believers were first called Christians in a city called Antioch in Syria. What they did will help us understand our name better. Welcome to Acts II. You’re with people who bear the same name you have. You'll see the family resemblance.
Good to be a tree
Catchphrases like “Be all that you can be” and “Do what you were made to do” hint at a deep-down drive inside the human heart that pushes us . . . and nags at us. Am I doing the right things? Am I doing them well enough? If God hadn’t put that voice inside us, we might be content with a life of Netflix and Doritos. But once you start asking, “Am I doing something that matters?” you need some answers. Another voice, God’s own, answers clearly from the pages of the Bible. We’ll listen to Psalm 92 as we gather together today to grow and praise, just like you were made to do.
Anything you really love, you praise. You have to. Try going to a Packer or Badger game and not cheering. If you're a fan, you can't. Praise erupts spontaneously, and you do it better with others. In our last week on Psalm 63, we will invite the Spirit to teach us about our praise to the Lord—what it is, why we do it, and what makes it different from every other kind of praise we engage in. Welcome to saints gathered to do what we can't help but do: praise.
What's your favorite sense? Seeing, touching, tasting, hearing, or smelling? Hard to choose, isn't it? Throughout Scripture, the Spirit uses our senses to help us appreciate and know God. We’re glad you’re with us in this place to encounter God in his Word and at his Table. Enjoy a feast for your senses. We’d love to serve you with more so that you might appreciate and know God all the better. Our pastor invites you to contact him for a conversation about your needs and how we might help.
Moms are pit bulls when it comes to protecting their children's appetites. They know that a child who eats a cookie right before a meal, will feel full but won't get the nutrition he or she needs from the meal because they won't be hungry. Some grandpas hate that. But moms are right. In Psalm 63 David describes a spiritual appetite—what ruins it, how to get it, and even the sign that you have it. What a blessing to gather with fellow saints to hunger for God and feast at his Table. If the Lord’s Supper is new to you or your new to our church, we invite you to First Group to prepare to receive it with us for the first time.
Some Olympic runners train for a lifetime to not just run the race, but to pass the baton in a relay. No matter how well you run, it will not go well if you don’t pass the baton. St. Andrew, by God's grace we have the baton of the Good News of Jesus. It's exciting and it feels so good. The facilities we rededicate and dedicate today are to pass the Good News of Jesus to the next generation. We’re glad you’re with us for this special day. We don’t exist to build buildings, but our buildings exist to help us serve in God’s plan to build his kingdom in the hearts of young and old.
Box Tops for Education is a program to use shopping rebates to fund education. But what's education for? Psalm 100 gives us God's answer. He created and redeemed to praise him. If education doesn't lead to praising God, it fails. If knowing the truth doesn't lead to knowing God and his love, it fails. Education is either for the praise of God or it's hollow and rootless, a noisy gong. We’re so glad you made it here today to know, enjoy, and praise the Lord by sinking your roots into his truth.
You can probably count on the fingers of one hand the people in your life who "really get you." Jesus proved he belongs on that list. For example, Jesus knows you worry. And he knows your worries have the potential to block your view of God's promises. So Jesus, the Son of God, came to earth to tell you, Look at the Birds.We’re glad you’re joining us, your fellow worriers, to read about Jesus' sermon in Matthew 26:25-34 and learn how to set worries aside.
Deliver us from evil (inside and outside) The writer of Psalm 73 confesses he's in the grip of envy. To envy is to want someone else's life. It's not only to feel that they don't deserve the good life they have; but it's to want it for yourself. This kind of spiritual self-pity will drain your joy and make it impossible to enjoy the good things God has given you. But by the end of the psalm, the author has a breakthrough and sees the antidote. We’re glad you’ve gathered with the saints here for the privilege of coming into his presence and receiving the antidote. We pray the Spirit blesses you today. If we can be of any service to you, please contact us.
Praise the Lord. It's more than a Pinterest board, the full name of a defunct televangelist group (PTL), or a spontaneous outburst of a believer's gratitude. In fact, the setting of those words in Psalm 146 have more to do with justice and care for the poor or sick. Find the interesting juxtaposition in Psalm 146, but don't be too surprised. Our Lord specializes in the unexpected.
According to God, you don't need a feather, a mantra, or a pose. This weekend, let the author of Psalm 77 teach you God's way to meditate. He was facing something difficult, but he wasn't being stoic or gritting his teeth until the storm passed or just venting his feelings to a friend. Instead, he redirected his thoughts and feelings toward the truth about God and took God's truth deep into his heart. It's not the work of a moment; it is the practice of a lifetime. We’re glad you are with us today to grow in this lifetime of worship and seeking God’s truth.
Have you ever known someone who got everything they wanted on a silver platter? How did it effect their character? What if God gave you everything you ever wanted? At first you may think that would be fantastic, but soon you might begin to realize that would not be a good thing at all. This weekend, learn from times when God said, “No” to things his people wanted and how that was best. You may even begin to rejoice in the times in your own life when God said, “No”!
All Scripture is God-breathed, but Psalm 22 must be one of the most important of all the psalms. No psalm is more quoted in the New Testament. Many psalms focus on the suffering and triumph of King David. This psalms graphically foretells the suffering and triumph of the Messiah, Jesus. Let the Spirit fill you with fresh appreciation for both the Messiah’s suffering and the Messiah’s glory. Then may he guide you in the decisions you make this week to reflect your love for him.
What part of your life is still "wet cement," not yet set? You've probably asked, "What is God's will for that choice I have to make?" God does speak to your question, but maybe in a surprising way. We’re glad you’re with us today to meditate upon the guidance we receive in Psalm 25 and, even better, to encounter the Guide. If you’re new to us, we’d love to serve you. Feel free to contact us via any method on the back page…or in person today.
The Psalms aren't simply to be read; we are to be immersed in them so that they profoundly shape how we relate to God and each other. Luther called the Psalms a “mini Bible” because in them we receive an overview of salvation history from creation through Jesus' return and the renewal of all things. But the Psalms are more than theological instruction. They're also a medicine chest for the heart and the best possible guide for practical living. The church father, Athanasius, wrote, “Whatever your particular need or trouble, from this same book [the Psalms] you can select a form of words to fit it, so that you . . . learn the way to remedy your ill." Psalms anticipate and train us for every possible spiritual, social, and emotional condition—they show us what the dangers are, what we should keep in mind, what our attitude should be, how to talk to God about it, and how to get from God the help we need. Sounds like a pretty good way to spend our summer…together.
Have you said, "I won't believe it until I see it?" We live in a "seeing is believing" world. So did Elisha. He prayed simply for his servant, "Open his eyes, Lord, that he may see." The Lord's answer changed everything for him. Pray with the people of God this Thursday at 7:00 PM or Sunday at 8:00 or 10:30 AM for the Lord to open our eyes to see the glory of the Lord.
There is real darkness all around, but there is also light—and that light is good, helpful, and powerful. Even though the light and the dark are usually talked about as opposing forces locked in a battle (think Star Wars, Shakespeare, or the sacred books of most religions), the Bible actually has a somewhat different narrative about what the light is, means, and does. Today we’ll explore just that.
When was the last time you received a personal note from a friend or family member you haven't heard from in a while? Typically, it is around Christmas when cards, letters, and family photos are sent and news is shared. Communication in the first century was even more sporadic, but we have a few such personal letters that have been preserved for us. This weekend we will take a look at the two shortest books in the Bible and receive insight from the apostle John on his pastoral relationship with those around him as well as with us today.
To receive 250-word devotions on 2 & 3 John this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
“If there is one thing you remember of me . . .” John is closing out his letter to his family. He could have gotten maudlin and reminisced about the glory days or memories he's had with them, but he closes out his letter pointing them to Jesus. His whole ministry among them was to point them to Jesus, and he closes this letter with things we know and with his ultimate purpose in ministry and writing.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 5:16-21 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
The apostle John reiterates and reinforces a message we know: God hears and answers our requests. The almighty God of the universe who created all things with his spoken word gives you eternal life and hears and answers your prayers, even when it seems as though he isn't listening or answering.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 5:13-15 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Over the next few weeks, we'll conclude our study of John's epistles. Ever since January, John has taught us how to live in fellowship with God and with his people: obeying, knowing, remaining, testing, loving, testifying and overcoming. Ever-consistent, John will use the conclusion of his letter to bring us back to those familiar doctrines to teach us how to live in this fellowship. Today: the sweet reasonableness of his promises in Christ. We’re glad you’re here to enjoy them.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 5:6-13 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Your mission is . . .How would you complete that sentence? It sounds lofty and hard to think about when you're consumed by just doing what needs to be done. But it's worth thinking about. Jesus not only gives us all we need for our daily lives to do what needs to be done, but he lifts our eyes to see something beyond, something bigger, like our mission. Last week, Jesus' good friend John began to teach us about God's love for us and our love for each other. Today, he continues with the same themes in 1 John 4:17 – 5:5 to help us answer to the question, "What's my mission?"
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 4:17-5:5 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Love is . . . How would you finish that sentence? Or better yet, in how many different ways might you finish that sentence? Such an activity would be interesting, but even more interesting is how God himself defines love. We’re glad you’re with us today to seek a biblical definition of love, appreciate God’s love for us, and to ask his help in extending his love to others.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 4:7-16 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Airlines now proudly announce a "temporary change" to their food and beverage service. Some consultant advised them not to say, "We've canceled our food and beverage service," or, "We're not giving you anything." Why? Because our words matter. Nowhere is that truer than in the Bible. In the section of 1 John before us this weekend, John tells Christ-followers to test the spirits. How? In the first four verses of 1 John 4 he teaches us four words to help us do that. We’re so glad you’re with the people of God seeking the Holy Spirit's gift of faith through the words of God. If we can serve you in any other way, please let us know. May God bless your worship.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 4:1-4 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
In a time of reason and relative morality, our hearts can sometimes lead us astray. Sometimes our hearts lead us into guilt and regret or the converse pride and arrogance. The one thing we can trust and believe with all our heart is the gospel. This week God reminds us through the apostle John that we are his and he is much greater than our understanding of him.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 3:19-23 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
30,000 people were crucified the year Jesus was crucified. The heart of each person crucified stopped beating. Jesus’ heart stopped too. But there’s a difference. Three days after Jesus’ heart stopped, his heart began to beat again. That’s a difference you can live with. Join us to worship him on Good Friday and on Easter Sunday. Celebrate his heart for you.
30,000 people were crucified the year Jesus was crucified. The heart of each person crucified stopped beating. Jesus’ heart stopped too. But there’s a difference. Three days after Jesus’ heart stopped, his heart began to beat again. That’s a difference you can live with. Join us to worship him on Good Friday and on Easter Sunday. Celebrate his heart for you.
Today we begin our Holy Week journey to the cross and empty tomb. Jesus' passion begins with his ride into Jerusalem. As Jesus makes his triumphant entry, he teaches us about his heart for worship, which is then reflected in our worship of him.
I love my home. I love the ocean. I love my spouse. People use the word love for all kinds of things; sure, they're all loves. But what distinguishes Christian love? How do you know you know Christ's love? John gets us to the answer. Enjoy your time today with brothers and sisters; together we’re becoming more convinced of Christ's love and more able to love as he did.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 3:11-18 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
This week the apostle John by God's direction starts getting into some deeply personal and introspective concepts that at the core ask, “Where do you find your identity?” You likely can offer a quick response, but John helps us see our need to confront and acknowledge where we've allowed our identity to slip, that we might fully live and abide with God.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 3:4-10 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Have you ever watched a dog chase a car and wondered, “What would he do if he caught it?” You know what he’d do. Nothing. He’d just walk away and go chasing after another car. Does your life ever feel that way to you? We chase after things or the next stage of life and either they elude us or they don’t satisfy us. Let the Spirit’s words through John show you a way off the hamster wheel. We’re glad you’re here to meet God in his Word and worship today.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:28-3:3 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Drive carefully. We can wait.
That's a billboard outside Minneapolis for the Wilbert Company. They make burial vaults. You may call it tasteless advertising, but they're right. Certain truths are irreducible and universal. Death is one of them. What other truths would you put in the category of "core?" How about this: truth. Once again the saints of God have gathered in God's house to seek his truth, encourage one another and glorify him. Welcome to the party.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:18-27 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
When are you dogmatic? Never! That word almost always means something negative. To be dogmatic and uncompromising about your personal opinions and beliefs makes one hard to live with. You could be wrong. But John writes to the church of his day and our day that there is a time to be dogmatic, a time when there can be no compromise. The reason is not to make you hard to live with; but because you have eternal life.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:18-27 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
How would you complete the phrase above? Would your answer change if the phrase was, "Stop loving . . ."? God turns our hearts toward himself as the apostle John, a grandpa who is concerned for his kids and grandkids, shares a powerful message of hope and life for those who are caught up in desires and loss which consume and destroy. God has a better life for us, and he uses John to help us see what it can be.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:15-17 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
When we baptize babies at St. Andrew, we often sing "Borning Cry." The hymn tracks God's view of and love for a child from baptism through youth, middle age, and into old age. It's not only an accurate reflection of God's grace, but it reminds us how the Christian life goes, too: in stages. We all hope for growth. In this weekend's section of 1 John, the author demonstrates how the Christian life isn't stagnant. We all hope for growth. And you’ve come to the right place for it: God’s Word among God’s people.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:12-14 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
In a press conference 19 years ago, then Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld said, "There are known knowns: things we know that we know. There are known unknowns: things that we know we don't know. But there are also unknown unknowns: things we don't know we don't know." The Holy Spirit wants you to know you know God. But how? Hear his inspired word in 1 John 2:3-11 and evaluate your own knowledge of God. After all, that’s knowing him is why we’re here.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 2:3-11 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Listen to a reporter catch a coach on the way back onto the field after halftime: "Coach, what's your plan for the second half?" "Well, they scored more than we did until now, but if we can catch up and then score more than them in the second half, we'll be okay." It's always some variant of, "Here's the problem, and here's the solution." That formula frames our lives from "What shall we have for lunch?" to your current ailment. And even bigger things. Let the Spirit speak to you today in his inspired Word of 1 John 1:8 – 2:2 and answer the questions, "What's the problem? What's the solution?"
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 1:8 – 2:2 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
The greatest teachers are those who take deep, hard to understand truths and put them in simple, understandable language and examples we can understand. This is a gift God gave to the Apostle John. He uses the contrast of walking in the light and walking in the darkness, two concepts that are easy to understand, especially at this time of year. The example is easy to understand, but the truth behind it is going to challenge us and confront some truths and mistruths in our own lives.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 1:5-7 this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
John's letters teach us about Jesus’ love so that we can love Jesus and one another. John reminds us what truly matters—that we know who Jesus is and what he has done for us, that we embrace Jesus’ love for us, and that we share that love with others. The word fellowshipsums it all upand describes what we are about as God’s family. Every verse of these short books is packed full of truth about love, life, and God. Some of it is hard truth and some of it is easy truth, but it's all true. May the Spirit bless as he speaks to you through the letters of John.
To receive 250-word devotions on 1 John 1:1-4, the introduction to John’s letters, this week,
Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Until this year, most of us associated 2020 with excellent vision. But no one envisioned that 2020 would unravel as it did. That's the way it is with the future. "What's next?" This year that question prompts fewer vision statements and much less certainty than it did a year ago. That's not a bad thing. Uncertain times have a way of helping us appreciate what is certain. What is certain is God's Word and promise. We’re glad you’ve gathered around them with us today.
Let God the Spirit show you your future. Because of Jesus: it’s a good thing.
To receive 250-word devotions on Daniel 7:13-14, the heavenly courtroom, this week,
Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Salvation prepared for all people
It was in the midst of a worldwide census, political and social upheavals, and the din of Temple worship that the Lord of creation quietly entered his Temple. There was no fanfare or ceremony. He entered humbly, carried by his teenage mother and unnoticed by all except one who had been waiting. We hear the words of the only one to notice the LORD of Glory entering his Temple, who announces peace and salvation for all.
To receive 250-word devotions on “The World’s Greatest ADVENTure: The Promotion” this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
We pray you enjoy the sights, food, family, and gifts of this season. They’re gifts from God. But there’s more, infinitely more, to enjoy. The Baby in the manger grew up to be, as Isaiah the prophet described him, The Suffering Servant. His suffering isn’t incongruous with Christmas. His suffering makes Christmas deeper, more meaningful, and longer lasting. May God bless you with such a celebration tonight and every day.
Crossword fans, what's an eight-letter word for something that is heavier than heaven and earth combined? How about, Immanuel? Isaiah called Jesus, “Immanuel, God with us.” Our ADVENTure continues this week. Let the Creator God of the universe impress you with what it meant for him to become a human being and what it means for you to follow him now and await his return in the future.
To receive 250-word devotions on “The World’s Greatest ADVENTure: The Prophecies” this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Where would you go if you knew it was safe and would be all you hoped for? What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Questions like those might churn up our brains, but, of course, they're unrealistic. We can't get rid of doubt. Or can we? Let the Lord's words to our spiritual father, Abraham, help you face the reality of your doubts with the confidence only the Lord can provide. The ADVENTuresome place for him was the promised land. Your ADVENTuresome place is right where you are.
To receive 250-word devotions on “The World’s Greatest ADVENTure: The Promised Land” this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
God met Abraham and told him to get out. Get up and go. He sent him and his family on an adventure that involved great risk but on account of which we would receive great blessing. Meeting God changes us into people of mission, willing to leave what is comfortable in order to love and serve others with what is necessary. Here's your great adventure: because God risked coming to earth through Abraham's offspring, you are called to take a risk and bless others. God calls you his child and calls you to follow him and bless others.
To receive 250-word devotions on “The World’s Greatest ADVENTure: The People of the Promise” this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Throughout history there have been some truly epic adventures written and recorded. This Advent, we are going to pause and focus on The World's Greatest ADVENTure, the arrival of God's son. The World's Greatest Adventure kicks off this weekend with God's Perfect Plan.
To receive 250-word devotions on “The World’s Greatest ADVENTure: The Perfect Plan” this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Thanksgiving is a bit different this year all the way around, but what is not different is our thanks to God for the blessings he's given. Romans 8:28 is one of the best-known passages in the Bible and also one of the most difficult to understand, but fleas can help us. Isn't that just like God to use a common little thing to help us see the greatest things?
Me? Enemies? How so? Okay, so no one is shooting at you (most of us anyway). But in spite of the nice people and good neighbors around us, this world is still fallen—and evil. Jesus didn't come to earth to eradicate evil. For him to do that he would have had to destroy us. Jesus came to destroy enmity—the thing that comes between God and us and between us and each other. It would cost him everything, but that's how Jesus gives rest. The rest Jesus gives changes how we respond to enemies. Today we conclude our Esther series. Queen Esther finally got relief for her people. But her people, the children of Abraham, would get relief for the world by one descendant: Jesus. We'll hear her story but worship our rest-giver Jesus.
To receive 250-word devotions on Esther this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
What's the first question you ask when you meet someone new? “What do you do?” “Where do you live?” “What are you studying?” Or what happens when the shoe is on the other foot and someone says to you, "Tell me a little about yourself." Whatever our answer is, we consider that our identity. It's how we see ourselves and how we'd like others to see us. This week we are asking the Spirit to teach us through the inspired words of the Book of Esther. In chapter five, two people state their identity. But those who know that the point of the Bible is Jesus will expect to find a different, better, identity in him. If that's you, you won't be disappointed.
To receive 250-word devotions on Esther 5:1-14 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
What's the first question you ask when you meet someone new? “What do you do?” “Where do you live?” “What are you studying?” Or what happens when the shoe is on the other foot and someone says to you, "Tell me a little about yourself." Whatever our answer is, we consider that our identity. It's how we see ourselves and how we'd like others to see us. This week we are asking the Spirit to teach us through the inspired words of the Book of Esther. In chapter five, two people state their identity. But those who know that the point of the Bible is Jesus will expect to find a different, better, identity in him. If that's you, you won't be disappointed.
Welcome to St. Andrew LUTHERAN Church. But why? Who decided that we should be called Lutheran? I recently overheard a conversation that went like this: "Are you Catholic?" "Oh, no, I'm Christian." The Catholic Church is a Christian denomination, as are the Methodist, Presbyterian, and Evangelical Free denominations, etc. So, why Lutheran? Obviously, it has to do with a man named Luther, but he didn't invent a church or a doctrine. In fact, while he was alive, he forbade people to call themselves Lutherans. So how'd we get here? And what does it matter? How we got here is interesting, but it matters because it's life changing. The gospel is meant to be.
About 3,000 years ago, King David had a vision for a ministry expansion, but there was a problem. He held before the people of God a solution. We have a vision for expanding our ministry, too. Our challenges may be different from his, but the solution remains the same. Together, let us seek God and celebrate his presence in this final week of our four-week Fields Are Ripe series.
You've seen the pictures, heard the phrase, and watched the videos. Now we hear Jesus explain and encourage us to open our eyes and see The Fields Are Ripe for an eternal harvest. We will see how God prepares us for the harvest through the Service and Outreach ministry taking place through St. Andrew.
Fields Are Ripe—Nurture: When we learn facts, history, or about important issues in society, we benefit. But when we receive the gospel, we are blessed. The church's purpose is to proclaim the gospel so that the Spirit can provide spiritual blessings: forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation. St. Andrew has always been about growing in the Word. We've learned a thing or two about how to do that, but we're always looking for new ways to connect people with the Word. Today we worship the God who has given us his Word, and we gain a fresh appreciation for our nurture ministries.
Why do you worship? It would be fun to survey everyone who comes to St. Andrew to get the answer to that question. This weekend, we'll listen to both those who come to St. Andrew to worship . . . and those who don't. The Fields Are Ripe for St. Andrew to pursue God's vision for our worship. We'll sing about it, listen to God's Word about it, pray about it, hear from our Staff Minister for Worship about it, seek unbelievers through it, and ask God to teach us about his plan for each of us to support our worship ministry.
What opportunity has God given you today to make some progress in your relationship with him? Today, not, “It’s on my to-do list.” Has the Holy Spirit been using the Word to tell you it's time to start reading Scripture, time to start confessing a sin, time to start praying, time to pursue more friendships with godly people, time to serve and use your gifts, time to start reordering your budget and your schedule so that your relationship with God isn't just "personal," but it’s public, time to make worship less about what's convenient and more about what's encouraging to others? When will you start making some progress? In Esther so far two main characters, Mordecai and Esther, have not shown much progress. But in chapter four they both make great progress. You can tell from statements each one makes. We’re here to seek the same progress. May the Spirit bless your attention to his Word.
"Mommy, who is the bad guy?" This is a question one of our younger members asked his mom this week. Have you figured out who the bad guy is in Esther? Do you typically look for the hero and the villain in the stories we read? This week as we read the third chapter of Esther, we see what happens when two people harden their hearts and how disastrous outcomes can follow, yet God is still in control. As you prepare for worship this today, ask yourself—have you ever had a Haman and Mordecai interaction?
Has this ever happened to you? You’re thinking about an old friend that you haven’t seen in years, and then you receive a phone call from him or her a few seconds later. Or you have a sudden, unexplainable urge to visit a place you have never been to, and then you end up meeting the love of your life there. Are such coincidences merely chance, or is there something more at work? To explain such remarkable events, the Swiss psychologist Carl Jung coined the term synchronicity—a coincidence in which highly improbable events occur. Jung is a Johnny-come-lately. The Lord God has been teaching his people since the time of Esther and before that he's the one behind those synchronicities. We’re only in week 3 of our series on the book of Esther and we can see hundreds of coincidences that had to occur for Esther to become Queen of Persia . . . to save the Israelites from distinction . . . so Mary and Joseph would one day end up in Bethlehem . . . so Jesus would be born there according to God's promise. Is it synchronicity? Is it coincidence? No. It's God. And he's at work in hidden ways in your life, too. And that’s why we’re here to worship him. Glad you think so, too.
A tale of two kingdoms. No, we won't be studying the Dickens' classic this weekend. The Spirit intends to shape our thoughts and our lives through the second half of Esther, chapter 1. It's set in the 5th century BC, but it might as well be 21st century America. We live in an earthly kingdom, of sorts. But thank God he has brought us into another kingdom and under another king, Jesus. We live in two kingdoms; and It helps to keep them straight. Welcome to worship.
Welcome to our worship series on the Book of Esther. If you've read through it already, you've been treated to some fascinating scenes. But you've probably also noticed what's missing: God. His name isn't mentioned. But that doesn't mean he isn't present on every page. God works in Esther not through his visible hand of miracle, but through his invisible hand of providence. Maybe you've felt like God is missing in your life, too. He isn’t. God is active and present in your life, just as he was in the life of Esther. Let the Spirit show you how.
Perhaps you know a parent or a coach who has spoken these words. Typically, they come after repeated reminders, calls to correction, and a failure to listen. This week we hear what happens when God says, "Enough is enough." On the one hand, it is absolutely terrifying, as it should be, but for those who are in Christ, it is his hand protecting and prospering his children. This weekend we are reminded that all things, even corrupt rulers, are under God's providence.
In Chapter 12 of Acts, you learn the truth: God does hear and does answer your prayers. But he may not answer the way you want him to. Things are happening in our world that are more real than anything you'll ever hear on any news broadcast. You don’t need the Bible to tell you what’s happening in our world, but let Dr. Luke tell you what's happening behind the scenes and inspire you how to react.
So often throughout the book of Acts we follow the accounts of the apostles and early named missionaries. Today, we see the Holy Spirit's work through everyday Christians who are unnamed, yet whom God uses to bring many into the kingdom. It isn't always the traveling missionary that God uses but often the displaced friend, family member, and co-worker. We do see how God then uses his appointed workers, Barnabas and Paul, but the work begins with unnamed missionaries like you.
...then I tells them what I told them.
Have you heard this formula for effective communication: "First, I tells them what I'm gonna tell them. Then I tells them. Then I tells them what I told them." In spite of the grammar, there are both benefits and risks to that formula. In Acts 11:1-18, the Apostle Peter “tells us what he told us” already in chapter 10. The benefit is worth the risk.
Make no mistake; you don't need to be converted to Christianity again. But every Christian needs to know both how we received this faith, and to what it calls us—and that might surprise you. Let’s study Acts 10, discover how Peter finally got that and marvel at the changes in us when we do.
Transition. It's a word we're hearing often these days. Other words for it are evolving, shifting, and changing. We've always used these words to describe our times, but for the first time we're applying them to the little league season, vacation plans, the school year, and going out to eat. Roll into one all the transitions causing upheaval in your life right now, and you still don't even come close to the transition you'll discover in Acts 10. Read vs. 1-23 and check off what you see as cataclysmic changes. Experience a settled peace that can help you weather any change.
What does that term bring to mind for you? Do you have a positive initial reaction, or are you somewhat turned off by that description? This weekend we are introduced to a Roman Centurion, a “God-Fearer,” whose prayer-time is interrupted by God fueling his passion to find out more about Jesus.
Jesus Christ heals you
Those were Peter's words to a man who had been paralyzed for eight years. Shortly after, in the same name of Jesus, Peter raised a woman from the dead. If only Jesus could do the same things among us today. COVID would lose its threat. Death would lose its power. We could live a different kind of life. He can. He does. This is the Jesus we adore and worship. This is the Jesus who sets his table before us again this weekend. This is the Christ who makes us whole. If only he were here now? He is. That’s why we gather with God's people to worship and adore him.
If asked to name a favorite disciple of Jesus, most of us wouldn’t quickly think of Barnabas. Our study of Acts might just change that. May the Spirit bless you through the record of his service. More than history and more than an example; his life is a testimony to the power of the gospel that is also at work in you. If God so used Barnabas for such grand things, who knows how me might use you. Register to receive 250-word devotions on this same text, Monday – Friday, at st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
The last 15 weeks have truly been a challenge, haven't they? Perhaps for you it's been a roller coaster of emotions, spiritual challenges, and the grind of constantly changing information and lack of routines. This week, some normalcy is returning. We will be able to, for the first time in 15 weeks, gather on-site for worship. Today we will pause our Acts series and learn from the Apostle Paul what it is to rejoice in the LORD always!
You could say of very few, "That person turned the world upside down." But you could say that of the Apostle Paul. What's even more dramatic is the same Spirit who turned Paul upside down has turned you upside down and is turning our world upside down today through Paul's words. You can run from the Spirit, but you better keep looking over your shoulder, because you can't outrun him. May the Spirit bless your love for his Word. To receive 250-word devotions on this same text, Acts 9:1-19, this week, Monday – Friday, go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
In our study of the Book of Acts this weekend, we come to two people who couldn't have been more different. Philip was a Jew; the man he met was a Gentile. Philip was a Christian; the man he met was a pagan. Philip was (likely) not wealthy; the man he met was. Philip was white; the man he met was black. What could they possibly have in common? How could they possibly live in peace? Read Acts 8:26-40, pray for the Spirit to teach you how to give grace to every race, and join us online for help and courage to do so.
To receive 250-word devotions on Acts 8:26-40 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
“Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.” Jesus encountered a man who said that. But it could have been any of us. Every one of us has at times felt a disconnect between our faith and our life. In the section of Acts before us today, a man demonstrates that disconnection. He's outside the kingdom of God. Then through the Spirit's gift of faith, he's inside the kingdom of God. But that's when things get interesting. Read about Simon the Sorcerer, Acts 8:9-25, and ask the Spirit to bless his Word to you today.
To receive 250-word devotions on Acts 8:9-25 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
“There was great joy…” What brings you great joy? Throughout this season, perhaps joy has been a challenge to find. Perhaps it, like Charlie Brown's football, seems to always elude you. We could say it is our circumstances, all that is happening, but the words above are written at a time of great displacement and persecution and yet great joy. Today we will see how God crosses cultural boundaries and brings his great joy.
To receive 250-word devotions on Acts 8:4-8 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Who is the greatest baseball player who ever lived? Dimaggio? Robinson? Oliva? Rodrigez? Or substitute for "baseball player" the greatest runner, the greatest author, the greatest president, or whatever your hobby is. Who is the greatest? In the slice of first century history called The Book of Acts, we encounter a man we might call the greatest in many ways. Study Acts 8:1-3 with us this weekend and meet him. Let God speak to you through his Word in our worship services, in the Sunday night Growth Group, and in daily devotions. It won't make any of us the greatest, but we will better appreciate how God works in today's world . . . and in your world.
To receive 250-word devotions on Acts 8:1-3 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.
Have you ever wondered how your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents weathered the hardships of the Great Depression? Their stories of suffering are harrowing to most of us. In our more reflective moments, maybe more likely these days, we might ask, "How would I handle that?" God has an answer for you. He delivers it through his servant Stephen. Find Acts 7:54-60 and join us to receive God’s answer in our online worship. Let Stephen show you how your suffering, whatever it is, will lead to glory.
To receive 250-word devotions on Acts 7:54-60 this week, Monday – Friday,
go to st-andrew-online.org/devotions.