Get the Word: Recent Episodes
Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel
We are part of the Holy Christian Church, made up of all believers everywhere and built on the foundation of Jesus himself.
We believe in the Holy Spirit. He is the advocate, the one who goes alongside of us to encourage us and bless us.
Jesus is our judge. The one who gave his life to save us will award us with the crown of life.
Jesus is in a position of power and glory, and he rules all things for the good of his people, the Church.
As God exalted Jesus again, he proclaimed his victory of sin and death by his resurrection from the dead.
Jesus came to earth to suffer and die for us. He took on the curse of sin and defeated it so that we are healed.
Why did Jesus enter our world in such an amazing way? He had to be fully God and fully human to save us.
We confess that Jesus is the Son of God, special as the one and only Son. He makes us sons and daughters of our heavenly Father.
In a display of his almighty power, God made the whole world from nothing. We trust him to care for us and protect us.
We confess our faith in God as our Father. He calls us to be and remain his children through his Word.
He lives! Because Jesus lives, we offer our lives as living sacrifices to him, ready to share our hope with others.
What God intended for us in the beginning will be true when Jesus comes again. We will live with him in paradise.
He lives! Because Jesus lives, he is the cornerstone on which he builds his Church and directs us to him, the way to life eternal.
Forced to leave home, Jacob needed encouragement. God gave him a dream to assure him of his presence. We know God is with us, too.
Jacob and Rebekah took matters into their hands when Isaac tried to bless Esau. We trust that God’s timing is always correct.
In a state of hunger, Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of soup. As children of God, faith in Christ gives us the most valuable possession we have—eternal life.
God graciously gave twin sons to Isaac and Rebekah. God prophesied that the older (Esau) would serve the younger.
The work of the Holy Spirit is connected to words, specifically to God’s Word. God’s Spirit comes to us when we are in the word.
What does Jesus do as our ascended Lord? He rules over everything for the benefit of all believers, his Church.
Sin, death and shame went to the cross and into Jesus’ tomb. Forgiveness, life and joy came to us when Jesus rose again.
Jesus doesn’t just ask us to love others; he empowers us to do so. We love others because he first loved us.
Our Good Shepherd promises that we are his sheep and that nothing can take us out of his hand. We can trust his promises.
Without Jesus, we are spiritually blind. Jesus’ resurrection replaces our blindness with sight.
Jesus’ resurrection gives us reason to testify to what we believe is true. Jesus is the way to eternal life for every person.
Death carries hurt—it has a sting. But Jesus has defeated death. While death may cause tears, it does not cause dread because Jesus lives!
Before the suffering of Holy Week, Jesus is hailed as the King who came to defeat our enemies.
What many consider trash, we cherish as treasures because we have been given faith to see the eternal value.
God responds to those who object to his grace and those who are enraged by his grace with more grace.
Our path to heaven will never be an easy one. God keeps us on the path to a life with him in eternity.
Jesus took on our enemies without our help. He fought for us both vicariously and victoriously.
We focus on Jesus’ words to Peter and the other disciples, “Satan has asked to sift you all as wheat.”
At Jesus’ transfiguration, the disciples saw him in all his glory. Jesus established a new covenant, a covenant of grace for all people.
In love, God has forgiven all our sins. His love for us leads us to be loving and forgiving to others, letting love cover a multitude of sins.
“Love your enemies.” We don’t find that easy to do, do we? Jesus’ love for us is unconditional, and his love moves us to show love to others.
Who doesn’t have troubles in life? God promises that even in those difficulties his grace and blessings abound.
God’s love doesn’t wait for us to meet him halfway. His love, demonstrated in his sacrifice of his own Son, has no strings attached.
Who did Jesus choose for his disciples? Not the best and the brightest, but simple men whom he prepared to proclaim the gospel.
Isn’t heaven going to be boring? Not when we are in the presence of the God who loves us so much that he died to get us home to him.
The more people like us, the more successful we must be, right? Not necessarily. We preach the forgiveness of sins in Jesus and let God’s Word do its work.
Descriptions of heaven most often include what isn’t in heaven more than what heaven will be like. We look forward to a place that is free from the troubles of this world.
God’s Word cuts straight to the heart. Some reject, while others are led to faith. Only the gospel has the power to heal and save.
We want to be in heaven forever. Jesus reminds his disciples and us how he has prepared our place with him in heaven.
Jesus did something amazing at the wedding in Cana. He miraculously provided the choicest wine and revealed his glory.
Who are you? In our baptisms, God calls us his own sons and daughters, just as he proclaimed when Jesus was baptized.
The Magi were led to Jesus by the light of a star. God wants to lead us and all people to the light of their Savior.
Jesus shared our humanity to break the power of Satan and death. He calls us his brothers and sisters.
Why do we celebrate Christmas every year? The miracle of God becoming one with us to save us proves his love for us.
God kept his promise to send a Savior to the world through a virgin named Mary. Jesus came to save us and he is coming again to lead us home.
Isaiah prophesied good news of great joy for all who are mourning and brokenhearted. We delight in our salvation.
Jesus’ coming will be unexpected. We prepare our hearts by turning away from sin and to our Savior.
God gives the gift of joy, even during our anxiousness. We can be grateful for all his gifts as we await our eternal peace.
How do we overcome the fear of judgment from others? How about from God? Because of Jesus, we joyfully anticipate the day of judgment.
Generosity with our blessings doesn’t come easily. When we remember the riches we have in Jesus, we realize we can be rich toward God.
Will life ever get better? So many things in this life can cause us sorrow or pain. In heaven, life will be perfect.
“Money is the root of all evil.” Money is neither bad nor good. How we view it makes all the difference. Not money, but the love of money is the root of evil. Our riches our found in Jesus.
It is never easy to stand up for what is right when there is pressure to do what is wrong. We live without fear because we know who protects us and is leading us to our eternal home.
The pursuit of better earthly circumstances will never be fulfilled. We find riches and peace in Jesus.
“God helps those who help themselves.” This common idea has a hidden danger—it makes us a part of the good things that happen to us. This truth is appealing to our sinful nature, but we have no power to help ourselves.
Paul knew times of plenty and times of need. He was content in either situation. We have contentment through Jesus.
“This too shall pass” is an expression very similar to “time heals all wounds.” This phrase is not found in the Bible. The Bible does remind us that God gives us blessings even through our difficulties.
James and John angled for positions of honor in God’s kingdom. The pursuit of glory and fame is an empty exercise. We find fulfillment in Christ.
“God won’t give me more than I can handle.” Sounds good, doesn’t it? God does protect us and watch over us but notice how this phrase subtly suggests that we can handle things. God provides our way out.
We are often tempted to think we can be good enough to earn our salvation. God took all the pressure off us by sending Jesus to save us.
The humility of the tax collectors’ prayer for mercy provides an example for us. We humbly pray for God’s blessings.
Jesus’ death and resurrection have prepared for us a life that will last forever. We look ahead to our forever home in heaven.
Hezekiah poured out his heart to God in his prayer for God to spare his life. We pray to our Lord, who holds our lives in his hands.
Jesus’ parable of the lost son is a beautiful reminder of how deeply we are loved and how serious God is about saving us.
Abraham’s boldness is a great example for us. Even though God didn’t spare the cities, he “read between the lines” of Abraham’s prayer.
God calls us his dearly loved people. His love clothes us with a spirit of compassion, kindness, patience and love for each other.
Prayers are powerful and effective. God invites us to pray. The Bible provides numerous examples of powerful prayers. We will look at a few.
Jonah thought some were not worthy of God’s grace. How thankful we are that God’s love is for all people, including us!
God does his work in ways we might not expect. His message, foolishness to some, has brought us wisdom for salvation.
The power of God’s word is on display when Jonah preaches in Nineveh. God’s Word works powerfully today.
Jonah had time to think and to pray inside the big fish. His prayer reminds us that salvation comes from our Lord.
When God called him to preach in Nineveh, Jonah fled. God used a miracle to call Jonah back to him because he has concern for all people.
After Jacob’s death, the brothers still worried. Joseph assures them that God intended everything that happened to work for good. God does the same in our lives.
Joseph displays love and forgiveness to his shocked brothers. God offers us his love through Jesus our Savior.
When Benjamin found the silver cup in with his grain, the brothers thought they were doomed. Joseph had a surprise waiting for them. We fall short of God’s glory, yet God surprises us with his grace.
When his brothers returned, Joseph set them up to see if they had changed. God had changed their hearts–-just as he has changed our hearts.
The famine brings the brothers to Egypt and Joseph’s treatment exposes their guilt. God’s grace removes not only sin, but also guilt and shame.
When the time was right, God brought Joseph to Pharaoh’s palace so that he could preserve God’s promises. God lifts us up when we are in need.
Joseph longed for his freedom from prison, and God gave him ability to interpret dreams to give him hope. God sets us free from sin through Jesus.
Joseph’s roller coaster life takes another turn for the worse as he serves Potiphar and is accused of a crime. Jesus, too, was falsely accused, yet he willingly suffered for us.
Jacob caused trouble in his family by playing favorites. How thankful we are that God shows no favoritism but loves all people!
On Pentecost, Jesus poured out the Holy Spirit on his disciples, just as he promised. The Holy Spirit continues to pour blessings into our lives.
Jesus ascended into heaven but he continues to bless us as we wait for his triumphal return and final victory over evil.
Jesus' story of the rich man and Lazarus reminds us that something incredible is waiting for us in heaven, and his word gives us the faith needed to be there forever.
Just as a branch can do nothing when separated from the vine, so we stay connected to Jesus to receive his blessings.
Just as a branch can do nothing when separated from the vine, so we stay connected to Jesus to receive his blessings.
Sheep need a shepherd. We need our Savior. Jesus laid down his life for us so that we will live.
How serious is Jesus about saving each one of us? How important are we to him? Jesus' parable of the lost sheep reminds us that he came to seek and to save the lost.
Our Savior is the light that illuminates the darkness of sin so that we are drawn to him. He gives us the light of life.
We face the temptation to focus on our life in this world, sometimes at the expense of remembering his gospel invitation. Jesus reminds us to be ready to attend his heavenly banquet.
Jesus offers himself as food that will always satisfy. He is the bread from heaven that leads us to heaven.
We live in a world in which we are told to promote ourselves, to get everything we think we deserve. Jesus reminds us that humility is God’s way to exalt us, just as Jesus humbled himself for us.
He is risen! Jesus' resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith and the sure hope that we, too, will live forever.
Jesus is worshipped as a king on Palm Sunday. We know him as the king who was willing to sacrifice himself so that we will enjoy life forever.
Without faith, no one can see the blessings God has for us in Jesus. Our Savior opens our eyes to see and believe in his saving name.
The Martin Luther College Choir presents a choral concert titled “Piercing the Darkness.” The program includes settings of familiar hymns, as well as selections by choral music composers representing a variety of musical styles.
Jesus reminds Martha, Mary and us that one thing is more important than everything else—the word of God.
Everyone has a deep spiritual thirst. Jesus offers himself as living water that quenches our thirst for forgiveness and eternal life.
God called Abraham and gave him a cluster of promises. Through Abraham and his descendants, the whole world is blessed.
When sin ruined God’s perfect world, he promised a Savior. Jesus battled Satan and he defeated him for us.
Not everyone recognized Jesus as the Messiah, but he revealed himself on the Mount of Transfiguration. Jesus focused on the purpose for which he had come to earth: to save sinners.
Jesus knows what it is like to be lonely. He promises to be present in our lives until we see him face to face in heaven.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Jesus, Matthew 11:28)
Jesus faced stressful situations in his life on earth. When he did, he knew where to turn. He cast all his anxieties on God.
"...and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me." (Psalm 50:15)
God sent Jesus to claim us as his very own people, so that we declare his praises as we let our lights shine.
We are children of God! Each one of us has that privileged status, which makes us heirs of eternal life in heaven.
Jesus’ quiet birth became a spectacle of angels announcing peace to God’s people through the coming of the Messiah.
God provides with a sign for the ages—God himself took on human form. Jesus is “God with us.”
Jesus does not tell us exactly when he is coming, but we know he is. Faith makes us ready for his return.
The prophet Isaiah demonstrates that the coming Messiah will not be the Savior everyone wants but the One we all need.
John the Baptist foretold of Jesus’ first coming. He prepared hearts for Jesus. As we wait for Jesus’ second coming, we ready our hearts to meet him.
When Jesus returns, he will judge the world with righteousness and his kingdom will be established forever.
Patience is a virtue. We don’t like to wait. God promised deliverance from sin through Jesus, and he is coming again to take us to heaven forever.
Jesus could return at any time. He has left us with his powerful word to prepare us for an eternal life with him.
Thanksgiving is a time to pause and worship God for all his blessings and honor the day of rest that our God gives to us.
Jesus had plans during his time on earth, plans to save. As we plan out our time, we trust that God’s purpose and plan is always best.
We reap what we sow. We aren’t living for the moment, but for eternity. We strive to do good to honor God as we wait for heaven.
The apostle Paul went from public enemy #1 for Christians to preaching the very faith he had persecuted. God’s grace is for all people, including us!
Serving the Lord is what we want to do, but life can get in the way. God’s grace changes hearts to help us make him a priority.
God grants another victory for Israel in a unique way. Jael ends the life of the commander of the Canaanite army and secures a period of peace for the people of Israel.
Jesus humbled himself so that he could provide salvation for everybody, even if we consider ourselves nobodies.
Jesus humbled himself when he came to earth and he did it in the most incredible way—he was willing to make himself nothing and die for us on a cross.
“To live is Christ and to die is gain.” What an attitude to emulate! We are blessed to live for Jesus now and live with him forever.
An introduction to the upcoming Wednesday Worship series entitled "True Crimes of the Bible"
“Those who are for us are greater than the those who are against us.” What a comforting truth! Since God is for us, nothing can stand against us.
The leprosy of Naaman gives God an occasion to demonstrate his power and love. By Jesus’ wounds we have been healed.
When we face the trials and troubles of life in this world, remember that God already knows how to use all things for our good.
Elisha raises the woman’s son from the dead, demonstrating again God’s power over death and the joy that Jesus’ resurrection gives us as we look ahead to our own resurrection.
God demonstrates that he supports his prophet when he is defended by bears. God watches over us as he guides us to heaven.
The Bible tells us of only two people who went to heaven without experiencing death: Enoch and Elijah. God assures us that heaven is waiting for each of us.
Elijah thought he was the only believer left, but God demonstrates that his word works powerfully even when we don’t see it.
Though the odds may have been stacked against him from a human perspective, Elijah knows our God is the Lord, the only true God.
When famine strikes Israel, God provides for Elijah in some incredible ways. God continues to meet our needs, too.
God cleared all the obstacles and included Ruth and Boaz in the lineage of Jesus. Each of us is blessed through the Messiah who came to save.
Ruth’s courage led her to Boaz’s fields and Boaz demonstrated his kindness. God’s plans are unfolding in our lives, too.
When a family faced some terrible circumstances, faith kept them going. We trust in a God who is always faithful to his promises.
God’s gracious outpouring of the Spirit on Pentecost continues today. Through word and sacraments, the Holy Spirit showers his gifts on us.
The risen Jesus ascended into to heaven to show his saving work was accomplished. He now rules all things for us as we await his return.
We can’t know what our future holds. But God does. He has given us an eternal future with him in heaven.
We can be paralyzed by what might come next in this world. Our Savior knows what is happening and is preparing us to be home with him in heaven.
Jesus is the resurrection and life. Through faith in him we not only have confidence to face death, but we also know we will live forever.
When we face the difficulties of life, we have one certainty: God is faithful. His mercies and steadfast love will never quit.
A special presentation by Conquerors Through Christ. The armor of God is all based on the work of Jesus: helmet of salvation, belt of truth, etc. Jesus is our sure defense.
Jesus asked that very question of the disciples before he calmed the storm. We have no reason to fear when even the winds and waves obey Jesus.
Our day of evil might involve a temptation that is sharp or very difficult to resist. Dressed in the armor of God, we stand firm.
The tomb is empty! Jesus lives! Jesus’ resurrection assures us that sin is forgiven, and we will also rise from the dead.
What day compares to the day when God’s own Son died? The curtain that separated us from God was torn in two and we are one with God through Jesus.
Jesus sat down with his disciples for the Passover Meal and offered his very body and blood for the removal of sins.
Satan is much more cunning and crafty than we may even realize. There is only one help in our struggle: Our Savior Jesus.
Jesus rides into Jerusalem as King amidst shouts of praise. He entered Jerusalem to suffer and die for all people.
In the midst of mockery, pain, and public shame, Jesus loved. He loved his enemies enough to forgive and he loved a crook enough to promise him paradise. The unfathomable love of God is on full display when Jesus dies on the cross.
Satan loves to put up walls in this world. Those divisions melt away when we see that we are all equally loved by our God.
Luke’s description reminds us that Jesus is the all-powerful Son of God yet humble enough to allow himself to be arrested for the sake of our salvation.
Can you picture it? Rejoicing in heaven when someone comes to faith! We rejoice to be a part of God’s desire that all people be saved.
The only thing greater than Jesus’ desire to avoid the cross was his desire to carry out his Father’s plan to save you. His gut-wrenching prayer in the garden outside of Jerusalem shows us the humility and heart of God’s One and Only Son.
Jesus faced temptation for us, and he never failed. His perfection has been given to us.
Jesus knows what it is like to be betrayed. One of his closest friends, Judas, decided that money was worth more than the Messiah. Sin asks us to make that same trade today.
God provides us with opportunities to lend a hand to those who have needs. Jesus’ love for us opens our eyes to ways we can serve others.
God loves even his enemies. Jesus proved this to be true when he, God in human flesh, wept over the city that was about to reject him and cry for his crucifixion.
God’s forgiveness for us is limitless. When we reflect on our forgiveness in Christ, we build bridges with a willingness to forgive others.
Jesus refused to let anything or anyone stop him from marching to his death so that those who trust in him could find life with God.
Peter, James and John witnessed the glory of Jesus as he was transfigured before them. They testified about his majesty.
The message of Christianity may become more and more unpopular. It happened to Jesus, too. Yet, to whom shall we go? Peter gives the answer: Nowhere else because Jesus is life.
Jesus' heart for people is evident in the way he spoke and the miracles he performed. He raised the widow's son because his heart went out to her.
Say the wrong thing and you can be erased. Post about something others disagree with and you can be banned. Thankfully, God doesn’t cancel us, but our sins.
5,000! Five loaves and two fish! There is nothing God cannot do, and his power is at work in our lives.
Becoming an influencer is the dream job for many. Others try pattern their lives after someone famous. Because we have Jesus, we can put others before ourselves and seek to serve.
God doesn’t need our prayers, yet he wants us to pray. Our prayers demonstrate a trust in him. He promises that our prayers are powerful and effective.
Retweets. Followers. Subscribers. Likes. How much those things have become important in our world! For many, they are defining factors in life. God gives us something so much better: his everlasting love.
Man plans, God laughs. God’s plan for us is always best. When we remember his love, we gladly make our plans saying, “If the Lord wills.”
Words matter. Our tongues can be weapons. Our Savior's kindness and mercy forgives and empowers the way we speak.
Faith without works is dead? What is James saying? Am I saved by grace or by what I do? James reminds us that faith saves and faith works.
James reminds us that while suffering isn’t fun, we can face our trials with joy because we know a crown of joy is waiting for us.
A white Christmas reminds us that Jesus accomplished what he came to do: save us from sin.
We are draped in the righteousness of Jesus. God has declared us not guilty and welcomes us as his children.
We are draped in the righteousness of Jesus. God has declared us not guilty and welcomes us as his children.
When his work was done, John was ready to fade into the background. He wanted to let Jesus be elevated because he is the only Savior.
The word “canceled” is not negative when God tells he has canceled our sins by nailing them to a cross. We are forgiven!
John understood what it meant to be a forerunner. His mission was to point to someone else. John directed people to Jesus.
Our hands and hearts and mouths are stained by sin. Through the blood of Jesus, our sins have been completely washed clean.
Isaiah foretold of the forerunner of Jesus. John came to prepare the way for the Lord. He prepared hearts for Jesus’ coming.
Jesus is coming back. That truth shapes the way we live. We look forward to Jesus’ return and the eternity we will enjoy.
Contentment is an elusive quality. Yet, as redeemed people of God, we have every reason to live contented lives. We give thanks for God’s blessings we have in Jesus.
Despite our sins, God does not abandon us. He has adopted us into his family and calls us his sons and daughters.
Pastor Bilitz answers questions about what the Bible says regarding a particular topic or issue
Almost 2,000 years have passed since Jesus rose from the dead. How do we stay ready for his return? We keep our faith burning through the Word of God.
Jesus is more than just an example. He is our Savior from sin. Yet he also serves as someone we can emulate in the way we live our lives.
We have the confidence to stand firm because God is always with us, and he is stronger than anything we face in this life.
God calls us his to be his own and calls us to represent him in this world. We are salt and light as we point others to Jesus.
We have the confidence to stand firm because God’s word is our solid rock, and that foundation makes us wise for salvation.
God’s special possession. What an amazing thing to have said about us! Since God has chosen us, we live to declare his praises.
We have the confidence to stand firm because our God raises us up and carries us when we are down.
Conforming is a temptation for all Christians. We don’t want to be weird or stand out. God’s transforming power strengthens us to live for him.
We have the confidence to stand firm because our God knows where we are and how to best protect and defend us.
Jesus told us to make disciples of all nations. This Sunday we celebrate the preaching of God's Word around the world.
Sleep! We all need it. We also need rest for our souls. Jesus gives us that peace and rest so that we can sleep easy.
Love fulfills the law. God demonstrated his love for us so that we in turn show love to others, who then see God’s love for them.
What else do we need? God’s grace is showered on us in abundance, every single day. His power is evident in our lives.
While we were still sinners, Jesus died for us! What amazing love! Through Christ, God calls us his sons and daughters!
God is faithful. That means when he leads us to acknowledge our sin, he forgives and purifies us. He sent Jesus to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Even when we want to do good things, evil seems to be lurking. Who can rescue us from the messes we make? Thanks be to God who gave us Jesus.
God’s Word is sweet to our taste because of the promises God makes. Like honey on our lips, we savor the flavor of God’s blessings to us through Jesus.
The culmination of God’s plan of salvation will happen when he gathers all believers and lives with them forever in the perfection of eternity.
Though we fall short of God’s holy requirements, God freely justifies us through faith in Jesus.
Jesus didn’t stay in the grave. His resurrection was proof of his power as the Son of God and proof of our forgiveness of sins.
Jesus came to do his Father’s will: to seek and to save the lost. He went to the cross to pay for our sins and bring us life.
Waiting can be difficult. When the time was right, God sent his Son to this world to be the Savior from sin he had promised.
Isaiah shares a picture repeated by New Testament writers: God will create a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.
Ezekiel’s vison of the resurrection of the dry bones provides encouragement to us that God will raise the dead, including each of us.
God’s justice prevented him from ignoring sin, but instead of punishing those who were guilty, he sent his innocent son to take our place.
God issued David an amazing promise: one of his descendants would rule forever. Our Savior Jesus is the King of kings, and his reign never ends.
With a vivid picture, God demonstrated that blood would save: first the people of Israel from the final plague in Israel, then all people through the true Passover Lamb.
As Jacob blessed his children, Judah received a special blessing: he would be the son whose descendants would lead to the promised Messiah.
God made Abraham the father of the nation through which the Savior would come. Through Abraham and his offspring, all nations are blessed.
God’s perfect world had been ruined, but God’s perfect love declared a promise—a seed of the woman would crush Satan’s head to undo the damage of sin.
When Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, their eyes were opened to know good as something lost and evil as something they experienced.
Adam and Eve were the most special part of God’s creation. Formed from the dust of the ground, they were both made in the image of God, an image being restored in us.
When God created the world, he created it in six days. When everything was finished, God saw what he made and called it very good.
When we experience hopelessness, the abandoned grave of Jesus gives us hope. He has defeated death and given us life forever!
Whatever happens in our lives, whatever evil attack Satan might unleash, God promises to rescue us and bring us safely into his heavenly kingdom. The apostle Paul encourages us to live our lives with confidence, because we know the final result.
Even in our darkest moments, Christ shines his light in our lives. Our darkness is light to him.
When we experience calamity in this life, Jesus comforts us as he walks by our side with his presence and his promises.
While we know that our Redeemer lives, what do we know of his intentions? In a world as chaotic as this one, how do we know if God is really for us?
We know the pain of crushed hopes. Because Jesus lives, our hope is alive as well. When Jesus is our focus, we look ahead to life forever.
What ifs can plague us from time to time. We wonder if what we believe is true. Paul reminds us to be confident that our faith is in the right place.
The LORD is enthroned on the praises of his people: as we praise God for his salvation in Christ, the gospel rings out in every nation and the King reigns over all the earth.
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem, he was fulfilling a prophecy. Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises to us.
God chose us to be his ambassadors, telling of his good deeds so that others hear the message of salvation and come to faith.
God has lavished great love upon us: he calls us his own children! As God’s children, we are all part of the family of believers.
God calls the church the body of Christ and has made us each a part of it. We serve Christ as we use our gifts to work together.
God encourages us to use his financial gifts with an eye on our purpose: to serve as many as possible with the gospel of Jesus.
God’s blessings to us give us openings to be hospitable to others. Our generosity shows both what and who we are about: Christ our Savior.
As his people, God gives us opportunities to serve and love one another. We are privileged to show his love by serving those around us.
We know and believe that Jesus forgives our sins, but why does guilt keep coming back? Guilt is the great wrecking-ball of sin, and it can steal our joy. In Christ, God takes away the guilt of our sin, too.
We are disciples of Jesus, learners who want to grow in God’s Word. That word causes us to crave pure spiritual milk that leads to salvation.
School, work, relationships, money, health, etc. Thinking about any of these things can be stressful. Where can we go with stress when it is stealing our joy? Our hope and consolation, Jesus, who fills our hearts.
Peter witnessed Jesus’ glory on a mountain. When we lose sight of who Jesus us, he reminds us that there is no match for him, the Son of God and our Savior.
We find ourselves bitter about missed opportunities. We hold grudges. Our anger can rob us of joy. Only through Jesus can we let go of anger and forgive others because we have been forgiven.
When the world seems out of control, God reminds us that he is with us. What we see and feel are not greater than what God promises.
Fear is everywhere. We find it easy to fear the future, fear the present and even fear the past. Fear is a big joy stealer. God’s perfect love drives out fear.
Since God is for us, nothing can stand against us. Nothing can undo what Jesus’ love has already accomplished--the saving of our souls.
Comparisons with others can lead to stolen joy. When we long to be like others or wish we were more like someone else, we become dissatisfied with our own lives. Jesus gives us our worth.
Life’s storms can pop up unexpectedly. Because we have Jesus with us, our storms need not capsize our faith. Our Savior brings us calm.
God loves us unconditionally. Because he does, we strive to love others in the same way.
Crosses aren’t easy to bear. Jesus’ cross earned us new life. We willingly serve others because Jesus loved us first.
Jesus became sin for us and gave us his holiness. We have been made new and serve as Christ’s ambassadors.
Jesus took on human flesh to carry out God’s plan of salvation. What a gift God gave to us that first Christmas!
The shepherds were the first to hear about Jesus’ birth. They found the Savior and then spread the word about him.
John the Baptist expected a Savior. He prepared the way. But when he was in prison, he wondered if Jesus was the one or if he should expect someone else. Jesus points to his words and works to show he is the long-expected Savior.
Gabriel appeared to Mary with a birth announcement that would not only change her life, but our lives, too.
When we think about Jesus’ coming, we remember that if God kept a record of sins, we would be in trouble. Instead, we are filled with hope in the unfailing love of God we find in our Savior.
The announcement of John’s birth was met with skepticism. Through the forerunner of the Savior, God prepared the way for Jesus.
Like a bridegroom to his bride, Jesus promises he has prepared a place for us and is coming back to take us to be with him. We hold on to his promises as we await his return.
Everything good we have, every blessing we experience comes from the hand of God. We thank and praise, serve and obey him.
Thanksgiving is not only about attitude, but our grateful hearts will also be demonstrated in the thankful lives that we live.
Nothing happens in this life apart from God’s knowledge. Since God will never leave us, we trust he controls all things for our good.
We stand on God’s promises through faith, worked in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Faith secures the blessings of God’s grace through the Word.
Your identity, your future is all tied together in the resurrection of Jesus. Though our lives are hidden with Christ, Jesus is coming back to take us with him to our heavenly home. Even as we live here, we set our minds on things above.
The word of God is living and active. It is in his word that God reveals himself as our Savior from sin.
Our thoughts can quickly go to the worst-case scenario. We feel afraid about so many things. Jesus redeemed us. God promises to stay with us until we are with him forever. What do we have to fear?!
All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory, but we have been declared not guilty by God’s grace given to us in Jesus.
Loneliness is a present epidemic. In an age when we have the ability to be connected more than ever, people are suffering from feeling alone more than ever. God assures us that we are always connected to him.
The greatest blessing of the truth is that it changes lives by freeing us from sin and death.
We can feel weak. Too weak to stand up against temptation. Too weak to keep the faith. Yet our weaknesses are good when they direct us to one who is strong. We find our strength in the sufficient grace of God.
Truth is permanent, fixed and established by God and his Word. We trust that what God says he does--saves us through Jesus.
God does not treat us as guilty, but as redeemed. He has sent away our sins. Through the shedding of Jesus’ innocent blood, God declares us innocent. We praise him and forget not all his benefits!
Something cannot be both true and untrue. Truth is not subjective. God’s truth is always the truth.
Many today believe that truth is relative, and that absolute truth does not exist. Jesus reminds us that truth is from God and not defined by this world.
There are times we feel unloved. Rejected. Dismissed. While events in our lives can lead to those feelings, this fact remains: Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ.
What God has been in the past 100 years, he promises to be for the future. God is our God from everlasting to everlasting.
God’s Word provided a dose of reality. We are sinners. Yet God saved us. He put our sins on Jesus and gave us Jesus’ holiness. God made us a new creation--his children and heirs of eternal life.
Not every promise we make will be kept. Yet every word that God speaks will be true. He is faithful to all his promises.
Feelings aren’t bad, but they can lead us to wrong conclusions. When we stand on the facts as presented in God’s Word, those facts will become the basis for how we feel. God says “You Are Mine!”
God is most worthy of praise. He is gracious and compassionate and rich in love. We continue to witness God’s blessings at Chapel.
The same God who gave all these commandments sent his Son to obey them perfectly for us. He has compassion on us!
God knows that sin starts in the heart. He wants us to guard our thoughts so that we are not led into sin.
God protects our honor and want us to speak truthfully as we defend the good name of others.
God wants us to recognize that he is the source of great riches in our lives and trust that he will provide all that we need for our lives.
God protects his gift of marriage and sex. When we honor him with our bodies, we experience the blessings he intends.
What love the Father has lavished on us! With Jesus as our foundation and the Spirit blessing us with faith, we are his children and heirs of life.
God blesses us through the representatives he places over us. We honor God when we honor them.
As Christian patriots, we trust the voice of our Heavenly King when he proclaims to us that we are forgiven.
The Bereans are an example for us all—they eagerly heard the word and examined the scriptures daily.
God protects his name when he commands us to use it properly. The way we speak reflects on the God we worship.
Although we often seek fulfillment in other places, God reminds us that he only is worthy of our honor and praise.
The Christian life is not a spectator sport. God calls and equips his people to serve him.
One day with God is better than a thousand elsewhere. God has given and continues to give us his best.
Jesus ascended into heaven, but he promised to come back. We look to him for both present and future blessings.
God’s blessings for us aren’t limited to the future. His presence showers blessings on us right now.
Those who are deeply rooted in the love of Christ want others to know the same love and comfort. God’s love spills over into our love for others, and we want to tell them about our Savior.
God is here. When we let those words ring in our ears and penetrate our hearts, we have nothing to be anxious about.
Through Jesus, what we look forward to gives us peace and joy both now and forever in eternity.
When we remember the riches that God has showered on us through Christ, rooted people use the time, talents and treasures they have been given to respond to God’s grace.
“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We are blessed through our faith in the risen Savior!
With Easter at hand, it's easy to think we have "completed" our journey as Christians. We look at the Road to Emmaus to see what God has to say about this following Christ's death and resurrection.
“Death has been swallowed up in victory... Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The early Christians devoted themselves to the Word and to fellowship with one another. They shared with one another and supported each other. We find strength in connecting with our fellow Christians as we help root each other in faith.
Jesus confidently rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. We have confidence because we know he completed his work to save us.
When the troubles and fears of life make us anxious, Jesus reminds us that we are never alone, because he is always with us.
Our Good Shepherd leads us to green pastures and calm waters. He sustains us and restores our souls.
We find contentment to be quite elusive. With Jesus as our Good Shepherd, we have everything we need.
When our time in this world ends, we have the greatest blessing waiting for us. We will receive the crown of Jesus’ righteousness.
It is easy to forget who we are running with. When we see Jesus’ glory with the disciples, we are encouraged in our race.
Why do we gather together in worship? Why has it been difficult for so many to be away from worship? We find strength in each other and in the word and songs. May God bless us with the opportunity to all be together again soon!
We need endurance and strength to complete the race of life. God gives us his strength so we can overcome any weariness and get to our goal.
The race we are in is all about crossing the finish line and getting the prize. We train our faith so that we reach our goal.
Trees stand up to strong winds when they have deep roots. When the storms of life threaten us, our roots make the difference. When we are rooted in God’s truths, God showers his blessings on us.
The life of a Christian will not be easy. What Jesus was willing to endure for us strengthens us to endure and persevere in our race.
God’s people use whatever position God has given them to serve others in Christ-like love.
When children and parents work together to serve God, they will put others needs before their own.
Our relationships furnish us with a unique opportunity to practice putting someone else first, just as Jesus put us first.
Many kings have come and gone, but only one King has a kingdom that is established forever. We serve the greatest King of all!
God with us. Jesus took on human flesh to serve as our Substitute. We marvel at God’s plan to save us through Jesus.
The light of Jesus breaks through the darkness of sin and unbelief. Jesus’ light shines in our hearts to bring faith and forgiveness through him.
God calls us his children! As his children we are heirs--we stand to inherit riches that are beyond this world.
The spotless and sinless Lamb of God has taken away the sins of the world, including all our sins!
Jesus is eternal, with no beginning and no end. What he was in the past, he will continue to be in the future: our Savior from sin.
Gratitude makes us generous with the gifts God has given. God’s generosity to us inspires our thanksgiving and overflows into our love for others.
“Do everything without complaining” is a tough mandate for everyone. When we remember that we hold the word of life, our complaints turn to praise.
Our greatest reason to be grateful is that we will share in the glory of our Savior Jesus. So we set our hearts on things above.
We will all rise from our graves to live forever with our Lord. That "new normal" will be the best thing ever!
Thankfulness is not a trait that comes naturally to us. Yet when we practice gratitude in our lives, especially remembering our salvation, a grateful heart will grow.
The jealousy of others caused trouble for Daniel, but God shut the mouths of powerful lions to rescue him. Nothing in our lives is too great for God.
Our national election is just days away. Who will win? How will our country respond? As God’s people, we can rest assured—those who are elected are placed in those positions by God.
God watched over Daniel and made him successful in a new regime. Daniel experienced success as God determined, just as we do.
Jesus taught that each kingdom has a God-given purpose, and we should honor each accordingly.
God cannot be mocked. King Belshazzar defied God and God acted. God wants all people to be saved and doesn’t want anything to stand in the way of that desire.
Is there a perfect form of government in this world? Such a task is impossible, because every government is subject to sin and thought up by sinful people. Our imperfect state drives us to the perfect Jesus.
Pastor Robinson talks about his perspective and experience regarding racism in our country and in the church. He encourages us to find strength in our Savior’s love and reflect that love to all people.
As people of God, we have citizenship in two different kingdoms, the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world. Though God rules both, they sometimes clash in our lives.
What God sees when he looks at each person is someone he wants to be in heaven with him. He sent Jesus to accomplish it.
When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were asked to worship a false god, they refused to bow. God spared their lives and demonstrates that he is with his people.
All people have sinned. All people need a Savior. All people have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus.
One of the gifts that God gave to Daniel was dream interpretation. He explained Nebuchadnezzar’s dream which demonstrated the rise and fall of empires. History is God’s story.
Jonah fled from his assignment in Nineveh, not because he was afraid of the Ninevites, but because he was afraid God would save them. God is concerned about every soul.
Daniel’s normal was shattered when he was taken captive to Babylon as a young man. God blessed him in his service to the king.
While Jesus’ family tree was mostly people of Israel, God included others to demonstrate that Jesus died for people of every race.
Our new normal is created for us because Christ took away our sins. When we are in Christ, a new person is created in us that lives to serve our Savior.
Some heroes of faith suffered death; others were miraculously spared. Whatever happens to us in our earthly lives, God watches over us to bring us to our eternal joy.
God cleared the obstacles that stood in the way of the Israelites to bring them back home to Canaan. God guides us home to our place with him in eternity.
Moses had a great life but wasn’t willing to lose what was most important for the sake of comfort. When God allows us to suffer, we look ahead to perfect joy with him.
Moses’ parents hid Moses despite Pharaoh’s edict, because they trusted God. No earthly ruler or edict can undo God’s promises to us.
Joseph was honored by the Egyptians in burial, but he wanted his bones to rest in another place--the land of Canaan, because he trusted God’s promises. Nothing will stop God from raising our bones on the last day.
God made sure his promises were fulfilled in the blessings Isaac and Jacob gave. Despite our unfaithfulness, we rejoice that God remains faithful to the promises he has made to us.
Can you imagine? God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son. And Abraham was willing! His faith clung to God’s faithfulness. We trust God will fulfill every promise he has made, because he sacrificed his only Son.
Old Testament believers looked ahead to a fulfillment of promises they never got to see. We look back on promises that were fulfilled before we were born. Faith embraces God’s love, wrapped in his guarantees.
Abraham believed God when he asked him to move to a new place and promised he and Sarah would have a child in their old age. God gives us faith to believe his promises through his Word.
Noah lived on dry land, and yet when warned of things not seen, prepared for the flood. God’s promises prepare us for an unseen future.
Enoch did not experience death. He lived his faith, and God gave his approval in a very special way. God approves of us through faith in Jesus.
Abel’s faith shined through in the sacrifices he brought to God. His faith still speaks today--to us who are commended righteous by faith.
Many have questioned the reality of a creation in six days. We take God at his Word and trust the truth he presents.
Through the writer to the Hebrews, God describes the essence of faith. We are certain of God’s promises, even when we don’t see.
Jesus ascended to take his place at the right hand of God. He defeated our enemies and gives us reason to live every day with confidence.
Mary heard news that was incredible—she was to give birth to the Hope of Israel, the Messiah. God also blessed her with faith to believe his promise. Our faith is a gift from God to cultivate and cherish.
Samson let his strength get to his head (or his hair!). Yet, when presented the opportunity, he served God and Israel by sacrificing himself. We strive to put God and others before ourselves.
God directed events in the lives of Ruth and Boaz to bring them together. He gave them the added blessing of a child who became an ancestor of Jesus. God directs people into our lives at the right time too.
God directed Noah to build an ark with no water in sight. Noah took on this engineering feat because he trusted God. We trust where God leads our lives.
God was behind Esther’s rise to queen of Persia. He saved his people through her. God directs our lives to give us opportunities to serve him and others.
Jesus traveled a road to Emmaus with two followers. He showed them from the Scriptures why he needed to suffer and revealed himself as risen. Jesus’ vacant tomb provides our salvation!
Jesus’ crucifixion was different in the most amazing way—he was carrying out the will of his Father who sent him to save.
“Love one another as I have loved you.” Jesus’ Maundy Thursday command takes on a new quality when we see what he was willing to suffer for us.
Jesus traveled a road into Jerusalem. He was hailed as a king as the people shouted “Hosanna!”. He rode into the city where he would die for us and rise again to give us life.
Paid in full! Jesus’ words demonstrated that his death was more than just another in a long line of Roman executions. His death paid the price for the sins of the whole world, including yours and mine.
Jesus spoke these words so that scripture would be fulfilled (Psalm 69:21, Psalm 22:15). Even as he was suffering and dying, Jesus was fully aware of his purpose to complete the work of the Father who had sent him.
Jesus experienced the agony of God-forsakenness—the agony of hell—as he hung on the cross. He suffered so that we would never have to experience the pain of being forsaken by God, but instead live with him forever.
Caring about your family while dying on a cross wasn’t unique to Jesus. Others had loved ones, too. Only Jesus’ death on the cross was making a payment for the sins of those he loved—not just his close family, but each of us.
Even as he hung on the cross, the words of Jesus penetrated the heart of a thief hanging next to him. Jesus offered to him the very thing for which he was sacrificing himself—life in paradise with him.
Has your mind ever played the “What if?” game? What if the Bible isn’t true? What if God isn’t real? The Bible assures us that God is everything we need for this life and the life to come.
How many Roman executions included the one being hung on the cross praying for the forgiveness of his executioners? Jesus had come to forgive all people, including his executioners, and us.
Many think that God’s Word is out of touch with reality when it comes to his gift of intimacy. God demonstrates the blessings of using his gift according to his will.
Strength depends on me, right? God demonstrates that we are strongest when we are weak—when we are most dependent on Christ.
God is all-powerful. God is love. Both of those things are true. So why doesn’t he stop all bad things from happening? God’s word provides our answers and those answers are rooted in a cross.
Jesus promises that those who serve others out of love for him will experience the greatness of God's kingdom for eternity.
One sheep goes wayward, one coin goes missing. Jesus uses this profound story to teach us about the value he sees in every single soul, and he encourages us to see them in the same way too.
Because we are forgiven, we can forgive others, turn the other cheek and live at peace with people.
Death is no barrier for God. Death will not hold us, either. Because Jesus lives, we also will live forever with him.
When it was time for Jesus to choose his closest followers, his disciples, he chose them not from the elite of society, but from humble professions. Our status is determined by Jesus and not by the world.
The miraculous catch of fish went against all conventional wisdom. The way God “catches” people for his kingdom is amazing as well.
Complete healing! That’s what God gave to an Aramean commander suffering from leprosy. Through Jesus, we are washed clean and have complete healing from sin.
God demonstrated his power in an obvious way, raining fire from heaven. But the power in the gentle whisper of the gospel changes hearts and lives.
What will the new year hold? Joy and sadness? Triumph and tragedy? Through Jesus we anticipate a year of God’s favor as we display his splendor.
The Savior is born! The good news spreads through the world. Our God reigns! We see his salvation and find comfort in his peace
Almost 700 years before it happened, the Lord prophesied that the Savior would be born of a virgin—a special birth so that Jesus could redeem us.
Could anyone have been more unprepared than Joseph for the way God was bringing the Savior into the world? But in the manger was Jesus, the Savior of all people.
Everlasting joy will crown our heads because when Jesus comes he will display the glory of the Lord and sorrow will be replaced by gladness.
All the trappings of Christmas add an excitement to the season. They can also distract from the real importance of the season. We seek to prepare our hearts for our Savior’s birth.
Jesus, the Root of Jesse, will come again to usher in an eternity of peace. God’s people from all nations will rally to his banner.
We have reasons to be thankful; among them is the fact that Jesus is near. Through him we present our requests to God and have peace.
Our God is a God of the living. Because Jesus rose from the dead, we share in his victory. To God all are alive!
Jesus is coming back. Although we don’t know when, we are prepared for his return through faith. When he comes, we will be with him forever.
When we are hearing the voice of God through his word, we will be encouraged in our prayer life as well. We will work together to practice braiding a wreath of four strands.
Martin Luther sought to make his Bible reading meaningful. He called it “braiding a wreath of four strands.” We will consider this practical way of approaching meditating on God’s Word.
Some Christians have known Jesus from a very early age. Others come to faith later in life. The apostle Paul gives instructions for us to keep our faith.
We know God urges us to read and meditate on his Word, but sometimes it is confusing. We want to give reading the Bible top priority, because in it are the words of eternal life.
Everybody wants to be seen as wise. Yet, the world’s wisdom and God’s wisdom are worlds apart. We are wise through Jesus.
God exchanged our sin for the holiness of Christ. Every impure thought, unkind word and sinful action is forgiven in Christ. We have the status of God’s own children who have an inheritance that is out of this world!
What's your life foundation? Are you jumping from one cause to another, looking for something upon which to build your life? Jesus offers to you a foundation that will never crumble, while all others will.
David Malnes of Praise and Proclaim Ministries will assist in preparing us to be ready to give an answer for the reason for the hope that we have, so that we confidently set out to make Jesus known on campus.
We have the one thing we truly need: Jesus’ love. We are redeemed. What we have is what all people need.
People have a lot of hopes and dreams. Ultimately there is only one hope that matters—our hope in Jesus. The hope that we have brings comfort that we want all people to enjoy.
We live in a world that thrives on outrage. “How could they!” We have nothing to prove, so we strive to let love dictate our actions.
Joining together in prayer with fellow Christians is a blessing. Whether it is a prayer group or praying with a friend there is strength in our prayers together. We will work to grow in our comfort level and confidence to pray with others.
People love to judge others. We jump to conclusions and anger can flare. God knows the heart and we trust his judgment.
What does praying for others look like? How should I pray for my sick relative? What about the person who doesn’t know Jesus? Let’s work together and practice these prayers with the goal of becoming more comfortable talking with God.
I do believe! Help me overcome my unbelief. The father’s plea to Jesus is our plea too. Help us overcome our doubts!
Does prayer really change anything? And if so, what should I be praying for and how should I go about it? Does it matter where I pray? We seek the Bible’s answers to these questions and seek to establish a healthy prayer life.
Trials come, but Jesus never fails. We don’t lose heart because nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus.
When we stay connected to the Savior through his Word, our conversations with God will be enriched. When our hearts are filled with God’s love, we will want others to have what we have.
When things go wrong in our lives, seeds of doubt often come with the troubles. We return to God’s promises and his faithfulness to fulfill them.
Paul reaches Rome and preaches the gospel in the capital city of the Roman Empire. The book of Acts comes full circle as the gospel reaches even more people. We are blessed to believe the truth about our Savior.
On his way to Rome, a storm caused the apostle to be shipwrecked. God saved him again and allowed him to give powerful testimony about God. God promises to be with us through our storms, too.
The apostle Paul’s trials remind us that our faith will face trials, too. As we come to see the blessings from the trials and turn to God’s promises, our faith grows.
Jesus promised Paul he would testify in Rome. When the Jews plotted to kill Paul, God intervened to spare his life. We know nothing can stop God’s will for us.
Paul faced great opposition from his own people, Jews and Romans. His experiences remind us of how our citizenship truly lies with our LORD in heaven.
The apostle Paul was no stranger to persecution, but he knew from where his help came. As the attacks on Christianity multiply in our world, we find comfort in the love of our Savior.
As Paul headed toward Jerusalem, he encouraged the people of Ephesus to remain faithfully engaged in the ministry. As we share the same message today, we remain devoted to the same gospel by the grace of God.
The third mission journey brought new opportunities for the gospel, especially in Ephesus. God demonstrates the worthlessness of idols and the miraculous blessings of the truth.
Christianity was on trial, but God intervened. God gave Paul and he gives us the courage to know that nothing can stop his word. His love endures forever.
In a city entrenched in idolatry, Paul turned the Greeks from their various idols and gods and pointed them to the one true God. Making known the unknown is something we too have the privilege of doing here in Madison!
The mission continues to a new continent and new cities. Exciting and diverse ministry opportunities met Paul in this new place. More importantly, God’s amazing power continued to display itself in all these locations.
Acts 15 presents a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity. How is a person saved? God led the Jerusalem Council to see and proclaim that salvation comes by faith apart from the Law.
Paul and Barnabas encouraged the churches that going through hardships was a necessity in life. But another certainty they could cling to—God would be with them through it all and bring them to an eternal victory.
After spending 40 days with his disciples, the resurrected Jesus ascended to heaven. His work on earth was done, but his work for us continues.
Paul and Barnabas were commissioned to take the gospel to the world. They proclaimed Jesus on Cyprus and Asia Minor.
How can we be certain of our salvation? Our salvation rests, not in what we must do, but what Jesus has already done for us.
Even though we can be hard to love, Jesus knocked down that barrier by dying for us and paying for our sins. We are unconditionally, unbelievably loved by our God!
When you leave campus (temporarily or for good), your life is bound to change. Over time, you are bound to change as a person too! But our greatest comfort as we go through our changing lives is having an unchanging God on our side.
Is there a limit to God’s grace? What about when I suffer? Our Lord assures us that his grace is sufficient and limitless.
Even after Jesus rose, fear filled the hearts of his disciples. Jesus broke their fears by appearing to them and then to Thomas and reassuring them of his love.
Death could not keep it’s hold on Jesus. He broke free from the grave and his resurrection assures us that we are forgiven and we will rise.
The world’s idea of a king and John 19’s description of a king greatly stand at odds with each other. But the king who appears bloody, beaten, and defeated is the greatest king and our greatest treasure.
This unlikely witness got a room ready for a purpose he did not understand. On Maundy Thursday, Jesus used that room to institute the Lord’s Supper.
We find it so easy to compare ourselves to others. When we do, voices in our heads try to convince us we are not good enough, pretty enough, smart enough. God’s voice tells us we are precious, loved, redeemed and beautifully created.
Before Jesus suffered and died for us on the cross, he rode a lowly colt into Jerusalem. This humble procession reminds us of Christ’s work as a whole—he lowered himself and put us first to save us.
Bigger house, better cars—we want great things, but earthly blessings wear out. Jesus reminds us to store up spiritual treasures first—because they will last forever.
Hear the testimony of this man, who saw the grave open up, signifying Jesus' resurrection.
God-pleasing use of monetary blessings is easier when we are saving some for our earthly future. Through Jesus, we know our eternal future is waiting.
Giving off the top does not come naturally to us. The riches we have in Jesus lead us to look at our blessings differently.
When we are patient with others, we are reflecting the love and patience that God has for us and all people.
Gentleness means turning the other cheek. Harsh words destroy relationships. With the gentle spirit of Jesus filling us, we desire to show love to others.
Our part-time jobs while we're in college can be tiresome. Even as we wait, we always have the comfort of Christ.
We have little trouble with kindness for those who are kind to us, but kindness for those who are not is so difficult. In kindness to us, Jesus rescued us from being dead in sin.
Things to do and what's on our lists can distract us from the important things in life. Jesus helps to clear out this noise.
There are many people we may disagree with, whether politically or spiritually. We must share God's Word with them as well.
All sorts of things can come from our phone and break our productivity. Jesus helps us cut through the fog and distraction.
Sometimes we may feel we know better than God. God's foolishness is better than our wisdom.
Job's friends were not the best friends one could have. However, we can learn from their mistakes.
News headlines are all around us. For the many negative headlines we see, we must remember the Good News.
Some take the "Christ" out of Christmas. They don't know what Christ has done for them. God's Word makes it known for them.
Wanting and desiring can lead to jealousy. It can sneak up on us. God's perfect love can lead us to contentment.
Greed can take over our hearts as we see what we could have. However, we don't need greed as we already have it all.
The phrase can be an excuse to let us engage a tiny bit in sin. However, cheat day can be perilous in our spiritual life.
God does not call us to be the prosecution, defense, jury, or judge. He calls us to witness His Word.
While an optimistic saying, the pains we experience in this life are in preparation for this life and eternal life.
God wants us to fear and love him above all things. But the good news is – in doing this, we find our true happiness!
What is Fake News when it comes to the Bible? This is the intro to our theme for the semester.
Keep on Growing - It's what we do in our professional lives, and we must do in our spiritual lives.
Jesus identifies himself as the Bread of Life. Believing in him is eating the food he offers. We are connected to him and he gives us eternal life.
Jesus pauses amid the urgent to show love to the untouchable and unclean. He knows our needs too!
The early Christians chose deacons to support the work of the apostles. Stephen, one of those deacons, shows us what service is all about.
Jesus ascended to heaven because his work on earth was done. Incredible as it seems, his work continues through us, his people, who serve as his witnesses.
Life's problems seem to outnumber the joys we might have in life. God can most surely outnumber
Our lives can feel there's nowhere to turn. Who is there to help us overcome this fear?
As sinful people, we fail often. Thankfully we have the perfectness of God to back us up.
Our human nature is to doubt many thinks. Jesus love and sacrifice can remove all our doubt regarding salvation.
The hands that served by washing feet and serving the Last Supper show the servant heart.
A good shepherd lays down his life for his little sheep. Our Good Shepherd lays down his life for us too.
Our Shepherd takes care of us. It is through Him that our life is as full as it can be.
Jesus' hands, who could create miracles, stop storms, and pray, can also resurrect, as we see in the message for today.
Our good shepherd knows our needs and provides them. We may go astray, but He knows what's best for us.
God wants our entire hearts. Cheerful giving and serving not in our own interest are fruits of this.
How often do you think of Jesus' healing miracles? These same hands that heal us in the past and now also have our eternal future in hand.
We do bad things sometimes, things that we don't want to reveal. But, Jesus invites us into His loving arms.
Jesus predicted his death so his disciples knew what to expect. It is through his death that we have life.
A child completely trusts a parent they love. As Christians, we can share that same love for God.
Troubles in life can depress our thoughts and feelings, making it seem like nothing good happens. Is there good in our lives?
The most common name for our Savior, Jesus is the name most fitting for what he's done for us.
Tests are a big stressor in our lives, along with everything else. How can we relieve stress?
Service to God means being prepared to go against the grain of the world, even at the risk of facing death.
We often don't know when our life will end. God has made it certain what will happen WHEN our life ends.
Freedom is a gift for us to use as we see fit. The freedom of how we live our lives is important for many aspects of it.
It can be easy to lose our faith in the world around us. How can we keep our faith in this culture?
Life is full of many challenges, including college. What about the challenges Jesus went through?
God shows his power over the sun, showing no problem is too difficult for him to overcome.
Forgiving is not always easy, but we can look to God's forgiveness to exemplify it in our lives.
Today's focus on selfie culture is not where we should be, but focusing on what God wants.
The second in the series, looking at the First Petition of the Lord's Prayer and the importance of names.
Find out why the “boring” Athanasian Creed is vital for knowing God and being a Christ-follower. Martin Luther says about the Athanasian Creed: “I doubt whether the New Testament Church has a more important document since the Apostolic Age.”
In spite of the doubt and desertion of his disciples, Jesus never gave up on them. He gave them the gift of the Spirit at Pentecost. Through Peter’s sermon, we are assured that God will never give up on us—and we shouldn’t give up on others.
Through baptism we participate in Christ’s death and resurrection…sin has lost its power over us…we’re energized to live new lives!
On Ascension Day Jesus directed us to: “Go into all the world and preach the good news to everyone!” Learn how to share the good news of Jesus using the brochure: “God’s Great Exchange.”
When a soldier or firefighter go into a dangerous situation, they say "just doing our duty." See what the duty of a servant has to with service to God.
Only Jesus can control you without destroying you. In the end everything else that controls you will destroy you.
As the school year comes to a close, examine God’s calling for you in life. Pray with the psalmist, “Show me the way to go, for to you I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 143:8)
Gentleness is not weakness and cowardice. It’s power under control. It’s God’s still small voice. It’s taking a stand on truth while speaking softly.
God is the ultimate promise keeper. He’s always faithful and true. Explore ways to be faithful to the Faithful One.
Jesus heals a paralyzed man to show he has power to both heal sicknesses and forgive sins. This is a new concept—a concept that sets Christianity apart from all other religions—the unthinkable forgiveness of sins.
It’s easy to think we know better than God’s counter-intuitive Word. It’s easy to place confidence in ourselves rather than God. Jesus reveals he knows better despite our thinking.
How well do you know God? It depends how well you know Jesus. If we know Jesus well we also know about God and the future. That’s good as we face a New Year.
How do you carry out unbending truth and no-strings-attached grace? On this Christmas Day find out from “the God of grace and truth.”
“He [Jesus] came into the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him…” —John 1:10-14
Hear a biblical spin on the 1897 New York Sun editorial that defended the existence of Santa Claus. We rewrite their question: “How dreary would be the world if there is no Jesus Christ?”
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” (Martin Luther King) We need light in this dark world. Hear about the Light of the world.
God uses the insignificant and looked down on to bring hope to this world. He used surprised believers like Moses, Mother Mary, and an Austrian named Joseph Mohr to accomplish great things for him.
Jesus is not just a cute baby in a manger. He is más…more than most think. “He was created from a mother whom He created. He was carried by hands that He formed. He is the Word without whom all human eloquence is mute.” —St. Augustine
Last summer two nuns who worked among the poorest of the poor in Mississippi were murdered. One of the people who received care from them said, “They don’t deserve to die like this, doing God’s work. There’s something wrong with this world."
What’s it like to be a follower of Jesus who goes through war? Hear the story (based on Psalm 25) of a Christ-follower who spent 12 years in the military and did four combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In Acts 4, Peter and John were commanded not to talk about Jesus in public. They said, “We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Nothing has changed for Christ followers. Hear personal testimonies of Jesus from Chapel students.
Strive for perfection; listen to God’s word; agree with one another; live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you (2 Corinthians 13:11). Guest Speaker: Chapel band leader, Steve Soukup
Ever drift from God? So did God’s people at Nehemiah’s time. They forgot their dream of living for the LORD. The only way back to a dream life of hope and happiness is to dedicate yourself to God again.
God has set eternity into our hearts, yet we can’t fathom what God does. So there’s nothing better for us than to be happy and do good while we live. (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12 and the song “Car Radio”).
499 years ago Martin Luther nailed 95 statements to the Wittenberg Church door. It changed the world. Find out why.
What does it mean to be “Lutheran?” Following a humorous sketch, hear students testify that being Lutheran is much more than potlucks and Jell-O…it’s about having a right relationship with Jesus.
To make no promise is to do nothing. God calls us to dream big and make big promises to him. But how do we keep them?
In September 1979, 1,008 pink flamingos appeared on Bascom Hill. In winter, the Statue of Liberty emerged from the ice of Lake Mendota. Everyone was smiling. Hear about the One who overcame a world of gloom and offers all a cheerful heart…for eternity.
We’ve all seen athletes point to heaven when they’ve hit a home run or scored a touchdown, but what about when we lose? What do we do when God keeps saying: “No”?
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” –God (Isaiah 55:8)
To carry out big dreams for God…daily confess your sins and celebrate God’s grace. Crazy? Read Nehemiah 8 and 9.
Trending rock group Twenty One Pilots sing: “All my friends are heathens—take it slow. Wait for them to ask you who you know…”
Ever silenced by intimidation? Ever kept from following the Lord? Where do we find strength to live big for God? Nehemiah will show us the way.
There’s nothing wrong with having fun (and we do) but excess is dangerous for body and soul. The Apostle Paul has an alternative to getting drunk on the sauce: “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).
In his song “Still Fighting It”, rock singer Ben Folds asserts that “It hurts to grow up.” 2 Peter 3:17,18 teaches the most rewarding way to do it.
Jake Blues and his brother Elwood claimed to be “on a mission from God.” They weren’t. They were in a movie. We, however, are on a mission from God! 1 Peter 2:12 gives us our marching orders.
In Holy Communion, God feeds our soul with the real presence of his Son’s broken body and shed blood (Matthew 26); offers us “life to the full” (John 10); and invites us to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34).
John Calvin said: “Scripture is the lens through which Christians view all reality.” Discover how Scripture is also how Christians live out Christ’s reality in their daily lives.
To be blessed and a blessing…God calls us to turn our emotions and desires away from ourselves and always toward him and his will.
Our reputation is our most important legacy—it can be lost in an instant. God’s desire: protect your good name and that of others.
All life is precious to God. Many of us can remember singing “Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.” In this message we see why Life Matters.
What is God’s name? Why did he reveal it to us? What is the proper way to use God’s name? Listen as we consider and proclaim the name that is above every name.
Every good Lutheran has read Luther’s Small Catechism response to God’s 10 Commandments: “We Are To Fear And Love God…” So What Does This Mean?
God intervenes in the lives of Saul and Ananias, and ours. He intervenes with a simple message to go. Come see to what and to whom God is directing us to go. Because Jesus lives we are more than conquerors.
What’s it like to be a Christian serving in the political world? Hear from Wisconsin State Assembly member Jesse Kremer.
A living union with Christ is necessary, without Christ there is nothing. God grafts us into the living vine by grace through faith.
Sincerity in one’s beliefs is not the way to heaven. Good works are not the way to heaven. Jesus is the way to heaven.
Jesus does the humanly impossible and conquers sin, death and Satan. Jesus is our hope and promise of eternal life.
Jesus our Good shepherd rescues us, tends us, heals us, protects us, provides for us! We are safe in his arms!
As shepherds protected their sheep, so Jesus protects us. As shepherds led their sheep to the sheep pen, so Jesus leads us to heaven.
If God is almighty and good, why doesn’t he overrule war and crime…why doesn’t he prevent disaster and disease?
Jesus as Light of the world scatters the darkness of our hearts, provides warmth to our soul, and gives direction to our lives.
“...when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” (Galatians 4)
As we wait for our glorious Lord to return we are to listen his gracious comfort, prepare the way of the Lord, and believe his Word. Jesus will return as a Champion and yet also as a gentle Shepherd.
As we wait for Jesus to come again we need to treasure the special delivery of grace that God gives us and realize that his grace is our only hope!