To Everything a Season: Lutheran Reflections Through the Church Year: Recent Episodes
Rev. Bryan King and William Green
A weekly Lutheran devotional series based on readings relevant to the current season of the church year, hosted by William Green and Pastor Bryan King. You can watch this series live on our Youtube page every Wednesday at 7:00pm Eastern Time.
Special guest Rev. Nigel Brown joins us as we continue our discussion on how God works our conversion.
In this final episode on the work and office of Christ, we consider the purpose for which Christ holds these offices.
In this episode, we continue our discussion on the kingly office of Christ, this time highlighting the three kingdoms in which Christ reigns: the kingdoms of power, grace, and glory.
In this third episode on the priestly office of Christ, we discuss Christ's priestly office in the state of exaltation.
In this second episode on the priestly office of Christ, we discuss the fruit of the redemption.
In this second episode on the work and office of Christ, we begin our discussion on the priestly office of Christ.
In this final episode on the state of exaltation, we discuss Christ's session at God's right hand and Christ's return.
As we continue our discussion on the state of exaltation, we now turn our attention to the forty days after Christ's resurrection and His ascension.
As we continue our discussion on the state of exaltation, we now turn our attention to Christ's resurrection.
Now that we have discussed the state of humiliation in detail, we now turn our attention to the state of exaltation.
In this episode, we look at the various stages of the state of humiliation, namely Christ's conception and birth, his life, and suffering and death.
Scripture presents Christ to us both in the state of humiliation and exaltation. In this episode, we begin our discussion on the state of humiliation.
In this special episode featuring friends of Lutheran Reflections, we discuss patristic and Medieval perspectives on the use of instruments in worship, as well as provide a Lutheran evaluation of the church fathers' teachings.
In this episode, we discuss why Jesus needed to be both God and man to atone for our sins.
In this episode, we discuss the manner in which Christ's attributes are communicated. We will explain the Genus Idiomaticum, Genus Apotelesmaticum, and Genus Maiestaticum.
In this episode we continue discussing God's saving grace, this time looking at its attributes.
In this episode, we continue our discussion on sin, this time focusing on the effects of sin on our spiritual condition.
We celebrate the 200th episode of Lutheran Reflections by inviting viewers to join us live on stream for an "ask us anything" session.
In this episode we discuss how God rules all things but never gives His approval to evil thoughts, words, or deeds.
In this episode we look at God's work in the six days of creation and discuss how that is good news for all people.
In this episode we discuss the unity of the Trinity and the Persons of the Trinity; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
In this second episode on the attributes of God, we discuss God's will, righteousness, and goodness.
In this first of two episodes on the attributes of God, we discuss divine simplicity, God's immutability, omniscience, and more.
Continuing our series on the doctrine of God, we discuss the essence of God in tonight's episode.
In this episode we discuss what we can learn about God from the created order and what we learn about God exclusively from His Word.
In this final episode of our series on Scripture, we discuss the purpose and use of the Bible.
In this fourth episode in our series on Scripture, we discuss the divisions of the Bible: both Old and New Testament, and Law and Gospel.
In this third episode of our new series based Edward W. A. Koehler's A Summary of Christian Doctrine, we discuss the attributes of the Bible.
In this second episode of our new series based Edward W. A. Koehler's A Summary of Christian Doctrine, we discuss the Origin and Inspiration of the Bible.
In this first episode of our new series based Edward W. A. Koehler's A Summary of Christian Doctrine, we discuss how Scripture is the sole source and norm of all Christian doctrine.
In this episode we are looking forward to Trinity Sunday and discuss certain aspects of our Triune God.
In tonight's episode we discuss the reason for Jesus life, death, and resurrection. We also discuss the distinction between His being the perfect example, but that is not why He came.
In tonight's episode, Pastor King discusses how God's Wisdom is all around us and fuels our Witness.
In tonight's episode, we discuss how Christ's victory over sin, death and the devil means we are vicariously set free.
In what does true Christian unity consist, and how does this relate to our union with Christ?
Is there a difference between tests and temptations? Does God tempt us? Test us? God helps us through both.
In this episode, we discuss the role of preaching and proclamation in the Lutheran tradition, as well as how preaching is different than teaching.
In this episode, we discuss ordination in the context of the Lutheran tradition, as well as the oaths associated with becoming a pastor.
In this episode, we discuss outreach in our contemporary Lutheran context, and why some of our churches fail to balance doctrinal fidelity and mission.
In this episode, we discuss why Jesus is called both the Lamb and Light. As Revelation 21:23 says, "And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb."
In this episode, we discuss Matthew 16:13-20. What is the Office of the Keys? Do men have the power to forgive sins?
In this episode, we discuss James 2:14-26. Does James's doctrine of justification contradict Paul? In what sense was Abraham "justified by works"?
In this episode, we discuss how Christ's righteousness is imputed to believers, fulfilling the rigorous demands of the law.
In this episode, we discuss that we have a Holy God and that Jesus, the Holy Son of God is our sure and certain hope.
In this episode, we discuss the universality of God's grace in light of the universal guilt brought about by the fall of man.
In this episode, we discuss the themes of evangelism and education through the lens of the Great Commission.
In this episode, we discuss the nature of demons and the devil, as well as how Christ has already won victory over them.
In this episode, we discuss the role of the historical creeds in confessing our beliefs about Christ.
In this episode, we discuss what it means to be "washed in the blood of the Lamb," as Revelation 7:14 says.
In this first episode of our new series, we talk about the need for Christ's atoning sacrifice and the access to God we enjoy on account of Christ's redemptive work.
In our fourth Reformation Day episode, we look at John 8:31-36 where Jesus says, "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Jesus is our great intercessor who died for our salvation and calls us to share that wonderful gift of forgiveness with those in our lives.
In this episode, we look at Mark 10:23-31 where Jesus says, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!”
In this episode, we look at Mark 10:17-22, where a young ruler asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life.
In this episode, we look at Mark 10:2-16 where the Pharisees test Jesus by asking him if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife.
In this episode, we look at Mark 9:38-50, where Jesus rebukes his disciples for attempting to stop a man who was casting out demons in His name.
In this episode, we look at Mark 9:30-37 where Jesus foretells his death and resurrection.
Jesus rescues a boy from demon possession and chides His disciples about their lack of faith.
James gives us a detailed account on what faith looks like - namely it is alive and produces works in God's children. It is impossible to have faith without works.
In this episode, we look at Mark 7:14-23 where Jesus says, "Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?" In saying this, did Jesus intend to abrogate Old Testament dietary restrictions? If what goes into a person cannot defile him, what was the purpose of the Old Testament laws regarding unclean foods?
In this episode, we look at Mark 7:1-13 where Jesus tells the Pharisees, "You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men." How are we able to distinguish between the commandments of God and the traditions of men?
In this episode, we look at John 6:22-35 where Jesus says, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves." What did Jesus mean by this?
In this episode, we look at Genesis 9:8-17 where God makes a covenant with all living things, promising that he will never again destroy all creatures through a flood. What is the significance of covenants in Scripture, and how do the Old Testament covenants ultimately point to the New Covenant?
In this episode, we look at Ephesians 2:11-22, where Paul tells us that the Law no longer separates the Gentiles from Israel.
In this episode, we look at Mark 6:14-29, where Herod kills John the Baptist. In doing so, we discuss how even seemingly small sins can ultimately lead to grave consequences.
In this episode, we look at Mark 6:1-13 where we are told that Jesus "could do no mighty work [in his hometown], except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them." Why was this the case, and what does this say about faith's role in miracles?
In this episode, we look at Mark 5:21-43 where Jesus heals a woman and Jairus's daughter. What do these miracles teach us about the role of faith in the lives of the people that Jesus healed?
In this episode, we look at Mark 4:35-41 where Jesus calms a storm. What can we learn about the faith of the disciples from this narrative, and how can we apply what we learn to our own Christian walk?
Walther concludes his 25 theses on Law and Gospel by asserting that "the Word of God is not rightly divided when the personteaching it does not allow the Gospel to have a general predominance in his teaching." How can we ensure that the Gospel is given predominance when telling others about our faith?
We continue our discussion of Walther's theses on Law and Gospel, tonight considering the thesis that says "the Word of God is not rightly divided when a person’s salvation is made to depend on his association with the visible orthodox Church and when salvation is denied to every person who errs in any article of faith.”
In this episode, we continue our discussion of C.F.W. Walther's theses on Law and Gospel. Is it right to say that we are saved "on account of our faith" or "in view of our faith"? Do we need to be rid of all Sin in order to be saved?
In this episode, we continue our discussion of Walther's theses on Law and Gospel. How can Law and Gospel be confounded, and how can we avoid these errors in our conversations with others?
In this episode, we continue our Walther series by revisiting his theses on Law and Gospel. How are Law and Gospel often confounded? How can we appropriately apply Law and Gospel in our conversations with those that God has placed in our lives?
For the commemoration of C.F.W. Walther, we read a condensed version of a sermon he delivered in 1842 entitled "Our Duty as Priests." What is the Priesthood of All Believers, and what duties do we have as people who have been "consecrated into the ministry" through our baptism?
In this episode, we look at John 15:9–17 where Jesus says, "If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love." Many Christians have taken this to mean that our salvation is earned through obedience to God. How can C. F. W. Walther help us understand these passages using a Law and Gospel distinction?
In this episode, we discuss the story of Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. Does the Holy Spirit speak to people directly today like he did to Philip? Why do Lutherans usually insist on thorough instruction before baptizing adult converts?
This week, we look at John 20:19-31 where Thomas says, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.” How did God use Thomas's doubt to strengthen the faith of His Church? What does this teach us about the relationship between evidence and faith?
This week, we look at Luke 24:36-49, where Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection. How does Jesus respond to his disciples' unbelief, and what are his instructions for them as he prepares for his ascension?
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading for Easter evening, which is Luke 24:13-35. Why didn't the disciples recognize Jesus as he was talking to them? What does their confession say about the state of their faith? Why is it significant that they only recognized Jesus after he broke bread with them?
In this Good Friday episode, we look at Hebrews 4:14 - 5:10, where we are told, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." If Jesus couldn't sin, how was he tempted? Did Jesus really experience every temptation that we do?
In this episode, we look at several prophecies from from Zechariah that were fulfilled during Holy Week, including the Old Testament reading for Palm Sunday, Zechariah 9:9-12. How were these prophecies misunderstood in the New testament era, and what can these misunderstandings teach us about our own tendencies when reading Scripture?
In this episode, we look at Mark 10:32-45 where James and John tell Jesus, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." How does Jesus respond when his disciples ask him for glory or positions of power, and what does this reveal about the disciple's misconceptions of Christ's mission?
In this episode, we discuss both John 3:14-21 and Numbers 21:4-9. How does the bronze serpent made by Moses foreshadow Christ? Did Jesus die for the sins of everyone, or only the elect?
Throughout the season of Lent, our broadcast is moved to Tuesdays at 7:00pm ET to allow us to attend our congregation's midweek services. We will resume our normal Wednesday evening broadcast schedule during Holy Week.
In Mark 8:27-38, Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, however also rebukes Jesus when he predicts his own suffering and death. It seems that Peter knew who the Christ was, but not what he was sent to do. In this episode, we answer what it means to be The Christ, and discuss how Peter's confusion is a mirror of modern day misconceptions about Jesus's identity.
In this year's Ash Wednesday episode, we turn our attention to 2 Corinthians 5:17-6:10, where Paul tells us that "we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us." How can we be ambassadors for Christ, and how can the Church prepare her members for evangelizing?
In this Transfiguration episode, we look at 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:6, where Paul says, "In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." Who is "the god of this world" and how does he blind minds of unbelievers to the Gospel?
Does it matter how we share the Gospel? How do we balance our belief in monergism with the idea that the way we present the Gospel has an impact on whether or not the hearer will be receptive to our message?
In this episode on the Commemoration of the Conversion of St. Paul, we look at Galatians 1:11-24 and discuss an excerpt from Martin Luther's lecture on Galatians.
In this episode, we look at the Old Testament reading for the third Sunday after Epiphany, which is Jonah 3:1-10. How does Jonah's story fit with the Epiphany theme "God revealed to the Gentiles?" Did God change his mind when he "relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them?"
In this episode, we discuss 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, where Paul tells us, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful." Does this mean that we no longer are bound by the moral law? How are we to understand these words in the context of the rest of the chapter?
In this Epiphany episode, we look at Ephesians 3:1–12, where Paul says, "...through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places." Who are these rulers and authorities, and how is God using the church to reveal his wisdom to them? What does this say about the continuity between the physical and spiritual realms?
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading appointed for Christmas day, which is John 1:1-14. Why does the lectionary use this reading for Christmas day instead of one of the birth narratives? What does it mean to say that Jesus is the Word?
In this final Advent sermon series, Pastor Aaron Astley reminds us of the promises that Christ will fulfill when he once again comes to reign as our king.
This week, Pastor Aaron Astley discusses the promise given to Abram in Genesis 12:3, that "in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." Why did God choose to extend this promise to Abram's family, and what does this teach us about our own families?
During this Advent season, we take a break from our usual live discussion and instead broadcast a portion of the midweek service from St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ottawa, Ontario. Join Pastor Aaron Astley as he discusses one of the first prophecies in Scripture: a promise given to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.
As the current church year comes to and end, we look at Mark 13:23-33, where Jesus tells his disciples what signs will accompany his second coming. How should we understand these prophecies, and what should be our response?
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading for Thanksgiving, which is Luke 17:11-19. In this passage, Jesus heals ten lepers, however only one (a Samaritan) returned to Thank him. What does Martin Luther have to say about this passage, and how does it relate to the preceding verses?
In this episode, we look at Matthew 25:14-30, where Jesus tells his disciples the Parable of the Talents. How did the church fathers understand this parable, and what lessons are we meant to glean from it? How can we best use the things that have been entrusted to us to serve our neighbor and the Church?
As the church year starts to wind down, we turn our attention to Christ's second coming. Tonight, we look at 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, where we are told, "then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air." Does this verse teach that there will be a rapture? What does Lutheranism teach about the end times?
In this All Saints Day episode, we look at 1 John 3:1-3. Why does the lectionary assign this reading for All Saints Day? What does it mean to be God's Children, and how is it that "everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure"?
In this year's Reformation Day episode, we look at John 8:31-38, where Jesus says, "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." In what way is this message particularly applicable for Reformation Day? How does our culture understand truth compared to the Biblical understanding?
In this episode, we look at Luke 10:1-9, where Jesus says, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." Who are these laborers in the modern day Church? What instructions does Jesus have for the disciples he sends in this reading, and what can we learn from them?
In this episode, we look at Matthew 22:1-14, where we are told "many are called, but few are chosen." What can this parable teach us about the doctrine of election? What is the significance of the wedding garment in verses 11 and 12, and what does it mean to be "clothed in Christ?"
In our 100th episode, we look at Philippians 3:4-14, where Paul says, "But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ." Like Paul, Martin Luther famously counted his personal righteousness under the law as loss for the sake of Christ. In what ways do we often use religiosity as a kind of "righteousness under the law," and what is true religion according to Scripture?
In this year's Michaelmas episode, we look at Revelation 12:7-12 and discuss how this passage has been misinterpreted in the past. Is this narrative purely allegorical? Does "Michael" symbolize Christ in verse 7? Is this event describing Satan's initial fall from heaven?
When Jesus called Matthew, the Pharisees asked, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" Looking to Jesus as an example, how are Christians supposed to relate to non-believers? How can Christians make a bold confession against sin while not alienating the lost?
In this episode, we look at Romans 14:1-12, where Paul warns us against passing judgement on our brother for matters on which Scripture is silent. When is it right to call our brother to repentance, and what sorts of issues fall under the category of "Christian Liberty?"
The reading for this week is Matthew 18:15-20, where Jesus tells us, "Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." This is one of the passages informs the Lutheran doctrine of the Office of the Keys. What is this office, and to whom is it given?
This episode, we focus on Matthew 16:21-28, where Jesus rebukes Peter saying, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” What warranted such a harsh rebuke, and how are we to understand Jesus's promise that "there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom"?
The Gospel reading for this week is Matthew 16:13-20, where Jesus tells Peter that "on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." What or who is the "Rock" that Jesus is referring to here? What does it mean that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church? We also read an excerpt from Kurt Marquart as we better articulate the Lutheran understanding of the Church.
In recognition of the Commemoration of Johann Gerhard, we discuss one of Gerhard's Sacred Meditations on the The Certainty of our Salvation. What things cause us to doubt our salvation, and how can we turn to Christ to assuage our doubts?
In this episode, we focus on Romans 10:5-17, where Paul tells us that, "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." Throughout Scripture, we see that God uses outward means (the preaching of the Word, baptism, and the Lord's Supper) to communicate his grace to us. How does this Lutheran understanding differ from other Christian denominations, and why is this understanding of the the Means of Grace so important to our theology?
In this episode, we consider Romans 9:1-13, the reading for this coming Sunday in the 3 year lectionary. How does Paul use the term "election" in these verses, and how does that compare with how we typically use the term today? How have these verses been misunderstood by other Christian denominations?
In this episode, we focus on three more parables from Matthew 13:44-52. This includes the Parable of the Hidden Treasure, the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price, and the Parable of the Net.
In this episode, we turn to the church fathers to better understand the Parable of the Weeds in Matthew 13:23-30, 36-43.
In this episode, we focus on the Gospel reading for this Sunday in the 3 year lectionary, which is Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23.
The reading for this episode is Matthew 11:25-30, where Jesus tells us, "my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." We draw insights from Saint Augustine as we discuss how these verses give us comfort in an age where many are weighed down by the heavy burdens of sin and the cares of the world.
The reading for this week is Matthew 10:34-39, where Jesus says, "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." How do we reconcile this with the many verses in the Bible that associate Jesus with peace? In what sense does Jesus "set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law"? We turn to John Chrysostom's commentary on Matthew for insight.
In this episode, we look at Romans 6:12-23 where Paul tells us, "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions." In what sense does sin often have dominion over us? If Christians must still obey the law, how is it that Paul says, "you are not under law but under grace"? We conclude with insights from Phillip Melanchthon on how the law is abrogated in terms of justification, but not obedience.
The focus of this episode is the epistle reading for the 4th Sunday after Pentecost, which is Romans 5:6-15. How is Adam a "type of the one who was to come?" If Christ's death atoned for the sins of the whole world, why are some people still not saved?
Rev. Aaron Astley joins us as we look at the epistle reading for the second Sunday after Pentecost, Romans 4:13-25. We focus most of our discussion on verse 15, which says "For the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression." What law is Paul referring to here? Isn't the law binding for all people of all time? What role does conscience play in this discussion?
In this final episode of our three part series on Jesus's High Priestly Prayer, we focus on what it means for Christians to be "one as Christ and the Father are one." What is the basis for this Christian unity? Is it a common confession of faith, the elimination of denominations, or something else?
We continue our series on John 17, this week looking at verses 6-19, where Jesus prays for his disciples.
In this episode, we begin a three part series centered around John 17:1-26. Why does Jesus pray if he is God? What is the purpose of prayer for us? This and more in tonight's discussion.
In this episode, we discuss Acts 17:16-31 where Paul dialogues with the Stoics and Epicureans. What are these two ancient philosophies, and how do they compare to Christianity?
This week we look at 1 Peter 2:4-10 as we discuss what it means to be a royal priesthood. What is the priesthood of all believers, and what are the implications for the pastoral office?
In this episode, we explore how to navigate our relationship with earthly authorities as we live as exiles in a world that is not our home. 1 Peter 2:13-17 is our primary text as we focus on topics like submission, civil disobedience, and the role of conscience.
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading and the Psalm for Good Shepherd Sunday. Why does Scripture repeatedly use imagery of the Lord as our shepherd? What blessings are promised to us as the Lord's sheep? We turn to insights from Luther as we answer these questions and more.
Does faith entail believing without evidence? Is Christian faith purely intellectual? We answer these questions and more as we look at 1 Peter 1:3-9 and John 20:24-31, the readings for the second Sunday of Easter.
In this Maundy Thursday episode, we return to our regular format as we discuss Matthew 26:17-30 and the Lutheran theology of the Lord's Supper.
In this last episode of our Lenten sermon series, we focus on the significance of the new covenant we have in Christ. We return to our regular format next week.
In this week's sermon, we focus on Peter's famous confession that Jesus is "the Christ, the Son of the living God."
This week, we look at different perspectives on the Atonement and learn how each understanding can be used to teach us to imitate Christ.
The focus of this episode is Luke 5:16, where we learn that Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. If Jesus is God, why did he feel the need to pray? Pastor King answers this question and more in this Lenten sermon.
In this second Lenten devotion, we focus on those notorious words from the devil in Genesis 3:1 - "Did God really say?"
In this first installment of our Lenten devotions, we join Pastor Bryan King for the Ash Wednesday readings and sermon at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ottawa, Ontario.
In this last episode before Lent, we focus on Psalm 51 and discuss how Lutherans should best understand the upcoming penitential season.
In this episode, we focus on the Psalm appointed for Sexagesima Sunday, which is Psalm 84. What role have the Psalms played in the worship life of the historic Church? Why are the Psalms still used in liturgical worship today? All this and more in this week's discussion.
This week, we take a look at both readings for the 5th Wednesday after Epiphany: 1 Corinthians 1:26–31 and Matthew 11:25–30. In both readings, we see why the Body of Believers is sometimes called "The Upside Down Church."
In this episode, we focus on the Gospel reading for the 4th Wednesday after Epiphany, which is Luke 9:57-62. How should we understand Jesus's words here? How does our understanding compare with the interpretations of the early church fathers and reformers? All this and more in this week's episode.
In this episode, we focus on the Gospel reading for the third Sunday after Epiphany, which is Matthew 8:1-13. In this section, we read about how Jesus healed two separate individuals. What do these people have in common, and why do we focus on this reading during Epiphany?
In this episode, we focus on the Epistle reading for the second Sunday after Epiphany, which is Ephesians 5:21-33. In what ways is marriage a reflection of Christ and the Church? What does it mean for wives to submit to their husbands? All this and more in this week's discussion.
In our first episode of the new year, we take a look at Matthew 2:1-18, which is a combination of the readings for Epiphany and the Feast of the Holy Innocents. We discuss themes from both commemorations, with special insight from a sermon of Leo I of Rome.
In our Christmas 2022 episode, we continue our discussion from last week on Luke 1:39-56, this time focusing on the Magnificat.
In our final Advent episode of the season, we take a look at Luke 1:39-56. How should we understand John the Baptist leaping for joy in his mother's womb? Can infants, or even the unborn, have faith? All this and more in tonight's discussion.
In our third Advent episode, we focus on the Old Testament reading for Gaudete Sunday, Isaiah 40:1-8.
In our second Advent episode, Pastor Roberto E. Rojas, Jr. joins us as we discuss Luke 21:25-36.
In this first episode of the new church year, we take a look at the role of Old Testament Messianic prophecies in the context of Advent and discuss their use in the church today. Our primary text is Jeremiah 23:5-8, the Old Testament reading for Advent 1.
As we conclude another church year, we reflect on the epistle reading for Trinity 27, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11. What will happen at Christ's second coming? How do Lutherans understand the "rapture" mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:17? This and more on this week's episode.
Is our salvation contingent upon our willingness to forgive others? If so, how does this fit with the doctrine that we are saved by faith alone? We turn to Martin Luther as we answer these questions and more in our discussion of the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.
These episodes can be viewed live on our YouTube channel every Wednesday at 7:00pm ET.
Also available on Twitch @LutheranReflections.
Readings:
John 5:24-29 (ESV)
Apology of the Augsburg Confession, Article XXIV
Augustine’s Confessions, Book 9
Martin Chemnitz's Examination of the Council of Trent
These episodes can be viewed live on our YouTube channel every Wednesday at 7:00pm ET: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg03R-AhXfdgIlp_3_aVUqA
Also available on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/lutheranreflections
Readings:
Romans 3:19-28 (ESV)
Johann Gerhard, On Justification through Faith -Theological Commonplaces, Chapter 4.
This episode was prerecorded. We will return to our live format on Wednesday, October 26th at 7:00pm ET.
In this special episode, we take a look at the current landscape of moral philosophy in the American Lutheran church. Is there such a thing as a "Lutheran Ethic?" If so, what does it look like, and how can Martin Luther and the other reformers help guide us in this area? All this and more in tonight's episode.
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading for the 17th Sunday after Trinity, which is Luke 14:1-11. Here, Jesus is asked by the Pharisees if it is lawful to heal a man on the Sabbath. How is Jesus's answer to this question commonly misunderstood? What does it mean for us to keep the Sabbath day holy? Answers to these questions and more on tonight's episode.
In honor of the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, we dispel some common misconceptions about angels, discuss their role in creation, and look at several Scripture verses that help us understand how we are to think about them.
In this episode, we discuss the Gospel reading for Trinity 15, which is Matthew 6:24-34. How does a love of money relate to being anxious? What is mammon, and how can it become our master? To answer these questions, we turn to excerpts from one of Martin Luther's sermons on this text.
In this episode, we discuss the origins of the Feast of the Holy Cross and read the Scriptures appointed for the day. We then discuss "The Theology of the Cross" vs. "The Theology of Glory" as explained by Gene Edward Veith.
In this episode, we discuss the Parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke 10:23-37. Is this a teaching of Law, or Gospel? Who is our neighbor? We answer these questions and more as we talk through this popular parable.
In this episode, we celebrate the commemoration of St. Augustine of Hippo, discussing his life, legacy, and perhaps one of his most famous quotes: "our heart is restless until it rests in You."
This week, we look at the Gospel reading for the 11th Sunday after Trinity, which is Luke 18:9-14 (the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector). Why was the Tax Collector justified and not the Pharisee? Is humility a good work? We answer these questions and more as we discuss this text.
In honor of the August 15th celebration of the Feast of Mary, Mother of Our Lord, we discuss the some of the many ways that Lutherans talk about Mary, and how the Lutheran approach differs from other Christian traditions.
What is the difference between a heterodox belief and a heresy? How to heresies from the early church manifest themselves today? We answer these questions and more in this week's continued discussion about false prophets.
We returned to our live broadcast format this week after a 3 week hiatus. You can watch us live on our YouTube channel every Wednesday at 7:00pm ET. Please visit LutheranReflections.org for more information.
In this final episode of the Sharing the Faith series, we conclude with a few more practical tips for sharing your faith with others, using Scripture as our guide. We discuss the importance of speaking truth lovingly, and offer a few resources that can help point others toward Christ.
In the penultimate episode of our Sharing the Faith series, we look at some practical ways of talking about our faith with others that are rooted in Scripture. We discuss how understanding a few key verses gives us a framework for effectively sharing our faith without gimmicks or scripts.
In this installment of our Sharing the Faith series, we discuss the distinction between Law and Gospel, and how this distinction informs the way we share our faith with others.
In this episode, we continue our Sharing the Faith series by discussing the different ways God has revealed himself to his people, and how we can use these different kinds of revelations as we share our faith.
To Everything a Season can be watched live on our YouTube channel every Wednesday at 7:00pm ET. Feel free to ask questions during our live broadcast, or send an email to lutheranreflections@gmail.com
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In this second installment of our Sharing the Faith series, we discuss why we sometimes find it difficult to share our faith with others. We address some of the challenges and opportunities that arise when evangelizing, and lay out different approaches to talking to others about Christianity.
There were some technical issues with this week's live broadcast that caused Will's connection to periodically drop out. We did our best to minimize the disruption, but we thank our listeners for bearing with us through the audio glitches this week!
For our Trinity Sunday episode, we look at the Athanasian Creed, paying special attention to sections that might cause confusion. Will Christians be judged for their deeds? Is it true that those who "have done good shall go into life everlasting; and they that have done evil, into everlasting fire"? What one must believe to be saved? All this and more on this week's episode.
In this Pentecost episode, we take a look at Acts 2:1-21 and discuss what happened when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus's disciples.
In this Ascension Day episode, we discuss some of the Christological implications of Jesus's ascension into heaven using one of St. Augustine's sermons appointed for the day.
We continue our Easter devotions looking at John 16:23-33. We discuss what Jesus means when he says, "Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you."
Our reading for this episode is John 16:16-24, where Jesus tells his disciples "A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me, because I go to the Father." We discuss what Jesus is communicating here, as well as its broader application for all Christians.
This week, we look at John 20:19-31 while discussing the role that visible signs play in the Christian life. Should we look for miracles to validate our faith? Is it right to demand evidence from God in order to believe as Thomas did?
In this episode, we discuss some of the misconceptions associated with Jesus's descent into Hell. Why and when did Jesus descend into Hell? What was he doing there? We answer these questions and more as we look at what Scripture has to say on this important topic.
Editor's note: there were audio issues at the beginning of the live broadcast, so a portion of the live recording has been omitted. To see the full broadcast, please visit our YouTube channel.
In this episode, we conclude our reading of the passion narrative with Christ's death on the cross. We discuss various aspects of the atonement, along with a Good Friday reading from Cyril of Jerusalem.
In this episode, we continue reading the passion narrative, this time focusing on the trial of Jesus before Pilate and Herod. We discuss the Kingship of Christ, and Johann Gerhard's distinction between the Kingdom of Power and Kingdom of Grace.
In this episode, we continue our reading of the passion narrative, this time discussing the Sanhedrin trial of Jesus and the denial of Peter. We also discuss readings from John Chrysostom and Augustine of Hippo on the same topics.
In this episode, we continue our reading of the passion narrative, this time discussing Jesus's prayer in the garden of Gethsemane. We also read an excerpt from John Chrysostom on the same topic, with a focus on understanding the two wills of Jesus, both human and divine.
In this episode, we begin our reading of the events leading up to Jesus's death. We also discuss a reading from Augustine on Christ's example of humility.
In our first Lenten episode, we take a look at Luke 18:31-34 and read an excerpt from Martin Luther on the same topic. In this reading, Luther discusses the relationship between faith and reason, highlighting the difficulty of fully comprehending Biblical teachings before we see them realized.
In tonight's special episode, we join Pastor Bryan King as he leads the Ash Wednesday service at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ottawa, Ontario. We will begin our regularly scheduled Lenten devotions on Wednesday, March 9th at 7:00pm ET.
In our last episode before Lent, we look at the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13 and discuss some of the common pitfalls that can endanger our faith. We close with a reading from Athanasius of Alexandria on the same topic.
In this episode, we discuss the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard as told in Matthew 20:1-16. We conclude with a reading from Martin Luther on the same topic, whose commemoration is celebrated on February 18th.
Rev. Dr. Thomas Korcok joins us for this special Transfiguration episode. We take a look at Matthew 17:1-13 as we discuss the events surrounding the Transfiguration of Christ.
In this episode, we discuss the Confession of St. Peter, which is typically commemorated on January 18th. We begin by reading Matthew 16:13-20 and conclude with a reading from Prosper of Aquitaine.
In our third Epiphany episode, we read about the Wedding at Cana in John 2, as well as discuss one of Martin Luther's house postils on the same subject.
In our second Epiphany episode, we read Matthew 3:13-17 and discuss the Baptism of Jesus. Why was Jesus baptized, and how does this help us understand our own baptism?
In our first Epiphany episode, we take a look at the visit of the Magi in Matthew chapter 2 and discuss who the Magi were, where they came from, and the broader significance of Christ revealed to the gentiles.
In our Christmas episode, we read the narrative of Christ's birth from Luke chapter 2. This is accompanied by Christmas readings from John Chrysostom, Leo 1 of Rome, and Olov Hartman.
In this final Advent episode, we take a look at John 1:19-34, accompanied by other readings from Martin Luther and Gregory I of Rome.
In this episode, we look at the Gospel reading for Gaudete Sunday (Matthew 11:2-11), along with corresponding readings from Martin Luther and Johann Gerhard.
For this first week of Advent, we look at Matthew 21:1-11, along with a reading from Martin Luther and Bernard of Clairvaux.
New outro provided by Peter Steinke. Please support his work at https://www.confessionallutheranmusic.com/
Tonight's readings are from Concordia Publishing House's Treasury of Daily Prayer, readings for November 24th.
Contact us at lutheranreflections@gmail.com.
Watch live on our YouTube page every Wednesday at 7:00PM ET: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg03R-AhXfdgIlp_3_aVUqA
In this episode, we revisit the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew 25, along with a homily from Gregory I of Rome on the same topic.
In this week's episode, we look at Matthew 25:1-13 and a reading from Martin Chemnitz. We discuss what it means to be prepared for death, and the role death plays in the Christian life.
In this episode, we discuss The Feast of All Saints and its surrounding holidays, along with a reading from Bernard of Clairvaux.
View these episodes live on Wednesdays at 7:00pm ET here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg03R-AhXfdgIlp_3_aVUqA
This week's reading comes from For All the Saints: A Prayer Book For and By the Church, volume II, page 1336.