Sermons from Lord of Lords Lutheran Church: Recent Episodes

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Who is in charge here? You might have asked somebody that question when you were not being served well in a store or restaurant. Who is in charge here? Who is in charge? Is ISIS in charge in Afghanistan now ? Who is in charge of the affairs of our world? Are the terrorists in charge?

The verses before us today indicate that there is somebody in charge. This somebody is called {5} the ruler of the kings of the earth. If we are honest, we have to admit that it often doesn't seem as if there is anybody in charge. This nation does exactly what it wants. That group of people go off and does its own things. Nobody seems connected. Nothing seems coordinated. Who is in charge here? Is there anybody in charge here?

In the first paragraph Jesus is described in three different ways. {5} The firstborn from the dead. We are used to having Jesus called the one risen from the dead. The resurrection was a huge event. Without it we would not be forgiven. We would not have eternal life. Firstborn reminds us of that. In the Old Testament the firstborn was given to the Lord, trusting that the Lord would provide more. Jesus is the firstborn from the dead. More will follow him. We will follow Him. We will rise from the dead because He did.

Jesus is also described as {5} the faithful witness. John loves to call Jesus things like that. It was John who called Jesus the Word at the beginning of His Gospel. Jesus is the Word because He was a perfect communicator of the truth from God. He acknowledged that in the Gospel lesson for today when He told Pilate: "I am the King of Truth." Jesus is the Faithful Witness. He knows the truth about God because He is God. When He tells us what He knows as a firsthand witness, it is the truth. While He was on this earth, He said that He told us what the Father had given Him to tell us.

Jesus is also described as the ruler of the kings of the earth. We don't talk about Him much like that nor do we even think about Him much like that. But remember that is what He is now. He has finished being our Suffering Savior. He has finished being a lowly servant. He is now in charge of all things, and that includes all people and that includes Putin, Biden, and Xi.

John greets us with these words: {4} Grace and peace to you. In other words, "I want you to have grace and peace in your life." And then he tells us where that comes from. {4} From him who is and who was, and who is to come. The only one who could love sinners who don't deserve to be loved, and the only one who could declare peace with sinners who rebel against Him is the Lord who has always been that way and will always be that way. Circumstances and people don't change Him

Grace and peace also come from {4} the seven spirits. Because of an O T reference to seven aspects of the Holy Spirit, we take this to mean the Holy Spirit. God loves us. God wants us to have peace. God the Holy Spirit delivers God's love and the resultant peace into our lives. He does that by bringing those blessings into our lives through God's word and the sacrament.

Grace and peace also come {4} from Jesus Christ. He after all is the firstborn from the dead who exercised God's love toward us and accomplished peace for us by dying on the cross to wipe away our sins and then by rising from the dead victorious over all spiritual enemies. He after all is the faithful witness who has informed us of this grace and peace. And He after all is the ruler of the kings of the earth, who controls the affairs in this world so that grace and peace get dispensed to us. Jesus the Messiah is the Ruler of the Kings of the earth. What a blessing that is for us.

Because Jesus is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth, John writes: {6} "to him be glory and power for ever and ever!" To him be power. It almost sounds as if we are saying, "Because Jesus is like this, He deserves to be given power." But we know He has almighty power already, since He is true God. So, John must just be saying, "May He never lose that power for ever and ever, the power which is rightfully His as the Son of God."

Because Jesus is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth, John writes: "To him be glory for ever and ever!" Jesus deserves our praise forever and ever. We ought to give Him our praise forever and ever.

John then gives us additional reasons to praise Jesus. {5} He has freed us from our sins by his blood. Jesus took our sins on himself. That has freed us from our guilt. He suffered death which we deserved because of our sins because He was wearing our sins. That freed us from death as punishment for sins. He suffered separation from God which we deserve because of our sins. That freed us from the threat of hell as punishment for sins. He destroyed the devil's ability to control us by crushing Satan's head when he died on the cross. That frees us from the control of sin in our lives. Freedom - that's a reason to praise Jesus for ever and ever.

Another reason. {5} "He loves us." What is amazing about this is the object of his love. We are sinful human beings. We don't do what God asks us to do. We do what God asks us not to do. We plan to do the opposite of what God says is good for us. Obviously the Lord Jesus would not feel good about us since we are like that. But yet He loves us. He wants to benefit us. He wants to give us what we need. Even more, He did what was necessary so that we have what we need and are benefited in accordance with our deficiencies. God's love which we don't deserve. A reason for praising Jesus for ever and ever.

Another reason. {6} "He made us to be a kingdom." Since we live in a democracy, we might not relate to being a kingdom, so let's use citizens as our focal point. What is ours because we are citizens of our country? We get the protection of our army and our police force. We get provided for after we retire or if we are unable to provide for ourselves. We have access to educational opportunities. We could go on with the list. What blessings are ours because Jesus made us into a kingdom? The same things. God says He protects our relationship with Him and our earthly existence. He gives our souls the food and water of His word something we couldn't provide for ourselves and food and water for our physical existence as well. He educates us so we know how to live our lives in a way that is best for our souls and our bodies & best for the people around us. "He made us to be a kingdom." Just a reminder. Jesus made us to be a kingdom. Jesus is our King. Another reason to praise Jesus forever and ever.

The last reason John gives. {6} "He made us priests to serve his God and Father." Priests served God in the Old Testament by sacrificing animals to God as reminders of the sacrifice that would be given by the Messiah to pay for our sins and as thank offerings to the Lord. They also served as mediators, going back and forth between the Lord and His people, taking the sins of the people to God and bringing God's blessings back to the people. Jesus is our Mediator, so we don't serve as mediators for each other. Jesus sacrificed Himself to pay for our sins so we don't nor could we act as priests in that capacity. But we can offer ourselves as thank offerings to the Lord for all that He has done for us. All of our daily thoughts, words and actions we offer to God as our attempt to say "thank you" to Him. That is our purpose in life. That gives meaning to our existence. Another reason to praise Jesus forever and ever.

This Jesus who is the firstborn from the dead, the faithful witness, the ruler of the kings of the earth, who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood and made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve God, John says, {7} is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him. How do people respond to comments about Jesus' coming back again? To use a mild description - skeptically. "Christians have been saying for two thousand years that Jesus is coming back again. It hasn't happened yet. Nothing appears to be different from what it has been for the past two thousand years. There is absolutely no reason to think He will come back."

"Jesus is coming back." There is another group which reacts negatively to this kind of comment. {7} Those who pierced Him. They insist that Jesus is not coming back because they don't want him to come back. Those who pierced Him. We probably think first of those who actually put Jesus to death, or those who call out that He be crucified. But let's remember why Jesus was put on the cross. It was because of our sins. Humans beings - all of us - pierced Jesus. Human beings - sinners all of us - don't want Jesus to return to call us to account for our sins, unless we have been led to believe that our sins are gone and we are acceptable to God, covered with Jesus' righteousness. Non-believing human beings try to tell themselves that Jesus is not coming because they don't want Jesus to be coming. And when He does, all these unbelievers will mourn because of Him.

He is coming. Most people are skeptics. But that doesn't change the fact that He is coming. John says, {7} "so shall it be." We are just as confident. Why? Because Jesus said He was coming back. "I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come back to take you to be with me." That's Jesus talking. "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with Him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him." That's Jesus talking. Jesus said it. So shall it be.

Right after John expresses confidence that Jesus will return as promised, the Lord breaks in and says: {8} "I am the Alpha and the Omega, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. They are used in the same way that beginning and end are used. God is steadfast, He doesn't change. He repeats that with the phrase {8} "who is, and who was, and who is to come." God's personal Old Testament Hebrew name was "I am." That is the same as who was and is and is to come. He just exists. What He says is as good as done. His promises are as good as kept. And then he says he is the almighty. "I have the capacity to do all I have said and to keep all I have promised." Forget your doubts about His coming. Look who said He was coming.

When we look at the world around us, it sure doesn't look as if Jesus is the King. Most people are ruling their own lives, Jesus isn't. Actions of nations and groupings of people seem totally out of control, and that often seems to include God's control. Natural disasters and other natural phenomena seem to indicate that nobody is in control.

And yet, the Scripture is very clear. We are His kingdom over which He is the King. And He is the Ruler over the kings of the earth. And He is coming again as judge and then will begin His perfect kingdom which will last forever. And at that point all the skeptics will have to acknowledge that He is king. All the people who pierced him will mourn because He is king. And even we who are believers will get rid of all our doubts that He really is in control. Why? {7} Because then every eye will see Him.

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In the Old Testament Lesson for today we read, "There will be a time of distress such as has not happened We don't know for sure that these words are applying to right now, but it sure feels that way sometimes. God's laws totally disregarded. Basic freedoms being taken away. Economic malaise. Islam taking over in one nation after the next. How do we overcome the distress that comes into our lives from all these causes?

Jude has some advice: "{20} build yourselves up in your most holy faith." Our faith in Jesus as our Savior, our trust that His death washes away our sins, that His perfect life covers us with holiness, and that His resurrection guarantees that we will live forever, is a gift of God. We don't produce it in ourselves. The Holy Spirit gives us that faith and keeps it alive. So, technically we don't build ourselves up in our most holy faith. The Holy Spirit does.

He uses tools to do that. He keeps us trusting that Jesus lived and died and rose for us and increases our trust in Jesus by working in our lives through the Bible and through the Word of God as it is attached to the bread and wine of the Lord's Supper. So, when Jude wrote build yourselves up in your most holy faith, he is telling us to immerse ourselves in the Bible and regularly participate in the Lord's Supper so our faith might be built up. Then we can triumph over the distress in our lives.

More advice from Jude: {20} pray in the Holy Spirit. We might have expected him to write, "pray for the Spirit." Since the Holy Spirit is the One who keeps our faith strong, we would pray that He would continue to do that through Word and Supper. Praying in the Spirit adds two thoughts. Since the Holy Spirit is the One who has given us faith, praying in the Spirit is praying under His influence, that is, from our position as believers in Jesus. Not praying on the basis of thinking we are right with God on our own. Praying in the Spirit would also mean praying under His direction, asking His help to ask for the right things and to take the right direction so that our most holy faith gets built up. Asking His help in triumphing over the distress in our lives.

Sometimes we get really impatient with our present situation with all its distresses. We want Jesus to come back today. Jude reminds us that it is God's mercy which determines when Jesus will return. "{21} You wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life." Jesus loves us. He wants to benefit us. He has compassion on us. He understands the difficulty of our present distress. His mercy will bring us to Himself through death or Judgment Day at the time that is just right for our souls. Believing that makes us able to be triumphant over our present distress.

Since the timing of Jesus' removing us from the present distress is up to Jesus and dependent on His mercy, we just have to wait. While we are waiting, Jude's advice is: {21} Keep yourselves in God's love. We don't deserve God's love. We can't bribe Him to give us His love. We can't do something to earn His love. The only thing we can do to surround ourselves with His love is to keep subjecting ourselves to His Word which keeps reminding us that He loves us and gives us forgiveness, holiness and eternal life. That's why we worship each week, come to Bible study each week, and use the Bible daily. So God can keep reminding us that He loves us. So God can keep His love surrounding us. When that happens, we are able to be triumphant over our present distresses.

You are not the only one who is going to be subject to the present distresses. Everybody else in the world will be subject to the same distresses because they are living in the same world dominated by the same consequences of sin. How are they going to get through it? By doing the same things for themselves which we just discussed: immersing themselves in the Word and by participating in the Supper. How are they going to get through it? Jude reminds us that we can help others get through it.

"{22} Be merciful to those who doubt." Who are the people who doubt? We are. When distress happens, we doubt that we can handle it. We doubt that God is with us, otherwise it wouldn't have happened. We doubt that God loves us, otherwise He wouldn't have let it happen. When someone expresses those thoughts to us, how do we respond? Do we say, "How can you doubt? How can you think like that? You sound like an unbeliever."

Jude's directive is: "{22} Be merciful to those who doubt." Why? Because when we doubt, we need help. We need somebody to listen to us and have a conversation with us. We need somebody who is willing to say, "You know, I have the same doubts. But my faith doesn't make God's truth true and my doubts don't make God's truth false. God's Word is true. God says in His Word, "Jesus is with us always. God loves us. God can give you the strength that you need in your present distress." Be merciful to the doubter. That will help the doubter triumph over the distress.

What are we to do to help others get through the present distress? Jude wrote: "{23} Snatch others from the fire and save them." This group is getting burned with sin. We are to snatch them away from sin and rescue them from the consequences of sin. Again, it is true that the Holy Spirit is the One who leads a person to repent of sin. But He uses people to bring His message of Law and Gospel to other people who are being burned in sin. One group of people God uses is our congregation. Your individual participation in our congregational ministry is used by the Holy Spirit to bring the Law and Gospel to each other and to others. Together through these ministries we apply the Law, trusting that the Holy Spirit will use it to lead the person in the fire of sin to acknowledge his sin. We apply the Gospel, trusting that the Holy Spirit will use it to lead the person in the fire of sin to grasp the forgiveness which Jesus won when He died on the cross. Thus, snatching others from the fire and saving them. We just helped others become triumphant over sin, a cause of distress.

Instead of snatching people from the fire, we have tendency to ignore the fire. "It's none of my business that the student next to me has all the spelling words written on his hand." Instead of snatching people from the fire, we have a tendency to redefine the fire. "Shredding our friends verbally is just the way people interact these days. Nobody really gets hurt." Think of the consequences of not snatching people from the fire. They keep sinning. They don't repent. They divorce themselves from God's family.

What are we to do to help others get through the present distress? {23} to others show mercy, mixed with fear-hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. This is the comparison. We hate, we have an aversion to clothing stained by bodily discharges, especially if the discharges were caused by disease. It is a good aversion. We don't want to become contaminated by the bacteria or the disease. However, we do show mercy and love to the people who have the sickness or whose body produced the discharge.

We show mercy to people. We direct them to Jesus. We want them to repent of their sins and grab a hold of the forgiveness, holiness and eternal life which Jesus won for them. We want that for them because we know we are by nature sinners just as they are. And we know the joy of being triumphant over the control of sin in our lives. But we do it with healthy fear. We fear too much or too close contact with people whose lives are contaminated with sin, because we don't want to get contaminated by getting trapped in their sins.

More advice from Jude: "{25} To the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore." We ought to regularly say, "God has been, is, and always will be(before all ages, now and forevermore) great and good (giving Him glory) by acknowledging His majesty (He is on a whole different level from us), His power (He made everything and can do anything), and authority (He is in charge of everything."

We also ought to regularly say, "God has been, is, and always will be (before all ages, now and forevermore) great and good (giving Him glory) because He is our Savior. He saved us from the guilt of our sins by removing it from us. He saved us from the punishment of death and hell that we deserve because of our sins. He saved us from our lack of qualifications for being in His family by giving us holiness. He saved us to an eternal existence with Him.

Why can God be our Savior? through Jesus Christ our Lord. If Jesus hadn't taken our guilt on Himself, God wouldn't be able to save us from the guilt. If Jesus hadn't suffered death and hell as our Substitute, God wouldn't be able to save us from that punishment. If Jesus hadn't lived a holy life in our place, God wouldn't be able to save us from our lack of holiness. If Jesus hadn't risen from the dead, God wouldn't be able to save us into eternity. We are triumphant because of Jesus.

Jude reminds us of two other things as we give God glory. "{24} To him who is able to keep you from falling." God is the only One who through His Word because of Jesus is able to keep us from falling away from Him and giving in to doubt. God is the only One who through His Word because of Jesus is able to snatch us from the fires of sin. God is the only One who through His Word because of Jesus is able to give us the courage to keep on showing mercy, while at the same time able to give us the wisdom to not become contaminated by sin. Keep your focus on Him who is able to make it possible for you to be triumphant over the causes of distress. We are triumphant because of Jesus.

"{24} To him who is able to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy." God is the only One through His Word who can build up our trust that Jesus lived and died and rose to give us forgiveness, holiness and eternal life. God is the only One who through His Word can keep us knowing that He loves us. So, He is the only One who can present us to Himself with all of our faults gone because of Jesus. He is the only One who can produce in us the great joy of knowing that we are His, now and forever because of Jesus. Keep your focus on Him who is able to make it possible for you to be triumphant over the present distress by reminding you that you are acceptable to Him because of Jesus. We are triumphant because of Jesus.

Prayer: "{24} To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy -- {25} to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore. Amen."

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Sermon Overview: What do you think of when you hear "the day is coming"? When the Lord says through Malachi, "the day is coming," He wants everyone to think of the day of final judgment.

Malachi lived 400 years before Jesus was born, when some of the Jews had come back to live in Judah after their captivity in Babylonia. They rebuilt their lives, their country, the temple & outwardly lined up their lives with some of the laws of Moses.

They had been taken into captivity because they had abandoned the Lord. Had they learned their lesson? In the first three chapters Malachi says people didn't bother to sacrifice to the Lord, they worshiped other gods, and they didn't follow most of God's laws.

Because according to verse 1, they were arrogant. They said, "We are members of God's special nation Israel. We gave up a comfortable life in Babylon to come back here to this deserted land. We deserve everything God could give us. He hasn't blessed us up to the level of what we had before the exile. He has to be satisfied with the level of obedience we are giving Him."

Why didn't they bother to keep the Lord primary? According to verse 1, they were evildoers. They said, "God doesn't seem concerned with the lives of humans. We are no better off than those who are not part of God's special people. Why should we bother to attempt to carry out His will if it doesn't get us anything?

Anybody like that around today? Does anybody today say, "We use our brain and skills to take care of ourselves. We have the good life because we work hard. We get along with others by living the golden rule. We are self - sufficient. We don't need god"? That is the attitude of the arrogant.

Does anybody say, " We know what we want and where we want to go. We will do whatever it takes to get what we want and where we want to go. We don't need an outside source to set a standard of what is proper or improper for us. If something is enjoyable, adds to my comfort, and makes me feel good, there can't be anything wrong with it. If god doesn't agree with that, then god isn't an issue."? That is the attitude of the evildoer.

So Malachi had a message for the people of his day. And, he had a message for the arrogant and ungodly of today. Does he have anything to say to us today? Are we arrogant? We are members of God's family. We give up a lot to be a part of the family. We give up 10% of our income. We give up huge amounts of our time. We expend a lot of effort to be moral people. We deserve any blessings God happens to throw our way. Oops. Maybe Malachi does have something to say to us today.

Are we evildoers? How about when nobody is watching? When you are all by yourself and something goes wrong, do you talk to God or do you call on Him to punish everything and everybody you can think of? When you are all by yourself and there is no family around, do you still have devotions, or do you leave God out of your life when there is no one to teach and be an example for? What do you say about your elected officials when they are not around to hear you? Do you always make use of opportunities to help somebody who is in trouble? What kind of books and magazines and TV shows do you watch when you are all alone? What do you do with the company property when nobody is there to watch over you? What do you say about the person who is not there to defend himself? Does an intense desire to get things overwhelm you? Oops. Maybe Malachi does have something to say to us today.

We are not just surrounded by the arrogant and the evildoers, arrogance and evil is constantly trying to take over in our hearts. If God needed to bring His message through Malachi in 400 BC, and if God needs to bring His message to the arrogant and evildoers today, we must acknowledge that he needs to bring his message to each of us today.

What was the content of the message? {1} "Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and that day that is coming will set them on fire," says the Lord Almighty. "Not a root or a branch will be left to them." That sure sounds like Judgment Day, doesn't it? John the Baptist used the same picture when he said: "Jesus' winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering the wheat into his barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire."

What was the content of the message? The second part of the message is: {2} "But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings." For those who worship the Lord, who believe that He is the source of forgiveness and eternal life, the message that the day is coming is good news and a message filled with blessings. For those who worship the Lord, the day will bring the sun who lights up the way so that we see our way to heaven. The sun who gives the healing of a renewed relationship with God. The sun who gives life by overcoming the darkness of death.

For those who worship the Lord the day will bring the sun of righteousness. The sun who not only is completely and perfectly holy and righteous, but who provided righteousness to people. A righteousness which makes people acceptable to God. A righteousness which provides a healing between us and our God. What do wings have to do with a sun? Wings either refer to the rays coming from the sun, or wings just picks up the picture from rise, rise up like a bird which has wings.

What gets healed when the sun of righteousness arises in one's life? Forgiveness and holiness heal our relationship with God. Forgiveness heals a shredded conscience. Reflected forgiveness and holiness heal relationships with other sinful human beings.

Who is the sun of righteousness which rises with healing in His wings? Jesus of Nazareth. He lights up the way to heaven by showing us that we have been forgiven because He died on the cross. He lights up the way to heaven because He suffered the death & hell which we deserve in order to rescue us from it. He provides us with the holiness which He lived as our Substitute so we can have a relationship with God. With these blessings of forgiveness and righteousness He heals our souls, heals our relationships God, and with others people.

What message does God have for us today? The same message He brought through Malachi. Threats of burning like a furnace, setting on fire the evildoers and the arrogant so that they burn like stubble. Threats of not allowing a root or a branch to be left to them. These are terrifying threats. Does God mean to scare people? Yes. God's threatened punishment against sin is intended to make man afraid of being punished. Terror of conscience, fear of God is the intended product of God's threats.

Sometimes we belittle this part of God's message. We make fun of those early new England Puritan sermons which focused on the terrors of God's wrath. We chuckle about the fire and brimstone preachers. But the threats of God's anger are valid parts of His message. Verse 1 of the text is not intended to make the arrogant and the evildoer feel comfortable.

Have we taken God's threats to heart? Can you say: "I deserve to be burned up in a furnace and set on fire. I deserve to not have anything left to me."? As a sinful human being am I scared of God? Do I transmit God's threats in all their severity? When I am discussing man's status with God do I clearly indicate that humans on their own deserve the furnace and the fire?

What message does God have for us today? The same message He brought through Malachi. A message which says God provides us with light and warmth and righteousness and healing through Jesus Christ. These are unbelievable blessings. Does God mean to be so free with these gifts? Yes. God's offered gifts are intended to attract humans to Himself.

Sometimes we belittle this part of God's message. It sounds impossible. It isn't fair. It takes away from us our own self-importance. The offer of God's blessings is not intended to fit our logic. It just gives blessings.

Have we taken God's blessings to heart? Can you say: "I can see my way to heaven. I have a restored relationship with the Lord. My conscience is healed. My sins are forgiven. I am holy in God's eyes. I am wearing Jesus' holiness. And when the day comes I am going to start experiencing the fullness of holiness and a completely restored relationship with the Lord."?

The day is coming.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, please use that threat to curb our sinfulness and use that comfort for our souls.

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As Jesus was getting toward the end of His ministry, He seemed to talk more about end times and Judgment Day. That makes sense. That's what His disciples would be preparing for once He was gone - His return. The disciples wanted all the help they could get in understanding end times and judgment, so they asked Jesus what kind of things they might be looking for to help them be ready for His second coming.

Jesus answer is the verses before us today. Wars, rumors of wars. Nation rising against nation. Kingdom against kingdom. That's what is going on all around us now. People of every generation would say the same thing when they hear this message from Jesus. That is exactly what Jesus wants people to conclude. If these things are happening, then Jesus could return at any time. The world isn't stable. The nations aren't eternal. Jesus is eternal and He will return. Earthquakes and famines in various places. Same thing. Going on now. Going on in every generation. Jesus could return today. Exactly what Jesus wanted us to conclude.

We want to look at the first sign today. "Watch out that no one deceives you. {6} Many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and will deceive many." Spiritual deception. People claiming to be from God and not being from God. False teaching. That's what was going on in the middle ages. The Roman church taught that you had to add to what Jesus did in order to be saved. Confessing your sins to a priest had become an action that deserved or merited a blessing. Mary had been turned into somebody from whom you could get something in order to make yourself right with God. The papacy didn't claim "I am He, I am God." However, it did claim that its pronouncements were the same as if God Himself were talking.

Then God raised up a Roman priest and an Augustinian monk named Martin Luther. He challenged the teachings of the Christian church. He claimed that many of the teachings were false. He stated that any teaching that diverted people from Christ was antichrist. What was His solution? Scripture alone. Sola Scriptura. If the Bible teaches it, that's what the church ought to teach. If the Bible doesn't teach it, then the church ought not to teach it.

Things haven't changed. People are still coming in the name of Jesus and deceiving many. Many Christian churches have made public doctrinal statements which sound as if . human sexuality is defined and practiced according to the whims of society: homosexuality is OK, same sex marriages are good, and gender fluidity is real. The Bible says homosexuality is a sin, just like theft, lying, and murder are sins, marriage is to be between a male and a female and there are two static genders.

Things haven't changed. People are still coming in the name of Jesus and deceiving many. Did Jesus perform miracles? Some today coming to us in the name of Jesus, individuals in Christian churches, teachers in Lutheran churches try to teach us that Jesus never did any miracles. They teach the apostles embellished the events in Jesus' life so that people would want to follow Him. Jesus is somebody to follow. So, the apostles accomplished a good thing, even though Jesus never really did any miracles. The Bible says Jesus did miracles.

Things haven't changed. People are still coming in the name of Jesus and deceiving many. What did Jesus accomplish with His death? Some today coming to us in the name of Jesus, individuals in Christian churches, teachers in Lutheran churches try to tell us that anyone who teaches that God let punishment fall on Jesus and that Jesus' death rescues us from punishment is wrongly maintaining a focus on a vindictive, judgmental God. The whole idea of Jesus' death on the cross should be abandoned. The Bible says Jesus died to take away my sins, suffered God's punishment so that I wouldn't have to.

Things haven't changed. People are still coming in the name of Jesus and deceiving many. Is the true God Father, Son & Holy Spirit? Some today coming to us in the name of Jesus, individuals in Christian churches, teachers in Lutheran churches try to tell us that this limits God too much. We should be gender inclusive and call God: Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier. That's what is used in some Lutheran baptismal rites. The Bible says God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Sola Scriptura. If the Bible teaches it, that's what the church ought to teach. If the Bible doesn't teach it, then the church ought not to teach it. Martin Luther died in 1546. Today he would have to deal with the same thing inside the church that bears his name as he had to deal with inside the church of which he was a part in 1517. People coming in the name of Jesus and deceiving many. Luther isn't here to do battle. We must continue the battle. The line in the sand still says Sola Scriptura.

Jesus continued. {9} "You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues." This wasn't unexpected. The disciples had seen what Jesus had to undergo. The national religious leaders were all in a turmoil because of Jesus. Those in charge of the temple were in direct conflict with Him. It would make sense that anyone who promoted Jesus as the Messiah, the fulfillment of OT prophecy would receive the same conflict and opposition. The apostles did. They were considered heretics from Judaism, were attacked by their own people and were not allowed to function in the synagogues as they went around the Mediterranean world with the message of Jesus.

The new concept here is that they would also undergo opposition from the government. Up to this point Jesus had not. That would come later when the Sanhedrin would turn Jesus over to Pontius Pilate. {9} "On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them." The Roman authorities were made aware that Christianity was not an approved religion in the empire. Most of the apostles and thousands of others were put on trial. Many lost their lives because they were open about believing that Jesus was the promised Messiah.

Some things don't change. The opposition to Martin Luther's insistence on Scriptural truth came from the same two sources. The main reaction of the religious leaders to Luther was - we have to shut him up. The reaction was not - let's look at what he has written, compare it with the Scriptures and make a conclusion. Their reaction was - Luther is not teaching what the church teaches. Therefore, we must silence him. He was debated by church theologians. He was counseled by cardinals. He was threatened by the Pope. Finally he was thrown out of the church by the Pope. Opposition to the truth came from inside the church.

Then the government got involved. The government needed the Papacy. So, it did what the papacy wanted. The Holy Roman Empire was facing military threats from Islam. A united Europe was needed to defend itself from the invasion by Islam. The government didn't need somebody like Luther causing religious dissension, This would probably limit the number of fighting men, supplies and arsenals available to the Holy Roman Empire. So, the government called Luther to account and told him he had to stop his preaching, teaching and writing. Opposition to the truth came from the world power of the day.

Some things don't change. Where does opposition to the truth come from today? Same two sources. Religious leaders. If you listen to or read the pronouncements of the leaders of world Christianity, you would think Christianity is about providing people with a decent standard of living, making sure people are not discriminated against, and making sure everybody feels good about themselves no matter what they believe. If confessional Christians insist that Jesus is the only way to be right with God, if Bible believing Christians insist that Jesus died to wash away our sins, lived in our place to cover us with His righteousness, and rose from the dead so that we might have eternal life, the religious leadership of the Christian world is highly embarrassed and apologizes publicly for the lack of tolerance displayed by some Christians. Opposition to the truth comes from inside the church.

Some things don't change. Christianity is illegal in many countries. Islamic governments kill Christians all over the world all the time today. Interesting we are not told about that much. Stating Christian truth has become illegal in many countries. Lutheran pastors in the state churches in Europe are removed from their offices by the government if they insist on Biblical truths. Christian pastors in Canada are subject to fine and imprisonment if they say anything that violates the toleration laws in that country. Based on the way anti-discrimination policy in our country in going, we are next. Just as Jesus said. Opposition to the truth coming from government.

Don't skip over Jesus' promise. {11} Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit." Jesus kept His promise. The apostles gave powerful testimony about Jesus. Jesus kept His promise. Luther said: "Unless I am convinced by the Word of God, that what I am teaching is wrong. I will not take it back. Here I stand. God help me."

The Lord Jesus will give us the right words too. He will help us say: "God loved us humans so much that he had God the Son take on Himself our humanity. Jesus loved us so much that He lived and never sinned so he could cover us with His righteousness, died to wash away our sins, and rose so He could give us eternal life. It is because of God's grace that we have eternal life." Luther had another two word Latin phrase for that. Sola Gratia.

Why can we be so confident that the Lord will keep His promises. Because God has given us another gift. We lean on Jesus for forgiveness. We lean on Jesus for holiness. We lean on Jesus for eternal life. We lean on Jesus for supplying us with everything else in life. We grab a hold of our salvation by faith. We live our lives trusting in the Lord's presence and promises - by faith. We are saved by faith alone. We live by faith alone. As the world continues to oppose God's truth, by faith alone we will speak the right words because we know our God keeps His promises. Luther had another two word Latin phrase for that. Sola Fide.

Some things don't change. False teachers continue to deceive. The world continues to oppose. Some other things don't change either. Sola Scriptura. Sola Gratia. Sola fide. One more thing doesn't change. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.

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Jesus was headed toward Jerusalem for the last time. Coming shortly: Palm Sunday, Passover, the upper room and Good Friday. He knew he was about to die for the sins of the world.

On his way he came into contact with a blind man outside Jericho. This blind man was doing what all blind people did back then. He was begging so that he could eat. In order to get the most bang for his buck he was stationed at a busy part of a well-traveled road, so that he would come into contact with as many people as possible.

Because of his contact with many people, this blind man was up on all the news and events which were taking place in his vicinity and country. In addition to hearing all the trivial news, however, he had for the last three years heard reports about Jesus of Nazareth. He had been told that this Jesus of Nazareth healed the sick, threw out devils, made the deaf hear, the mute speak and the blind see. He was even able to raise the dead. Bartimaeus knew all this.

This knowledge had convinced him of something else. As a Jew who knew his Old Testament, he knew that only God or one of God's prophets could do these things. He also knew that the prophets of the Old Testament had said that the promised Savior would be able to do these things as proof that He was God. From all that Bartimaeus had heard about this Jesus of Nazareth, he was firmly convinced that this was the promised Savior. This became evident when he addressed Jesus with the technical term reserved for the Messiah, {47} "Jesus, Son of David."

Bartimaeus knowledge that Jesus was the promised Savior, and thus God, was not without effect on him. He trusted that Jesus would and could do something for him. His words, {47} "Have mercy on me," certainly aren't conditional. He was throwing himself completely on the loving kindness and compassion of Christ, trusting that He would react.

As people living in a sinful world, we also have needs. They might not be as serious as the need of Bartimaeus. Then again, they might be. Think about your prayers to the LORD each day. Many of them are probably requesting help with physical needs: "Give us this day our daily bread," or spiritual needs, "Your kingdom come."

But we have knowledge about Jesus as Bartimaeus did. In fact, we have more knowledge. He just knew what he heard from people. We have the written record of eyewitnesses whom the Holy Spirit led to write an account of Jesus' life which is without mistakes. From these written records we learn of Jesus' power as did Bartimaeus.

But we don't have to draw the conclusion that Jesus is the Savior from his miracles. We also observe through the eyes of the apostles the completion of God's plan for our salvation. We can watch Jesus as he suffered and died to wipe way the sins of the world. We can watch as he rose from the dead to prove that God had accepted his sacrifice for our sins. We can watch as He ascended into heaven to rule over all things for us.

So, our attitude can be the same as that of Bartimaeus.

Prayer: LORD Jesus, I am throwing myself completely at You, trusting that You can and will respond to my needs.

Since Bartimaeus had knowledge of what Jesus could do, and since he also was convinced that this was the promised Savior, his method of approach to the Savior's protective power deserves mention. He did not quietly ask someone to please go to Jesus to ask him to come over to see him. Nor did he decide that he was too unimportant an individual for this Jesus of Nazareth to be concerned about. No. When he heard that it was Jesus, he began shouting and yelling at the top of his lungs to call Jesus' attention to his need. What boldness this man used!

But then he ran into some difficulties. Some of the many people in the group which was traveling to Jerusalem to the Passover along with Jesus told Bartimaeus to be quiet. Maybe they thought that Jesus was too important to be bothered by a beggar. Or, maybe that Jesus was too busy heading for Jerusalem and the Passover to be stopped at this time. In any case, they provided a definite obstacle for Bartimaeus and his desire to get into personal contact with Jesus. Notice what effect it had on him. {48} "he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" His actions said, "I don't care what you people say. I want to speak with Jesus. I don't care what is getting in the way of this wonderful opportunity. I am not going to let any hindrances stop me."

Next, notice that Bartimaeus was not afraid to become very specific. {51} "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. Bartimaeus didn't fumble around, muttering, "Well, Lord, I needed Your help, so I thought I might see what You might do. Or, "Lord, You can see what I need without my explaining." No. {51} The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see."

Our approach to Jesus and his protective power can be exactly the same. When we have a physical or spiritual need, we can use the same boldness. Really? How can a sinner like me, who deserves to go to hell because of my sins, approach a holy God with boldness? Because Jesus has washed away my sins and covered me with the holiness which he lived as my substitute. Quoting Paul (Ephesians 3:12) In Christ and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. Because of Jesus "we can with all boldness and confidence ask him for things as dear children ask their dear Father," to quote Martin Luther.

We might run into obstacles as Bartimaeus did. His were external. Ours are internal.

Obstacle 1: Indifference. Just do it! Or as James (4:2) wrote in his letter: You do not have because you do not ask God.

Obstacle 2: "I am too insignificant." Jesus' answer (Matthew 6) is: {26} Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? {28} See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. {29} Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. {30} If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you.

Obstacle 3: Unbelief. James' (1) comment: {6} But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts {7} should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.

We can be as specific as Bartimaeus was. When a particular sin is bothering us, be specific. "Jesus, You died to forgive this particular sin of mine. You have to help me fight against it and win." When doubts arise, be specific: "Jesus, You lived to cover me with Your holiness. You rose from the dead so that I will live forever. Keep reminding me of those things." If you are having a difficult pregnancy, be specific. "Jesus, I need You to keep me and my baby healthy." If you just had an operation, be specific. "Jesus, I need You to help my body recuperate." When you lose your job, be specific: "Jesus, give me direction on where to look for a new one."

Prayer: LORD Jesus, please help me to confidently overcome all obstacles as I bring my specific needs to You.

What was the response to Bartimaeus' attitude and approach? {49} Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." Jesus wasn't too important for this. He also wasn't too busy.

The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." {52} "Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight. Obviously Jesus has the power to handle our needs.

There was another response to this incident: {52} Immediately Bartimaeus followed Jesus along the road. We don't know this for sure. However, it sounds as if he became a disciple of Jesus. Maybe he followed Jesus to Jerusalem. Maybe he observed Jesus finish his work for us by dying on the cross and rising again.

Jesus' response to our attitude and approach are the same. He hears and responds. We have his Word on it.

• Matthew 7:7: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."John 15:16: "Whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."
• 1 John 5:14: "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us."
• Psalm 50:15: "Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."

Those are nice promises. But sometimes God doesn't give us what we ask for. True. But St. Paul reminds us that sometimes God says "No," because he wants to give us something else. Instead of rescue for which he asked, Paul got strength and God got the praise. Sometimes "No" is better for us than "Yes."

Our response to Jesus should mimic Bartimaeus. Knowing Jesus has the power to fill our needs, and knowing that his love motivates him to respond to our needs, leads us to follow Jesus. We follow Jesus when we trust that he will handle our needs, are bold in presenting them, are willing to overcome obstacles to our approach to him, and are specific when we approach him.

Prayer: LORD Jesus, thank You for allowing us not to be blind like Bartimaeus. Thank You also for teaching us from Bartimaeus' blindness to trust Your protective power and to approach You with all our needs.

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James and John asked Jesus, {35} "We want you to do for us whatever we ask." Typical human selfish request. As a sinful selfish human being I am only interested in myself. I want things because I believe they will satisfy my desires. That's what James and John were asking for here.

Their request was, {37} "We want to be #2 and #3 in your glory." They probably meant they wanted to be #2 and #3 when Jesus started to fully display His power in an earthly kingdom. They probably didn't mean they wanted to be #2 and #3 after Judgment Day. But either meaning comes to the same thing: it was a selfish request which concerned only their own interests.

Jesus answer was, {42} "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them." Jesus was saying, "I know where your request is coming from. You are used to observing people act this way and make requests like this. That is the way of the world."

The rest of Jesus' answer was, {43} "Not so with you. Instead whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all." God's primary command to us is "Love." Love is doing things to benefit others. Jesus is saying the same thing here. The way to be a disciple is to love by benefiting. The only way you benefit somebody else is to serve that person, to take care of that person's needs.

Then Jesus pointed to Himself as the best example of serving. He said, {45} "for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve." Jesus served. He served by teaching us the truth about ourselves & about God. He served us by teaching us that we are sinful and in need of forgiveness and eternal life. He served us by teaching us that the Lord is gracious, loving and gives eternal life. He served some people by performing miracles to take away their physical maladies.

Jesus said, {45} "The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many;." He served us by suffering the physical death and separation from God which we deserve because of our sin, so we don't have to be threatened by that punishment. He served us by living the holy life God demanded from us, so He could cover us with His holiness and make us acceptable to God. He served us by rising from the dead to give us eternal life with the Lord, a life not subject to death or decay.

Do we want to be #2 & #3 in Jesus' kingdom? Jesus says to us the same thing He said to James & John. "If you want to be great, be a slave." We have four basic areas in which we are given the chance to practice our slavery. Home. Congregation. Work. With friends. What makes you feel most like a slave at home? Repetitive tasks. Things you have to do over and over again. Make meals. You just get done. You have to do it again. Keep the car running. You do this. Then you have to do that. Then another thing. You become a slave to it. Why are you willing to be such a slave? Because your family is being served with food and with a method of transportation. Jesus is our example. How repetitive it must have seemed to Him to keep teaching the disciples the same thing over and over again when they didn't seem to catch on. Our actions point to Jesus.

What makes you feel like a slave in our congregation? Taking your turn cleaning the church, washing other people's toilets. Yuk. Why are you willing to be such a slave? Because we want to provide a clean place to which we can bring people to introduce them to Jesus or to keep them in touch with Jesus. Jesus is our example. He was willing to crawl around on the floor and wash His disciples' dirty feet. Yuk. Our actions point to Jesus.

What makes you feel like a slave in your professional life? Doing all the things that aren't really part of your job description but which others seem to love to dump on you. Why do you tolerate that to a certain extent? Because you want to help people to recognize that love means being willing to have yourself taken advantage of if it helps somebody else. Jesus is our example. Our actions point to Jesus.

What makes you feel like a slave in our contacts with your friends? Being used by them without getting anything back. They know you are a computer expert, so they are taking huge amounts of time, getting help from you and picking your brain. They know you are good at fixing things, so whenever something gets broken, they bring it over. It gets a bit much. Why do you keep doing most of those things? Because you want them to know that love has no strings attached. Jesus is our example. He loved us even though we don't deserve it. Our actions point to Jesus.

Jesus tried to point out to James and John that their request involved more than what they probably had thought of. {38} "You don't know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?" Here the symbolism is: the cup is filled with beating, torture, ridicule, sufferings, crucifixion and death. That is the cup Jesus was going to drink. That is the baptism Jesus was going to be baptized with.

Jesus was trying to tell them if they were going to be #2 and #3 in his kingdom, they would have to go through the same things He had to go through. Were they willing to be abused in the same way that Jesus was about to be abused? {39} "We can," they answered.

Jesus told them, "You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with." It happened. James was martyred. John was exiled. So, they would receive the same treatment which Jesus received.

They had wanted to be #2 & #3. Were they still wanting that now that they knew what it meant? Did they still want it even though it meant they would be the recipients of abuse? Did they still want it now that they knew it didn't mean being in a lofty position of leadership and power? If you want to be great, Jesus was telling them, you must be aware that it will mean you will receive abuse.

Do we want to be great? If so, are we willing to be put into a position in which you will receive abuse? Let's go back to the examples which I cited before. How does the meal maker become the subject of abuse? Well, what if there is no meal for the family? Who takes the abuse? The one who always serves the rest of the family by providing the meals. Is that right? No. Somebody else could just as well have made the meal when it became obvious that the person who usually does it wasn't able to do it. But instead the one who serves is made to verbally suffer. Who gets the grief if no car is available for the transportation of the family? The one who serves by seeing to it that the car is running? Is that right? No. Somebody else could just as well have taken care of the upkeep of the car when it became obvious that the person who usually does it wasn't available. But instead the one who serves is made to verbally suffer. Why do we do that? Jesus is our example. He suffered tremendous abuse as He was accomplishing our salvation. Our actions point to Jesus.

How does the church cleaner become the object of abuse? Did you ever notice that everybody is a critic? Somebody is going to find something that you missed. And they might point it out. Is that right? No. The critic could just as easily have brushed down the cobweb instead of pointing it out. The critic could have taken the broom and swept the outside mat instead of complaining about it. Why are we willing to suffer abuse? Jesus is our example. He suffered tremendous abuse as He accomplished our salvation. Our actions point to Jesus.

How does the willing worker suffer abuse at work? When all the things that have been dumped on you make it impossible to get everything finished on time, who gets attacked? You do. "What happened to you? You always used to get your work done. Getting old? Not as swift as you used to be?" What happens when you say "No" to someone because you know that you are overloaded? You get attacked. "What do you mean you can't do this. You did something similar for somebody else a little while ago." Why do we allow ourselves to be subject to such abuse? Jesus is our example. "Come down from the cross they yelled at Him. You used to be able to do miracles. What happened now?" Our actions point to Jesus.

How does the friend suffer abuse? Did you ever try to tell the one picking your brain that it was time for you to interact with your family? Did you ever not get to what somebody gave you to fix? Who gets attacked? You. Why do we subject ourselves to such abuse by serving others? Because Jesus is our example. Our actions point to Jesus.

If people don't catch on that you are willing to receive abuse and willing to serve because you are following Jesus' example, and they ask you why you are doing that, then tell them. You are doing it to thank Jesus for giving you forgiveness and righteousness and eternal life. You are serving because you have been served.

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Sermon Overview: The young man asked: "What must I do?" The disciples asked: "Who can be saved?" Jesus answered: "All things are possible."

There are several commendable things about the man in the verses which are before us today. Tell me one. He wanted to have eternal life. He was concerned about his relationship with God. Many people in his day as well as in ours have no concern about their relationship with God and eternity. He did.

Second. He went to Jesus to seek an answer to his question. {17} "Good teacher," he asked. {18} Jesus' answer: "Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone," means this man did not believe Jesus was God. In spite of that it was a positive step for him to go to Jesus.

Since the man had asked what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus quoted from the law of God, the commandments which this man knew very well. If you want to do something to earn eternal life, you have to do what God demands. And God demands that we do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud. He also demands that we honor our fathers and mothers. "Keep the commandments," Jesus said, " and you will gain eternal life."

The man's superficial view of the demands of God's law comes out in his answer to Jesus. {20} "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy." He honestly could say looking back at his life that he hadn't ever taken anybody else's life, hadn't ever had a sexual relationship with somebody to whom he was not married, hadn't taken anything which didn't belong to him, hadn't lied in a courtroom under oath, hadn't earned his money with deceptive business practices, and hadn't publicly dishonored his parents. If that was all God demanded to inherit eternal life, he had done it all.

There are two ways in which we would want to follow this man. What is one? We need to have the same concern about our relationship with God and about eternity which this man had. Is that easy? That is not such an easy thing to maintain today when the society in which we live is so totally wrapped up in itself that spiritual matters, like a relationship with God and eternity, are hardly considered at all. We must constantly ask the Lord to keep us tuned in to Him and eternity, otherwise we will surely be swallowed up by the "Live life for today" attitude that is so prevalent around us.

We would also do very well to follow this man as he went to the right source to answer his questions about spiritual matters. Jesus is a good teacher. He does have the right answers. In fact we know He is more than a good teacher. He is goodness personified. As true God, He can transmit to us the precisely correct answers to all our questions. Is that easy? It is not easy to continue to go to Him for spiritual answers when the society in which we live is founded on the concept that we ought to be able to come up with our own answers for everything. We must constantly ask the Lord to keep us going to Jesus for answers, otherwise we will surely be swallowed up by the "We can take care of ourselves" attitude that is so prevalent around us.

What shouldn't we use this man as a good example about? The man's superficial view of God's law is an attitude which we should not follow. It is very hard not to follow that attitude. The typical religious person of our day takes exactly that attitude. "If I don't hurt anybody, God should be satisfied." In fact that is the religion that is in each of our hearts by nature. "If I don't commit any gross, public actions to harm anybody, I should be able to earn eternal life." Lord, don't let us get taken in by the "I am a pretty nice person based on my outward actions" attitude.

It was Jesus' task in this situation to correct this man's view of the Law, to get him to understand that God considers why a person does something as important as, and sometimes even more important than, the action itself.

{21} "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me," Jesus told this man. This man had just declared that he had kept all the laws of God. God says: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind. Love your neighbor as yourself. Love is the fulfilling of the law, the Bible says. So, Jesus was trying to get this man who felt that he had kept all of God's laws to ask himself, "Have I been loving God and the people around me with my actions?"

Jesus could look into this man's heart. He knew whether there was love there or not. But in order to get the man to make a choice between loving or being selfish, Jesus told him, "Sell everything and give to the poor."

Jesus knew the man was not using the wealth to love. So, Jesus knew exactly which command He should give this man to help this man determine whether he had actually kept the law or not. The man went away sad. His action admitted that holding onto his wealth and its advantages was more important to him than loving other people.

Jesus lesson from the incident – {22} "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" {25} It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." Entering the kingdom of God means coming to faith in Jesus the Savior from sin, trusting in Him for forgiveness and eternal life, and thus grasping all the blessings He wants us to have. Why would it be difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of God? Because a person who enters the kingdom of God must be led by the Holy Spirit to admit that he is completely dependent on the Lord for salvation.

The wealthy person is usually a successful person who has come to trust in himself. He trusts his intelligence to figure out what needs to be done next because in the past he was always smart enough to get him to his present wealthy position. He trusts in his own actions to do what is right because he has been able over the years to react correctly which has also brought him to his present standing. He can trust that he has enough reserve because of past successes so that he can make up for any deviations or mistakes in the present. He has every reason to be self-sufficient. It would be very difficult for that kind of a person to lead himself to trust in God for salvation, to admit his total dependence on Jesus.

Just so that we understand that Jesus isn't totally singling out the rich, look at the sentence between the two about the rich. {24} "How hard it is to enter the kingdom of God." Everybody likes to trust in himself as the rich young man did. The disciples for a change were in tune with Jesus. On the basis of what Jesus said, the disciples asked, {26} "Who then can be saved?" "Jesus, if what you are saying is true, then nobody can on his own do enough to inherit the kingdom. Nobody can on his own do enough to inherit eternal life."

"Who then can be saved?" That is exactly the right question. That is exactly the right conclusion each of us needs to come to. Lord, on the basis of the Law who can be saved? Certainly not me. The purpose of God's law is to show us our sin and to convince us that we need help and rescue.

You'll notice that Jesus agreed with the disciples' evaluation of the whole situation. {28} "With man it is impossible to enter the kingdom of God on his own. With man it is impossible to be saved on his own." Why? Because man on his own knows only one person to trust in - himself. On his own man thinks he is a good person to trust in.

With man it is impossible to be saved on his own. With man it is impossible to enter the kingdom of God on his own. Why? Because on his own man doesn't keep God's commandments. On his own man doesn't perfectly love God and love his fellowman. On his own man may outwardly keep some commands, but his attitude just doesn't make it.

BUT. That is probably the most important linking word in this text. {28} BUT this is not impossible with God. Because all things are possible with God, God can bring it about that a person trusts in someone besides himself. God can bring it about that a person knows somebody else in whom he can properly put his trust. God can bring it about that a person can love God and his fellowmen. God can turn people's attitudes around, because God can do anything.

"I cannot by my own thinking or choosing believe in Jesus Christ my Lord nor come to him. But the Holy Ghost has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, and sanctified me." Do these words sound familiar? Luther in the explanation to the third article of the Apostles' Creed is just paraphrasing Jesus: "With man coming into the kingdom of God is impossible, but not with God. All things are possible with God."

With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. It is possible for Almighty God to transfer the huge guilt of our sins onto a Substitute, Jesus of Nazareth, if He chooses to do so, and He did. It is possible for Almighty God to punish that Substitute with death and hell in our place, if He empowers that Substitute to do so, and He did.

It is possible for Almighty God to transfer the holiness which this Substitute lived for us to us, if He so chooses, and He does. It is possible for God to declare us holy on the basis of the actions of this Substitute, and He did. It is possible for Almighty God to look at us as holy people, people who keep His law, because we are wearing the holiness of our Substitute Jesus, and He does.

It is possible for Almighty God to get us to realize that there is somebody in whom we can trust besides ourselves. And He has. It is possible for Almighty God to convince us that Jesus is a good person to trust in. And He has. It is possible for Almighty God to lead us to trust in Jesus instead of ourselves. And He has.

Prayer: Lord God Holy Spirit, lead us to three proper views of Your law. Lead us to ask: What must I do?" Then on the basis of the demands of the Law lead us to ask :"Who then can be saved?" And then on the basis of Jesus' words to realize "All things are possible with God."

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What do members of the family do for the family?This letter was written about thirty years after Jesus ascended into heaven to Christians who could trace their human ancestry back to Abraham. These Hebrew Christians were seriously considering going back to Judaism. They were being persecuted by their fellow Jews for being heretics. They were being persecuted by the Roman empire because Christianity was not a tolerated religion. Judaism was.

The theme of the letter is: Christianity is better. Don't give up Jesus the Savior. He is better than Judaism. Jesus is better than Moses. Rest for your souls is better than Sabbath rest. Jesus is a better high priest than the human ones in Judaism. Jesus' sacrifice of Himself is better than animal sacrifices.

In chapter one the theme is Jesus is better than the angels. The writer of the letter gives proof. God calls Jesus, not the angels, Son. God specifically commanded the angels to worship Jesus, the Son.

The writer reminds us that angels are very important servants of God. They serve us who inherit salvation. Knowing that the angels serve us gives us lots of comfort. Jesus, however, has been set in a position over the angels. He never changes. He is ruling over everything, including the angels.

It is right in the middle of this emphasis that Jesus is more important than and better than the angels that the writer of this letter brings to our attention the shocking act that Jesus was made lower than the angels. Angels are much like God. They are spiritual, not physical beings. They have many of the attributes of God although not in their completeness and perfection. Angels are as much like God as anything else in existence.

Human beings, although we are wonderful creatures of God, are not as high on the hierarchy of existence as angels, nor are we as close to being like God as the angels are. We have a spiritual side, but we are physical beings, not spiritual beings like God or the angels. We have slight reflections of many of God's capacities, but not anywhere near the perfection and capabilities of the Lord or the angels.

What did the Son of God add to Himself when He came into the world? He did not add angelic qualities. He added humanity. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He grew from newborn to baby to child to young adult to adult in the same way all humans do. Most of the time on this earth He limited Himself to the capacities which human beings have. The writer says in the words before us today "he became a human" with these words {9} made lower than the angels.

Why did He do that? The text says {9} "so he might taste death." God is eternal. He doesn't die. The angels are spiritual beings who had a beginning but don't die. Human beings die. If the Son of God was going to be able to die, He had to be a human being. If He was going to be able to die, He had to humble Himself, lower Himself, to be a real human being.

Why did He want to die? Because God loved human beings so much that He wanted God the Son to experience death as the Substitute for everyone. Human beings, we deserve to die because of our sins. God's love moved Him to make it possible for a Substitute to suffer the death that we deserve because of our sins. God the Son was the designated Substitute. The quote is: {9} "so that by God's grace he might taste death for everyone." He became human, was made lower than the angels, so He could carry out God's plan so we wouldn't have to experience the wages of sin, death as punishment for sin.

What kind of things does a family man do? The same things that Jesus was willing to do for the members of His family. The family man is willing to do anything, including giving up his life for the benefit of his family. Listen to St Paul. (Ephesians 5:25) "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being a perfect family man for me, giving up Your life to pay for my sins. Help me to strive to be a perfect family man by giving my life for the benefit of my family.

Jesus was made lower than the angels. He became fully human. What is being human like? How does this sound? Being human is pretty tough. It involves quite a bit of suffering and misery. There are millions of starving people who are suffering. There are millions of sick people who are suffering. There are millions of victims of wars and accidents who are suffering.

Why is being human like that? Because we are living in a world which is suffering the consequences of sin. God created a world in which there was no suffering, no starvation, no sickness, no wars and no accidents. When humans rebelled against God's will and decided they wanted to go their own way, the perfection was lost. Human life is filled with suffering because of sin.

What is being human like? How does this sound? Being human is pretty tough. There is a lot of destruction. Humans destroy each other if they think it is in their own best interest. Humans destroy the world around us if they think it is in their own best interest. Humans destroy themselves if they think it is in their own best interest.

The problem with humans' willingness to destroy is - it breaks God's law. It makes us deserve God's punishment. When we destroy others, things and ourselves, we deserve physical death and eternal separation from God. That is not something to look forward to. We need to be rescued from that.

God knows that better than we do. Our gracious Father-Son-Holy Spirit God, therefore, authored a plan. His plan was to have the God the Son come into our world, take our guilt, suffer our punishment, conquer death and the devil, and make forgiveness, holiness and eternal life available to humans.

In order to carry out that plan, God the Son, who was superior to the angels, lowered Himself, became a human being in order to suffer the punishment that we deserve because of our sins. Jesus of Nazareth did that. He took our guilt. He suffered physical death. He suffered hell. He lived as our Substitute and never sinned. He rose from the dead. On the basis of Jesus' work God's plan for rescuing us from sin and its punishment was complete.

The words before us today put it this way: {10} Certainly it was fitting for God (the one for whom and through whom everything exists), in leading many sons to glory, to bring the author of their salvation to his goal through sufferings. God the Son came into the world to accomplish salvation for the human race by living and dying. So, He reached His goal through suffering. He reached His goal when He carried out God's plan for our salvation.

As a result of Jesus' work, we are {11} "sanctified" = "Made holy in God's sight." Our sins are gone. Jesus took them. We are covered with holiness. Jesus lived it. That satisfied God's demands that we be holy. That means we are acceptable to God, part of His family.

As a result of Jesus' work, we are {10} "led to glory." All of us have memorized a passage about glory. "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Because we are sinners, we don't deserve praise from God. We fall short of it. But, Jesus our Savior because of His work makes us holy, brings us into God's family. Thus God looks at us in Christ and gives us glory, gives us praise. "Come, you who are blessed," He says to us.

We are brought to glory. Jesus says to us: "You are my brothers and sisters." {11} "So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers." People living in miserable circumstances, suffering the consequences of sin - Jesus is not ashamed to call us brothers. He is a perfect family man. Are we? Family members are not ashamed to acknowledge each other. Jesus is not ashamed to call us brothers and sisters. Are we ashamed to call Jesus our brother if the wrong people are listening?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being a perfect family man for me, not being ashamed to call a sinner like me Your brother. Help me to have the courage to strive to be a perfect family man by being willing to call You my brother in every circumstance of my life.

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Why do these verses sound so familiar? Because in the Common Service liturgy we sing them "Create in me..." We sing that right after the sermon. After we have heard God talk to us through His Word, we respond by saying, "LORD, I want to thank You for all that You have done for me. Here is my life as a thank-You offering. I want you to have it. I want to serve You with it." Anybody remember what the "Create in me..." was called in the 1941 hymnal? The offertory.

But we have a problem. Although our sins have been removed from God's ledger book, washed away in the blood of Christ, our sinfulness still clings to us. We continue to break God's laws. Although Jesus' holiness covers us and makes us acceptable to God, we don't perfectly put that holiness into practice in our lives. So, here we are. We want to give our lives to the LORD, but we aren't capable of doing it on our own. We need the LORD's help to do it.

So, we pray: "{11} LORD, do not cast me from Your presence. Don't cut me off from You. I know that's what I deserve when I break Your law. So, I need Your help to give my life to You, to live it Your way. I wouldn't be able to do that if You cut me off from Your presence."

And then we ask the LORD for the help we need. "{10} LORD, create in me a pure heart." Why do we ask for that first if we are looking for help to give our lives back to the LORD? Everything comes from our hearts. Unless our hearts want what the LORD wants, even if our actions outwardly are doing what God wants, we won't really be giving our lives to the LORD, even though it might look like it.

Jesus internalized every commandment. Having no other gods means loving God. Setting time aside for worship means eagerly studying the Word. Obeying parents means wanting to honor them. Anger is murder. Wanting to have sex with somebody other than your marriage partner is adultery. Greed is stealing. Revenge is the same as hurting someone. Coveting is taking.

How are we going to avoid temptation so that we can give our lives back to the LORD? We aren't. The devil, the society around us, and our own selfishness are constantly trying to get us to abandon God, fail to study the Word, disobey authority, commit sexual immorality, take what isn't ours, and verbally abuse others.

How are we going to conquer temptation so that we can give our lives back to the LORD? Only when our desires match up with His. Only when we want what God wants. And the only way that is going to happen is if the LORD makes our hearts pure. So, we pray, "LORD, I want to give myself to You. Help me do that. Make my heart pure."

"LORD, I want to thank You for all that You have done for me. Here is my life as a thank-You offering. I want you to have it. I want to serve You with it." Why do we say that? Because Jesus took our guilt on Himself and rescued us from a "Guilty" verdict from the LORD our Judge. Because Jesus suffered the death and hell we deserve because of our sins to rescue us from it. Because Jesus covered us with His holiness so we can be part of God's family.

"LORD, I want to thank You for all that You have done for me. Here is my life as a thank-You offering. I want you to have it." Why do we say that? Because the Holy Spirit has led us to trust in Jesus our Savior & lives in our hearts so that we lean on Jesus for everything we need.

But we have a problem. Other reasons for doing what we are doing in life arise. We do things to make us look good & to make others look bad. We do what we want to do because we have a limited amount of time. We would rather look out for ourselves, gratify ourselves, lavish resources on ourselves instead of loving others and giving glory to God.

How are we going to avoid the temptation to focus on ourselves? We aren't. The devil and the people around us are constantly trying to reinforce the rightness of our own selfishness.

How are we going to conquer the temptation to focus on ourselves? Only when the Holy Spirit focuses our attention on what God has done for us. Only when the Holy Spirit focuses our attention on the forgiveness, righteousness and eternal life that God has given us because of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus will we have real joy in our lives. So, we pray with David, {11} "Do not take Your Holy Spirit from me . {12} Restore to me the joy of Your salvation. Then I will be able to offer myself to You, O LORD."

How does the Holy Spirit come into our lives and work in them? Through the Word and the Lord's Supper. That means that the Holy Spirit will only be able to bring us the ongoing joy of our salvation as we use the Bible and the Supper. So, when we say, "Lord, don't take Your Holy Spirit from me," we are saying, "LORD, I promise to use Your Word and Your Supper," so that the Holy Spirit won't be taken away from me." "LORD, I want to give myself to You. Help me do that. Don't take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation."

"LORD, I want to thank You for all that You have done for me. Here is my life as a thank-You offering. I want you to have it. I want to serve You with it." We say that after we have listened to God talk to us and remind us of all the blessings which He has given us. We are all fired up to serve the LORD.

There is another problem. Serving the LORD is long term. Doing something long term wears us down or wears us out. I'm tired of fighting off the desire to do what I want instead of what the LORD wants. Enough already. I just talked to God recently. I don't feel like talking to Him again. I just read the Bible recently. I don't need to hear the Word preached again. I have always respected my teacher, but he deserves ridicule for this one. I have helped my neighbor out of messes too often. Enough already. It's really easy to take my marriage partner for granted after 22 years. I gave the LORD 10% of my income for 10 years. Enough already.

How are we going to avoid the temptation to be short term instead of long term? We aren't. The longer the LORD allows us to live in a sinful world, the more strength we need to continue.

How are we going to conquer the temptation to be short term instead of long term? The LORD is the only One who can give us a steadfast spirit to hang in there. The LORD alone is the One who can give us a willing spirit. The LORD is the only One who can sustain us. So, we pray with David, "Lord, I want to give myself to You. Help me do that. {10} Renew a steadfast within me. {12} Grant me a willing spirit to sustain me."

Prayer: "LORD, I want to thank You for all that You have done for me. Here is my life as a thank-You offering. I want You to have it. I want to serve You with it. Please create in me a pure heart. Don't cast me from Your presence. Don't take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation. Renew a steadfast spirit within me. Grant me a willing spirit to sustain me."

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Jesus' healing of a boy after His transfiguration had attracted a large crowd. So {30} "they left that place." Why?

"Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples." Jesus was spending time with them individually and privately to explain to them what they had observed up to this time in His life. But He was especially focusing on what they were going to observe shortly so that they might be ready for it. What was that? This is the second time he specifically told them, {31} "The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise."

The disciples had two reactions. What was the first? {32} "They did not understand what He meant." They understood the facts. They, however, didn't understand why he had to go through this. "We don't understand" really means what? We don't agree with what the person said because we can't figure out why he would be saying it.

The second reaction was: {32} "They were afraid to ask him about it." The last time they had this same discussion Jesus had called Peter Satan for telling Him not to go ahead with this. So, why afraid? I don't know about you, but I would be afraid to discuss these things with Jesus and risk being called Satan. Secondly, Jesus had indicated that He was going to be betrayed by one of them. Why afraid? The disciples didn't want to have to deal with that. They were afraid to ask Him about it.

Who is humble in this lesson? Jesus is. He was going to undergo the humiliation of being handed over to His enemies by one of His friends. He was going to undergo the terrible treatment previous to and including His crucifixion. He was doing all of this because He had been assigned that function by the heavenly Father. He was doing all of this even though He was true God and could have stopped all of it or overcome all of it. That is humility. Willingness to place oneself, no matter what one's position is, underneath the will of somebody else.

Who is humble in this lesson? The disciples were not. They had heard the facts about the upcoming death of Jesus. They didn't understand why God had chosen to have things done in this way. They didn't like it. They had indicated their disagreement before. They still didn't understand. They didn't want to be told they should submit to God's will. So, they just didn't bring it up anymore. Unwillingness to submit to the plan of God for their own salvation.

Are we humble? Are we willing to submit to the Lord's will in our lives? God's will is that we be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. For that to happen we need to be in agreement with God's evaluation of us. God says I am a sinful human being. Do I submit to that evaluation? Do I acknowledge that it is the truth? God says that I cannot make myself right with Him on my own. Do I submit to that evaluation? Do I acknowledge that it is the truth? God says I am totally dependent on Him for forgiveness, righteousness, and eternal life? Do I submit to God's will for my salvation? Do I acknowledge it is the truth?

Are we humble? Do we insist as did the disciples that God's way isn't the best way? Maybe we don't agree with the way He evaluates us. We aren't really sinners like those bad people in the world out there, are we? Maybe we don't agree with the way He has planned salvation for humans. We should be able to do something that makes us feel good about our relationship with Him, shouldn't we? Maybe we don't agree with what he allows to happen in our lives. Why should we have to suffer? Why should Jesus have had to suffer? The questions become intertwined and convoluted.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, lead us to be humble like You: willing to submit to the Father's will in our lives.

After completing the trip to Capernaum, what did Jesus ask His disciples? {33} "What were you arguing about on the road?" Jesus did not ask them for His own information. He asked them to get them to think about what they had been doing.

{34} "But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest." Why didn't they answer? Because they were embarrassed about the content of their conversation. They knew it was not pleasing to Jesus. Jesus had always taught them that they were to be humble and willing to serve. Arguing about who would be greatest didn't fit that very well.

{35} Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." His lesson to them was: Your view of what constitutes greatness needs to be changed. If you want to be first, you shouldn't be looking down on people or looking back at people. If you want to be first, you should be behind and underneath people, supporting them, helping them, benefiting them, serving them.

Why did Jesus teach this lesson so often? Because it is needed all the time. Focusing our attention on ourselves comes naturally because I am the closest person to me. Striving after what is beneficial for me comes naturally because I am the logical person to watch out for myself. Promoting myself and congratulating myself comes naturally as a defense mechanism so I can get along in a world which tends to tear people down and apart. God commands that we love Him with all our heart, and soul and mind and that we love our neighbor as ourselves. That means focusing only on ourselves, living to benefit only ourselves and glorifying ourselves is sin. We need to hear what Jesus has to say. "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the servant of all."

Can I be a servant? "I have a responsible position. I have people under me. I have to make important decisions. I have to give people orders, sometimes to do things they don't want to do. I am supposed to be a dynamic leader, not a servant. Bosses are not servants. They are bosses." Jesus doesn't exempt certain segments of His people from his statement, "If you want to be first, you must be a servant of all." Yes. The boss is a leader. But the boss can still be a servant. On what basis do I make my important decisions? Should I make the decision that I know will make my stock option package more lucrative and my bonus at the end of the year bigger? Or should I make the decision that I know will make the company more financially secure for all the employees for the future. I can give people orders and still get behind them, and under them, and serve them when they need help with a family crisis or health problem, or most especially a spiritual need. Can I be a servant? You bet I can be, even though I am a boss.

Can I be a servant? "I have a responsible position. I have people under me. I have to make important decisions. I give people orders, sometimes to do things they don't want to do. I am supposed to be a leader, not a servant. Parents are not servants. We are bosses." Jesus doesn't exempt certain segments of His people from His statement, "If you want to be first, you must be a servant of all." Yes. A parent is a leader. But parents can still be servants. On what basis do I make my important decisions. Should I make the decision that insures that I have the time for recreation for myself? Or should I make the decision that I know will leave me more time with my family? I can give children order and still get behind them when they need encouragement, under them when they need support, help them with problems they can't handle on their own, and most especially point them to Jesus on a regular basis. Can I be a servant? You bet I can be, even though I am a parent.

OK. Jesus wants me to be a servant. What kind of people do I tend to serve? People who are pretty similar to me. Why? Because I am most comfortable with people who are pretty much like me. Why? Because I can assume that they think pretty much like me. Which means I can sort of by intuition know their needs, know when they are struggling, and do for them what I know I would need in the circumstance.

What kind of people do I tend to serve? People who are pretty similar to me. Why? Because they think pretty much like me. Which means they can sort of by intuition know what is going on in my life. They know when I have a need, they know when I am struggling, and they can do something for me when I am in circumstances that demand attention.

After discussing with His disciples the fact that greatness comes from serving, {36} Jesus took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them: "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." Why pick a child as an illustration of what He was trying to get across? Because a child is different from us. A child doesn't think as I do. I can't by intuition know exactly how I should serve them. And they are incapable of returning the favor when I have needs.

Jesus uses children as a good illustration because it is a good picture of how God deals with us. God serves us even though He isn't like us at all. He is perfect. We are sinners. He is almighty. We are weak. And we could go on with the list. God isn't ever going to have needs so that we can repay him. God serves us because He is a God of grace. He loves us even though we are sinners. He forgives us because of Jesus' death on the cross not because we deserve it. He covers us with Jesus' holiness because he loves us not because we did a partially good job of being righteous. He gives us eternal life because of Jesus' resurrection, not because we did a decent job of trying to live our lives on this earth to him.

Notice how closely Jesus links himself to this process of loving children. He says we are to {37a} welcome people in his name. That means we are to treat others with the same consideration and love which Jesus himself would have used. We are to be taking Jesus' place in the situation since he isn't there himself to physically do what is needed. Notice also he says that when we welcome such folks we are {37b} welcoming him and the heavenly Father. We are used to Jesus' speaking in these terms. Whenever we do anything or say anything in our lives we are doing or saying something to Jesus.

What does all of this have them to do with humility? Let's get practical. There are certain people we just wouldn't welcome into our lives. Why not? Because their life style is different. So, we can't figure out how to serve them. And their life style makes it impossible for them to serve us. Jesus said, "Whoever welcomes one of these people who are different from us and can't repay us, welcomes me."

Who do we welcome into our congregation? You know the right answer. Everybody. We want to serve everybody with the Gospel. That means the people who are much different from us. That means the people who have no capacity to give us anything back. Humility. The willingness to serve anybody A willingness that has to be nondiscriminatory.

You are very important people. So important that God had His Son live and die and rise for you. And in spite of that You can be very humble people, submitting to God's will and willing to serve without discrimination.

Prayer: LORD Jesus, thanks for considering me to be important. Please make me humble.

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An EarEvery Christian needs to have "an ear to listen like one being taught." {4} This is an attitude. An attitude which says, "If God is talking to me in the Bible, and if He is somebody worth listening to, and if He is more intelligent than I am, then I want to become more familiar with what He says to me because I am always going to learn something when I listen to Him."

There is an interesting phenomenon when it comes to learning. The more one learns, the more one realizes he still doesn't know. The more one learns, the more one realizes the need to learn more. If that is our attitude, we are in excellent company. Rabbinic Old Testament commentators and Biblical commentaries after Jesus was here all agree that in this section the Messiah is speaking. Jesus, truly a human being, subjected to the temptation to rebel against God's instructions, instead was willing and eager to listen to and do what the heavenly Father wanted.

Every Christian needs to have our ears "wakened to listen like one being taught." Why? Because by nature we are spiritually blind, dead, enemies of God and we could add "deaf." On our own we don't like to or want to hear what God has to say to us.

We need to have the LORD open our ears "morning by morning" to listen like one being taught. Dairy cows show up twice a day in exactly the same stanchion at exactly the same time for a definite purpose. Christians are to daily go to the same place, the Bible, for the purpose of feeding their souls. Why do we need to have our ears "wakened to listen like one being taught?" Because Satan is always telling us to be lazy. "Listening to God speak to you on Sunday through your pastor and through your Bible study leader is enough. You have too many other things in your busy life that need your attention. You don't have time to listen morning by morning."

Prayer: LORD Jesus, help us not to rebel at the thought of listening to You. Don't let us draw back from our relationship with you. Don't let us ever take the attitude that says," I know it all," when it comes to our faith and godliness." Waken my ear morning by morning to listen like one being taught.

A TongueEvery Christian needs to have "an instructed tongue." {4} We communicate with our tongues. We are to transmit the message of our God to others with our tongues. Let's take one further step. Could we say the Lord has given us the ability to speak in order to be transmitters of His truth?. Maybe some of our more enjoyable hours are those spent alone with Jesus our LORD. But He has given us tongues for a reason.

Our tongues need to be "instructed." We can't be a hindrance to the truth of God. We need to know it well enough to be able to apply to properly and well. Where do we get that instruction from? Other Christians. Books on how to speak about Jesus. Where does the instruction come from according to these words before us today? From the Sovereign LORD. While other people are helpful, we must always realize that it is the LORD Himself through His Word who gives us an instructed tongue.

For what purpose does the LORD give us "an instructed tongue?" "To know the Word that sustains the weary." We are constantly running into people who are weary. Some are sick and tired of not being able to overcome a sin. Some are sick and tired of fighting against sin. Some are sick and tired because people are ridiculing them. Some are sick and tired of their problems in life. Some are sick and tired of seeing no results of their sharing Jesus with others.

I would venture to say that it is probably the most difficult thing in your life as a Christian to say the right word at the right time to sustain the weary. Sometimes after it is over, we figure out that we should have spoken the Gospel instead of the Law. Or sometimes the Law instead of the Gospel. Sometimes we realize we said the right thing at the wrong time. Sometimes we realize we said the right thing in the wrong way. Sometimes it was the right time to say something and we said it in the right way, but it turned out to be the wrong thing.

Prayer: LORD Jesus, please help me always to remind the weary that You died to wash away their sins. Please help me to always tell them that You lived and never sinned to cover them with Your holiness. Please help me always point them to an eternity with You because of Your resurrection. And then if I mess up trying to apply Your Word to their situations, they will have heard the most important things anyway. Thank You for dying on the cross to wash all the times I mess up trying to sustain the weary.

A JudgeEvery Christian is constantly being judged. Some critiques are helpful. We welcome constructive criticism which helps us carry out our purpose as Christians. Critiques based on God's Word are also helpful and necessary. When a brother or sister in the faith points out a sin, it is because they love us and want us to stay connected with Jesus.

But how do we handle judgment that is wrong? Look at how Jesus handled it. On Good Friday Jesus accepted the negative judgment of those who insisted that He was a consort of the devil and blasphemer. Verse 6: I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from the mocking and spitting. Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame."

But there is another aspect to how Jesus handled the negative judgment. {8} "He who vindicates me is near. Who then will bring charges against me? Let us face each other! Who is my accuser? Let him confront me! {9} It is the Sovereign LORD who helps me. Who is he that will condemn me? They will all wear out like a garment; the moths will eat them up." Jesus knew that the condemnation of Him was wrong. He knew that God's judgment of Him was the only important one. God's judgment of Him was "This is my Son in whom I am well pleased."

We all need to "set our face like flint." Negative judgment is going to be a part of our lives as long as we live in a sinful world. So, we might as well get used to it and decide to go ahead with the LORD's work in our lives anyway.

We also always need to remember that {8} "He who vindicates me is near." Whose judgment is most important in our lives? God's. When God the Judge looks at us, He sees no sins. They have all been washed away in the blood of Christ. When God the Judge looks at us, He sees holy people, covered with the holiness Jesus lived in our place. We need to remember that His judgment is permanent as He is, but the sources of non-Biblical negative judgment {9} "will wear out like a garment; the moths will eat them up."

And then we read verse 10: "Who among you fears the LORD and obeys the word of his servant? Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God." When life is dark, filled with negative judgments, and we see no light at the end of the tunnel, trust in the LORD and rely on God who has promised to give you the strength you need to keep on living your Christianity and sharing Jesus until He calls you to Himself.

Prayer: LORD Jesus, give me a face like flint so I keep on living my godliness and sharing You with others in spite of heavy negative judgments. Remind me continually that You judge me to be acceptable to You because of Your life, death and resurrection. Keep me trusting that You will keep Your promise to keep me strong. Then in your time get me out of here to Yourself.

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"Say to those with fearful hearts," {4} says the first line of the text. Who has fearful hearts when it comes to spiritual things? Everyone. On my own I am afraid of God. My conscience tells me I am a sinner. My conscience leads me to be afraid of God's anger over my sins.

Who has fearful hearts when it comes to other things? Everybody. What do we fear? Sickness, accident, loss of income, attacks on our ideas, failure in school or on the job, lack of acceptance by people. The list is endless.

{4} Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come." God's presence is the solution to fear. Why? He loves us. He is in control of all things. He has the best interest of our souls in mind. He gives us the strength to overcome the fears. He gives us the strength to overcome the sources of fear.

{4} Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution." God is a just judge. His justice makes it necessary that He carry out His punishment against sin. He punishes sinners with physical death and eternal separation from him. How does the presence of God who comes with vengeance and retribution take away our fear?

The last line of vs 4 answers that question. {4} "He will come to save you." God has already carried out His vengeance against our sins by having Jesus suffer and die in our place. Since He carried out divine retribution against Jesus for us, His justice doesn't allow Him to punish us again. When He comes into our lives, or when He will come on the last day, He comes and will come to give us eternal life - rescue from the vengeance and divine retribution we deserve. That is the message God has spoken to our fearful hearts. That is the message we are to say to those with fearful hearts.

Are you passing along the good and perfect gift of salvation which removes fear? How do we do that? We do that when we come together here at worship and proclaim to everyone who is here that God gives the good and perfect gift of eternal life to people because of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. We do that by giving our money to support pastors and teachers and professors and missionaries who teach people about Jesus.

But, I didn't ask, "Are we as a congregation passing along the good and perfect gift of salvation which removes fear?" I asked how you are doing that? When somebody tells you that he is afraid to die, do you tell him that Jesus died and rose again so that he can die and rise again and not be punished by God? When somebody tells you that he is afraid to get sick, do you tell him that Jesus is alive and wants to give him the strength that he needs to handle every circumstance in life? When somebody is afraid of losing friends if he doesn't go along with the group's sinful behavior, do you tell him that Jesus is with him and he will never be alone?

How are you doing passing along the good and perfect gift of salvation? When somebody watches you as you grieve over the death of a Christian loved one, can they see that you are experiencing grief but not fear? When you are sick and facing possible death, can they see that you are experiencing a huge burden, but not fear? Is it obvious that because of Jesus' life, death and resurrection you are strong and do not fear? Are you passing along the spiritual gift of salvation - eternal life - the most important good and perfect gift?

{5} Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. {6} Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. The Old Testament Bible interpreters believed that this referred to the coming of the Messiah, the time He would display His power as God by solving people's physical problems.

Why was this Old Testament lesson picked for this Sunday? Because it fit in so well with the Gospel lesson, the record of Jesus making the deaf able to hear and the mute able to talk. The record in the Gospel fulfills the promise in the Old Testament lesson.

Why did Jesus do miracles? Jesus claimed to be the Messiah, the Son of God who took upon Himself our humanity so he might be the Savior from sin. His miracles were proof for His claims.

Why did Jesus do miracles? Because He loved people. He wanted to help them. Just because He was primarily interested in their souls doesn't mean He didn't care about their physical lives, their bodies and health.

Medical miracles. That is what Jesus did. Have you meditated lately about the medical miracles that are happening all around? Just the evaluative procedures are miraculous. A person can have a scope pushed up through a vein in his leg to up behind his eye so that the medical people can see if the bulge there is an aneurysm. Miraculous that the Lord let us figure out how to do that. Surgeons can shave off a bulge from a person's disc and sent her home walking two days later. Miraculous that the Lord let us figure out how to do that. Another of God's good and perfect gifts

How are you doing at sharing God's good and perfect gifts for people's physical health? You might say, "I am not a surgeon. I don't." Probably true. Did you know earlier in our country there was often a direct relationship between physical healing and Christianity? Christian people were the ones who started the hospitals. We have the remnants of that left. There are a few Lutheran hospitals in our country. There are many Baptist and Roman Catholic hospitals. These hospitals existed because Christian people wanted to pass along the good and perfect gift of the Lord called health.

Well, that hasn't got much to do with us does it? How are you doing at sharing God's good and perfect gifts for people's physical health? Some of you give money to our Central Africa Medical mission. Yes, we are primarily interested in getting these people to believe that Jesus is the Savior from sin. But that doesn't mean we can't show love and concern for the physical health of these people. Some of you support other agencies which help people with their physical health needs. You are doing that because you love others and want to share with them every good and perfect gift which comes from the Father.

How are you doing at sharing God's good and perfect gifts for people's physical health? How about something less miraculous? How about lining up a health agency to provide flu vaccines to the members of our community? Yes, this is an evangelism activity. But let's face reality. Most of the people who might come from the community know Jesus, or we hope they do. Most of them will have their own congregations. So what will be accomplished by this event? People will be served. We serve people because God says that is how we can love them.

We love people by passing along every good and perfect gift which God gives us.

How are you doing at sharing God's good and perfect gifts for people's physical health? How about providing food for people who can't very easily take care of themselves? How about sharing two plates full of food with somebody who is home-bound in your neighborhood? That is not a miracle. But it is an attempt to pass along one of God's good and perfect gifts.

Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. {7} The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs. In the haunts where jackals once lay, grass and reeds and papyrus will grow. Did the climate change when Jesus was here? No. Did Jesus miraculously change the desert to a place with abundant water? No.

But He did change some spiritual desert conditions. People without the Lord had no spiritual water to quench their spiritual thirst. They were just as dry as the desert around them.

Jesus called Himself the water of life. When we drink Jesus in, when we trust in Him as our Savior from sin, we have forgiveness of sins, holiness which makes us acceptable to God and eternal life. All our spiritual needs are filled. Spiritual thirst is quenched.

Jesus did do some miracles for people which provided them with earthly resources. He gave some food. He gave some drink. These actions showed He was Messiah. But He did these things because He loved humans and wanted to take care of their earthly needs.

As Christians our primary concern is for people's souls. We want to quench people's spiritual thirst. We want them to trust in Jesus for forgiveness, righteousness and eternal life. We want them to trust in the Lord to take care of their entire lives on this earth. But we can also show love and concern by providing them with the earthly resources they need to live.

There is an interesting change in the attitudes of people who become Christians. We take a unique view of our earthly circumstances. We appreciate all the earthly things which the Lord places at our disposal. We understand that it is our responsibility to manage these blessings from the Lord. How are we doing at managing all the earthly blessings God has given us? How are we doing at research and development which responsibly places at our disposal all of the blessings God wants to give us. How are we doing at protecting and preserving the plants, animals and natural resources God has given us? How are we doing at passing along to the next generation God's good and perfect gift of a functioning and productive earth?

I once heard a presentation by a WELS member who worked for Save the Children. He was sent by Save the Children to teach the people in the sub-Saharan famine belt in Africa how to manage their land as a resource instead of using it up and abandoning it. He insisted that the land could be reclaimed from the desert by proper management techniques and if maintained properly could be given to future generations as a gift capable of maintaining life.

When I view the earth as a gift of God, it will produce a changed lifestyle, which will produce a changed environment which will produce a changed circumstance of life. What changes hearts? God the Holy Spirit working through the Word of the Lord. While we are primarily interested in getting people the Water of life, our message produces the byproduct of getting people to manage their earthly circumstances so that water gushes in the wilderness and streams in the desert. The burning sand becomes a pool. The thirsty ground becomes bubbling springs. Are we passing along the good and perfect gift of a well-managed and functioning earth?

Prayer: LORD Jesus, please help us to pass along every good and perfect gift which the heavenly Father gives us.

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Not Human TraditionsThe Pharisees and some of the teachers of the law were the best neighbors you could ever want. Why? They were law-abiding people. They were law-abiding people because they thought by attempting to keep God’s Law they could make themselves right with God. That’s why they got so upset when Jesus called them sinners.

In order to enhance their law abiding standing they developed laws in addition to those which God gave Moses on Mt. Sinai. After all, if the law was going to get you to heaven, you might as well have as much of it as possible. More chances to keep it, right?

The OT law had indicated that certain foods and animals were unclean. People, objects and places could become unclean by having contact with any of these unclean things. This uncleanness meant the person couldn’t worship in the temple without going through a cleansing ceremony. But the OT said nothing about a person becoming unclean by eating with unwashed hands. The rabbis had developed laws which said that was true, how much water had to be used to wash your hands, and how the water had to be applied, and on and on.

In addition the Pharisees and teachers of the law placed these traditions on the same level as the written OT laws of Moses. So, they wondered why Jesus’ disciples were not living according to the tradition of the elders. And they emphasized these traditions so much that they didn’t bother with God’s moral laws. {8} You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." Jesus said.

Are we Pharisees? That depends on how we use the Law. Has the Holy Spirit led us to look into God’s Law as a mirror and see that we are sinners? Then we are not Pharisees. Has the Holy Spirit led us to admit on the basis of God’s Law that we don’t perfectly live our lives for the benefit of God’s kingdom? Then we are not Pharisees. Has the Holy Spirit led us to admit on the basis of God’s Law that we don’t perfectly live our lives for the benefit of the people around us? Then we are not Pharisees.

Are we Pharisees? That depends on our attitude toward Jesus. Has the Holy Spirit led us to trust that our sins are washed away in the blood which Jesus shed on the cross? Then we are not Pharisees. Has the Holy Spirit led us to trust that we are covered with the holiness which Jesus lived in our place so that we are holy in God’s sight? Then we are not Pharisees. Has the Holy Spirit led us to trust that we are going to live forever because of the resurrection of Jesus? Then we are not Pharisees.

Are we Pharisees? That depends on what we use to shape our lives? Has the Holy Spirit led us to use God’s Law exclusively to determine how we ought to live our lives to thank Jesus for the forgiveness, holiness and eternal life which God has given us? Then we are not Pharisees. Has the Holy Spirit led us to reject the consensus of the people(in the text called “tradition of the elders”) around us as the basis of determining how we ought to live our lives? Then we are not Pharisees.

There are two ways that human beings allow the consensus of the people around us to determine how we ought to live our lives. First. People add to God’s Law as the rabbis did. That sounds like this: It’s a sin to use alcohol for Lord’s Supper. It’s a sin to play cards. It’s a sin to play baseball on Sundays. And so on.

The much more common way that humans allow the tradition of people (what people think) to determine how we ought to live our lives is to subtract from God’s Law. That sounds like this. Everybody says, “Oh my god,” all the time. Most of my friends don’t go to church but we are still Christians. Nobody travels speed limit. Everybody uses something to get a little high once in a while. Every unmarried person I know is sexually active. Life is about how many toys you have. Everybody trash talks.

Prayer: Lord, please continue to send the Holy Spirit into my life so that I am not a Pharisee. Lord, please continue to send the Holy Spirit into my life so that I live your Word and not human traditions.

Don’t Just Fake ItThe Pharisees wanted to be highly respected by others. So they were very concerned about outward appearances. They did two things. They tried to make their outward actions irreproachable. They tried to do their godliness very publicly. They fasted, prayed and even tithed so that everybody could see it.

According to Jesus there was a problem. They legally took advantage of others to get the money from which they tithed. They worshiped god regularly but rejected the Messiah sent by God, Jesus. They fasted in public and indulged themselves in private. If you want a good example of the problem: They refused to go into the palace of Pilate so they wouldn’t become unclean while they were trying to get Jesus crucified.

So, Jesus in the text says: {6} "Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: "'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Hypocrite is a Greek word that means an actor playing a part on the stage. The Pharisees were acting. They were faking. So, Jesus also says: {7} They worship me in vain.” Their worship is empty and worthless.

The Pharisees had things backwards. How you wash your hands doesn’t make you clean or unclean. What is going on in your heart makes you clean or unclean. Jesus put it this way: {15} Nothing outside a man can make him 'unclean' by going into him. Rather, it is what comes out of a man that makes him 'unclean.'" Then Jesus gives us a list of the things that come out of us which make us unclean. (21) For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, {22} greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. {23} All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.'"

Are we Pharisees? That depends on our attitude toward outward appearances. Are we concerned that our outward actions are irreproachable? Then we are outwardly like the Pharisees. That’s a good thing. Do we want to be respected as people who live their lives to the Lord? Then we are outwardly like the Pharisees. That’s a good thing. Do we worship God so that everybody sees what we are doing? Then we are outwardly like the Pharisees. That’s a good thing.

Are we Pharisees? That depends on what is going on in private. Does the Holy Spirit lead us to reject easy ways to take advantage of others? Then we are not Pharisees. Does the Holy Spirit lead us personally talk to Jesus and listen to Jesus talk to us through His Word? Then we are not Pharisees. Does the Holy Spirit lead us try to use our resources and our bodies as thank offerings to the Lord. Then we are not Pharisees.

Are we Pharisees? That depends on what is going on in our hearts. Does the Holy Spirit lead us to repent when our thoughts line up with what’s on Jesus’ list in the text: getting revenge, having sex with the attractive lady next door, taking that baseball glove that got left at the park by that person from the other team, hating that person at work for what he did to us, wanting something so badly that you can taste it, twisting the facts so that we get the advantage, partying out of control, hating who I am, badmouthing others, or looking down on others? Then we don’t have things backwards. Then the Holy Spirit has led us to realize that we are unclean by nature, sinful because of what is in our hearts and what comes out of our hearts. Then the Holy Spirit has led us to realize that what we produce on the outside doesn’t make us right with God. Only Jesus can get rid of the guilt of our heart produced sin. Only the Holy Spirit can give us the strength to repent of our heart produced sins. And only the Holy Spirit can give us the strength to refuse to put into practice our heart desired sins.

Prayer: Lord, please continue to send the Holy Spirit into my life so that I am not a Pharisee. Lord, please continue to send the Holy Spirit into my life so that I live your Word and don’t just fake it.

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1. But how do we know that we have faith?
2. But how do we know that we love God's children?
3. But how do we know we have overcome the world?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/by-our-god-given-faith-we-are-united-and-are-sent-out-into-the-world/

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1. He is the living shepherd
2. He is the shepherd of (eternal) life
3. He is not a shepherd for worldly gain
4. He is the shepherd with a powerful voice

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-the-good-shepherd/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christs-resurrection-gives-you-peace-2024/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-could-you-miss-this/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-kind-of-martyr-are-you/
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1. As with Christ we think in selfless accord and look out for each other
2. Christ being true God chose the glory of His grace
3. He set aside His Godly glory to serve man by becoming man
4. He served us by living perfectly and dying on the cross

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-depths-of-the-god-mans-service/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-could-you-do-this-to-your-family/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-are-you-naked-and-exposed/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-kind-of-king-is-this/
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1. God's Word gives eternal life and mature wisdom
2. Our new person wants to glorify God and uses God's Word as a guide

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/gods-glory-is-revealed-in-his-word-and-demonstrated-in-your-life/

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Sermon Overview: Herod (before he was king) once stood before the Sanhedrin and secured a not guilty verdict by a show of force and by having the right connections. Why didn't Jesus use his Godly power and authority to overcome those corrupt leaders and avoid being crucified, especially since he was innocent?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/if-you-are-so-great-then-why-are-they-questioning-you/
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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lord-is-always-with-you-even-when-it-seems-the-opposite/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-could-you-let-a-friend-betray-you/
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Sermon Overview: Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a mountain, where they saw Elijah and Moses, and then God the Father spoke to them. Afterwards, Jesus told them not to tell anyone until after he had risen. This encounter may seem strange to us, and probably raises some questions, but in this sermon Pastor Schurman explains the context and points out that, while it may not be the glory we want, the glory we need is Christ on the cross.

Sermon Topics:

1. Why only three disciples?
2. Jesus usually hides his Godly glory
3. Moses and Elijah's glory was dim in comparison
4. We glorify Christ when we listen to His Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/is-this-the-glory-we-want-or-the-glory-we-need/

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1. Jesus spoke God's Will, not human speculations or opinions
2. Jesus Spoke with God's authority
3. Jesus was not teaching something new
4. Whoever is correctly teaching and applying the Word of God has this authority

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Sermon Overview: Jonah begrudgingly preached a message of warning to the people Nineveh at God's direction, but he did so without compassion and instead wanted God to punish them. Despite Jonah's intent, the people Nineveh took the message to heart and truly repented of their evil ways. God saw this and spared them from the disaster he had warned them about. In today's sermon we examine the difference between true repentance and simply wanting to avoid consequences.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-does-true-repentance-look-like/

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Sermon Overview: Our sinful nature often prevents us from having a servant's attitude towards God and His Word, but through Jesus our new man eagerly listens and joyfully serves. In this sermon we see ways in which Samuel was called by God, and how those situations apply to us today, including warning our children (young and old), and even our friends' and neighbors' children, when they stray from God.

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Sermon Overview: Mary asked the angel "How will this be?" after being told she would give birth to the savior, even though she was a virgin. Pastor Schurman examines how Mary's question was different than Zechariah's similar question to the angel ("How can I be sure of this?"), and we look at other miracles that show nothing is impossible for God.

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Sermon Overview: Zechariah asked the angel "How can I be sure of this?" after being told he and his wife would be the parents of John, who would announce the coming of the savior to the world. Through the faith given to us by the Holy Spirit, we can be sure of everything the Bible tells us. This Christmas season we should also remember to spread the message of salvation to others.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-i-be-sure-of-this/
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Sermon Overview: God's timing is perfect. We confidently expect the savior to return, but according to God's plan. In the meantime, we remain strong by hearing and reading His Word, and we spread the gospel message to others.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-so-long/
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1. He reigns in all His glory
2. He reigns with all believers
3. He reigns for all believers
4. He reigns in providence for all creation
5. He reigns worthy of all adoration

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-is-ruling-as-king-over-all-creation/
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1. They needed the true and faithful witness
2. Their inability to distinguish themselves as Christians was disgusting to God
3. A lack of crosses may divert our eyes from Christ
4. Christ can make us hot or cold in union with Him
5. Those who are hot or cold conquer by using the Word of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/are-we-lukewarm/

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Sermon Overview: Christians delight in the good news of free salvation in Jesus Christ, but unbelievers resent that message and those who deliver it. That should not stop us from sharing the message with others, though, just as Martin Luther did not stop when he was faced with persecution during the Reformation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-powerful-news-of-salvation-in-christ-is-sweet-and-sour/

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1. Christ is the true and holy keeper of the keys
2. Faithfulness to the Word has nothing to do with a congregation's size or resources
3. Their open door was conversion of Gentiles and many Jews who had persecuted them
4. Our open door is evangelism through faithfulness to the Word
5. Faithfulness to the Word gives God's protection
6. The door remains open as we remain faithful to the Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-door-is-the-lord-opening-for-us/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Christ sends His Holy Spirit to give life
2. The Holy Spirit works through the Word to give and maintain life
3. Persistently ignoring the Word leads to death and judgment
4. Those who are alive conquer by hearing and using God's Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-we-look-alive-despite-being-dead-on-the-inside/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Christ's omniscience and omnipotence are the attributes needed to prevent and cure
2. The Word will grow the fruits of faith in union with Christ
3. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away
4. God will not ignore the sin
5. Stay in the Word of God, do not even dabble in the things of Satan
6. Holding tightly to God's Word means we will conquer by hearing and using it
7. Holding tightly to God's Word assures us of His promises

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-we-allow-jezebels-teachings-by-ignoring-the-problem/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Holding tightly to God's Word is the only prevention and cure
2. Using the forgiveness Christ has won for us as an excuse to sin is to deny Christ
3. Holding tightly to God's Word means we will repent and admonish those who do not
4. Holding tightly to God's Word means we will conquer by hearing and using His Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/are-we-holding-tightly-to-the-teaching-of-balaam/

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Sermon Topics:

1. When we are faithful we will gather together around God's Word
2. When we are faithful we will cling to Jesus as the Eternal God, who suffered death, and defeated it with His resurrection
3. When we are faithful we will cling to God's Word even if it causes earthly affliction, poverty, and slander
4. When we are faithful we will not fear any suffering that comes from adhering to God's Word
5. When we are faithful we will conquer by hearing and using God's Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/are-we-faithful-to-the-point-of-death/

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Sermon Topics:

1. When we love God we will gather together around His Word
2. When we love God we will trust in His protection
3. When we love God we will work, labor, and persevere for the good news of salvation in Christ
4. When we love God we will not put up with anything that does not do good (i.e. does not glorify God)
5. When we love God we will test those claiming to be sent by Him using His Word
6. When we love God we will bear His name
7. When we love God we will always remember the grace we have, live in repentance, and do His work
8. When we love God we will hate what he hates (false teaching)
9. When we love God we will conquer by hearing and using His Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/have-we-abandoned-our-first-love/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus is ruling over this world for the Christian church, past and present, regardless of how much the Devil and this world persecute believers.

Sermon Topics:

1. He is comforting John and the churches that are facing persecution
   1. Persecution, separation, the sea, and the land are all common themes in this revelation
   2. John is bearing the cross, and he is writing to churches that have born, are bearing, and will bear the cross
2. He is ruling for the church, even when persecution makes it seem like He isn't
3. John's description of Jesus shows many of the ways He rules over this world
4. Find comfort: He is also ruling for you

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-is-jesus-christ-among-the-seven-gold-lampstands/

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Sermon Overview: When God told King Solomon to ask for anything and God would grant it, Solomon asked for wisdom to judge the people of his kingdom justly. However, it seems that God had already gifted Solomon with such wisdom. Using God's answer to King Solomon, we can evaluate ourselves to see if we have (and use) Christian wisdom.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do you look at the lord’s loving mercy in the past?
2. Do you see how ignorant and inexperienced you are?
3. Do you hear the Word and your neighbor’s cry for help?
4. Do you discern between Good and evil?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-you-have-christian-wisdom/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Is your heart a hardened path?
2. Is your heart shallow soil?
3. Are the thorns of this world choking you?
4. Has the Word made your heart fertile soil?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-receptive-are-you-being-toward-gods-word/

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Sermon Overview: In our scripture text Jesus said, "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest," but then immediately after that he said, "Take my yoke upon you." Did he contradict himself? After all, how can taking up a yoke—which is used for pulling something very heavy—possibly be considered rest?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-a-yoke-be-easy/

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Sermon Topics:

1. We are to view them as under-servants and household administrators of God's mysteries
2. We must help them, but not scrutinize their gifts
3. We want to have a humble gratitude for the workers God gives us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-are-we-to-view-the-workers-in-gods-harvest/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b9bWD4wc8Q

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Sermon Overview: God called Moses to be the leader of the Israelites, but Moses was hesitant at first, asking God questions that make it seem like he was looking for excuses. We too can be guilty of giving excuses when God is calling us to serve, but God's answers to Moses apply to us today just the same.

Sermon Topics:

1. We tend to give pious sounding excuses
2. We sinfully go about it our own way
3. Recognize who we are working for
   1. God's plan for Moses
   2. God's plan for us
4. Our authority is the Word of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/who-am-i-that-i-should-do-the-lords-work/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zD8gGTd98I

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Sermon Topics:

1. How can it be so reliable?
   1. It is the inspired Word of God, not mere opinions or memories
2. How can we keep from being deceived away from it by "false prophets"?
   1. They teach "opinions" and make them equal to Scripture
   2. Their teachings deny the work of Christ (to some extent)
   3. Their teachings deny portions of the Law or the Gospel (or both)
   4. They teach for their own benefit instead of the glory of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/scripture-is-the-sole-inerrant-authority-for-our-faith-and-our-works/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0TufOpdYIU

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Sermon Overview: Today is Pentecost, which celebrates the day the descended on the followers of Jesus. However, our scripture passage for today ends with the sentence: "For the Holy Spirit had not yet come, because Jesus had not yet been glorified." What does that mean?

Sermon Topics:

How Was the Holy Spirit Present?

1. He certainly existed as a person of the Trinity
2. He certainly created faith and gave spiritual gift to Old Testament believers
3. He was certainly present with Jesus Christ
4. He certainly had created faith (the new Man) in the believers' hearts

How Wasn't the Holy Spirit Present?

1. He had not yet brought the gifts that glorified Christ

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-wasnt-the-holy-spirit-present/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus's first appearance after his resurrection was to 2 disciples who were walking to Emmaus. While his exact words are not recorded, we know that Jesus explained to those disciples how all of the Scriptures (which we know as the Old Testament today) were about him. In this sermon Pastor Schurman explains the dangers of being distracted by "church things" instead of focusing on hearing and spreading the good news of free salvation in Christ Jesus.

Sermon Topics:

1. How foolishly we detract from what they have spoken
2. How wisely we cling to what they have spoken

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-scriptures-are-all-about-christ/

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Sermon Overview: This is the final sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman concludes the series by explaining what Jesus' victory over sin, death, and the devil did for us using the last verses from Isaiah's prophecy about the suffering servant.

Sermon Topics:

1. To make us righteous
2. To make us His reward

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-finale/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhueVXWDP6Q

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Sermon Overview: This is the eighth sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman explains that even though it seems like Jesus was murdered at the hands of men, his death and resurrection were in fact God's plan to earn salvation for everyone and to spread the news of that free salvation across the world.

Sermon Topics:

1. His suffering is God's plan for our salvation
2. Salvation prospers in His hand

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-8/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOhtVBT4D4Y

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Sermon Overview: This is the seventh sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman explains that Jesus died a painful death intended for criminals, suffering the punishment we deserve for our sins, so that we can have eternal life through faith in him.

Sermon Topics:

1. To die, the innocent in place of the guilty.
2. To receive a grave befitting His glory.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-7/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u02mmBPf7lQ

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Sermon Overview: When Jesus entered Jerusalem a few days before he would be crucified, the crowd laid down their cloaks and palm branches to welcome him and glorify him as their king. However, many of them mistakenly thought he would be their Earthly king. Pastor Schurman helps us learn, using that crowd as an example, the ways in which we can properly glorify Jesus.

Sermon Topics:

1. Believe Him
2. Confess Him
3. Pray to Him
4. Submit to His will
5. Serve Him with what He has given to us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-we-glorify-christ-as-the-king-of-kings/

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Sermon Overview: This is the sixth sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman explains that Jesus was arrested and brought to court through oppression, and his crucifixion was a result of injustice in the Sanhedrin and the Roman government. However, God used this to put our sins -- including our own oppression, injustice, and rebellion -- on Christ so that we are saved.

Sermon Topics:

1. Because of oppression of justice
2. Because of our rebellion

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-6/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHpm5jD1c3k

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-the-lord-give-life-to-what-has-been-dead-a-long-time/

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Sermon Overview: This is the fifth sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman explains that we all continually wander off the path God intended for us, but Jesus willingly sacrificed himself to atone for our sins and make us His children.

Sermon Topics:

1. Because we are wandering sheep
2. So He became the atoning lamb

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-5/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bO5fzJM-3Lw

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Sermon Overview: This is the fourth sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman explains that Jesus understands the burdens we face in our lives because Jesus endured physical, spiritual, and emotional torment, and he did it so we would be made God's children.

Sermon Topics:

1. To take up our sicknesses and the sorrows that they cause
2. To heal us in his wounds

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-4/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMlPUu35Gcw

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Sermon Overview: This is the third sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Pastor Schurman uses 3 more verses from Isaiah's prophecy to explain that Jesus lacked any worldly glory or tricks, so that we are not drawn to him by our sinful nature, but instead by the faith that God gives to us.

Sermon Topics:

1. To lack any worldly glory to draw us to him
   1. It must be by faith from God that we are drawn to him
2. To suffer the rejection of God that we naturally have in our hearts

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-3/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35CtRWQetDE

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Sermon Overview: God told Abraham to leave behind almost everything he had, including his relatives and his land, and travel to a strange land. If we put ourselves in Abraham's shoes, would we fully trust God, or would our sinful nature make us stop and ask "What's in it for me?" Thankfully, through God's blessings to (and from) Abraham, we see there's actually a lot in it for us!

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/whats-in-it-for-me/

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Sermon Overview: This is the second sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Using the next two verses of Isaiah's prophecy about the LORD's servant, Pastor Schurman explains how Jesus suffered all forms of suffering in order to save mankind and so that the good news of free salvation through him would be spread across the world.

Sermon Topics:

1. To be humbled beneath what is human
2. To be glorified in the mouths of men

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer-2/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_gmWR754xs

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Sermon Overview: This is the first sermon from the 2023 Lent series "Why Must the Servant of the LORD Suffer?" Using just one verse of Isaiah's prophecy about the LORD's servant, Pastor Schurman provides an overview of Jesus' life, suffering, death, and resurrection, and how it was all for us.

Sermon Topics:

1. To lift you up
2. To give you eternal life
3. To sprinkle you with His blood
4. To make His resurrection your resurrection
5. To be glorified through your witness
6. To rule over creation for your eternal benefit

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-must-the-servant-of-the-lord-suffer/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUwnnS8wAmc

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Sermon Overview: Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, which traditionally reminds us of our sins, but it also should remind us that Jesus paid the debt for those sins. Therefore Ash Wednesday does indeed begin a solemn journey, but it does not end on Good Friday, as tradition may have it. Rather, that journey actually culminates on Easter morning.

Sermon Topics:

1. Remember why God tells us in Advance
2. Keep a proper view of the point of Christ’s cross

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-we-begin-christs-solemn-journey-to-the-cross/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Never settle for “good enough,” while sticking with what you have been taught.
2. Show God’s purity while living in an impure world.
3. Love your neighbor with godly accountability.
4. Let God’s will be done.
5. Keep on overflowing with God’s love for one another.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-are-we-to-live-our-new-lives-in-a-way-that-pleases-god/

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Sermon Overview: Actions often speak louder than words, and God is glorified when the fruits of our faith are seen in action. However, we can find ourselves focusing on the wrong actions, or the wrong reasons for those actions. Additionally, sometimes our actions can be misinterpreted by others, or our good-intended actions might not actually reveal God's message.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is not when our focus is on worldly wisdom, but revealing the mystery of the Gospel.
2. It is not when our focus is on worldly things that distract from Christ having been crucified.
3. It is not bravado, self-righteousness, or being so timid we keep quiet about sin and grace.
4. It is God’s power at work.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-our-preaching-and-teaching-glorify-god/

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Sermon Topics:

1. He took on human flesh to fulfill this mission
2. He is God's ultimate spokesman, whose words kill and give life
3. He is the true servant that glorifies God
4. His labor is not in vain
5. He redeems His people, Jew and Gentile alike

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lords-servant-describes-his-mission/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSMCPS_usJg

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Sermon Topics:

1. Understand what baptism does for sinners
2. Jesus has no sin
3. "Let it be so now, because it is proper for us to fulfill all righteousness."

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-jesus-baptism-fulfill-all-righteousness/

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Sermon Overview: Looking back at 2022 we remember many things were difficult while many other things were great. We also recognize that 2023 will likely be full of both good and bad things. Most importantly, though, we have the goods news of free salvation through our savior Jesus Christ, and we continue to spread it to those around us.

Sermon Topics:

1. He has done many things for you
2. He has made you His people
3. He is your Savior

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-we-look-to-the-new-year-do-not-forget-the-lords-grace/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Jesus has astonishing parentage
2. Joseph and Mary had an astonishing acceptance of God's will
3. Joseph and Mary were astonishingly faithful parents

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-comes-in-astonishing-ways/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVAUSQsdaes

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Sermon Topics:

1. The LORD chose different things than the world would choose
2. David was very young when he was anointed
3. The LORD created the circumstances that would train David
4. David patiently waited for the LORD's plan to unfold
5. God saves sinners

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-must-be-patient-while-awaiting-his-fulfillment/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmuJCnw-Edg

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Sermon Topics:

1. He uses natural catastrophes
2. He uses the pain of death
3. He uses economic hardship
4. He uses our brothers and sisters in Christ
5. He enables us to see His blessings

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-comes-through-hardship/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGJbnOndYUA

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Sermon Topics:

1. God shined His Light on Rahab with His Word
2. Rahab is held up for her faith
3. The Light grows fruits of faith

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-comes-to-those-living-in-darkness/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlVlsguRO8w

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Sermon Topics:

1. Our indifference
2. Our sinfulness
3. Our selfishness
4. Our deception

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-comes-because-of-our-selfishness-and-sinfulness/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHdbOz6Spps

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Sermon Topics:

1. Abraham's plan of adoption
2. Sarah's plan for a surrogate mother
3. God's perfect timing and miracle

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-comes-in-his-timing-and-planning-not-our-own/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nQcPgjKNpk

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Sermon Topics:

1. Look at your whole life's journey and how the LORD has led you.
2. Look at how He has provided for your physical needs.
3. Look at how He provides for your spiritual needs.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/give-thanks-for-every-word-that-comes-from-the-lord/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xygYnNifYcg

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Sermon Topics:

1. A new heavens and earth.
2. The true church is full of joy and gladness.
3. Death is swallowed up in Christ's victory.
4. Your labor is not in vain.
5. Before you pray the LORD has answered.
6. There is peace and safety.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-victory-that-the-lord-has-given-to-you/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efAVYeUq_vk

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Sermon Overview: Jesus tells the parable of the ten minas to tell the people about his kingdom and explain how it grows. However, this parable can be confusing and misunderstood, so in this sermon Pastor Schurman walks us through all of the details and shows us how it applies to us and the world around us today.

Sermon Topics:

1. The noble man is clearly Christ, whose departure is his death, resurrection, and ascension. His return is Judgment Day.
2. The subjects who hated him are unbelievers.
3. The servants in God’s kingdom are believers.
4. The minas are God's Word and Sacraments, especially the Gospel.
5. Different servants are placed in different circumstance, which is why the minas produce different amounts.
6. One servant hides the mina in worldly things because he doesn't agree with the nobleman.
7. You do not earn the mina nor what it produces. It is a gift from God that you have the mina.

Note: The mina was a unit of currency, not to be confused with the talent (used in a similar parable), which was used to signify a gift or skill.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-are-the-minas-and-who-are-the-people/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Strength and courage comes from God's Word
2. Lead God's people by standing on and faithfully proclaiming God's Word
3. Going to the left or to the right will always impact your confidence of forgiveness and salvation
4. Insight to lead God's people comes from being in God's Word
5. True servants of God's Word lead by studying and proclaiming it faithfully

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-not-turn-from-gods-word-to-the-right-or-to-the-left/

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Sermon Overview: When the disciples asked Jesus to increase their faith, he responded, “If you had faith like a mustard seed, you could tell this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you." Does that mean your faith is weak if you aren't able to do this literally?

Sermon Topics:

1. God built faith into you when He created the "New Person" in you, and He designed that New Person to cling to Christ and show His glory.
2. Through faith you know you are forgiven, and your faith empowers and encourages you to forgive others.
3. God has entrusted you with the power to show and remove sin through the Binding and Loosing Keys.
4. If you think your faith is weak, you should strive to hear God's Word, as Romans 10 shows that is where faith comes from.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/is-your-faith-too-weak/

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Sermon Overview: When Jesus told of the rich man and poor Lazarus, he didn't state exactly why the rich man went to Hell, leading some people to make incorrect assumptions and guesses about it. However, the reason is very clearly implied in Jesus' words, and we can learn from it and apply it to our own lives and circumstances.

Sermon Topics:

1. It wasn’t because he was rich.
2. It wasn’t because he wasn’t Jewish, or did not observe the customs, or didn't go to the temple or the Synagogue.
3. It wasn’t because salvation depends on good works.
4. It was clearly a lack of love for our gracious LORD, His Word, and hence our fellow man.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-did-the-rich-man-go-to-hell/

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Sermon Topics:

1. He has given you faith
2. He has blessed you and your family
3. You are blessed to pray to the LORD
4. You are blessed to share the Word
5. You are blessed with Christian family and friends

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-extremely-blessed-in-christ/

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Sermon Topics:

1. The hard earned coin that was lost
2. The lost sheep which have wandered off

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-good-shepherd-seeks-the-utterly-lost/

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Sermon Topics:

1. It is the result of faith in the Triune God as your Savior
2. It loves correction and edification especially in the Word
3. It has both temporal and eternal benefits

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-is-true-wisdom/

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Sermon Overview: Do you ever find yourself focusing on the negative things in your day or life, even if things are mostly going well for you in general? Psalm 103 is a great antidote for that negative mentality; it explains, often through wonderful imagery, all of the blessings the LORD gives to us. But the opening verse says "Bless the LORD, O my soul," so how do we bless the LORD?

Sermon Topics:

1. For the blessings He gives to you
2. For the blessings He gives to His people
3. For the eternal blessings He gives
4. For His ruling activity

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/praise-the-lord-for-the-greatness-of-his-mercy/

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Sermon Overview: The apostle John records in the book of Revelation that many angels were saying in a loud voice: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing." Why were the angels saying this about the resurrected Lord?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/worthy-is-the-lamb/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wOk-zeZfp4

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Sermon Topics:

1. Highly individual, as seen in Thomas
2. Highly communal, as seen in the disciples

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/salvation-in-christ-is-highly-individual-and-highly-communal/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-sting-with-his-victory/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sQT_ge9GxM

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-by-taking-its-blow-for-us/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoFQMskSgyQ

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-isolation-and-starvation/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYKT8rWW4Ck

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Sermon Overview: Judas scolded Mary about using expensive perfume on Jesus instead of selling it and giving the money to the poor. The Bible tells us he said this because he was a thief and probably wanted to steal some of that money. However, even though Judas' motives were wrong, wasn't the principle behind it right?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/wouldnt-it-have-been-better-stewardship-if-the-perfume-was-sold/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-paralyzing-fear/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcYPzoUtuHE

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-betrayal/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6n6TVaRJhFQ

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Sermon Overview: We might be tempted to argue with people who claim Christians are hypocritical, judgmental, self-righteous, arrogant, unforgiving, and disrespectful, claiming those associations are not fair. Instead we should remember that if God's grace were truly fair, everyone would end up in Hell. So we thank God for His amazing grace, and we spread that good news to everyone.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/gods-grace-is-not-fair/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Christ overcomes death's hatred for God
2. Christ overcomes death's hatred for us, children of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-baseless-hatred/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edp4OZTQ5kI

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-overcoming-its-lies-and-indifference/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdM2GCbDMLo

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Sermon Topics:

1. Christ has prepared your eternal destination
2. Christ is the only road

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-removing-its-roadblocks/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdNcK3MMZmM

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Sermon Topics:

1. The filth that separates us from God
2. The filth that by faith is bathed away
3. The filth that is daily washed away

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-overcomes-death-for-us-washing-away-its-filth/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETeIxm0ZBsQ

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Sermon Topics:

1. The glory of either one is often not felt, and we often don't see it in ourselves
2. The glory of the Law is terrifying, but the glory of the Gospel is soothing
3. The glory of the Law can only be viewed momentarily
4. The glory of the Gospel is hidden, but when it is revealed, it gives eternal life

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/dont-give-more-glory-to-the-law-than-to-the-gospel/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QC-VmqncuI

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Sermon Overview: Despite everything Joseph had been through between the time he had been sold into slavery by his own brothers and when he met with them again many years later, Joseph was not angry or vengeful toward them. Instead, through faith he recognized that God had sent him on that path for their benefit and his own. So, like Joseph, we too should trust in God's plan for us and for those around us, even when it seems we may have been wronged by them.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-i-be-kind-merciful-loving-and-forgiving/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yACkLL5NqE

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Sermon Overview: In this sermon we learn what God has promised to those who put their trust in mankind instead of him, and we see that God promises to bless those who trust in him, even if they are sometimes insulted, excluded, hated, and rejected in this world because of their faith.

Sermon Topics:

1. Men will fail you
2. A heart set on other things will die
3. It is a blessing to trust in the Lord
4. Even in hard times you will be safe

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-call-this-blessed/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2VOOjc2TI0

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Sermon Topics:

1. He shows us our unholiness
2. He cleanses us
3. He presents the opportunities

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-god-prepare-us-to-serve/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xuwRU3QGBY

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Sermon Topics:

1. Gather to hear the Word
2. Take it into your homes
3. Bring your problems to God
4. Serving in God's kingdom
5. Test the message you hear
6. Embrace it, but don't hinder it
7. Hear the Word where it is preached

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/when-the-kingdom-of-god-comes-to-you-how-do-you-avoid-rejecting-it/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPp2y_l6xDQ

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Sermon Overview: God has given spiritual gifts to all members of the invisible church of all believers according to what the visible churches need for their congregations and communities, so we should remember thank God for our gifts and use them to praise and glorify Him.

Sermon Topics:

1. Let the light of your faith shine
2. Give all glory to the Trinity
3. Faithfully use the gifts God has given to you

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/shine-with-the-radiance-of-christs-glory/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeGhbWm3ptA

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Sermon Overview: As we get into the season of Epiphany, we look at the baptism of our Lord and savior Jesus and see the many ways in which his baptism by John the Baptist was the same as, and different than, our own baptism.

Sermon Topics:

1. The same in that He received the Sacrament
2. Different in that He was not a sinner
3. The same in that He was baptized by a sinful human being
4. Different in that He would redeem us and He sends us the Holy Spirit
5. The same as an anointing into ministry
6. Different as an anointing into His public ministry

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-baptism-was-the-same-as-yours-but-different/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEtdSk4tpaY

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Sermon Topics:

1. He protects you so that you rejoice in Him
2. He blesses you so that you are shielded by His Favor

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lord-will-be-your-refuge-throughout-the-new-year/

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Sermon Topics:

1. It shows God's approval
2. He tented among us to make us His temple
3. It guides His people

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-glory-of-the-lord-is-revealed-in-his-tabernacle/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0uwtjj-sj4

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Sermon Topics:

1. The glory of the Lord devours all that is not holy
2. The glory of the Lord mediated a covenant
3. The glory of the Lord did not devour Moses, nor does it devour us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-glory-of-the-lord-is-revealed-like-a-devouring-fire/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awLcK-QvT_I

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Sermon Topics:

1. By praying for each other
2. By working together in the good news of salvation
3. By keeping each other in our hearts and minds
4. By growing together in knowledge and discernment
5. By growing the fruits of righteousness together

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/advent-means-preparing-the-way-for-the-lord-together/

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Sermon Topics:

1. God provides what is scientifically impossible
2. God appeared in humility when He came to save us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-glory-of-the-lord-is-revealed-in-spite-of-our-grumbling/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXfW08D8A0k

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Sermon Overview: This Thanksgiving we are reminded that God created the Earth and everything in it for us, but everything we have belongs to him. On our own we are unholy and without Christ's blood cleansing us, we would be destroyed when we stand before God. So it is out of thanks that we make offerings of the time, talents, and treasures that God has given to us.

Sermon Topics:

1. He made you and He made the Earth to bless you
2. He cleansed you from sin by the blood of Christ
3. You are privileged to exercise stewardship over creation to glorify Him

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/give-thanks-to-the-lord-of-all-creation/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3E2sKDIMHU

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Sermon Topics:

1. He is, has been, and always will be
2. He bought your citizenship into His kingdom
   • What your citizenship looks like
3. His reign will not be denied

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-is-the-king-of-all-creation-revelation/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI2Aw5rbeUk

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Sermon Topics:

1. An eternity of wrath for unbelievers
2. An eternity of joy and freedom for believers
3. Evil will no longer bother believers

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/everything-culminates-in-judgment-day/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLUrfwQQ6fY

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Sermon Topics:

1. It creates the love because it gives and strengthens faith
2. It gives true wisdom, insight, and discernment
3. It gives a life of sanctification
4. It makes the truth taste sweet

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/blessings-flow-from-loving-to-study-gods-word/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQ2CXdpNobU

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Sermon Overview: We look at the account of King Uzziah’s sinful pride and death to learn that even when people have good intentions, if they act against God's instructions and the true teaching of the Bible, God will warn and discipline them.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do not forget that you are a steward of what God provides behind the scenes
2. Do not ignore the people whom God sends to warn you
   • God's warnings either crush our pride our invoke our wrath
3. Remember that God's discipline may be immediate or slow in coming
4. Know that God may allow the discipline to remain to keep us in His Word and warn others
5. Keep Christ before your eyes of faith

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/when-a-well-meaning-believer-thinks-they-know-better-than-god/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9dvEazH7bI

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Sermon Topics:

1. Faithfully using the tools God uses to dispense His grace.
2. Faithfully embracing God's justice and righteousness.
3. Embracing God's truth even when it points out our sin.
4. Casting our suffering upon Him and letting Him take care of it.
5. Hating evil and growing the fruits that God says are good.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-does-seeking-the-lord-and-having-life-look-like/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQGpWNSksW4

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Sermon Topics:

1. Find out what the Bible really says
2. Find the context of what the Bible says
3. Find what the Bible says on the whole subject
4. Ask for further clarification
5. Remember that sin complicates everything
6. Understand the Law and the Gospel contradict and oppose each other
7. Trust what God's Word has to say

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-should-you-do-when-someone-asks-a-question-that-uses-the-bible-against/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTB7rJG4x3w

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Sermon Overview: It is easy to see the world right now as tumultuous, given the many problems people are facing locally, nationally, and even globally. However, as Christians we know that Jesus promised we would bear crosses in our lives, and those crosses are often tests to show us where our faith is strong and where our faith is weak.

Sermon Topics:

1. Are you submitting to God?
2. Are you using the tools that dispense God's grace?
3. Are you repenting?
4. Are you showing your neighbor Christ's love?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/are-you-being-christian-during-these-tumultuous-times/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kQnrDtQrvo

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Sermon Topics:

1. It is not the wisdom of this world
2. It comes from God
3. It is sown in you and produced through you

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-is-biblical-wisdom/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7WKcAzQB60

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Sermon Overview: Pastor Schurman applies the "law of freedom" and the fact that "mercy triumphs over judgment" to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and how we as Christians should deal with it in our congregations and communities.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/does-mercy-or-our-own-selfish-desire-triumph-among-us-as-we-deal-with-covid/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wixd1X0vQak

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Sermon Topics:

1. He comes with his own comeuppance
2. He comes to heal from the ravages of sin
3. He comes with his life-giving water

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-christ-has-come-to-save-us/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fTYGmE9rCs

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Sermon Topics:

1. Do not take God's instructions (His Word) out of its context
2. Ways in which we add and subtract that mess with our salvation
3. We show Godly wisdom and understanding when we observe God's instructions

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-not-add-or-subtract-from-gods-instruction/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUAShSfuajg

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Sermon Overview: Without God's intervention we would most certainly serve false gods and idols. This is because our sinful nature causes us to not fear and love God above all things. However, when we struggle against our sinful nature and trust in Jesus for forgiveness and salvation, we are serving God.

Sermon Topics:

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-we-serve-the-lord-without-blemish/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuGDkVRRVMU

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Sermon Overview: Jesus referred to himself as "the living bread which came down from heaven" and that whoever "eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life." (John 6:51a,54a). However, we are not to confuse this with Holy Communion, also known as the Lord's Supper. Rather, Jesus is telling us that he is the living Word of God, which we need to nourish our faith so that we may live forever in Heaven.

Sermon Topics:

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-we-eat-this-genuine-bread-and-drink-this-genuine-drink/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4boNF0PADJM

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Sermon Overview: Even when trying to do God's work, like sharing the Gospel with our friends and neighbors, we can find ourselves wondering why God did not cause it to work out the way we thought was right. We look at the prophet Elijah's experience when he became frustrated after his efforts in Israel appeared to be failing for guidance with our own endeavors.

Sermon Topics:

1. Remember that the Law does not convert
2. Head to the Lord by coming to His means of grace
3. Take it to the Lord in prayer
4. Patiently let the Lord provide

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-should-we-do-when-god-does-not-do-what-we-think-he-should-do/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaR_MDkMeF8

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Sermon Overview: We have a unity (a strong relationship) both with God and with our fellow believers because we are called through the good news of salvation in Christ. We should conduct our lives out of thankfulness for the holiness God credits to us by serving others with the gifts God has given to us.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is a unity proper to your calling
2. It is produced by our Triune God
3. It is served by a diversity of gifts

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/make-every-effort-to-keep-your-unity/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPJ7nSUPx2c

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Sermon Overview: Jesus had compassion on the crowds of people who followed him and his disciples when they were trying to rest. Even though the people were primarily Jewish and considered themselves to be God's "chosen people," they were like sheep without a shepherd, and Jesus had compassion on them.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-could-gods-chosen-people-be-like-sheep-without-a-shepherd/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbugflgKnRY

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Sermon Overview: The instructions Jesus gave to the twelve disciples when he sent them out into the world provide us with great comfort when we do our own evangelism, especially for those times when what we are telling them could require a drastic change in their mindset regarding salvation.

Sermon Topics:

1. You are not alone
2. You have authority
3. You will be supported
4. Do not be selfish
5. You are to proclaim law and gospel
6. It usually takes patience and time

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-we-proclaim-a-complete-change-in-the-way-a-person-thinks/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsE9QnhU8fw

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-do-christians-reject-so-much-about-christ/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhKa6KChYQ0

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Sermon Overview: In the United States of America we celebrate our many freedoms, especially today on July 4. But as grateful as we are for those freedoms, we often see corruption in our government and leaders. This corruption and concern is nothing new, as we find out from Psalm 82, which tells us that God still holds them accountable and reminds us that He is working through our government and leaders for our eternal benefit.

Sermon Topics:

1. They are accountable to God
2. God expects them to deliver justice
3. God expects them to know right from wrong
4. God expects them to represent him

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-god-be-working-through-such-corrupt-leaders/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgWgzDZ8V90

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Sermon Overview: Like the disciples on the boat during the storm, we can often wonder if Jesus cares about the problems in our lives, with our friends, and even in our communities and countries. The truth is he cares so much that he lived and died for us, and as true God he is all knowing and all powerful, ruling over everything for our good.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/lord-doesnt-it-bother-you-that-we-are-perishing/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dngKFQvbqU

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Sermon Overview: Jesus used parables of scattering seeds, plants growing, and harvesting crops to describe the kingdom of God. From those parables we understand that Christ's kingdom, which is God's rule in our hearts, and the invisible church, which is made up of all believers, grow through people proclaiming the Word of God. When everyone has come to faith according to God's plan, Christ will return to "harvest" the souls of all believers. We also see that the entire world, including unbelievers, benefit from the works of the invisible church.

Sermon Topics:

1. Misunderstandings about the soil and crop
2. It grows by the spread of the Word
3. Knowing how it grows, what can we compare it to?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-christs-kingdom-grow/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDSiLy2bdXc

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Sermon Overview: When reading through the Bible, it may seem like God is sometimes playing favorites with those who are saved and those who are not, especially those people who at times worked against Christ. However, through several parables Jesus explains the key differences between those people, and we see how it applies to us today.

Sermon Topics:

1. Some slander the name and work of the Holy Spirit, driving him away.
2. Others sin out of ignorance, but their new man is still (or will later be) present, so they do not drive the Holy Spirit away.
3. You are Christ's family through faith from the Holy Spirit.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-were-some-of-those-working-against-christ-saved-and-others-damned/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykUhyLOcwPM

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Sermon Topics:

1. Know the Word of God
2. Know the Law and its intent
3. Know the Gospel and its intent
4. Know who is Lord (its not you)
5. When in doubt apply the Gospel
6. Find rest in the Word of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/rejecting-the-gospel-vs-rejecting-the-law/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18ry73aD9jQ

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Sermon Overview: The Athanasian Creed, which was prepared to assist the Church in combating heresies in the church, declares that whoever rejects the doctrine of the Trinity and the doctrine of Christ is without the saving faith. But how do we know if we have that saving faith?

Sermon Topics:

1. You remain in the Father's love
2. You remain in the Son's salvation
3. You remain in the Holy Spirit's faith

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-remain-in-the-work-of-the-one-and-only-triune-god/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qdyEFUtekg

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Sermon Topics:

1. To teach you God's Word
2. To remind you of God's Word
3. To give you God's peace

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-holy-spirit-has-been-called-to-stand-beside-you/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ky-3QYTjR54

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Sermon Overview: Living the life of a Christian is not always joyous. In fact for some, like most of the disciples, there are times when it can be miserable. Yet in his "High Priestly Prayer" before his arrest, Jesus prayed for God the Father to give us his joy.

Sermon Topics:

1. You are are a citizen of Christ's kingdom
2. God keeps you in His name
3. You have God's Word
4. You have been set apart for God's work

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-have-christs-joy/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6IJkWEwnUL0

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Sermon Topics:

1. Jesus changed your status and assures you with the information you need
2. Jesus chose you and gave you a purpose
3. You show your friendship by remaining in him and showing his love
4. Jesus empowers you
5. Jesus fills you with joy

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-is-jesus-your-friend-and-how-are-you-his-friend/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bds63-fIPM8

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Sermon Overview: We are connected to Christ Jesus like branches are connected to the vine. Through that connection God blesses us and rules for our good. We not only praise him and hold him in reverent awe, but we even reflect his glory in our daily lives.

Sermon Topics:

1. God blesses you
2. You reflect his glory
3. He gives you reasons to praise him
4. God blesses you so you hold him in reverence

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/connected-to-christ-you-praise-god/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEPbTjIczXc

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Sermon Overview: We may not like to admit it, but we are powerless to save ourselves from an eternity in Hell. So we rejoice knowing that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who protects us from the Devil, like a shepherd protects his sheep from wolves.

Sermon Topics:

1. He is the Good Shepherd
2. He knows you like no other
3. You know him and hear his voice
4. He has authority and power to shepherd you

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-jesus-little-lamb/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoJeXwJ7ubw

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Sermon Topics:

1. He has delivered you
2. He is your power
3. He is your life
4. He is your righteousness

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/praise-the-lord-for-he-is-good/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pQPm9SZJWc

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Sermon Overview: Jesus gave the binding and loosing keys to the church after his resurrection when he appeared to the disciples and other believers. We use the binding key (the Law) when someone is embracing a sin to show them they are damned to Hell and need a savior, and we use the loosing key (the Gospel) when they repent to forgive them of that sin and tell them Jesus is their savior.

Sermon Topics:

1. He has empowered you with His peace to help you if you face persecution
2. He has equipped you with the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the Sacraments
3. He has defined the work (Law & Gospel) so you know when and how to use each key

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-has-commissioned-you-with-his-keys/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J_aRBGI_uM

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Sermon Overview: This Easter we look not just at Jesus' resurrection, but also the resurrection of many believers who were already entombed when he gave up his spirit on the cross. These resurrections are proof of the victory Christ won over sin and death, and they show us that, for believers, death is merely a sleep for the body.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-when-the-tombs-were-opened-and-many-were-raised-to-life/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff-bRHrkzhI

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Sermon Overview: We see yet another glimpse of Jesus' divine glory in his death on the cross and the conversion of the centurion. Sinners are converted to believe they are not righteous -- but Christ is, and he is the true son of God -- ultimately leading them to confess their faith.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-when-christs-death-converts-sinners/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q09i7irYEK4

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Sermon Overview: We see a glimpse of Jesus' divine glory when he institutes the Lord's Supper (also known as Holy Communion). It is a miracle that only God can bring about, given purely as a blessing for those that truly believe it, and because it is God's word, we hold tightly to it.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-when-he-institutes-his-last-will-and-testament/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5UquGIUEaQ

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Sermon Topics:

1. Save us from our unrighteousness
2. Save us from false foundations
3. Save us from our grumblings
4. Save us from holding anything above God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-pray-hosanna-o-lord-please-save-us/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRTWBzDnlAc

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Sermon Overview: When Jesus died on the cross, the temple curtain, which was the barrier to the most sacred part of the temple, was torn apart. Through the tearing of the curtain we see that Jesus is the High Priest and we are priests, so we have direct access to God and Christ is our intercessor. Jesus' death also got rid of the Old Covenant and brought us into the New Covenant.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-when-the-barrier-to-the-holiest-of-holies-was-torn-in-two/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTlKXvENyw4

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Sermon Overview: The old covenant, which was given to the people of Israel in the Old Testament, was never meant to save anyone, so God gave us the new covenant. While the new covenant can be summarized as the good news of salvation in Christ, it is important to note that God has done all of the work for our salvation.

Sermon Topics:

1. It gives blessings so that we follow it
2. It makes us faithful (like in a marriage)
3. It creates an internal change in us
4. It turns us into spiritually mature people
5. It is God's purity forgiving our sins

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-is-the-new-covenant/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWPiNXr7IyQ

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Sermon Overview: For three hours while Jesus hung dying on the cross, there was a supernatural darkness that covered all the land. This miraculous event is tremendous proof of Jesus' deity, as it shows the impending death of the one who spoke "Let there be light" during creation, and it shows God the father judging his innocent son in place of all mankind.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-in-the-darkness-before-christs-death/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WR8P4AOMBa8

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Sermon Overview: Jesus used the object lesson of Moses and the bronze serpent to teach Nicodemus that faith is obedience to God. Three years later after Jesus' death on the cross, Nicodemus clung in faith to Jesus as his savior.

Sermon Topics:

1. Obedience to look at the serpent and be healed
2. Obedience to look to Christ for forgiveness and salvation
3. Obedience to confess our sins and know they are forgiven
4. Obedience to see God's fruit in ourselves

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/faith-is-obedience-to-god/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGIw35BKpdM

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Sermon Overview: While hanging a cross beside Jesus, a dying criminal makes a true confession of faith. Jesus then promised and assured the criminal that he was going to Heaven when he died. It is through that confession and promise we get another glimpse of Jesus' full glory and deity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-by-the-penitent-criminal/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuLfe3q6_XM

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Sermon Overview: Jesus' words and actions from when he first cleansed the temple are often misunderstood. It may seem like he was being excessive, or that he was being elusive when answering those who questioned him. However, we should use this account to remind ourselves that God is serious about sin and will not have the church distracted from his saving purpose. We should also remember that the true temple is the invisible church of all believers.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-the-commotion-and-the-seemingly-elusive-answer/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFPT91_-6s4

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Sermon Overview: During Jesus' trial at the Sanhedrin, Pilate's wife is given a prophetic dream, which causes her suffering and leads her to warn her husband to leave Jesus alone. Her warning reveals Christ's true righteousness and makes it clear that he is the standard by which God measures all people. We also recognize God has given us an invitation to trust in Jesus as our savior, since we don't measure up to that standard on our own.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-through-pilates-wife/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW3dLvE8MTQ

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Sermon Overview: Jesus explained that he would die on the cross and then rise again, but Peter did not understand and initially rejected what Jesus said. Jesus rebuked Peter and then told his followers to take up their crosses and follow him. That message applies to us today, but if, like Peter, we don't understand the crosses in our lives, we may reject them.

Sermon Topics:

1. Jesus' cross was for your salvation
2. Your crosses are for your sinful nature

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/crosses-are-for-torturing-to-death/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZFbDppcXKc

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Sermon Overview: After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, the chief priests made their decision to kill Jesus. After they captured him, they brought him into the Sanhedrin and questioned him, looking for reasons to have him put to death. Jesus' answers serve as both a declaration of his deity and as a prophecy of his eternal rule in Heaven.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-by-christs-declaration-and-by-prophecy/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YG11_aS3qVk

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Sermon Overview: When God told Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac, it was not for God's knowledge or benefit, but for Abraham's. While the tests and hardships we encounter may not be as intense as Abraham's, we know that God uses them for our good to strengthen our faith and demonstrate to us just how strong our faith is.

Sermon Topics:

1. When it seems like he is contradicting his blessings, it is so that we trust there is no contradiction in him.
2. When we are confronted with difficulty, it is so that we trust he will see to it.
3. God even sees to it that we can return thanks.
4. God sees to it that his Word reaffirms our faith.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-tests-us-to-strengthen-our-faith/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPSZ946I4Fk

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Sermon Overview: Jesus repelled his captors in the garden with just the words "I am he," giving us a glimpse of his divine power and glory. In this sermon we learn the importance of this act and how it applies to us and Christians everywhere.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/seen-in-christs-act-of-repelling-his-captors/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGO5ye40eQc

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Sermon Topics:

1. The Law is a ministry that brings death. The Gospel is a ministry that brings the Spirit.
2. The Law is a ministry that brings condemnation. The Gospel is a ministry that brings righteousness.
3. The Law is a fading glory. The Gospel is an everlasting glory.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/which-is-more-glorious/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWwE-G1ACFc

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Sermon Overview: God often puts hardship in our lives, and, just like Job, we often can't help but wonder why. As Christians we must remember that God works all things for our good. One such way he does this is by using hardships to help us remember that our lives in this sinful world are temporary, and that we will spend eternity with God in Heaven.

Sermon Topics:

1. So that you do not get attached to this decaying world
2. So that you understand how short life is
3. So that your soul is restless until it finds rest in God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-hidden-god-uses-hardship-to-change-your-perspective-on-life/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx2NKYWaPbE

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Sermon Overview: When Jesus was teaching in the synagogue, the people there were amazed because he taught with authority. Unlike the so-called experts of the law, or false prophets that have come and gone, Jesus spoke the true Word of God, as only God could do. We see Jesus is the one true prophet of God and examine how he serves as a mediator for us.

Sermon Topics:

1. He is the mediator between God and man
2. He mediates the new Covenant

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-the-prophet-of-god/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DO1aUhVb3M4

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Sermon Overview: When we spread the good news of free salvation in Jesus Christ to our friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers, we are fishers of men and women. However, just like with regular fishing, we must understand there is an investment required, and we must understand how to use the tools we have been given.

Sermon Topics:

1. Know the investment
2. Know the tools

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-makes-you-a-fisher-of-men/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uy_5nuP0uxw

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Sermon Overview: We have the great news of salvation through Jesus Christ, but sometimes we find ourselves struggling to share it with others. Even when talking with friends, we can upset them just by telling them they need a savior. We can look at the apostle Philip's evangelism to Nathanael for help and comfort when we do our own evangelism.

Sermon Topics:

1. Invite them to God's Word
2. Know that you are not alone
3. Let God's Word do the work

Related Links:

• WELS This We Believe
• The Complete People's Bible Set

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-evangelize-your-friends/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKKMRFH-HMc

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Sermon Overview: Jesus' baptism, which is when he was visibly anointed, serves many purposes for our benefit. Most importantly, it makes it abundantly clear that he is the king of all creation, and he is true God who became true man to save us.

Sermon Topics:

1. To make known that he is the Savior and the king of all creation
2. To make known to his enemies who will destroy them
3. To tell you who rules for you
4. To tell governments who they represent and serve
5. To tell us who to turn to for refuge

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-was-jesus-baptized/
• Watch this sermon directly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJweqIVxBGY

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Sermon Overview: When people see Jesus as just a child in the manger, or just a man dying on a cross, or just a wise man with teachings of kindness, they deny his deity. Other people deny him as their savior outright, including Christians whose beliefs fall into legalism or antinomianism.

Sermon Topics:

1. Some miss the deity
2. Some deny him outright

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-reveals-the-thoughts-of-our-hearts/

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Sermon Overview: Like Simeon when he held the baby Jesus, we can boast about our Savior and the salvation he brought. We do this by reading and hearing God's Word, by living our lives as Christians, and by sharing the good news of our Lord's incarnation with our friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is a miraculous work
2. It is a work of grace and compassion
3. It is revealed in his Word

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/boast-in-the-incarnation-of-our-lord/

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Sermon Topics:

1. He brings light
2. He brings joy
3. He brings freedom
4. He brings peace
5. He brings an everlasting kingdom

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-the-savior-is-born/

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Sermon Overview: The fourth candle on the Advent wreath which we light is the Angel candle. God sent angels to deliver the messages of Jesus' birth, and they will take part in delivering the message of Jesus' return. We know their messages are from God because angels appearing in all their glory is a miracle in and of itself.

Sermon Topics:

1. They provided the special announcement that the Lord was incarnate
2. They will be part of the special announcement that the Lord has returned
3. Yet, God still sends sinners like you and I to proclaim the good news of our Savior

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-angel-candle/

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Sermon Overview: The third candle on the Advent wreath which we light is the Shepherds' candle because God first gave the good news of our savior's birth to shepherds. We see the significance in that because Jesus is the shepherd of all Christians, and because the shepherds were average people who would effectively spread the good news to others.

Sermon Topics:

1. Shepherds because the Good Shepherd has been born
2. Shepherds because they would call out to God's sheep
3. Shepherds because they would return to their work

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-shepherds-candle/

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Sermon Overview: Using the prophet Isaiah God tells us how great the new of our savior's coming is. Just like the Israelite facing the persecution from and slavery to the Babylonians, we can face our struggles and afflictions in peace because we have that good news of our salvation through Jesus. We also see how this news still applies today even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sermon Topics:

1. Great news for those enslaved by sin
2. Great news that he turns our mourning into joy
3. Great news that he has dressed us in his righteousness
4. Great news that his righteousness sprouts forth in front of all nations

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-messiah-has-been-anointed-to-bring-good-news/

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Sermon Overview: The second candle on the Advent wreath which we light reminds us that God, through the prophets of the Old Testament, even revealed where the savior would be born. We continue to see how God preserved the lineage for Jesus to be born according to the prophecies. His humble birth in Bethlehem reminds us that he came to save all mankind, and even though he is king of all creation, his true throne is in our hearts.

Sermon Topics:

1. Prophecy fulfilled
2. The birthplace of a king, but not his capital city

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-bethlehem-candle/

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Sermon Overview: Through the prophet Isaiah God explained his plan to bring salvation to the world, and we find comfort in knowing that prophecy was fulfilled in Christ Jesus. Furthermore, we should spread this comfort to both our fellow Christians and the rest of the world by sharing the good news of forgiveness and salvation.

Sermon Topics:

1. Our crosses have an end
2. The LORD has prepared for us to see His glory
3. God's Word stands forever
4. God is your Good Shepherd

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-have-great-news-of-wonderful-comfort/

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Sermon Overview: The first candle on the Advent wreath which we light was originally called the Prophecy Candle. We follow the prophecy of God becoming true man and the prophecy of how his life and death would save us, as they are recorded throughout the Old Testament and the Gospel Books of the New Testament.

Sermon Topics:

1. Prophecy that true God would become true man to save us
2. Prophecy that explains how God would save us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-prophecy-candle/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus told us that no one knows when he will come again, but still he instructed us to keep watch and be ready for his return. Unfortunately, today many people, even who profess to be believers in Christ, do not. But we can keep watch by being aware of what we cannot know, by hearing and reading God's Word, by using our spiritual gifts for God's glory, and by using the binding and loosing keys when reaching out to others.

Sermon Topics:

1. Know what you cannot know
2. Hear His Word
3. Use your gifts
4. Use the binding and losing keys

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-keep-watch-for-the-return-of-the-king/

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Sermon Overview: Even though we are still facing the COVID-19 pandemic and all of the hardships it has brought, we can always give thanks to the Lord our God because he is our refuge, our strength, and our help in distress.

Sermon Topics:

1. O give thanks to the Lord because he is our refuge
2. O give thanks to the Lord because he is our strength
3. O give thanks to the Lord because he is our help in distress

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/o-give-thanks-to-the-lord/

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Sermon Overview: Before he was crucified, Jesus was mocked and ridiculed, and even today people around the world mock and ridicule both him and his teachings. Because of all of that, it may be hard to see him as a king, let alone the king of all creation. Through the first epistle to the Corinthians, however, we see how and where he is ruling today, and we know how and where he will rule on the Last Day.

Sermon Topics:

1. For now he rules in his kingdom of grace.
2. For now he rules in his kingdom of power.
3. On the Last Day he will always rule in his kingdom of glory.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-christ-rule-as-king/

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Sermon Overview: Christians today are often persecuted or ridiculed, and it may seem like God is not paying attention. However, God is still in control, and he still keeps his enemies in line and uses them for our benefit. We look to God's use of the prophet Isaiah and the Babylonians before, during, and after they conquered Jerusalem to see this in action.

Sermon Topics:

1. God delivers his people from his enemies
2. God uses his enemies for his people
3. There is no good reason for being God’s enemy
4. God keeps ruling for his people

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-god-still-say-to-his-enemies-just-who-do-you-think-you-are/

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Sermon Overview: Throughout history there have been many governments, leaders, and judges, all of which were flawed and did not always provide true justice. However, our final judgment will be performed by God, and his judgment is perfect. While that is terrifying for non-believers, it is very comforting for believers.

Sermon Topics:

1. A judge who gets the last word
2. A judge who is not "wet behind the ears"
3. A judge who is righteous
4. A judge who is all knowing, all present, and all powerful
5. A judge who removes sin
6. A judge who uses the evidence

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-kind-of-judge-will-judge-you/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus instructed the disciples to be as "shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves" when he was sending them into the world, and still today this applies to Christians everywhere. We look at Martin Luther during the Reformation and the apostles for guidance and examples to help us be on guard and witness to others.

Sermon Topics:

1. By knowing what being sharp-witted is and where it is from
2. By knowing what purity is and where it is from
3. Examples of being sharp-witted and pure among the wolves

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-we-be-as-sharp-witted-as-snakes-and-as-pure-as-doves/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus told the Parable of the Wicked Tenants to the chief priests and the Pharisees and ended it by telling them "the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces its fruit." However, we can apply this parable to ourselves, since, as members of the priesthood of all believers, we are the ones that produce the fruits of faith.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do you see that God has provided all that is needed for the fruit he desires?
2. Do you know that unreasonable sin receives unreasonable grace?
3. Do you know that his grace has its limits?
4. Is Christ the cornerstone for you?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-kind-of-tenant-farmer-are-you/

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Sermon Overview: Everyone begins "stuck to the couch" and unwilling to do God's work due to our sinful nature. However, through faith we eventually "get off the couch" and go to work spreading the good news of salvation to the world.

Sermon Topics:

1. All refuse to get off the couch.
2. Repentance and faith respect Christ’s authority.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/which-type-of-couch-potato-are-you/

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Sermon Overview: The apostle Paul encourages us to conduct ourselves in a way that is worthy of the gospel of Christ, but what does that mean, and how do we do it? It means that we should exercise our heavenly citizenship, and in order to that we must know what the gospel of Christ is, which requires us to be anchored in the Word of God.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is exercising your heavenly citizenship
2. By knowing what is the gospel of Christ
3. Through being anchored in the Word of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-conduct-yourself-in-a-way-that-is-worthy-of-the-gospel-of-christ/

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Sermon Overview: There are many things in our lives that are neither commanded nor forbidden by Scripture; we call these "adiaphoron," meaning middle or indifferent things. Yet it is often in and around these things that we sin against our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do not judge our thanks to God
2. Whether living or dying we belong to the Lord

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/watch-out-for-each-other-in-indifferent-matters/

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Sermon Overview: As members of the priesthood of all believers, we are not necessarily called to be prophets like Ezekiel. However, we are called to be on the watch for our friends, family members, and neighbors and to warn them when they are in spiritual danger.

Sermon Topics:

1. You listen to His Word.
2. You are held accountable.
3. You warn against perversions, rebellions, and sins against God's will.
4. You rejoice in the turning from death to life.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-gods-watchman/

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Sermon Overview: We know from scriptures that the sacrifices given in the times of the Old Testament did not live; the animals were killed either just before or during the sacrifice. So how can we offer our bodies and our lives as sacrifices to God and still remain alive?

Sermon Topics:

1. We do it through God's undeserved gifts of faith and salvation
2. We do it through the means of grace (baptism, Holy Communion, reading the Bible)
3. We do it by knowing our part in God's body (the invisible church of all believers)
4. We do it by using our God-given gifts to serve others the same way He serves us

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-offer-your-bodies-as-a-living-sacrifice/

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Sermon Overview: We look at the Psalm that David wrote about his deliverance (by God) after fleeing for his life, and through it we see the many reasons why we magnify (praise) God's name and how we go about doing it.

Sermon Topics:

1. Why do you magnify Gods Name?
2. How do you magnify Gods Name?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-and-how-do-you-magnify-gods-name/

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Sermon Overview: When a Canaanite woman begged Jesus to help her (by removing the demon that was tormenting her daughter), it seems like Jesus ignored and insulted her. However, he was actually strengthening her faith and preparing her for future hardships through this encounter. Our faith enables us to cling to his promise and know that he isn't ignoring us; rather, he answers our pleas and cares for us according to what is best for us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-does-the-gracious-lord-ignore-our-plea/

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Sermon Overview: Have you ever experienced burnout or frustration when serving the Lord's Church? Even the prophet Elijah struggled with this after confronting and removing the prophets of the false god Baal. But we must remember that our work in the Lord is never in vain.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do not confuse the work of the Law with the Gospel.
2. God leaves no sin unpunished.
3. The effects of the gospel cannot always be seen.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/our-work-in-the-lord-is-not-in-vain/

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Sermon Overview: Many people have likely heard the saying "there's no such thing as a free meal," but the salvation that Jesus won for us actually is a free meal, and it is truly the only one that matters.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is eternally nourishing
2. It is the bread of life from Heaven

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-one-free-lunch-is-the-only-meal-that-matters/

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Sermon Overview: As we look to the End of Times, we do not need to be afraid. We have already been judged righteous because of our faith, so we know God is taking us to Heaven upon our death or on the Last Day.

Sermon Topics:

1. God's court
2. God's harvest
3. God's creation
4. God's fortress

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-not-be-afraid-the-battle-is-not-yours-it-is-gods/

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Sermon Topics:

1. The Word in conversion
2. The Word after conversion
3. The Word into eternity

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/gods-word-always-has-an-effect/

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Sermon Overview: When Martin Luther wrote his explanation for the Third Commandment ("Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy") he explained: "We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching nor His Word, but gladly hear, learn, and obey it."

Sermon Topics:

1. It's about worship
2. The Lord gives you rest

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-does-this-commandment-apply-to-us-today/

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Sermon Overview: How can you deal with a false teacher, especially when you wish their false teachings were actually true? We can look to the words of the prophet Jeremiah as he rebuked the false prophet Hananiah.

Sermon Topics:

1. Confess when you wish it were so
2. Line it up with the Scriptures
3. Be patient and God will reveal it
4. Publicly rebuke false teachings made publicly

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-tell-a-false-teacher-when-you-wish-it-were-so/

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Sermon Overview: Even today we may face opposition or persecution when proclaiming your faith in Jesus, but we should not let that stop us because God is control; He is working to both keep us in His salvation and to help us spread His message.

Sermon Topics:

1. God is in control
   • He uses persecution to show He is your lord and teacher
   • He has made salvation simple and public
   • You are precious to Him
2. He will confess you

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-boldly-confess-christ/

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Sermon Topics:

1. God does the carrying
2. We must listen carefully to His Word
3. God makes us a treasured people
4. God makes us priests
5. God makes us a holy nation

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-did-the-old-covenant-foreshadow-the-new/

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Sermon Overview: Just like Hosea loved his unfaithful wife, we see how God loves us even through our unfaithfulness to Him, and we thank Him for both the discipline He gives us and the mercy He shows us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/didnt-god-order-sacrifice/

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Sermon Overview: God's blessings come from keeping his Word in your heart, soul, work, and mind.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-blessings-come-from-keeping-gods-word/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Those who believe it are saved
2. Three unified persons, but only one God
3. One eternal and infinite God
4. One Almighty God and Lord
5. One coequal and coeternal God

The Athanasian Creed (Part A):Whoever wishes to be saved must, above all else, hold to the true Christian faith. Whoever does not keep this faith pure in all points will certainly perish forever.

Now this is the true Christian faith:

We worship one God in three persons and three persons in one God, without mixing the persons or dividing the divine being.

For each person—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—is distinct, but the deity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is one, equal in glory and coeternal in majesty.

What the Father is, so is the Son, and so is the Holy Spirit.

The Father is uncreated, the Son uncreated, the Holy Spirit uncreated; the Father is infinite, the Son infinite, the Holy Spirit infinite; the Father is eternal, the Son eternal, the Holy Spirit eternal; yet they are not three who are eternal, but there is one who is eternal, just as they are not three who are uncreated, nor three who are infinite, but there is one who is uncreated and one who is infinite.

In the same way the Father is almighty, the Son is almighty, the Holy Spirit is almighty; yet they are not three who are almighty, but there is one who is almighty.

So the Father is God, the Son is God, the Holy Spirit is God; yet they are not three Gods, but one God.

So the Father is Lord, the Son is Lord, the Holy Spirit is Lord; yet they are not three Lords, but one Lord.

For just as Christian truth compels us to confess each person individually to be God and Lord, so the true Christian faith forbids us to speak of three Gods or three Lords.

The Father is neither made nor created nor begotten of anyone.

The Son is neither made nor created, but is begotten of the Father alone.

The Holy Spirit is neither made nor created nor begotten, but proceeds from the Father and the Son.

So there is one Father, not three Fathers; one Son, not three Sons; one Holy Spirit, not three Holy Spirits.

And within this Trinity none comes before or after; none is greater or inferior, but all three persons are coequal and coeternal, so that in every way, as stated before, all three persons are to be worshiped as one God and one God worshiped as three persons.

Whoever wishes to be saved must have this conviction of the Trinity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-confess-the-trinity-in-the-athanasian-creed/

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Sermon Overview: The Holy Spirit stands at your side and helps you by convincing (believers) and convicting (unbelievers) the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment.

Sermon Topics:

1. The Holy Spirit convinces and convicts the world of sin.
2. The Holy Spirit convinces and convicts the world of righteousness.
3. The Holy Spirit convinces and convicts the world of judgment.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-holy-spirit-stands-at-your-side-and-helps-you/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer teaches us how we glorify God: know that Jesus is true God who became true man in order to save us.

Sermon Topics:

1. Know what eternal life is
2. Know God's Word
3. Know the world

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-glorify-god/

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Sermon Overview: We apply Psalm 66 (entitled "How Awesome Are Your Deeds!") to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic in order to remind ourselves that God is in control, working all things for our benefit.

Sermon Topics:

1. It is subject to Him
2. He makes it serve His people
3. He allows it to refine His people
4. So return thanks to God
5. Know He answers your prayers and gives you mercy

Visit our Coronavirus (COVID-19) page for additional sermons and prayers.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/praise-the-lord-for-the-coronavirus/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus is the cornerstone (the core piece of a building's foundation) upon which the Christian church -- composed of all believers -- is built. All believers within the Christian church are also priests, proclaiming the good news of salvation and doing good works (including making sacrifices and serving others) out of thanks.

Sermon Topics:

1. You are living stones on the Living Stone
2. You are priest through the High Priest

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-has-made-you-into-his-temple-and-priesthood/

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Sermon Overview: The Apostle Peter's message to slaves, encouraging them to submit to their masters, teaches us how and why we are to bear the injustices that come into our lives.

Sermon Topics:

1. Empowered by God's Grace
2. Empowered by the Good Shepherd

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-bear-injustice/

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Sermon Overview: Until Christ returns we are to live in reverence of him, knowing we are redeemed by him, and we are to put our hope in him.

Sermon Topics:

Note: Full Revelation refers to the final revelation, the Last Day when Christ will no longer be hidden at all.

1. Live being turned right-side up
2. Live as redeemed children of God
3. Live with your faith and hope in God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-shall-we-live-while-waiting-for-the-full-revelation-of-christ/

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Sermon Overview: When we face pain and trials in our lives, like with the current COVID-19 pandemic, we can be thankful that scripture does not end with the uncertainty of Thomas; instead, we have been given assurances of heaven, and we know that God uses the pain and trials for our benefit.

Sermon Topics:

1. You would not know about your heavenly birth and treasure.
2. You would not have great joy even in painful trials.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-if-scripture-ended-with-the-uncertainty-of-thomas/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus rose from the dead, just as he said he would, and his empty tomb shows us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. Ironic unbelief from such grateful hearts
2. Ironic display of power
3. Ironic terror for some and comfort for others
4. Ironic messengers

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/an-empty-tomb-receives-visitors/

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Sermon Overview: The chief priests and Pharisees efforts to "guard" Jesus' tomb shows us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. Irony in who is the real deceiver.
2. Irony that their security became God’s proof.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-said-i-will-rise-again/

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Sermon Overview: Paul's letter to the Corinthians shows us ironies in how people treat the Lord's Supper (a.k.a. Holy Communion).

Sermon Topics:

1. Irony that it is a last will and testament, yet people change the words and break the covenant.
2. Irony that it is for Godly hunger, but people turn it into a worldly hunger.
3. Irony that it gives Godly Wisdom, yet it is twisted by worldly wisdom.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/ironies-in-the-lords-supper/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus humbling himself as a servant to save mankind, which the Apostle Paul explains in his letter to the Philippians, shows us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. Irony that he is greeted as a king but comes as a servant
2. Irony that his service wins his Majesty

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/our-savior-rides-gloriously-into-jerusalem/

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Sermon Overview: The Holy Spirit uses the mockery and insults directed at Jesus to convert one of the criminals being hung with Jesus, showing us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. Irony that the gospel came from the mouth of mockers.
2. Irony that one sinner admonishes another.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/dont-you-fear-god/

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Sermon Overview: Be confident that the Lord hears your prayers because He loves you and made (and already kept) a promise to save you. Embrace God's Word and share the good news with others out of love and thankfulness.

Sermon Topics:

1. Call on the name of the Lord
2. Be at Peace for God is good to you
3. Return thanks for all God’s goodness

Pastor Schurman's translation of Psalm 116:3 from the original Hebrew: The cords of death entangled me, and the straits (tight squeeze) of the grave found me, and I keep on finding grief.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/be-at-peace-the-lord-hears-your-prayers/

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Sermon Overview: The manipulative claims of the chief priests, which led Pilate to hand Jesus over to be crucified, show us one of the Ironies of the Passion: corrupt churches and corrupt governments submit to each other.

Sermon Topics:

1. A corrupt church ironically submits to a corrupt government.
2. A corrupt government ironically submits to a corrupt church.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-have-no-king-but-caesar/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus explains to the disciples that he came to serve, not to be served. His death and resurrection set us free from our sinful nature. Because we have been set free, we serve others our of love and thankfulness, and we share with them the joy of salvation.

Sermon Topics:

1. Know the cup Christ drank; it set you free.
2. Know the cup Christ gives you to drink; he calls you to share his love.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-drink-of-the-cup-of-servitude/

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Sermon Overview: Herod's expectations for finally meeting Jesus, and his subsequent actions, show us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. He hoped to see a miracle but saw the hidden God.
2. He was shown the Savior but choose entertainment.
3. He became a strange bedfellow with Pilate.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-had-been-wanting-to-see-jesus/

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Sermon Overview: We learn from Jesus giving sight to the blind man why God allows negative things to come into our lives (like the current Coronavirus Disease COVID-19 pandemic) and how He uses them for our good and for the good of others.

Sermon Topics:

1. So that we can see God's glory
2. So that we can see that "seeing" is not believing
3. So that we can see that Jesus is the Son of God and Son of Man, and therefor he is our savior

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-gives-sight-to-the-blind/

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Sermon Overview: The chief priests and elders planned to arrest and kill Jesus, but they wanted to avoid doing it during the festival of the Passover, showing us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. A festival of deliverance from tyranny
2. A festival about the Lamb of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/not-during-the-festival/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus evangelizes to the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, showing the need for a savior and then revealing that he is the savior.

Sermon Topics:

Note: Jesus is the Living Water

1. He creates a thirst by showing us sinners that we need a savior.
2. He bubbles up into eternal life, causing us to overflow with jor and share the good news of salvation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-living-water-flows-to-the-unclean/

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Sermon Overview: The words of Caiaphas and the Pharisees in the Sanhedrin, which lead to their plotting of Jesus' murder, show us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. Irony in thinking their sin would serve God.
2. Irony that God made their sin serve His grace.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/it-is-better-that-one-man-die-for-the-people/

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Sermon Overview: We examine the temptation of Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden, and compare it to the temptation of Jesus in the desert, so that we can learn the Devil's lies and be prepared for them.

Sermon Topics:

Do You Know the Devil’s Lies?1. He lies by adding or subtracting just one word. 2. He lies by calling God a liar. 3. He lies by claiming God is withholding from you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/did-god-really-say/

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Sermon Overview: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector shows us one of the Ironies of the Passion.

Sermon Topics:

1. The man who "deserved" it did not receive it.
2. The man who did not deserve it did receive it.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/this-man-went-home-justified/

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Sermon Overview: Not only do the Heavenly Hosts praise the Lord, but so does all of creation. We praise the Lord because He is our savior.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-we-say-farewell-to-alleluia-boastfully-praise-the-lord/

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Sermon Overview: Just as the people of Israel were given a choice -- allow God to deliver them into the promised land or perish in the desert -- we also have a choice: true life, which is eternal life in the salvation of God, or true death, which is a sinful life in this world.

Sermon Topics:

1. Know your options
2. Beware of the dangers
3. Know how to keep your choice

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/which-are-you-choosing/

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Sermon Overview: You let your light shine by knowing your righteousness, which is Christ's righteousness that has been given to you. You show people they are unrighteous but have been offered free salvation from Jesus Christ. You know your good works and know you don't do them to save yourself but because you love God the Father and they bring glory to Him.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-let-your-light-shine/

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Sermon Topics:

1. He chooses the foolish to shame the wise
2. He is our wisdom and salvation

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/boast-in-to-and-for-the-glory-of-god/

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Sermon Topics:

Note: Christ is the Light that exposes the lies, mistakes, and sins that obscure our salvation, and then removes them.

1. Unity in confession, mindset, and decision
2. Unity in proclaiming the indivisible Light

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-called-into-unity-with-the-light/

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Sermon Overview: Through fellowship with the Lamb of God you have holiness, giftedness, and eternalness.

Sermon Topics:

You have been called into holiness (verses 1-3) because His blood makes you clean, and He has set you apart to be one of His priests who share the good news of salvation through Christ.

You have been called into giftedness (verses 4-7); each one of us has different and unique gifts -- both natural and spiritual, and God pulls us into a congregation so that together you can share that good news of salvation through Christ.

You have been called into eternalness (verses 8-9) through fellowship with the Lamb of God, so you are guaranteed a place before the throne of God for all eternity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-have-been-called-into-fellowship-with-the-lamb/

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Sermon Topics:

1. See the kingly glory of the groom
2. See the glory He has given to His bride
3. See the glory He has given to His children

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-we-celebrate-the-anointing-of-our-lord/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Praise the Lord for electing you to His grace.
2. Pray for a spirit of wisdom and revelation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-our-christmas-celebration-winds-down/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Pray that God remains our permanent home.
2. Pray that we be guided each day by God's wisdom.
3. Pray that we see the work of God's gracious hand.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/a-prayer-for-the-years-to-come/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Enlightenment about what is sin.
2. Enlightenment about what is a blessing.
3. Enlightenment about what is miraculous.
4. Enlightenment about what fulfills the Word of God.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-comes-with-enlightenment-to-those-who-do-not-understand/

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Sermon Topics:

1. See the fulfillment of Scripture
2. Listen to His messengers who stand on His Word
3. Know Christ's mission
4. Know your status: a redeemed child of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-know-that-jesus-is-the-messiah/

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Sermon Topics:

Jesus comes with comfort to those who wait...

1. for what is soon to come.
2. for what is months away.
3. for what is years away.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-comes-with-comfort-to-those-who-wait/

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Sermon Topics:

1. God uses what is incredulous to show His saving power.
2. God disciplines our unbelief to protect us from it.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-comes-with-proof-to-those-who-doubt/

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Sermon Overview: How can we say the visible church -- which is made up of believers -- will be triumphant, even though it faces so many challenges, both from within the church and from outside the church?

Sermon Topics:

1. In spite of man's cleaver arguments.
2. As proven by His Word.
3. Seen in His subjugation over death.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lord-is-god-for-all-eternity/

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Sermon Topics:

1. You would not bear the Christian Cross if God had not made you a Christian.
2. Those who persecute Christians will suffer justice.
3. Christians who stand firm will glorify God for all eternity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-you-know-you-are-saved-especially-when-gods-enemies-are-prevailing-over-you/

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Sermon Overview: Only the truth sets you free, and that truth is found in the Word of God. God used Martin Luther to put it into the language of the common people, so they would not be enslaved but would know the truth about God and their salvation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/only-the-truth-sets-you-free/

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Sermon Overview: We rejoice in praising God for all eternity because we have been given something so wonderful we cannot even fully imagine or comprehend it.

Sermon Topics:

1. Do you rejoice in doing it for all eternity?
2. Do you rejoice in the efforts of people?
3. Do you rejoice that God can control what He made?
4. Do you rejoice that the Lord never lies?
5. Do you rejoice in his temporal and eternal deliverance?
6. Do you rejoice in his eternal reign?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-do-you-think-about-praising-god/

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Sermon Topics:

1. Is your worship hypocritical or from faith?
2. Do you hoard your time or see it as a gift from God?
3. Do others serve your needs or do you serve others?
4. Do you fear or trust God’s knowledge?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-are-you-prioritizing-what-god-has-entrusted-to-you/

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Sermon Overview: It is often not a sheep that you would want in the flock, but that sheep is made valuable to the shepherd and to the flock, and God is glorified by His grace to His sheep.

Sermon Topics:

12I give thanks to the one who empowered me, namely, Christ Jesus our Lord, that he treated me as trustworthy, appointing me into his ministry. 13He did this even though formerly I was a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a violent man. But I was shown mercy, because I acted ignorantly in unbelief. 14The grace of our Lord overflowed on me along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15This saying is trustworthy and worthy of full acceptance: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners," of whom I am the worst. 16But I was shown mercy for this reason: that in me, the worst sinner, Christ Jesus might demonstrate his unlimited patience as an example for those who are going to believe in him, resulting in eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, to the immortal, invisible, only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-does-it-look-like-when-our-savior-goes-after-a-lost-sheep/

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Sermon Overview: Counting the cost of your discipleship looks like using your Christian freedom to proclaim the good news to others, to glorify God by showing forgiveness, by paying the debt of others, and by being confident in God's grace.

Sermon Topics:

1. Use your Christian freedom to free others -- especially from slavery to sin, death, and the devil -- by proclaiming the good news of the one who saved them (Jesus Christ).
2. Use your Christian freedom to glorify God by showing to others the forgiveness that has been given to you.
3. Use your Christian freedom to pay the debt of others because you know that your debt has been paid in full.
4. Be confident in God's work of grace, knowing it is all-powerful because God himself is all-powerful

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-does-counting-the-cost-of-your-discipleship-look-like/

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Sermon Overview: Yes, we do want God to knock us off our high horse, otherwise it will cost us our salvation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-you-want-god-to-knock-you-off-your-high-horse/

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Sermon Overview: Unbelievers will spend an eternity in Hell, but believers will worship the Lord forever; in this world we worship Him by hearing and sharing God's Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/gods-judgment-on-believers-and-unbelievers/

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Sermon Overview: Worldly labor and gains are momentary, but our purpose in life is to share the gospel with others.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/worldly-labor-is-momentary/

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Sermon Overview: It is amazing grace that God answers and hears our prayers: He talks to us, and we get to be in his presence. We can petition Him (even over and over again), and He answers our prayers according to what is best for us.

Sermon Topics:

Note: The term "Pre-Incarnate Christ" used throughout this sermon refers to Jesus before he took on our human flesh.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/it-is-amazing-grace-that-god-communicates-with-us/

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Sermon Overview: You have been given the faith that set you free, you have been given the hidden key to freedom (God's Word), and even though the power is not yours, you have been given the only power that frees.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/why-would-you-serve-christ/

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Sermon Topics:

Here is how you help harvest for God's kingdom:

1. By serving in your unique calling
2. By serving through prayer
3. By serving with and supporting others
4. Serve by using The Binding & Loosing Keys
5. Serve knowing the power is in the Word - not yourself
6. Serve knowing your true joy

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-help-harvest-for-gods-kingdom/

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Sermon Overview: Freedom is service; we are free to serve for no selfish reason at all because we have been served by Christ. Freedom is struggle; struggle against the sinful nature, struggle against the yoke of the law, and struggle to be on the lookup for the snares of temptation. But freedom also means we can grow fruits of faith through our new man who is connected to Christ.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-does-christian-freedom-look-like/

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Sermon Overview: Christ’s cross puts you in the crucible (a clay pot used for heating metal until it becomes molten), and the crucible (your crosses) removes your dross.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-cross-is-gods-crucible-for-christians/

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Sermon Overview: You are elected (predestined) by the Father, who is ruling over all creation because he loves you, You are sanctified (set apart) by the Spirit so that you have the obedience that is faith. Therefor you trust that you are justified by the Son because he is your savior.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/your-salvation-rests-in-the-triune-god/

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Sermon Overview: When you trust in Christ, you are a member of the invisible church of all believers, and it is God's word that gives you that trust through the Holy Spirit, who is working to make you believe.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-holding-to-gods-word-looks-like/

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Sermon Overview: Is it the motivation for using our gifts? Do we know what it looks like? Do we see its great priority?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-christian-is-our-love/

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Sermon Overview: He purchased and won all sheep into his eternal flock. That is comforting for you because you are his little lamb and he has saved you. All credit for salvation belongs to him; he did all of the work. You will arrive safely into Heaven, cleansed by his blood, wearing a robe of righteousness, and there he will eternally pasture you on the waters of life.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lamb-is-your-eternal-shepherd/

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Sermon Overview: All of us, like Saul before he became the apostle Paul, were an enemy living in a delusion, and the Lord had to reveal himself to break that delusion. The Lord has used and continues to use crosses to discipline and chasten us. The Lord sent a weak human being with the Means of Grace, and He used that Means of Grace to heal us (by giving us our new man). Finally, the Lord gives us the commission to tell others what God has done.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-is-paul-an-example-of-your-conversion/

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Sermon Overview: Despite many attempts to silence the good news that Jesus is risen, we see God working because He wants us to know that message cannot be silenced. When God calls on us, sometimes we spread it with a gentle whisper, and sometimes we shout it from the rooftops, as God presents the opportunities. We are never quiet, though, because He is risen.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/he-is-risen-a-message-that-cannot-be-silenced/

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Sermon Overview: In the ninth sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of the chief priests and Pharisees: "We remembered what that deceiver said... 'After three days I will rise again.'"

Sermon Topics:

We remembered what that deceiver said: "After three days I will rise again."

1. They are the true deceivers.
2. They prove Jesus' resurrection.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-the-chief-priests-and-pharisees/

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Sermon Overview: In the eighth sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of the centurion and the guards: "Truly this was the Son of God."

Sermon Topics:

Truly this was the Son of God.

1. They were confessing fear, like the fear we have when we examine our own sins, but it turns to reverent awe thanks to Christ.
2. They were confessing righteousness, just as we confess that Jesus is both righteous and that he is our righteousness.
3. They were confessing his deity, and we know he is the God-man, which is why he was able and did save us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-the-centurion/

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Sermon Overview: In the seventh sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of Judas before he betrays Jesus: "Surely, not I, Rabbi?"

Sermon Topics:

Surely, not I, Rabbi?

1. Preceded by a searching question
2. A hypocritical confession
3. Followed by a bonding miracle

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-judas-before-betraying-jesus/

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Sermon Overview: In the sixth sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of the governor's soldiers: "Hail, King of the Jews!"

Sermon Topics:

Hail, King of the Jews!

1. Jesus is a Different Kind of King; he puts you and keeps you in his invisible kingdom (of all believers).
2. Jesus is a Thorn-Crowned King; he wins you (through suffering) in a tremendous victory over sin, death, and the Devil.
3. Jesus is a King You Can Approach; you are united to him forever.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-the-soldiers/

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Sermon Overview: In the fifth sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of the chief priests, experts in the law, and elders: "He saved others, but he cannot save himself."

Sermon Topics:

He saved others, but he cannot save himself.

He saved others, but he would not save himself:

1. Confessing that he saves you.
2. Confessing that he gives faith, and he's given it to you.
3. Confessing the Father's love for you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-the-sanhedrin/

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Sermon Overview: Isaiah prophesied about the return from Babylon (which would also involve crossing a desert) that would come 150 years later, and from that we learn of the new deliverance God is working. It is unlike any other deliverance because it is eternal deliverance; God is taking on human flesh to be our savior. So it is also unlike any other people, as it is meant for all people of all time, transcending cultures, as He makes those who trust in His deliverance into His people.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-works-something-new/

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Sermon Overview: In the fourth sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of Judas after he betrays Jesus: "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood."

Sermon Topics:

I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.

1. Judas' confession is a confession of more than just innocence: Jesus is guiltless, undeserving of punishment.
2. Judas' confessions is not a confession of repentance; rather, it is a confession of faithless regret.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-judas-after-betraying-jesus/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus provided salvation instead of God's anger and wrath against our sin, and he abundantly provides the gifts we need to bring us to and keep us in the inheritance he won for us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/praise-the-lord-as-we-look-to-easter-sunday-and-beyond/

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Sermon Overview: In the third sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine Pilate's wife's words: "Have nothing to do with that righteous man, since I have suffered many things today in a dream because of him."

Sermon Topics:

Have nothing to do with that righteous man, since I have suffered many things today in a dream because of him.

1. "Have nothing to do with that righteous man" is confessing more than innocence; we see that the Lord is our righteousness.
2. "Since I have suffered many things today in a dream because of him" is confessing unavoidable suffering; Christ would suffer for us to keep us from suffering an eternity in Hell.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-pilates-wife/

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Sermon Overview: God has commissioned you to bear fruit, just like he commissioned Moses. He makes his grace clearly visible through his word and sacraments. He clearly states his commission: he's given you faith, and he wants it to be seen. He's also promised you his absolute faithfulness; he's always with us, and he will remain faithful to us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-commissioned-you-to-bear-fruit/

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Sermon Overview: In the second sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine the words of the council of the elders: "We have heard it from his own mouth!"

Sermon Topics:

We have heard it from his own mouth!

1. Jesus said that he is the Christ
2. Jesus said that he is the Son of Man
3. Jesus said that he is the Son of God

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-council-of-the-elders/

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Sermon Overview: In the first sermon from 2019 Lent series Confessions Proclaimed by Christ's Enemies, we examine Caiaphas' words: "It is better for us that one man die for the people..."

Sermon Topics:

It is better for us that one man die for the people...

1. Jesus' enemies plotted to keep a nation together, but that nation would instead be scattered (and it still is today).
2. God planned to gather a body from those who were scattered -- from Jews and from Gentiles alike. He's gathered us into that one body (the invisible church of all believers), and we have eternal life because of it.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/confessions-proclaimed-by-christs-enemies-caiaphas/

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Sermon Overview: Listen to your savior when you don’t see His glory, when you do see His glory, and when you want to cling to His glory

Sermon Topics:

Three disciples were given a brief glimpse of the glory of Jesus' deity, and the Father tells them to listen to His son. This reminds us to listen to the word of God when we do not see his glory because God's glory is not what the world is looking for, but it is seen in His grace and loving kindness. When we do have moments where we see His glory, we must still listen to the Word, so that we receive the proper encouragement from seeing His glory. Finally, when we want to cling to His glory, we may be sinfully clinging to it -- instead of sharing it -- so we listen again to His Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/listen-to-your-savior/

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Sermon Overview: God’s grace has empowered you to endure animosity, to stand out from the unbelievers, and to love your enemies.

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Luke 6:27-38 is often misused or given as a guilt trip, and our sinful nature simply doesn't like it, but through the new man we have been given, we can love this text. Through this text we see that God’s grace has empowered us to endure animosity, to stand out from the unbelievers, and to love our enemies. We were poor sinners, but we have been given an inexhaustible supply of forgiveness.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/gods-grace-has-empowered-you/

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Sermon Overview: You come as a beggar, but God has made you rich. You hunger for grace, and God feeds you. You weep in this world, and God gives you joy. The world hates you, but God embraces you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-blessed-to-know-your-blessings/

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Sermon Overview: We do what Jesus did when He proclaimed the Word of God, we follow Jesus’ instructions, and we know it is God’s power at work.

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The way that we really get people into the Lord's livewell (the invisible church of all believers) is we do what Jesus did. We proclaim His word; we teach the Law and the Gospel - the good news of salvation in Christ. In order to do that, we don't follow the clever devices of men, but rather we follow Jesus' instructions. We don't water down the teachings of His Word, or ignore or deny it, or give itching ear what they want to hear. We also recognize the power is not our own; we know it's God's power at work through that very Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-we-get-people-into-the-lords-livewell/

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Sermon Overview: Christ was anointed with the Holy Spirit. He brought good news to the poor. He has preached release to the captives. He has restored the sight of the blind. He has proclaimed the Jubilee Year of the Lord.

Sermon Topics:

This text is God’s promise to you that in Christ all that was foretold of the Messiah has been fulfilled. Christ was anointed and guided by the Holy Spirit, as he has now brought you to faith and guides you by the Word of God. Jesus brought good news to the poor, and showed you that you were poor in righteousness, but now are rich in his grace and forgiveness. Jesus preached release to the captives and has freed you from captivity to the Devil. Jesus restored the sight of the blind and gave you the eyes of faith to trust in his work. Jesus proclaimed the Jubilee Year of the Lord and has given you the new Heavens and the new Earth in all eternity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/in-christ-all-that-was-foretold-of-the-messiah-has-been-fulfilled/

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Sermon Overview: In marriage we see that just as the bride is adorned with beauty, receives a new name, is taken by the hand, is no longer single, and is pure and doted over, so too are we treated in His church (the church of all believers).

Sermon Topics:

Just as a bride is adorned with beauty, God has adorned you with salvation and righteousness. Just as a bride receives a new name, you are a new Christian (in other words you belong to Christ). Just as a bride is taken by the hand, God has created you to save you, and He keeps you in His hands so that you are not snatched away from that salvation. Just as a bride is no longer single, you are united to Christ in a mystical, wonderful way. And just as the bride is pure and doted over, God has made you pure through His church, and he does over you as His church.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-uses-marriage-to-reveal-the-glory-of-his-church/

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Sermon Topics:

David’s anointing helps us understand Christ’s anointing and our own. David was set aside to be a king, Jesus was set aside to begin his public ministry, and you were set aside to be a priest in the priesthood of all believers. You are chosen by God's judgment, not mankind's judgment, just like David and Jesus were both chosen according to God's judgment. And, just like David might not have understood it, you might not have understood it at first, but you still received the Holy Spirit, and God is still working for you through your baptism.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/davids-anointing/

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Sermon Overview: Throughout this New Year be sure to trust in Christ, who is your foundation. Whether you did or did not see the storm coming, remember to trust in Christ. And when the storms are over, look back at how Christ kept you anchored on Him; it will fill you with thanks and praise and give you a stronger trust in Him.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/throughout-this-new-year-trust-in-your-foundation/

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Sermon Overview: God took on our flesh and blood to make us His brothers, to free us from the slavery of death, and to help us through temptations by being there with us as our brother.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-took-on-our-flesh-and-blood/

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Sermon Overview: Christ's sacrifice abolishes all of the sin offerings established in the Old Testament, and His sacrifice has also sanctified you once for all time.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/advent-is-the-coming-of-christs-death-and-resurrection/

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Sermon Overview: The Advent of our King is not shaking like a leaf on a tree, but rejoicing in the budding of spring. The things which terrify unbelievers are signs for believers that Christ is coming. There will be terrors right up to the end, but the Word remains forever. Most will sulk over this dying world, but believers watch for our King.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-advent-of-our-king/

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Sermon Overview: We see that Christ is the king of all creation because He is true God and true man who has purchased and won you. Therefore -- since all rule has been given to Him -- He's ruled over all creation to bring you to and keep you in the faith because all true worship is given to him. We find comfort because His kingdom will never be destroyed; it will only be made glorious and visible on the last day.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-is-the-king-of-all-creation/

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Sermon Overview: What is the secret to being content in any and every situation? It's knowing your savior and knowing that you have eternal life. It's knowing that He will provide according to what is best for you, and He will use you according to what is best for your neighbor.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-secret-to-being-content/

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Sermon Overview: What kind of judge do you already have? One who has given you life, and then uses you to give others life. One who is clear about the expectations (you are declared righteous). One who has perfect harmony with the Father. One who deserves all honor because He is true God and He has saved you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-kind-of-judge-will-you-have/

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Sermon Overview: The Gospel is eternal and for all, and the Gospel makes us fear and glorify God.

Sermon Topics:

In Revelation 12-14 we learn that God says there will always be people who persecute those who cling to the good news of salvation in Christ, but He won't let us go. God used the Reformation before -- and now He uses us as an ongoing Reformation -- to spread the pure, good news that God has done all of the work for our salvation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-part-of-an-ongoing-reformation/

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Sermon Overview: We can avoid the faithlessness that destroyed Israel by concentrating on and confessing Christ, by not letting a servant in the house have the place of the head, and by holding fast by faith to the confession of Christ.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-to-avoid-the-faithlessness-that-destroyed-israel/

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Sermon Overview: Marriage is meant to be a mini-model of Christ's love for His church: He made our dress; earned our ring with his own blood, sweat, and tears; and it is His promise to us, given to us at our baptism, so we are now all one family.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-how-christ-has-made-you-his-bride/

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Sermon Overview: The savior serves by bearing our sins, and because He has won us, we serve the body He won to His glory according to what He considers grace.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/true-glory-in-gods-kingdom-is-serving/

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Sermon Overview: Who do you say Jesus is? A good man, somebody who had the word of God who made it possible for you to be saved, or the savior who saved you? And how do you view the cross, both Christ's cross and the crosses he allows in your life? Are they something that aren't glorious to you, or do you see God's glory through them?

Sermon Topics:

To the world salvation comes by our making some kind of contribution. However, Jesus is the only one that saves us. He saved us by the cross, which in the world’s eyes is foolishness and weakness. The world wants a Savior that removes all difficulties, while our Savior promises he will use hardships in our lives to serve our eternal well-being.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/are-you-a-theologian-of-glory-or-a-theologian-of-the-cross/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus has done everything well. He heals a man of deafness so that he could hear and believe the good news of salvation in Christ. Jesus has also opened your ears to hear his Word and believe it. Jesus heals the man so that he can speak. Jesus has given you faith so that you can pray to God on behalf of your friends and share the good news of salvation with them.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-has-done-everything-well/

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Sermon Overview: When comparing natural religion to God's religion, we see that natural religion simplifies sin (like "cooties") when our sinful nature is in fact a mortal disease that only God can cure. Natural religion also follows human traditions instead of using God's word without modification. Finally, natural religion focuses on the external consequences of sin instead of the internal new man we have been given.

Sermon Topics:

There are truly only two religions in this world. Natural religion is the idea that you have to do good things in order to get good things from a benevolent being. God’s true religion is that he took on human flesh and did all the work for you. The Pharisees in today’s text looked at sin as something that can be avoided completely or removed by doing the right thing. However, both the Old and New Testaments teach that sin begins with having a sinful nature. This is a mortal disease the leads straight to eternal damnation, and so God gave us the cure by being perfect in our place and giving us a new nature. When we fall into natural religion we quickly elevate traditions to the equivalent of God’s saving Word. When we do this with a tradition, then it is no longer useful. Natural religion focus on external things as in what we say and do while God’s true religion gives us a new nature and thereby changes our heart.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/natural-religion-vs-gods-religion/

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Sermon Overview: God planned your salvation, made sure you hear His Word, and sealed you with the Holy Spirit.

Sermon Topics:

It is God's comforting promise to you that all of your salvation is in God's hands. He planned your salvation and makes sure that you continue to hear His word which He used to seal His Holy Spirit in your heart. The Holy Spirit keeps you coming to the Word and trusting in the Word that God's Son took on human flesh and has saved you. Therefore, the new heavens and earth are yours.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/praise-the-lord-for-your-election/

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Sermon Overview: When we pray, we must recognize: what we deserve, our burdens, our relief (and we know relief is coming), and God’s guidance.

Sermon Topics:

When the enemy is hounding you, take it to the Lord in prayer, recognizing that you neither deserve nor are entitled to God’s answer. God is gracious and, because he has removed your sin, he promises to answer according to what is best for your eternal well being. You also want to recognize your burden; the devil may be the enemy that is hounding you. Recognizing your relief comes by God saving you through His Word and Sacraments. Be absolutely confident that God is going to deliver you in His perfect timing. Also, recognizing that God may be using this to make you stronger in Him and to help you struggle against your sin.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/when-the-enemy-is-hounding-you-take-it-to-the-lord-in-prayer/

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Sermon Overview: We have trust in God’s grace, as well as training from God, and we know the Lord will remove our suffering.

Sermon Topics:

Jeremiah laments the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. God had lifted his hand of protection and allowed this destruction because the people were not obeying God and were worshiping false Gods. The principles Jeremiah applies to comfort the believers also apply to us when God allows us to suffer the temporal consequences of our sin. Even if the consequences are well deserved we can still trust that God is full of grace, and that means we still have hope and our burden will not last forever. We are still saved in Christ so we will not suffer the eternal consequences for our sin. Therefore, we know that we are receiving training from the Lord so that we do not fall into the same sin again, and God takes no pleasure in seeing us suffer through our discipline.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christians-have-hope-in-suffering/

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Sermon Overview: When you want to ask God why he is allowing your pain and suffering, trust that he is planning and doing much more than you can understand. Trust that he has made and rules the universe for your eternal good as proven by the fact that he has saved you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-designed-made-and-rules-the-universe-for-your-eternal-good/

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Sermon Overview: Johnathan and David were true friends and they showed unfailing kindness to each other as God gave them the opportunity. In this sermon we see that friendship shows unfailing kindness and that means being willing to speak up when a friend is in mortal peril. That means being willing to warn them of the mortal disease that all people have, which is called original sin. After warning them, we have the joy of showing them their Savior, who is the best friend of all sinners. We also get to show them how Jesus is ruling every day in their lives.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/friendship-shows-unfailing-kindness/

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Sermon Overview: The Sabbath rejuvenates us with true worship, not the worship of our sinful nature or the ways of this world. That means God is rejuvenating us with his Word which assures us of our forgiveness and our salvation. It also rejuvenates our toils with a joyful harvest.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-sabbath-is-rejuvenating/

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Sermon Overview: The Holy Spirit created your faith in the Son, so that you trust he is your Savior, and the Father planned the whole thing out.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-triune-gods-work-in-your-conversion/

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Sermon Overview: The branches that remain true are pruned so that they produce more fruit, while the branches that don’t produce are removed. The whole vineyard prays, produces, and proves that they are connected to the vine.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/remain-in-the-true-vine/

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Sermon Overview: We see God's flock in action among the tyrannous wolves of this world, taking care of each individual with unity, focused on the resurrection and grace.

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In the early days of the Christian church the same Sanhedrin that had plotted to kill Jesus, had arrested Peter and John and told them not to preach about Christ’s death and resurrection. We see the early flock, i.e. the church, in action. They took action among the tyrannous wolves of this world by praying and applying Psalm 2 to their situation. We see that flock in action as they took care of each individual sheep like family. We also see that they stayed focused on the resurrection and grace.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-gods-flock-in-action/

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Sermon Overview: Christ's resurrection gives you peace from conflicting thoughts, peace that Scripture is fulfilled, and peace in God’s promises.

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As Christ makes his first resurrection appearance to the disciples, he pronounces peace to them. This is not a wish for peace, but something he is actually giving to them in his appearance. Christ’s resurrection gives you peace in the same way that it did his disciples. His disciples had conflicting thoughts. They saw the Lord but could not accept the fact that he was standing in front of them. Jesus would give them peace from these conflicting thoughts, and he does the same for you. He gave them and us peace by explaining that the Scriptures were fulfilled by his resurrection. He also gave them peace in knowing that he was sending them what the Heavenly Father had promised. Today this gives you peace in knowing that God also has made promises to you and he keeps them.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christs-resurrection-gives-you-peace/

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Sermon Overview: God was Christ’s greatest good so you can take refuge in him. Christ delighted to make you majestic. Through Christ you are elected to eternal life. Christ has kept the LORD before him so that he is your counselor. Christ’s security has secured you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/by-christs-death-and-resurrection-you-have-inherited-heaven/

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Sermon Overview: Christ’s empty tomb validates God’s Word, it is eternal life, and it show all things serve the resurrection.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christs-cross-resolves-all-our-dilemmas/

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Sermon Overview: The Reformation gives all glory to the true redeemer by showing Christ has finished all the work for your salvation; we see that all the work of the law has been completed for us, and the work of removing our sin has also been completed for us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-has-finished-all-the-work-for-your-salvation/

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Sermon Overview: The Lord's Supper is a fellowship meal that unites us all together, it is a time for self-examination, and it is a true presence of the Lord’s body and blood. We also see that it is worship as we face trials because it nourishes and strengthens our faith.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-reformation-restores-the-right-teaching-of-the-lords-supper/

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Sermon Overview: As Jesus enters Jerusalem we see His kingdom of power (his rule over all creation), His kingdom of grace (the invisible church), and the eternal kingdom -- the kingdom of His glory.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-threefold-kingdom-of-christ/

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Sermon Overview: We are alive together with Christ by grace -- which is God's gift -- with the authority to rule over our sinful nature in order to do good works.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-alive-together-with-christ/

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Sermon Overview: The law shows us our slavery to false gods, slavery that is forced labor, and slavery to despise our neighbor.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-law-reveals-your-true-slavery/

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Sermon Overview: Through Psalm 73, we see there are problems of this world and the wicked often seem to prosper, but we can be confident God is using them to strengthen our faith in Him.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/is-god-good-to-those-who-love-him/

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Sermon Overview: Know the difference between God’s discipline and his punishment, ask the Lord to save you because of his grace, and know that the LORD hears your prayers.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/when-you-have-grown-weary-in-your-groaning/

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Sermon Overview: The Reformation gives all glory to the true redeemer... Judas’ discipleship shows that God offers His grace even to the undeserving.

Sermon Topics:

Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas. They plotted together how to arrest Jesus in some deceitful way and kill him. But they said, "Not during the Festival, or else there might be a riot among the people." Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve. He went away and spoke with the chief priests and officers of the temple guard about how he could betray Jesus to them. They were glad and agreed to give him money. He promised to do it and was looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus to them away from the crowd.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/grace-is-offered-even-to-the-undeserving/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus came to proclaim our salvation from sickness that even infects believers, even for those who have rejected it, so that we are free to be with God.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-came-to-proclaim-our-salvation/

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Sermon Overview: We see our marriages are a mini-model for Christ and His church, we let our emotions be ruled by the fact that God is ruling all of creation for us, and we use this world's temporal things in good stewardship as God has entrusted us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-called-to-shine-forth-that-the-lord-is-coming/

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Sermon Overview: We are reminded of the gifts given by God's grace -- not just Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, but gifts that supply our every need -- which we then share with others.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/advent-means-receiving-gifts-while-awaiting-our-savior/

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Sermon Overview: We produce fruit from being engrafted to Christ, and that fruit grows in the light and nourishes.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/staying-awake-for-judgment-day-means-producing-fruit/

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Sermon Overview: We stand firm in the freedom Christ has won for us. Work-righteousness completely rejects Christ’s work, enslaves you to all the Law, and cuts you off from the vine of Christ. Works are the fruit of being debt free, so we stand firm in our freedom, eagerly await complete righteousness, and love God and your neighbor.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-reformation-reminds-us-not-to-be-a-slave-to-the-debt-of-the-law/

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Sermon Overview: From this parable we see the excuses used to reject God's invitation, but we also see what God has done to set our place.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/all-are-invited-to-the-lambs-high-feast-yet-few-are-elect/

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Sermon Overview: By repenting we are giving up all excuses and blame, and we are trusting in the new life in Christ.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/repent-and-live/

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Sermon Overview: God calls you to work in His kingdom so that you may receive and share the blood of Christ, recognize the privilege of working in God’s kingdom, and be a steward of what God has and has not entrusted to you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-calls-you-to-work-in-his-kingdom/

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Sermon Overview: Forgiveness is supernatural because God has not only forgiven your un-payable debt, but He also empowers you to forgive the debt of others.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/forgiveness-is-supernatural/

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Sermon Overview: We must first privately take the responsibility upon by our self, then semi-privately we take the responsibility upon ourselves (a couple of brothers and/or sisters in Christ), and finally we publicly take the responsibility upon the congregation

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-calls-us-to-admonish-each-other/

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Sermon Overview: We have all been given mercy in order to serve God; this mercy is given to us even while we are sinning by election -- not because we have earned or deserved it, but because God planned it for us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-gives-mercy-to-the-merit-less/

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Sermon Overview: While enduring hardship always say, "Surely, I am saved!" Remember that no one can separate you from Christ, and Christ's victory belongs to you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/enduring-hardship/

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Sermon Overview: Unity comes from the Trinity, and Unity comes within the Trinity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-have-unity-from-and-within-the-trinity/

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Sermon Overview: The Holy Spirit gives you faith in Jesus, connects you to Jesus, and reveals Jesus to you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-has-sent-the-holy-spirit-to-help-you/

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Sermon Overview: We can trust in our Triune God who has prepared a living space for you, trust that Jesus is the Way and the Truth and the Life, trust in the union of our Triune God, and trust in the Triune God's work through you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-can-we-stop-our-hearts-from-being-in-continuous-turmoil/

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Sermon Overview: Christ comes to you through His Word and through you with His Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-hides-himself/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus' resurrection gives peace through the binding & loosing of sins and by blessing you with faith.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-resurrection-gives-true-peace/

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Sermon Overview: We must understand Jesus' deity, the life, and the power of His Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/beyond-a-basic-understanding-that-jesus-is-the-resurrection-and-the-life/

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Sermon Overview: The law kills but the Spirit gives life; this new life is conducted in union with Christ; this union means death and life.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/union-in-christ-means-no-condemnation/

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Sermon Overview: Know the properties of light, test everything with the light, and lead others to the light.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/now-that-you-are-in-the-light-walk-as-children-of-light/

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Sermon Overview: Righteousness is God's gift to you, and Faith is God's gift for you.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-acquits-the-impious/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus' glory comforts and encourages us with His deity, with many witnesses, with the Father's approval, and with the resurrection.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-glory-comforts-and-encourages-us/

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Sermon Overview: God's kingdom, comfort, earth, righteousness, and mercy are yours; this means you will stand in God's presence.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-blessed-because-you-are-gods-disciple/

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Sermon Overview: He brings us to true repentance, and we are reflectors of his light.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-the-light-of-the-world/

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Sermon Overview: Believe what it means for you and for the world, and share what it means for you and for the world.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-the-lamb-of-god/

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Sermon Overview: What does Jesus' baptism mean? What does Jesus' baptism do for you?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-our-anointed-savior/

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Sermon Overview: He has done many things for you, He has made you His people, and He is your Savior.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-not-forget-the-lords-grace/

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Sermon Overview: The start is Christ's incarnation for all mankind, the middle is our lives in Him, the end is Christ's return and His kingdom of glory.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christmas-focuses-on-the-start-through-the-finish/

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Sermon Overview: He works unity among his flock, He works our confessions of praise, rejoicing, and hope, and He makes us overflow with joy, peace, and hope.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-works-the-fruits-in-us-that-prepare-for-our-lords-coming/

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Sermon Overview: What gives God the right to judge? How long are you going to live? Why do we die? What is the meaning of life? How can I thank God?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/questions-to-ask-as-we-meditate-on-life-and-judgment/

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Sermon Overview: He is our righteousness, and He gathers us into his kingdom.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-is-our-shepherd-king/

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Sermon Overview: Be comforted by your election, stay in the Word, and pray for the spread of the Word.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/as-we-await-the-day-when-the-church-is-seen-as-triumphant/

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Sermon Overview: God dwells in the midst of the church, and He is exalted in the earth and in the nations.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/a-mighty-fortress-is-our-god/

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Sermon Overview: Faith is not your power, but it is God's power at work in you; God expects His work to show through your faith.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-has-built-into-our-faith-the-very-things-he-expects-from-that-faith/

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Sermon Overview: The cross comes with discipleship because your top relationship is with the Lord and because nothing in this world compares to salvation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-cross-comes-with-discipleship/

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Sermon Overview: Be on your guard to keep greed away; God's Word is your wealth.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/continue-being-rich-to-and-in-god/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus has made God your Heavenly Daddy who answers your prayers; God's name represents everything he does for you; Your Heavenly Daddy provides for all your needs, forgives your sins, and delivers you from temptation.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/pray-boldly-to-your-heavenly-daddy/

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Sermon Overview: See the blessedness of your condition, confess your sins so your burdens will disappear, and live your life in your forgiveness.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/god-has-forgiven-your-sins/

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Sermon Overview: It is a presence of many comforting gifts from God that Jesus gives through His Word with the Father and the Holy Spirit.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christs-ascension-brings-gods-special-presence-to-us/

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Sermon Overview: He is our ever living God who protects His church and rules over death.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-glory-of-our-risen-lord/

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Sermon Overview: Hasten to the empty tomb to serve the Lord, hear the gospel proclamation, and marvel at the resurrection.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/hasten-to-the-empty-tomb/

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Sermon Overview: Jesus receives those who have squandered and those who deserve His grace.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-sinners-does-receive/

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Sermon Overview: We have excellent examples to follow and a fantastic citizenship to enjoy.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/stand-firm-in-the-lord-as-his-dearly-loved-children/

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Sermon Overview: God calls us to work, and even though we often feel too naive to work, God equips us for the work.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/we-work-for-the-lord/

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Sermon Overview: A restoration of the true Zion; an adoption of the Gentiles.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-lords-anointed-changes-us-from-prisoners-to-priests/

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Sermon Overview: A blessing to His bride; so that we put our trust in Him.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-reveals-his-glory/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-the-life-and-the-light-for-all-mankind/

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Sermon Overview: It is not a worldly hope, but a confidence in God's deliverance, help, and protection, therefore we confidently expect his return.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/hope-is-a-gift-in-the-light-of-our-coming-lord/

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Sermon Overview: The Baptist prepares the way for the Lord with the Word of God through a baptism for the repentant resulting in the forgiveness of sins.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-baptist-prepares-the-way-for-the-lord/

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Sermon Overview: He is a different king with a different kingdom, army, and banner.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-is-our-king/

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Sermon Overview: Christ's enemies have been defeated and will be utterly humiliated, and Christ's victory places you in his invisible church. (This sermon was preached on a Sunday known as "Saints Triumphant." By the term "saints" we mean all believers who trust in Jesus for salvation. On Judgment day all believers will shine with Christ's undeniable victory.)

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-has-already-won-the-victory/

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Sermon Overview: Rest from spiritual and physical labors; Rest we hurry to busy ourselves in; Rest won by the High Priest that we confess.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-rest-gods-word-gives-to-you/

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Sermon Overview: We cannot earn our salvation, therefore God became a man and earned salvation for us.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-true-god-who-gives-us-salvation/

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Sermon Overview: We are not to serve as lords over one another because all work in God's kingdom is glorious We are warned about self glorification and forfeiting God's kingdom.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-has-put-you-in-his-kingdom-and-so-we-serve-in-his-kingdom/

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Sermon Overview: You proclaim His death for the world to the world and our life for Him.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/you-are-christs-ambassador/

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Sermon Overview: The holy spirit keeps your hearts from turmoil and fear that God's Word is wrong, that we must earn the gift, or that we must go at it alone.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-holy-spirit-keeps-your-hearts-from-turmoil-and-fear/

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Sermon Overview: God uses Christian wives and mothers to nourish the household and to keep the household warm; he entrusts them as stewards of the household, and they are busy in the household, but not busybodies.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/thank-the-lord-for-christian-wives-and-mothers/

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Sermon Overview: He gives you rest, comfort, and His prosperity.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/jesus-is-your-good-shepherd/

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Sermon Overview: You believe the message that Jesus is true God and true man, who has died and risen for you because the Holy Spirit produces fruits of faith in your heart. You know that you are sinner and saint, and you know that Jesus is the means of forgiveness for not only your own sins, but for the whole world.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/how-do-you-know-god-loves-you-and-you-are-a-christian/

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Sermon Overview: Don't miss the glory and the grace with mistaken sadness, uncertain wonder, or un-recognizing eyes.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/dont-miss-the-glory-and-the-grace/

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Sermon Overview: Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up. God used the snake to give deliverance upon obedience, and provides deliverance and obedience through the cross.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-not-cling-to-external-things-but-to-what-god-has-established-for-your-deliverance/

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Sermon Overview: What do we boast? How are we able to boast? With what certainty are we able to boast?

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/a-christian-can-boast-in-all-circumstances/

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Sermon Topics:

• Since God works for our benefit, no opposing effort can truly harm us.
• Since God gave His Son in place of our punishment it is impossible (inconceivable) that He would refrain from giving any good thing to us that comes in connection with His Son.
• Since God keeps declaring us "righteous" no charges against us will stick.
• Since Christ suffered the punishment for our sins, since the Father showed approval of His substitution by raising Christ, since Christ rules over all creation in our place, and since Christ is always interceding for us, it is impossible for the elect to be sentenced to hell.
• Nothing in this world's tool box can remove us completely from Christ's love.
• Old Testament Israel experienced that the world will throw its worst at us because it hates God, and He permits it to happen.
• In the midst of the world throwing its worst at us, we remain the ultimate winner because of Christ's victory for us.
• No powerful forces, be they spiritual or physical, nor geography or anything in all of creation can completely remove us from God's love.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/never-view-trials-as-proof-that-god-has-abandoned-you/

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Sermon Overview: The punishment for our sins is great, but out of love for God and you Jesus didn't shirk away. We must learn of Jesus Christ to pray.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/go-to-dark-gethsemane-your-redeemers-conflict-see/

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Sermon Overview: God works through hardships for both our own eternal well-being and for the well-being of others.

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Sermon Overview: It is God's promise and power to you. God uses you to share that promise. It has all of God's power.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/see-the-authority-of-the-word-of-god/

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Sermon Overview: Remember that this is God's work, not yours. God sends His Word which leads us to be baptized, and baptism seals the Holy Spirit in our hearts so that our hearts cling to Christ and have eternal life.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/what-must-i-do-to-be-saved/

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Sermon Overview: Change from hindering our hearts to preparing our hearts for Christ, from rejoicing over sins to rejoicing over sins forgiven, from serving ourselves to serving Christ, and from the influence of sin to the influence of the Holy Spirit.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/advent-means-a-change-of-mind/

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• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/stand-on-the-promise-of-gods-free-forgiveness/

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Sermon Overview: Not all prosperity serves our eternal well being; God is faithful to his covenant to this very day.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/thank-the-lord-for-prospering-us/

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Sermon Overview: We are given a glimpse of Jesus' hidden glory to show that He fulfills the Scriptures, to show the Father's seal of approval, and to comfort and encourage.

• View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/a-glimpse-of-jesus-hidden-glory/