Living Savior Podcast: Recent Episodes
Living Savior
June 25, 2023 - (Pastor Kurbis) - "Worry is More About God than You." - Matthew 6:24-34
June 4, 2023 - (Pastor Kurbis) - Matthew 28:16-20 - “God: Where Connectivity and Unity Meet”
April 30, 2023 - (Pastor Zell) - 1 Peter 2:19-25 - Following in the Footsteps of the Good Shepherd"
April 9, 2023: Easter - (Pastor Kurbis) - Matthew 28:1-10 - "The Day that Changed Grave Searching Forever"
April 6, 2023: Holy Thursday - (Vicar Ungemach) - Exodus 24:1-11 - "A Promise of God's Presence"
February 26, 2023 - (Pastor Kurbis) - Matthew 4:1-11 "These Terrible Tests Require an Open Book!"
November 13, 2022 - (Pastor Mark Paustian) - Romans 12:9-21 - Living Savior Marriage Retreat
Isn't it easy to forget about spiritual dangers? You might normally think about danger when you're in a new place or a sticky situation. But far more frightening are the attacks that Satan and his angels wish to make against you. But do not fear. The Festival of St. Michael and All Angels celebrates God's protection for his people... both through his holy angels and with his almighty hand.
A lot can happen in 40 years. Ask the parents who see their “over-the-hill kid” blow out 40 candles. Ask the spouses who pull out the 40-year-old photo album filled with wedding memories. Or ask someone who has served in Gospel ministry in three schools and three churches in five different states over the last four decades. Yes, a lot can happen in 40 years. And if we could best encapsulate all that happens over 40 years, we can use one word: grace. In his grace God has instituted the office of the pastoral ministry so that his eternal gospel would be proclaimed, his people would be built up, and his kingdom would grow in hearts and lives. God has blessed his church through the ministry of Pastor Paul Zell and the service of his family. Today we thank God for his grace to them and to countless others through 40 years of gospel ministry. God’s grace abounds!
Throughout this series, "Wounds that Heal" we have seen that not all wounds are bad. The precise incision of a skilled surgeon wounds the patient, but only in order to cure him or her. In the same way, we often say that words cut us to the heart. Often, however, those sharp words can provide the healing wounds we need. Join us as we hear some of Jesus’ sharpest words for us – words that wound in order to heal. Today’s Focus: With a string of questions Jesus exposes the self-righteousness of our hearts. Self-righteousness is an attitude that causes us to be bitter and upset when those we judge unworthy are welcomed into Christ’s presence to be seated at his table. In response, Jesus shows us the joy that exists in heaven whenever one such sinner repents – and invites us to know and experience that joy with him.
Jesus’ sharp words expose our desire to pursue comfort and avoid pain at all costs. He tells us that all those who follow him ought to count the inevitable cost we will incur. When we do so, however, we realize that whatever we might have to give up or put up with for Jesus will pale in comparison for what we gain through life with him. Counting the cost is especially pertinent on “GROW Sunday” when we consider all that needs to be set aside as we pursue the eternal strength and everlasting peace of God in his Word.
How dangerous is the sin of pride? Holy Scripture says that even if you were to keep all of God’s other commands and yet stumble over his directive to be humble, God threatens “judgment without mercy” just for that one sin alone. Today the words from our Savior wound our arrogant hearts. Then the Great Physician cuts out our pride, removing our sin, healing our attitudes, and compelling us to rejoice that, wherever Jesus is operating, “those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus’ sharp words remind us that the door to heaven is narrow. It’s easy to develop a false sense of security about our standing before God based on some superficial, external familiarity we have with him. Jesus warns, however, that many who think they are on the path to heaven will end up shut out. We must make every effort to enter through the narrow door, that is, through faith in him.
Jesus directs our attention on what it will take for us to reach the finish line. Following Jesus does not create a smooth and easy path for us. In fact, following Jesus and his Word will lead to division among people, even among people very close to one another. Thankfully, Jesus and his Word also unite us to a long list of runners who have finished the race and won the prize. We know where following Jesus leads.
As much as it is easy for us to get distracted by obsessing over the temporary, earthly resources with which God blesses us, it is easy to get distracted by neglecting the unseen, eternal reward God has in store for us. Jesus frees us from distraction by pointing us to the promises he has already kept in the lives of his faithful people and proclaiming the promises he wants us to cling to in faith.
This earthly life does not consist in accumulating a bunch of possessions and then losing everything when you die. So Jesus directs our attention away from all kinds of greed. Instead, we set our hearts and minds on things above and treasure the real life that we will enjoy with our Savior forever.
Jesus teaches us about the lines of communication. When we pray, we are talking to God. In God’s Word and only through God’s Word, God talks to us. We need both. But we must not confuse the direction this communication goes. So Jesus teaches us how to pray and tells us that our Father listens and loves us. Through Abraham’s prayers we see what fervent prayer is like. Our Father will never turn a deaf ear because our Savior mediates for us to the Father who desires that all people be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth in his Word.
This past week we had the privilege of welcoming many children from our congregation and community to our first ever Youth Sports Camp. It was an awesome week for playing soccer, basketball, football, and other games; for meeting new friends; for having a lot of fun; and—most importantly—for learning about our good and gracious God. This year’s Sports Camp theme: “Our God is for us.” These words come from a question asked in Romans 8 -- “If God is for us, who can be against us?” The answer provided by Holy Scripture is obvious, that if God is for us, no one and nothing more powerful can stand against us. So, this past week we talked about some of the things that threaten us, such as our own weaknesses, the evil threats of this world, the lies of the devil, even death itself. Our enemies are many, and they are strong. Thankfully, our God is for us. As a result, no enemy and no evil can stand up against him. Even death doesn’t stand a chance! This morning we are honored to have some of the campers and their families with us to celebrate the conclusion of this wonderful week.
The Holy Spirit’s life-giving Word removes the burden of trying to justify ourselves before God. We can’t do that. Yet we don’t have to, because Jesus Christ already has done that for us by his holy life and sacrificial death. Our deeds of love don’t make us right with God. Christ alone does that. In fact, now that a “not guilty” verdict in God’s courtroom is a certainty, we have been blessed with freedom. Freedom to produce the fruits of the Spirit. Freedom to love our neighbor.
It’s hard to overstate the influence a pastor can have on a church. Will the flock be offended by his arrogance or dishonesty or greed? Will the church’s members be discouraged by his laziness or misled by his false teaching? It’s no wonder that the Chief Shepherd of the church sends forth pastors with a single-minded focus on serving his sheep with his Word, whether they listen to it or not. After all, it’s only the Word of Christ that can lead his people to a heavenly victory over the powers of death and hell.
God mercifully causes his life-giving Word to go forth from person to person and from place to place. While the gospel certainly spreads when specific individuals travel to the far corners of the globe, it also spreads when his people stay put. That happens when God gives each of us a station in life in which we are surrounded by people and from which we have opportunities to share the good news of what God’s Son Jesus has done for us.
The Word of Christ has the power to forgive our sins. Though this forgiveness and our changed status before God are invisible realities, Christ ties his powerful, forgiving Word to things that are visible. In baptism, his Word is joined to water to wash away our sins. That forgiveness then shows itself as his Word produces fruit in our lives as we honor him with our words and actions.
Series: Usually the more powerful something is, the harder it is to control. Not so with God. After Jesus returned to heaven, God unleashed his power in the world through his Holy Spirit. At the same time, he tied up that power to his Word so that we would always know where we can find it and how we can use it. Today: If God wanted to reach the lost, he could stretch out his hand and do it himself. Or his angels would be a good “Plan B.” Yet the Lord who has powerfully reached our hearts by the Spirit in the Word has given us that power to reach others. He gives us eyes to see the world around us as a ripe harvest field of souls. He gives us feet to go, hands to serve, and mouths to share his untethered power in the Word. In this way God accomplishes his gospel reach through us for the sake of many more.
Series: Usually the more powerful something is, the harder it is to control. Not so with God. After Jesus returned to heaven, God unleashed his power in the world through his Holy Spirit. At the same time, he tied up that power to his Word so that we would always know where we can find it and how we can use it. Today: The more complicated something is, the more likely people are to avoid speaking of it. Why try to explain astrophysics or computer software to a three-year-old? Yet the triune God does the exact opposite with his divine nature. In the Scriptures God clearly communicates the majesty and mystery of the Trinity. Why? Not so that we would comprehend it with complete understanding but so that we would apprehend it with hearts of faith. The one eternal God -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -- makes himself known to each of us in order to bless us and keep us now and forever.
June 5, 2022 - Pastor Kurbis - Genesis 11 - "From Confusion to Clarity" - Pentecost Sunday by Living Savior
April 17, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) Easter Rolls Our Realities that Will Never Be Rolled Back by Living Savior
March 27, 2022 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 "How Could He (the Father)" by Living Savior
March 13, 2022 (Pastor Zell) Philippians 3:17-4:1 - "No Detours Allowed" by Living Savior
February 20, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) 2 Corinthians 5 - "A better lens for our hearts" by Living Savior
January 30, 2022 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) Acts 4:23-31 - "The Christians Responses to Rejection" by Living Savior
January 23, 2022 (Caleb Kurbis) John 2:1-11 - If Jesus Knows our "White or Red?" Questions... by Living Savior
January 9, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) Matthew 2:1-12 - "Don't Pack Away These Treasures" by Living Savior
January 2, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) 3 Devotions - Exodus 17, Galatians 4, & Luke 1 by Living Savior
January 2, 2022 (Pastor Zell) 3 Devotions - Exodus 17, Galatians 4, & Luke 1 by Living Savior
Christmas Eve - Luke 2 - Second Devotion (Pastor Zell) December 24, 2021 by Living Savior
Christmas Eve - Luke 2 - First Devotion (Pastor Kurbis) December 24, 2021 by Living Savior
October 31, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) Mark 13:5-11 - "Where the Rubber Meets the Road for the Christian" by Living Savior
October 17, 2021 (Caleb Kurbis) Mark 10:32-45 "To Know You're in the Right Place Check the Blueprint by Living Savior
October 10, 2021 (Vicar Digman) - Mark 10:17-27 - "Who Then Can Be Saved?" by Living Savior
September 12, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) Matthew 7:15-29 - "A Life Built to Last" by Living Savior
September 5, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) Acts 3:1-10 - "God Has Made Us To Be More Than Just Bystanders" by Living Savior
August 22, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) Hebrews 11:24-28 - "Sellouts to God from the World" by Living Savior
August 15, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) 1 Corinthians 2:6-16 - "The Spirit Is the Link" by Living Savior
July 25, 2021(Pastor Jon Bauer)Mark 6:35-44 - "Jesus Shows & Shares His Word with Us" by Living Savior
July 4, 2021 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) Mark 6:1-6 - "Misperceptions Lead to Misunderstandings" by Living Savior
July 11, 2021 (Vicar Tommy Welch) Mark 6:30-34 - "When You're Tired, Always Go Back To Jesus" by Living Savior
June 27, 2021 (Pastor Kurbis) Mark 4 - "Death is a Sleep When Jesus' Words are the Alarm Clock" by Living Savior
June 20, 2021 - Pastor Caleb Kurbis- Mark 4 - "When In A Storm, Learn From The Wind And The Waves" by Living Savior
June 6, 2021 - Vicar Tommy Welch - Mark 2:23-3:6 - "This Law Is For You" by Living Savior
June 6, 2021 - Pastor Paul Zell - Colossians 2:13-17 - "Sabbath and The Reality of Christ" by Living Savior
May 30, 2021 - Caleb Kurbis - Isaiah 6:1-8 - "When You Picture a Holy God, Use Your Ears" by Living Savior
May 23, 2021 - (Pastor Paul Zell) John 14:23-27 - "Peace from Father, Son, and Holy Spirit" by Living Savior
May 16, 2021 - (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) Acts 1 - "God's Power Grid Shifted but Will Never Let Us Down" by Living Savior
May 23, 2021 - (Vicar Tommy Welch) John 14:23-27 - "Jesus Brings His Peace" by Living Savior
May 9, 2021 - (Pastor Paul Zell) Revelation 21 - "No One Will Take Away Your Joy!" by Living Savior
May 2, 2021 - (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 - "Is Something We Have Plenty Of?" by Living Savior
April 25, 2021 - John 10:22-30 -(Vicar Welch) - "Jesus Proves He Is The Good Shepherd" by Living Savior
April 18, 2021 - Revelation 5:11-14 - (Pastor Zell) - "The Lamb Rules" by Living Savior
March 28, 2021 - Palm Sunday - (Pastor Kurbis) - Hebrews 12:1-3 - "Fix Your Eyes On Jesus" by Living Savior
March 28, 2021 - Palm Sunday - (Pastor Zell) - Hebrews 12:1-3 - "Fix Your Eyes On Jesus" by Living Savior
March 21, 2021 -(Pastor Zell) - Hebrews 5:7-9 "The Son Becomes the Source of Eternal Salvation!" by Living Savior
March 21, 2021 - John 12:20-33 - "Are You Sure You Want to See Jesus?" by Living Savior
March 14, 2021 - Pastor Kurbis - Numbers 21:4-9 - "He'll Even Send Snakes..." by Living Savior
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March 7, 2021 - Pastor Caleb Kurbis - John 2:13-22 - "When Jesus Cleans House..." by Living Savior
Find the lesson here: https://mcusercontent.com/5797bd7fb285848b8fd22cac5/files/688a4445-3eb0-459f-8686-aaed73811689/GIGK_Lesson_6_March_2021.pdf
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February 22, 2021 - Growing in Grace & Knowledge - Lesson 4: Stewardship by Living Savior
Ash Wednesday - February 17, 2021 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) 2 Samuel 12:1-13 by Living Savior
February 7, 2021 - "Growing in Grace & Knowledge" - Lesson #2 - Prayer by Living Savior
January 24, 2020 (Vicar Welch) - Jonah 3 - "The Call To Repent Is Good News!"" by Living Savior
January 17, 2021 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) 1 Samuel 3:1-10 "Listening Is Harder and More Important..." by Living Savior
January 10, 2021 (Pr. Paul Zell) Romans 6:1-11 - Festival of Jesus' Baptism by Living Savior
January 10, 2021 (Pr. Caleb Kurbis) Isaiah 49:1-6 - "More than Mere Flies on the Wall" by Living Savior
January 3, 2021 (Pr. Paul Zell) - Matthew 2:1-12 - Festival of Epiphany by Living Savior
December 24, 2020 (Pastor Kurbis) Luke 2 "The Gifts of Christmas Are Unbreakable" by Living Savior
December 20, 2020 - (Pastor Kurbis) - Children's Christmas Service Devotion by Living Savior
December 20, 2020 (Pastor Zell) Luke 1 - "No Word from God Will Ever Fail" by Living Savior
Real life is hard because real life is broken. And like the wildflowers that once stirred our hearts, all the wonderful solutions that human beings come up with invariably wither and fall. Yet during the season of Advent, God speaks tender comfort to us. With his unbreakable Word, he shows us the glory of Jesus, who comes to "tend to his flock like a shepherd.” Then he urges us to prepare the rest of the Lord’s people for his coming, speaking to their troubled hearts and urging them also to “prepare the way for the Lord.”
November 8th, 2020 (Vicar Welch) - Matthew 25.14-30 - A Servant's Work Matters To The Master by Living Savior
Waiting can be really hard. Believers hear the promises of God and long for them to be revealed. It can seem like every benefit is in the future instead of the present. Yet even while we wait, God is providing for and producing in us blessings of his grace.
Today’s Focus: When you know what heaven is like, it’s hard to wait. John’s Revelation hardly scratches the surface of what we long for. It’s so different from our reality now, especially when we see Jesus’ words. Having lived a life going against the grain of this world, Jesus moves us by his gospel to live in preparation for heaven. And in this way we are truly blessed.
Waiting can be really hard. Believers hear the promises of God and long for them to be revealed. It can seem like every benefit is in the future instead of the present. Yet even while we wait, God is providing for and producing in us blessings of his grace.
Today’s Focus: When you know what heaven is like, it’s hard to wait. John’s Revelation hardly scratches the surface of what we long for. It’s so different from our reality now, especially when we see Jesus’ words. Having lived a life going against the grain of this world, Jesus moves us by his gospel to live in preparation for heaven. And in this way we are truly blessed.
October 25, 2020 (Pastor Kurbis) - Matthew 10:16-21 - "Where and How You Stand Matters In The End" by Living Savior
October 25, 2020 (Pastor Zell) - Matthew 10 - 16 - 23 - "You Too Have Been Sent Out!" by Living Savior
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself.” That’s the greatest commandment, Jesus says. But what does he say to those who have failed to obey it? What shall we tell one another when the image reflected back to each of us in this commandment’s mirror is often unloving, even hateful? Today Jesus proves that he alone is the answer. The Messiah who is both David’s son and David’s Lord, Jesus demonstrated unfailing love for God and also for you. All Scripture hangs upon this beautiful truth! Therefore, he has the final say.
How do you go about “winning” in today’s cultural climate? If a win is getting ahead in work, relationships, and in our home, how do you go about accomplishing that? Is it by finding affirmation from the people closest to us? Is it by proving our worth in our work or in our abilities? Such exalting of one’s self is the way of this world. And into that failing social norm Jesus says, “Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Our greatest win and worth is found in the grace of God. Without any merit of our own God, who reached us with his gospel, and leads us to reach others in the same way. We have nothing to gain for ourselves as we approach life with others. Rather, we have every reason to live as witnesses of God’s grace alone.
October 4 - 2020 (Pastor Zell)Matthew 22:1-14 - "Called and Clothed by the Gospel!" by Living Savior
If you believe in anything of substance, your faith will be challenged by other denominations, religions, and cultural norms. The heart of Christianity has always been attacked from all sides. But our faith rests upon the only one who outlasts every power struggle, no matter what. Throughout the month of October we will see that the very things that set Christianity apart are what make it stand alone.
This past Sunday's Focus: Are you enjoying the sumptuous banquet provided by your heavenly King, feasting on blessings that will delight you forever? Today Jesus demonstrates that what we have through faith in him is entirely God’s doing, so that each of us can praise God along with Martin Luther: “The Holy Spirit has called me by the gospel, enlightened me with gifts, sanctified and kept me in the one true faith!”
September 27, 2020 -(Pastor Kurbis) 2 Kings 6:8-17 - "God's Protection Exceeds What We Can(not) See" by Living Savior
September 27, 2020 - (Pastor Zell) 2 Kings 6:8-17 - "Those Who Are With Us Are More..." by Living Savior
September 20, 2020 (Pastor Kurbis) Matthew 21:23-32 - "You Can Tell A Lot By What They Do" by Living Savior
September 13, 2020 (Pastor Kurbis) - Genesis 50:15-21 - "Forgiveness Means Knowing the God's Place" by Living Savior
September 6, 2020 - (Vicar Tommy Welch) - Matthew 18:15-20 - "Regain Your Brother or Sister" by Living Savior
September 6, 2020 - Jonah 3:10-4:11 - (Pastor Zell) "He's So Generous, He Wants All to be Saved!" by Living Savior
If you love God’s Word and gobble it up eagerly, what should you expect will happen to you? That everyone will applaud your devotion and welcome what you have to say? If you follow Jesus wholeheartedly; if you serve him with willing obedience; if you honor him with your behavior, what rewards should you anticipate? Wealth, privilege, an easy path through your life? Jesus tells you to expect what he experienced himself: rejection, disappointment, sorrow, even pain. “Whoever wants to be my disciple,” Jesus says, “must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Yet for all of the hardships that may press upon you, the Lord promises to grant you the strength that you need and, in the end, deliverance unto eternal life. Now, the cross. Then, the crown.
According to the world, great faith is seen in those who dream big and pursue great goals. But since faith is only as strong as what you have faith in, such egocentric faith is only as strong as . . . you. Compare that faith with the trust that relies on God’s mercy and the whatever he provides in life. Contrast worldly faith with what we see in the Canaanite woman. She sees the Messiah, pleads for his mercy, and pursues his blessing. Such faith is great because it rests and relies upon the greatness of God.
Everyone has an opinion about Jesus Christ, and many are willing to express it. But what will you say about him? Should you weigh all the options and say that which is the most popular or the least controversial? Given the opportunity, the disciples made such a rock solid confession, Jesus said he would build his church on it and overcome the powers of hell with it. It stands to reason that you will want to confess his name in the same way.
August 16, 2020 - Matthew 15:21-28 - "When It Seems Like God Is Saying No . . ." by Living Savior
Such stormy times! A worldwide pandemic, economic upheaval, political trauma. Not to mention the howling winds of dire news reports and the crashing waves in your personal life that threaten to sink you in your own fears and doubts. Then Jesus reaches out with his mighty hand, takes hold of you with his powerful promises, and leads you to safety. Man-made security eventually fails. Your security in the hand of the Son of God endures forever.
Such stormy times! A worldwide pandemic, economic upheaval, political trauma. Not to mention the howling winds of dire news reports and the crashing waves in your personal life that threaten to sink you in your own fears and doubts. Then Jesus reaches out with his mighty hand, takes hold of you with his powerful promises, and leads you to safety. Man-made security eventually fails. Your security in the hand of the Son of God endures forever.
When the Lord Jesus provided for every need of body and life, he didn’t lower his blessings through shining clouds on a glowing beam. There were no divine fireworks. He did the extraordinary while using ordinary matter. Starting with a boy’s lunch and enlisting his disciples as his distributors, Jesus showed God’s compassion as well as God’s ability to provide for all people in simple yet meaningful ways. Today we see him work through simple means — water, bread, wine, and his word — to provide us with eternal blessings of forgiveness, peace, and lasting joy.
When the Lord Jesus provided for every need of body and life, he didn’t lower his blessings through shining clouds on a glowing beam. There were no divine fireworks. He did the extraordinary while using ordinary matter. Starting with a boy’s lunch and enlisting his disciples as his distributors, Jesus showed God’s compassion as well as God’s ability to provide for all people in simple yet meaningful ways. Today we see him work through simple means — water, bread, wine, and his word — to provide us with eternal blessings of forgiveness, peace, and lasting joy.
What do you use to determine value? That's often done with numbers, dollars, and other measurements, so that whenever you get more in those areas, there is greater value. The spiritual wealth that we have in Christ puts all such value systems into perspective, because in this life there is nothing greater than belonging to our Savior. Citizens of God's heavenly kingdom gladly give up everything in order to keep it. What is more, the eternal riches we have in Christ marginalizes everything else. As a result, before the end of the age comes we are eager to show others the gospel of Jesus.
What do you use to determine value? That's often done with numbers, dollars, and other measurements, so that whenever you get more in those areas, there is greater value. The spiritual wealth that we have in Christ puts all such value systems into perspective, because in this life there is nothing greater than belonging to our Savior. Citizens of God's heavenly kingdom gladly give up everything in order to keep it. What is more, the eternal riches we have in Christ marginalizes everything else. As a result, before the end of the age comes we are eager to show others the gospel of Jesus.
People who do evil things are all around us. They lie. They steal. They kill. They deceive. They destroy. When they have their way, they will do terrible things to those who live in the kingdom of God. What should you do about them? Is it up to you to somehow identify them and remove them from the world? If so, by what standard should you take such action? With a simple parable Jesus assures us that it’s the Lord’s responsibility (not yours!) to uproot and destroy the Evil One and those who do his bidding. Jesus and his angels are going to do that “at the end of the age” – on Judgment Day. That’s when all evil and those who do it will be eliminated. That’s also when “the righteous will shine like the sun.”
People who do evil things are all around us. They lie. They steal. They kill. They deceive. They destroy. When they have their way, they will do terrible things to those who live in the kingdom of God. What should you do about them? Is it up to you to somehow identify them and remove them from the world? If so, by what standard should you take such action? With a simple parable Jesus assures us that it’s the Lord’s responsibility (not yours!) to uproot and destroy the Evil One and those who do his bidding. Jesus and his angels are going to do that “at the end of the age” – on Judgment Day. That’s when all evil and those who do it will be eliminated. That’s also when “the righteous will shine like the sun.”
June 28, 2020 - Matthew 10:5a,21-35 - "Great Peace Always Comes at a Greater Cost" by Living Savior
June 21, 2020 - Matthew 9:35-10:8 - "What's the Good News?" - Pastor Zell by Living Savior
Today we see people posturing in just about just baout every facet of life. Whether it's name-dropping or virtue-signaling or comparing their morals, politics, behavior, etc. . . . it's easy to put ourselves in a position where some people are below us. But when God sees beyond the outward appearances, he doesn't desire people who try to appear "better" in some way. Such people have no need for a Savior. Instead, he looks for hearts that need mercy. Such hearts that are filled by his mercy are inclined to show it to others. This is the Savior who shows his "posture" by reclining with sinners just like us; and he invites us to do the same. This saving mercy attracts us and many others to enjoy this better reality together.
Our recent isolation has been a helpful reminder that being alone was never Jesus’ intention for his people. Rather than leaving us stranded as individual Christians, Christ has woven his people into the beautifully ornamented fabric that is his Church. As members of that Church, we are far better together than alone.
Our recent isolation has been a helpful reminder that being alone was never Jesus’ intention for his people. Rather than leaving us stranded as individual Christians, Christ has woven his people into the beautifully ornamented fabric that is his Church. As members of that Church, we are far better together than alone.
Each Christian is unique, blessed with individual gifts, abilities, and interests. Yet our Lord Jesus has bound us together by the Holy Spirit. Working through Sacrament and Word, the Spirit fills our hearts with the only faith that saves as together we drink the life-giving water he freely provides and testify to the name of the Savior.
Each Christian is unique, blessed with individual gifts, abilities, and interests. Yet our Lord Jesus has bound us together by the Holy Spirit. Working through Sacrament and Word, the Spirit fills our hearts with the only faith that saves as together we drink the life-giving water he freely provides and testify to the name of the Savior.
Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” At the time, many who heard his words remained in spiritual darkness; they rejected Jesus’ claim and tossed him aside. That has not changed. Although the Lord Jesus remains the Cornerstone of his Church, many people stumble over his claim and choose to build their hopes upon other things.
We gather this morning not because we are wiser or superior in any way. Rather, in his great mercy our God has “called us out of darkness into his wonderful light.” He chose us. He appointed us to be his royal priests. By the death and resurrection of his Son, God redeemed us from sin and death and made us to be his special possession now and forever. In fact, even in a world that rejects or ignores him, God continues to build his Church, day by day adding one “living stone” after another to his “spiritual house.” It’s no wonder we will voice our Easter hope and declare God’s praises today and all our lives!
Last week we learned about the hope that we have even in the face of suffering. The words from the Apostle Peter today pick up right on the heels of last week. What if we actually suffer for doing good? For example, you show Christ-like kindness to someone and they respond with spite. Or let’s say you demonstrate humility which you’ve learned from Jesus; then someone calls you naïve or out of touch. These are the trials we face because we belong to and follow a Savior who experienced these trials and much worse. And our response is not to be defensive. Rather, we give our testimony with lives of gentles and respect regardless of the reactions we may receive. And we know why! Jesus died and rose. He has made his defense for us before the throne of God, and we are declared righteous. He is the way, the truth, and the life for us. He made that declaration over us in our baptism which washed us clean eternally. Therefore, cheer up, dear Christian! Your life is set up to show the world the living Christ. Always be ready in any trial to make a statement about your faith. And the best way to do that is with you life of kindness, gentleness, humility, and respect.
Take the honest approach, and you lose out on some financial advantages as a result. Try to help a friend in need, and they lash back with unkind words. Work hard at your job, and people say you’re just angling for a promotion. Have you ever wondered why those who do good things often suffer for it? It seems so unfair. Worse, it seems God is overlooking the good that you’re doing. Today the apostle Peter shows us that doing good even when you suffer for it is “commendable before God.” Not only that, he says “you were called to this” when you were called to be Jesus’ disciple. As you follow in his footsteps, you’re following the voice and the footsteps of Jesus. Even as he suffered for it, your Good Shepherd kept doing amazingly good things, bringing eternal life to you and every sinner.
What kind of hope would we have if we lived only in fear? First of all we would only worry about everything. Secondly, our lives still culminate in death. What would we gain? That is why we have Easter! Jesus’ death and resurrection was God’s plan from the beginning! From his first promise in the Garden of Eden, to Jesus’ words of promise and hope while he was alive, to the Scriptures retold by the resurrected Savior on the road to Emmaus, to God’s words of peace and certainty that we still read and hear today. Yes, we will have plenty of reasons for fear and worry on account of our sin and this broken world. But our lives are not left to that alone. Rather, we have been redeemed by the death and resurrection of Christ. And our lives are strange to this world as we, by faith, emulate certainty in God’s plan beyond life in this world.
This Sunday, we saw that since the gospel rests on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and since his resurrection is a verifiable fact, then the doubts and fears that push against our faith will not topple us. This is not to say that we will never have misgivings or worries. We will. In fact, like Thomas we can be honest about them. Yet pay close attention to where those doubts and fears come to an end. With his words of peace Jesus steps in and deals with the disciples’ fears and Thomas’ doubts, just as he does for you and me.
That is why we can join the Apostle Peter in praising God for the “living hope” that someday we will receive “an inheritance that is kept in heaven for us.” It is true that in this lifetime we will suffer all kinds of trials, yet we trust that they are refining our faith and strengthening our hope. Yes, though we do not see Jesus now, we believe in him and are looking forward to the final salvation of our souls at the Last Day.
Everyone needs hope. Especially when our lives are battered by tragedy and catastrophe, it means everything to have that optimistic outlook that things will get better. Yet will it truly get better? Easter certainly says so. The bodily resurrection of the One who was crucified for us substantiates our salvation, fortifies our forgiveness, and endorses our eternity with God.
Every Sunday throughout the season of Easter we will grow in our understanding of and appreciation for this Easter blessing through the lens of the Apostle Peter's first epistle. Join us as we explore the gifts that the risen Christ brings! The hope of Easter remains!
Everyone needs hope. Especially when our lives are battered by tragedy and catastrophe, it means everything to have that optimistic outlook that things will get better. Yet will it truly get better? Easter certainly says so. The bodily resurrection of the One who was crucified for us substantiates our salvation, fortifies our forgiveness, and endorses our eternity with God.
Every Sunday throughout the season of Easter we will grow in our understanding of and appreciation for this Easter blessing through the lens of the Apostle Peter's first epistle. Join us as we explore the gifts that the risen Christ brings! The hope of Easter remains!
This is the final in a midweek lenten series entitled "The Journey" where we see both where God has brought us from and where he has brought us to.
Sunday, March 29 - John 11 - "Faith Lets You Laugh In the Face of the Worst Circumstances" by Living Savior
This is part of our midweek series entitled "The Journey." This evening we see that all of the sacrifices from the past would never be enough. Proof is found in the fact that sacrifices were made year after year. But Jesus is the one sacrifice for all. The sacrifices of old were a shadow. Jesus, however, is the reality. And he alone gives us peace and security.
This is part of a midweek series entitled "The Journey." Tonight we see how God has used water as an important part of our salvation - the journey of redemptive history.
Companionship. Stability. Security. Love. Health?! Peace. Happiness. Fallen human beings have always thirsted for the things that this world cannot satisfy. Like that nation that God favored above all others, and still they test him with one complaint after another. Or like that woman who has had five husbands already, and now there’s a sixth man in her life, and she knows that that relationship won’t satisfy either of them. Then the Lord Jesus steps in, and he provides living water to satisfy our souls so they will never thirst again.
Companionship. Stability. Security. Love. Health?! Peace. Happiness. Fallen human beings have always thirsted for the things that this world cannot satisfy. Like that nation that God favored above all others, and still they test him with one complaint after another. Or like that woman who has had five husbands already, and now there’s a sixth man in her life, and she knows that that relationship won’t satisfy either of them. Then the Lord Jesus steps in, and he provides living water to satisfy our souls so they will never thirst again.
Amazing grace -- how sweet the sound -- that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. The poet who wrote this popular hymn had good eyesight. So do most of the believers who sing it. So why such words? Because the very Person who once gave physical sight to those who were physically blind keeps doing something even more amazing and enduring. He steps into the blindness of those who were unable to see the way out of their own troubles, sorrows, and sins, and he shows us the light of his saving goodness. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. Many people remain blind to what he has done. But for those to whom he gives the eyes of faith, his salvation is “amazing grace” that’s always worth singing about.
Amazing grace -- how sweet the sound -- that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. The poet who wrote this popular hymn had good eyesight. So do most of the believers who sing it. So why such words? Because the very Person who once gave physical sight to those who were physically blind keeps doing something even more amazing and enduring. He steps into the blindness of those who were unable to see the way out of their own troubles, sorrows, and sins, and he shows us the light of his saving goodness. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. Many people remain blind to what he has done. But for those to whom he gives the eyes of faith, his salvation is “amazing grace” that’s always worth singing about.
Imagine rounding the corner and finding children in the biggest, nastiest mess. You really don’t want to clean it up — unless, of course, it’s your child. God created a perfect world where humankind lived in perfect harmony with him and with one another. All that changed when they believed the Tempter’s lies. Yet when God found them in that awful mess he didn’t turn away. Instead, he chose to step in. With every footprint Jesus would overcame temptation, defeated sin, and crushed Tempter’s head. The nailmarks in his feet still prove his saving love for us all.
Imagine rounding the corner and finding children in the biggest, nastiest mess. You really don’t want to clean it up — unless, of course, it’s your child. God created a perfect world where humankind lived in perfect harmony with him and with one another. All that changed when they believed the Tempter’s lies. Yet when God found them in that awful mess he didn’t turn away. Instead, he chose to step in. With every footprint Jesus would overcame temptation, defeated sin, and crushed Tempter’s head. The nailmarks in his feet still prove his saving love for us all.
In a criminal court case, the testimony of eyewitnesses sheds light on truth that demands the attention of the judge and jury. First-hand accounts that agree with one another can then lead either to an acquittal or a conviction, to freedom for the accused or a death sentence. What Jesus’ apostles recorded in the Scriptures is quite similar. What they wrote about our Lord’s mighty miracles, innocent death, and glorious resurrection did not come from their own imagination. These were eyewitness accounts that were in full agreement with one another. The result is an acquittal for sinners and an announcement of eternal life. Such eyewitness testimony always demands our attention!
“Like a moth to a flame.” Light has a way of attracting like few things can. God knows that, of course. So he has given us a new identity in the light of his Son Jesus. He completely changes who we are. That, in turn, completely changes how we live. This dark world and every person who occupies it need light. So let your light shine, dear disciple, so that others may see your good deeds and ultimately praise your Father in heaven with you. Such an attractive light!
“Like a moth to a flame.” Light has a way of attracting like few things can. God knows that, of course. So he has given us a new identity in the light of his Son Jesus. He completely changes who we are. That, in turn, completely changes how we live. This dark world and every person who occupies it need light. So let your light shine, dear disciple, so that others may see your good deeds and ultimately praise your Father in heaven with you. Such an attractive light!
The poor will rule like kings. Those who mourn are always comforted. The meek inherit the earth. The hungry are filled with good things. Those who are persecuted rejoice. Foolishness? To the world such notions certainly are. Yet our God has flipped the script, so to speak. With the light of his Word, God exposes the world’s wisdom as shameful. Instead he makes his own Son our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. Indeed, Jesus Christ has proven to be the highest wisdom there is!
The poor will rule like kings. Those who mourn are always comforted. The meek inherit the earth. The hungry are filled with good things. Those who are persecuted rejoice. Foolishness? To the world such notions certainly are. Yet our God has flipped the script, so to speak. With the light of his Word, God exposes the world’s wisdom as shameful. Instead he makes his own Son our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. Indeed, Jesus Christ has proven to be the highest wisdom there is!
“Let’s get up really early and go out and watch the sunrise.” Those are words spoken by folks who see beauty and hope in the arrival of a new day. Yet what if every day began with the promise of better things? For those who despair over life’s distress and disappointments even at 6:30 in the morning, Jesus Christ always brings a new day. “On those living in the land of deep darkness a Light has dawned.” That Light, the Lord Jesus Christ himself, always dawns with deeds and promises that raise the hopes of his people forever.
Sunday's Focus Today we maintain our focus on the Lamb of God and on his cross. Why should something so simple, lowly, and even ugly keep our attention? Because nothing else in all the world can save. Careers and careful planning, friends and family, our best efforts and loftiest goals — none of those things can give us what we really need. But Jesus can. Jesus has! We have been buried with him and raised with him in baptism, not because of anything we have done, but because of his saving work on the cross.
As with a spotlight on a stage or a flashlight in a dark hallway, light helps identify what otherwise could not be known. Likewise when Jesus launched onto the scene, God identified him for all the world to see. Heaven opened, the Father spoke, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in the form of a dove. At his baptism Jesus is not only identified as the Servant in whom God delights (Isaiah 42); he also identifies with us sinners and with our own baptism in his name. What is more, in baptism God identifies us as his children by connecting us to the forgiving and eternal life of his Son. We sing about these wonderful truths in today’s hymns. Two examples are as follows: “Sin disturb my soul no longer! I am baptized into Christ!” “When nothing else revives your soul, your baptism stands and makes you whole.”
As with a spotlight on a stage or a flashlight in a dark hallway, light helps identify what otherwise could not be known. Likewise when Jesus launched onto the scene, God identified him for all the world to see. Heaven opened, the Father spoke, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in the form of a dove. At his baptism Jesus is not only identified as the Servant in whom God delights (Isaiah 42); he also identifies with us sinners and with our own baptism in his name. What is more, in baptism God identifies us as his children by connecting us to the forgiving and eternal life of his Son. We sing about these wonderful truths in today’s hymns. Two examples are as follows: “Sin disturb my soul no longer! I am baptized into Christ!” “When nothing else revives your soul, your baptism stands and makes you whole.”
Few things are more necessary for life than light. It's no surprise that the very first thing God did when he created the world was pierce the primordial darkness with light. It's also no surprise that Jesus does the same thing. He illuminates our world of darkness with his beautiful, life-giving light. This wasn't true only when he walked the earth. He still breaks into our darkness and gives us new life as we bask in the light of his Word. Today we see how Jesus is the light that draws. More than drawing Magi to the manger, Jesus still brings people to the brightness of his love and forgiveness. That’s what Epiphany is all about. Epiphany (from the Greek word for “manifestation” or “appearance”) is the second oldest festival of the Christian Church, observed continuously for about 18 centuries. Throughout these weeks, culminating with the Festival of Jesus’ Transfiguration, we celebrate how God made known Jesus’ identity as true God, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world.
Few things are more necessary for life than light. It's no surprise that the very first thing God did when he created the world was pierce the primordial darkness with light. It's also no surprise that Jesus does the same thing. He illuminates our world of darkness with his beautiful, life-giving light. This wasn't true only when he walked the earth. He still breaks into our darkness and gives us new life as we bask in the light of his Word.
Today we see how Jesus is the light that draws. More than drawing Magi to the manger, Jesus still brings people to the brightness of his love and forgiveness. That’s what Epiphany is all about. Epiphany (from the Greek word for “manifestation” or “appearance”) is the second oldest festival of the Christian Church, observed continuously for about 18 centuries. Throughout these weeks, culminating with the Festival of Jesus’ Transfiguration, we celebrate how God made known Jesus’ identity as true God, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world.
December 29, 2019 - Hendersonville Location Sermon - Isaiah 63:7-9 - “Christmas Is for the Children" by Living Savior
The calmness and pageantry of Christmas wears off quickly. Such was the case that first Christmas. Evil was in the world before the Son of God dwelled in flesh and was wrapped in a manger. Behind the wicked plans of King Herod is greater evil that sought to destroy God’s Son and salvation along with him. And it is for this reason that the Son of God came, to destroy the devil’s work (1 John 3:8). Let us ponder this extended yet unprecedented Christmas story. See how unpredictably God preserved his Son and our salvation along with him.
December 25, 2019 - John 1:1-14 - Christmas Day Sermon by Pastor Paul Zell by Living Savior
December 24, 2019 - Christmas Eve Devotion - Part 2 - Luke 2 - Pastor Caleb Kurbis by Living Savior
December 24, 2019 - Christmas Eve Devotion - Part 1 - Luke 2 - Pastor Paul Zell by Living Savior
December 22, 2019 - Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-14 - "All of These Promises Are for You" by Living Savior
Everyone has some kind of Christmas list. On that list are things that we both want and need. And parents know that, although our needs might not be as glamours, we still need them. At Christmas our heavenly Father gives us what we need. Superseding our biggest dreams and our greatest imagination, God has made us his children. He accomplished this through his Son so that we would be his sons and daughters now and forever.
"Oh, come, O Root of Jesse, free Your own from Satan’s tyranny; From depths of hell your people save, And bring them victory o’er the grave." For nine centuries Christians have been singing this hymn during the season of Advent, urging Jesus Christ to come and set them free from the tyranny of Satan, death, and hell. We still live in that confident hope, so we still invite him to come. True, the Lord will arrive with swift judgment. He will cut down those who refuse to produce the fruits of repentance that he looks for, and he will cast them into the fire. Yet for all those who put their hope in him, he will come with mercy and grace. He will make all things new, bringing everlasting peace. "Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel!"
Perhaps more than any other holiday, Christmas is predictable. That includes the food, the decorations, the music, the date, even some of the emotions we feel. Yet the fact is, what God foretold before the first Christmas is much better than any human being could have imagined. As a result, God’s “unpredictable Christmas” brings us gifts beyond compare.
When we were young, our parents taught us to say “thank you.” We do the same with the next generation. Yet thankfulness means so much more than merely saying the right words. It’s an attitude of the heart, a condition of the spirit. One might even say that it’s a conscious way of looking at all things, regardless of your circumstances. Today we begin a special week of thanksgiving. As we do, we remember that God has always provided all we need, confident that he will continue to do so forever!
When we were young, our parents taught us to say “thank you.” We do the same with the next generation. Yet thankfulness means so much more than merely saying the right words. It’s an attitude of the heart, a condition of the spirit. One might even say that it’s a conscious way of looking at all things, regardless of your circumstances. Today we begin a special week of thanksgiving. As we do, we remember that God has always provided all we need, confident that he will continue to do so forever!
God teaches us to give our offerings thoughtfully, generously, cheerfully, and thankfully, always mindful of the needs of others. But he never forces such offerings. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Our heavenly Father sets us free for giving such gifts of love through the “indescribable gift” of his own Son, our Savior Jesus.
God teaches us to give our offerings thoughtfully, generously, cheerfully, and thankfully, always mindful of the needs of others. But he never forces such offerings. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Our heavenly Father sets us free for giving such gifts of love through the “indescribable gift” of his own Son, our Savior Jesus.
What do you need more than clothing and food, more than health, even more than your family? You need God’s Word. Jesus says it plainly, calling his Word “the one thing needed!” For good reason. After all, God uses his Word to reassure you that he is “all in” with his promises to provide for all your other needs. Pray with his apostle Paul, then, that you and those you love will find rest in God’s Word every day and grow in the faith, hope, and love that spring from what your Savior has to say.
Commitment can be scary. It’s hard to know what we will gain and what we will lose. Will the reward outweigh the risk? God’s approach is very different. When it comes to God’s commitment to us, he doesn’t hold back. At all. In fact, he’s ALL IN! With seemingly reckless grace, he gave his own Son, Jesus. And since he gave his Son for us all, how will he not also give us all that we need now and forever? (Romans 8:32) With that kind of commitment to us, how can we not want to manage all our time, all our talents, and all our treasures to serve his highest purposes? Join us for a series of worship services in which we encourage one another to be ALL IN – to the praise and glory of our Savior-God who himself is ALL IN for us!
Jesus tells us that our sins and our inability to escape them is evidence of an oppressive spiritual slavery. Left to ourselves, we are unable to live in the freedom for which God designed us. Yet that is why Son of God came, to free us from the slavery of sin and to save to be his own forever. He grants God’s saving grace through faith in his teachings as they are recorded for us in the Holy Scriptures. So we hold to God’s Word not because of a tradition or human mandate, but because these words of God are true, and this truth sets us free.
Jesus tells us that our sins and our inability to escape them is evidence of an oppressive spiritual slavery. Left to ourselves, we are unable to live in the freedom for which God designed us. Yet that is why Son of God came, to free us from the slavery of sin and to save to be his own forever. He grants God’s saving grace through faith in his teachings as they are recorded for us in the Holy Scriptures. So we hold to God’s Word not because of a tradition or human mandate, but because these words of God are true, and this truth sets us free.
Faith is not a decision we’ve made. It’s not a choice we’ve arrived at. It is a free gift that God gives as the Holy Spirit works through God’s Word. The power of God’s Word rests on the authority of God. Therefore, no matter what our problem might be, we trust in God’s power. That’s what Jesus calls “great faith”!
Faith is not a decision we’ve made. It’s not a choice we’ve arrived at. It is a free gift that God gives as the Holy Spirit works through God’s Word. The power of God’s Word rests on the authority of God. Therefore, no matter what our problem might be, we trust in God’s power. That’s what Jesus calls “great faith”!
Christians in the modern world are tempted to think too little about the struggles that truly plague us. We easily point to worldwide, national, even local issues and all-the-while overlook the issues that threaten our heart and soul. What about your heart makes you right with God? Answer: nothing on your own. But while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. What makes us right with God is not so much what is in our heart, but what is in the heart of God — grace.
The economists are right! Every financial upswing is always followed by a financial downturn. Every monetary gain inevitably leads to monetary loss. So those who find security in earthly wealth eventually will be gravely disappointed, especially when they die and realize they can’t take anything with them. God alone gives true security. God alone gives the good things that last forever. God alone is the Helper you need, as Holy Scripture tells you so clearly. Listen to it carefully. Realize once again that giving glory to God alone is at the heart of the matter.
Throughout this series we have seen that one cannot have a neutral opinion when it comes to Jesus. He gave more than mere advice. He staked a claim on reality with his life, death, and resurrection. But the more we know how good the news about Jesus is, the more we realize which side we want to be on. That’s true today in our final Sunday in this series. Even though Satan will never be done with his attacks, Jesus has triumphed over him and all evil angels by his life, death, and resurrection. So we praise God for his cosmic control over all things and thank him that our names are written in heaven.
Throughout this series we have seen that one cannot have a neutral opinion when it comes to Jesus. He gave more than mere advice. He staked a claim on reality with his life, death, and resurrection. But the more we know how good the news about Jesus is, the more we realize which side we want to be on. That’s true today in our final Sunday in this series. Even though Satan will never be done with his attacks, Jesus has triumphed over him and all evil angels by his life, death, and resurrection. So we praise God for his cosmic control over all things and thank him that our names are written in heaven.
We believe in heaven. Heaven is ultimately the presence of God. We are made for eternity in the presence of God where love and joy are boundless, and where pain and frustration do not exist. Therefore, all that we possess in this life should never get in between us and God. Furthermore, our Savior calls us to use our wealth wisely and to even win others over for eternal dwellings. Since we are children of our Father and heirs of heaven, we view all of our possessions and every penny through this frame. Such perspective frees us from greed and disappointment. Instead we are freed for a life of purpose, contentment, and generosity to God and for others.
C.S. Lewis once wrote, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” Jesus’ dying on the cross and his rising from the tomb are true. His saving grace for sinners is true. So our following him in faith and love is of infinite importance. No one must come between us and our Savior. Is such allegiance worth it? God did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. How will he not also, along with Jesus, graciously grant us all things?
C.S. Lewis once wrote, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” Jesus’ dying on the cross and his rising from the tomb are true. His saving grace for sinners is true. So our following him in faith and love is of infinite importance. No one must come between us and our Savior. Is such allegiance worth it? God did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. How will he not also, along with Jesus, graciously grant us all things?
Human nature sees humility as something the loser has to suffer. After all, who of us hasn’t been humbled by a crushing defeat? Yet Jesus speaks a different language. In our Savior’s Book, those who humble themselves will be exalted. So as one of his disciples, you can easily afford to give generously to those who cannot pay you back. They may not even give you the satisfaction of thanking you for what you’ve done. No matter! By God’s grace you will be “repaid” many times over at the resurrection of the righteous.
Human nature sees humility as something the loser has to suffer. After all, who of us hasn’t been humbled by a crushing defeat? Yet Jesus speaks a different language. In our Savior’s Book, those who humble themselves will be exalted. So as one of his disciples, you can easily afford to give generously to those who cannot pay you back. They may not even give you the satisfaction of thanking you for what you’ve done. No matter! By God’s grace you will be “repaid” many times over at the resurrection of the righteous.
Many people will try to get into heaven, but they will be left on the outside. Why? Because the door is narrow, Holy Scripture teaches, and God doesn’t allow anyone to enter except through faith in Jesus Christ.Yet while the door is narrow, it is open to all. Believers will come from east and west and north and south. With Jesus as their Mediator, forgiven sinners from all nations will take their place at the heavenly feast and celebrate the glory of their merciful God.
It seems counterintuitive that the Prince of Peace would bring division. But consider the kind of peace Jesus came to bring. Peace from this broken world. Peace with God. Therefore, when Jesus would go through his second, figurative baptism, i.e., his sufferings and death, the world would never be the same. This division is eternally good for us as Jesus saves us for himself from all that would harm and condemn us. Yet while we see how good this news of Jesus is, others see it differently. No one cannot remain neutral.
Last week we heard God’s warnings against all kinds of greed. In the very words out of Jesus’ mouth in our Gospel lesson today, he warns against all kinds of worry over earthly matters. What is worry after all? Isn’t it just the fear that what we do, what we have, and who we are will never be enough? Yet elemental to the Christian is Spirit-given faith which holds onto our Father’s promises to provide, protect, and preserve us into eternal life. Such God given priorities are key to our faith and transcend this world.
So much of life is aimed at accumulating things that will end up in the trash or in someone else’s possession. To make such matters worse, nothing in this world can fill our hearts and provide security for our souls. So we listen closely to wise King Solomon’s warning about everything that is meaningless. We pay attention to the apostle Paul’s encouragement, “Set your heart on things above, not on earthly things.” We heed our Savior’s call to “be on guard against all kinds of greed.” Instead we strive by the Holy Spirit to “be rich toward God.” Such eternal security is a key component to our Christian faith.
So much of life is aimed at accumulating things that will end up in the trash or in someone else’s possession. To make such matters worse, nothing in this world can fill our hearts and provide security for our souls. So we listen closely to wise King Solomon’s warning about everything that is meaningless. We pay attention to the apostle Paul’s encouragement, “Set your heart on things above, not on earthly things.” We heed our Savior’s call to “be on guard against all kinds of greed.” Instead we strive by the Holy Spirit to “be rich toward God.” Such eternal security is a key component to our Christian faith.
Sunday’s Focus - Jesus has a way with stories, doesn’t he? An expert on the law approaches him, wanting to justify himself from a legal point of view. “What must I do?” he asks. Jesus repeats what God’s law of love demands. Then he tells an unforgettable story to show how hard it is to keep God’s law. Legally, it cannot be done!
Yet Jesus’ story goes further. He earns God’s “not guilty” verdict for us himself. Through his work you are justified by grace and set free from the law’s threats. Then the same Holy Spirit who creates faith in Jesus produces its fruit. The Spirit starts with love for God and, yes, love for your neighbor, whoever that might be. Go and do this, Christian!
Sunday’s Focus - Jesus has a way with stories, doesn’t he? An expert on the law approaches him, wanting to justify himself from a legal point of view. “What must I do?” he asks. Jesus repeats what God’s law of love demands. Then he tells an unforgettable story to show how hard it is to keep God’s law. Legally, it cannot be done!
Yet Jesus’ story goes further. He earns God’s “not guilty” verdict for us himself. Through his work you are justified by grace and set free from the law’s threats. Then the same Holy Spirit who creates faith in Jesus produces its fruit. The Spirit starts with love for God and, yes, love for your neighbor, whoever that might be. Go and do this, Christian!
Christianity can seem complicated. Each of us has a lot of questions about what the Bible teaches us to believe and do. Yet, when you start with the basics, the pieces start to fall into place. More than that, those basics are the essential truths for life and for eternity. Join us as we dig into the key components of the Christian faith.
Christianity can seem complicated. Each of us has a lot of questions about what the Bible teaches us to believe and do. Yet, when you start with the basics, the pieces start to fall into place. More than that, those basics are the essential truths for life and for eternity.
Join us as we dig into the key components of the Christian faith.
The Lord isn’t done with us. Far from it! When our Savior rose from the dead and then ascended into heaven, he never intended that any of his followers would simply slip back into their old mundane routines. He has plans for us moving forward, that we would devote ourselves to serving others where we are and to sharing his message of eternal life. In ways we sometimes see and in ways we sometimes don’t see, the Lord Jesus is carrying out his plan and equipping each of us for the pathway ahead.
One man schemes in his heart to steal a “gift” from a generous believer. Another man quietly loves his riches more than he loves the Lord and goes home sad. In both instances, the Word of God cuts the heart open and lays everything bare.
Since the selfish thoughts and attitudes of our hearts are exposed to our holy God and nothing is hidden from his sight, “who then can be saved”? Isn’t that impossible?! All week the kids have been exploring this very predicament? It’s worth our consideration too. The greatest thing that God can accomplish and has promised to do is saving us from sin and for eternity. For nothing is impossible with God! Jesus, the Son of God, did the impossible and kept his thoughts and attitudes pure. Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God presented himself as a perfect offering on the cross. Jesus, the eternal Son of God rose again. God promised all of this through his Word. Through his Word he still turns selfish, indifferent hearts to him in faith. He still forgives sins that seem too great. He still lovingly draws us close to his eternal life. And in that way we receive and live a life that’s impossible.
One man schemes in his heart to steal a “gift” from a generous believer. Another man quietly loves his riches more than he loves the Lord and goes home sad. In both instances, the Word of God cuts the heart open and lays everything bare.
Since the selfish thoughts and attitudes of our hearts are exposed to our holy God and nothing is hidden from his sight, “who then can be saved”? Isn’t that impossible?! All week the kids have been exploring this very predicament? It’s worth our consideration too. The greatest thing that God can accomplish and has promised to do is saving us from sin and for eternity. For nothing is impossible with God! Jesus, the Son of God, did the impossible and kept his thoughts and attitudes pure. Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God presented himself as a perfect offering on the cross. Jesus, the eternal Son of God rose again. God promised all of this through his Word. Through his Word he still turns selfish, indifferent hearts to him in faith. He still forgives sins that seem too great. He still lovingly draws us close to his eternal life. And in that way we receive and live a life that’s impossible.
“Degenerate.” “Good-for-nothing.” “Outcast.” “One of those people.” When people are throwing labels at their fellow human beings, are you sure you know where Jesus stands? Yes, he hates every sin. Yet today we see how massive God’s forgiveness is. It’s big enough for each of us. It’s also big enough for “those people,” whoever they are and whatever they’ve done. For the Christian, that’s what’s next for our church, our message, and our relationships.
“Degenerate.” “Good-for-nothing.” “Outcast.” “One of those people.” When people are throwing labels at their fellow human beings, are you sure you know where Jesus stands? Yes, he hates every sin. Yet today we see how massive God’s forgiveness is. It’s big enough for each of us. It’s also big enough for “those people,” whoever they are and whatever they’ve done. For the Christian, that’s what’s next for our church, our message, and our relationships.
The apostle Paul calls the message he preached “foolish” (1 Corinthians 1 & 2). What he means is that human reason is offended and baffled by what he and the rest of Jesus’ ambassadors proclaimed. That is certainly the case with the most fundamental teaching of Scripture—the doctrine of God. The Bible teaches that the one true God exists as the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Each of these three Persons has a different consciousness. Each has a different personality. Each is distinct from the other. It is not as though one Person were acting in three different ways or fulfilling three different roles, however. There are three Persons. Each is fully God, doing divine things and having divine attributes. At the same time the Bible also says there is only one God. Not three gods, but one God. Logically the doctrine of the Trinity is beyond our ability to understand. The only way we could ever believe such a thing is by the working of the Holy Spirit through God’s Word. On this Festival of the Holy Trinity we recognize that we have a triune (three-in-one) God who is so great and so far above us, we cannot fully comprehend him. Yet we also rejoice that this “holy, holy, holy” Lord God is merciful and gracious, blessing us with hope and peace that will endure forever.
The Lord isn’t done with us. Far from it! When our Savior rose from the dead and then ascended into heaven, he never intended that any of his followers would simply slip back into their old mundane routines. He has plans for us moving forward, that we would devote ourselves to serving others where we are and to sharing his message of eternal life. In ways we sometimes see and in ways we sometimes don’t see, the Lord Jesus is carrying out his plan and equipping each of us for the pathway ahead.
Did Jesus’ first followers grieve when he left them and ascended into heaven? Should his followers today be sad that he is no longer with us in the flesh? No! Just the opposite is the case! The Ascension of Our Lord is one of the great celebrations of the Church. “He ascended into heaven,” we confess, “and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty” so that he might intercede for us sinners, pour out his saving grace upon us, equip us to be his witnesses, and strengthen us for the task of proclaiming his salvation to the ends of the earth. Yes, the kingdom and the power and the glory belong to the ascended Lord Jesus now and forever!
Jesus’ disciples lost him through the cross but then regained him through his glorious resurrection. With the culmination of his work, he brings them and all his followers unbridled and unending joy. How so? It all rests on this fact: Easter still stands! Jesus rose from the dead! Therefore, grief turns to joy just like a mother’s childbirth pain turns to elation. This kind of joy made a believing woman like Lydia open her home to Christ’s ambassador Paul. This kind of joy is experienced when we see that God is making all things new. This kind of joy is ours right now as we share in his everlasting peace and promises.
The evening before he went to the cross, Jesus is teaching about the relationship between the Father and the Son. What does that look like? Love. So when St. Paul describes what the members of the body of Christ look like, he is compelled to speak of the same thing: Love. We belong to the Father’s family because of the love of his Son, Jesus Christ. Now we get to love one another, powered by his love for the Father and for us. Easter still stands. Jesus lives as our Head. Therefore our love for one another “always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
The Focus this week - The evening before he went to the cross, Jesus is teaching about the relationship between the Father and the Son. What does that look like? Love. So when St. Paul describes what the members of the body of Christ look like, he is compelled to speak of the same thing: Love. We belong to the Father’s family because of the love of his Son, Jesus Christ. Now we get to love one another, powered by his love for the Father and for us. Easter still stands. Jesus lives as our Head. Therefore our love for one another “always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
The Focus this week - A shameful death leads to a glorious life? How ludicrous! Robes once stained with sin and guilt are made white with the blood of a Lamb? How preposterous! That Lamb will prove to be the Good Shepherd? How absurd! Troubled individuals will listen to the voice of that Shepherd and find shelter and security at God’s throne? How ridiculous! What natural reason considers ludicrous and preposterous becomes marvelous as the Holy Spirit works through his Scriptures. What human wisdom regards as absurd and ridiculous gathers countless grateful saints around the risen Lord Jesus Christ to shout his praises … because Easter still stands!
A shameful death leads to a glorious life? How ludicrous! Robes once stained with sin and guilt are made white with the blood of a Lamb? How preposterous! That Lamb will prove to be the Good Shepherd? How absurd! Troubled individuals will listen to the voice of that Shepherd and find shelter and security at God’s throne? How ridiculous! What natural reason considers ludicrous and preposterous becomes marvelous as the Holy Spirit works through his Scriptures. What human wisdom regards as absurd and ridiculous gathers countless grateful saints around the risen Lord Jesus Christ to shout his praises … because Easter still stands!
Saul of Tarsus was headed to another city, planning once again to arrest Christians and drag them back to Jerusalem in chains. In the meantime, Saul was wearing chains himself, shackled by his hatred for Christ and by his vindictive ignorance. Then the risen Redeemer spoke to him, cut away his chains, and commissioned him to proclaim his Name throughout the world. We who were once wearing the chains of hatred, ignorance, guilt, and fear have ourselves been set free. In his grace and mercy, Christ has spoken to us of forgiveness, resurrection, and eternal life. He has now commissioned us also to proclaim his liberating Name even to those who are wearing the chains of unbelief: “Christ is risen!”
It’s kind of hard for us to accept the supernatural. Like Thomas, we find it difficult to believe something that goes beyond our understanding or transcends our reason. Yet we are drawn to those very things in entertainment, in our relationships, and in the world around us. We are attracted to superheroes, fantasy lands, and mystical plots. We want crazy love and strength from the people we rely on the most. We crave stability greater than what we can see. And it just so happens that the resurrection gives us what we are inclined towards and more. Life, forgiveness, peace with God, fearlessness . . . all of these are ours through the living and enduring promises of God because Easter still stands.
Easter isn’t just a day; it’s a season. Today is just the beginning of the resurrection comfort God has for you. Join us for “STILL STANDING,” our Easter series which continues through the next six weeks. The road of shame, suffering and sacrifice lead the cross. And since Jesus died for all and rose again, his life counts for all. The tomb is still empty. Therefore, no matter what happens . . . even if everything else collapses, God’s eternal promises are still standing.
The road of shame, suffering and sacrifice lead the cross. And since Jesus died for all and rose again, his life counts for all. The tomb is still empty. Therefore, no matter what happens . . . even if everything else collapses, God’s eternal promises are still standing.
Today we enter the home stretch with our Lord Jesus. Yes, we have been here before. There is something very familiar about the Palm Sunday celebration. But this final stretch is far from routine. It’s certainly not the time to travel on auto pilot, because behind the familiar palms and praises is the God-man who left his heavenly home to purposefully enter the city of his death. He did so for an extraordinary reason: to seek and to save the lost. For this final stretch of his journey, he chose to humble himself to death — even death on a cross — all so that we might journey back to his heavenly home with him.
Today we enter the home stretch with our Lord Jesus. Yes, we have been here before. There is something very familiar about the Palm Sunday celebration. But this final stretch is far from routine. It’s certainly not the time to travel on auto pilot, because behind the familiar palms and praises is the God-man who left his heavenly home to purposefully enter the city of his death. He did so for an extraordinary reason: to seek and to save the lost. For this final stretch of his journey, he chose to humble himself to death — even death on a cross — all so that we might journey back to his heavenly home with him.
What are your credentials as a Christian? What are your most noteworthy deeds as a follower of Christ? Before you ponder such questions too deeply, be careful! Personal credentials and accomplishments are actually obstacles in your path. Or as Jesus’ apostle Paul puts it, those are garbage compared to the surpassing value of experiencing the righteousness, power, sufferings, and resurrection of Christ. None of us has “arrived” as a Christian. Instead, we press on toward the goal of knowing Christ and of being called heavenward in him.
“Life is a journey.” You’ve heard that axiom more often than you can count. So much is said about will point out that “life has its ups and downs." Others will warn that life is full of "detours" and "forks in the road." So much is said about our “personal journey” that we can lose sight of the One who alone makes life purposeful and meaningful. Far more significant than the journey we take, Jesus' road took him on the path of suffering, death, and hell. Yet the path he paved and the life he gave lead us to the peace and security we could never have reached on our own. .
“Life is a journey.” You’ve heard that axiom more often than you can count. Some will point out that “life has its ups and downs." Others will warn that life is full of "detours" and "forks in the road." So much is said about our “personal journey” that we can lose sight of the One who alone makes life purposeful and meaningful. The world in which we live is a dangerous place. Every day another catastrophe falls upon individuals and groups of people. Even the most cautious among us faces threats to body and soul. Today the Lord instructs us to take every calamity as a warning. “Repent!” he says. Confess your own sins, and turn in faith to the Savior who himself walked a dangerous road so that you might have life.
“Life is a journey.” You’ve heard that axiom more often than you can count. Some will point out that “life has its ups and downs." Others will warn that life is full of "detours" and "forks in the road." So much is said about our “personal journey” that we can lose sight of the One who alone makes life purposeful and meaningful. Far more significant than the journey we take, Jesus' road took him on the path of suffering, death, and hell. Yet the path he paved and the life he gave lead us to the peace and security we could never have reached on our own.
“Life is a journey.” You’ve heard that axiom more often than you can count. Some will point out that “life has its ups and downs." Others will warn that life is full of "detours" and "forks in the road." So much is said about our “personal journey” that we can lose sight of the One who alone makes life purposeful and meaningful. Far more significant than the journey we take, Jesus' road took him on the path of suffering, death, and hell. Yet the path he paved and the life he gave lead us to the peace and security we could never have reached on our own. Today's focus: Distracted driving is a major problem. We don’t need to ask the insurance agent or the state trooper to know that cell phones, billboards, other drivers, people walking on the sidewalk are among the countless distractions that pull our eyes away from the way ahead. It’s as common as it is dangerous. Jesus’ road was anything but free from distractions. From Satan’s temptations to the weakness of humankind to the weight of a saving a broken world, Jesus faced every temptation. And yet he over came every distraction as he took steps that only the Savior could take.
“Life is a journey.” You’ve heard that axiom more often than you can count. Some will point out that “life has its ups and downs." Others will warn that life is full of "detours" and "forks in the road." So much is said about our “personal journey” that we can lose sight of the One who alone makes life purposeful and meaningful. Far more significant than the journey we take, Jesus' road took him on the path of suffering, death, and hell. Yet the path he paved and the life he gave lead us to the peace and security we could never have reached on our own. Today's focus: Distracted driving is a major problem. We don’t need to ask the insurance agent or the state trooper to know that cell phones, billboards, other drivers, people walking on the sidewalk are among the countless distractions that pull our eyes away from the way ahead. It’s as common as it is dangerous. Jesus’ road was anything but free from distractions. From Satan’s temptations to the weakness of humankind to the weight of a saving a broken world, Jesus faced every temptation. And yet he over came every distraction as he took steps that only the Savior could take.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong. Today our Savior reminds us that while we don’t belong to this world, we do belong to the family of our heavenly Father. That changes how we interact with those who hate and mistreat us. Just as our Father is always merciful to us, Jesus says, we are free to be merciful to our enemies and share with them, do good to them — yes, even love them.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
Today, we look at where this all started for Jesus public work. In his baptism he takes us with him as he launches onto the scene to live a life that is entirely contrary to this world. As Martin Luther put it, “(in baptism) We do no favors.” We make ourselves and our children enemies of sin, death, and Satan. Yet, how beautiful it is to know that God in baptism has saved us for our eternal home. Even now he helps us live an un-worldly life.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
We dedicate so much of our lives trying to fit in and feel like we belong. With each passing year we realize the brokenness of our world and its inability to satisfy the longings of our heart. More and more feeling out of place might actually be a good thing? God's Son unsurprisingly seemed out of place when he came to this earth. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise us when the same is true of those who follow him. All the more we want to discover the beauty of knowing we don’t belong.
January 6, 2019 - Matthew 2:1-12 - "No Ordinary King" (Living Savior HVL) by Living Savior
January 6, 2019 - Matthew 2:1-12 - "History Is On Our Side" (Living Savior AVL) by Living Savior
December 30, 2018 - Luke 2:42-51 - "Jesus Proved to Be What We Need Already as a Child" by Living Savior
Joy. Peace. Wonder. Hope. We’re right to want all these things. We’re even right to look for them at Christmas. Unfortunately, we often look for these things in all the wrong places. Just like he did at the first Christmas, God often gives us these blessings “undercover.” He puts his best gifts in the last place we’d expect to find them - like in a manger. The same one who, this week, was heralded as a king riding on a donkey.
Join us at either of our locations as we learn where to find God’s best gifts this Christmas.
The advice is often given to live each day as if it’s your last. But what if we looked at it from the opposite perspective and lived every day as if we’ll live forever. How much less would minor troubles stress us out and uncertainty worry us? How much less would criticism bother us and disappointments frustrate us? It would make all the difference in the world if you could live every day as if you’ll live forever. And here’s the best part: because of Jesus, you will.
The advice is often given to live each day as if it’s your last. But what if we looked at it from the opposite perspective and lived every day as if we’ll live forever. How much less would minor troubles stress us out and uncertainty worry us? How much less would criticism bother us and disappointments frustrate us? It would make all the difference in the world if you could live every day as if you’ll live forever. And here’s the best part: because of Jesus, you will.
The advice is often given to live each day as if it’s your last. But what if we looked at it from the opposite perspective and lived every day as if we’ll live forever. How much less would minor troubles stress us out and uncertainty worry us? How much less would criticism bother us and disappointments frustrate us? It would make all the difference in the world if you could live every day as if you’ll live forever. And here’s the best part: because of Jesus, you will.
The advice is often given to live each day as if it’s your last. But what if we looked at it from the opposite perspective and lived every day as if we’ll live forever. How much less would minor troubles stress us out and uncertainty worry us? How much less would criticism bother us and disappointments frustrate us? It would make all the difference in the world if you could live every day as if you’ll live forever. And here’s the best part: because of Jesus, you will.
Many companies and organizations have an "FAQ" (Frequently Asked Questions) page on their website. It's the place where people who are interested can find out what a company is really all about. In the same way, there are certain questions that get to the heart of who we really are and why we are here. Where do we go to find answers to these questions? And will those answers be enough?
Thankfully, we don't have to make up our own answers to these questions because Jesus himself has already answered them. During the month of October, we'll be taking a closer look at these universal questions and the unique answers he gave. What makes us who we are? It's a good time to find out.
Many companies and organizations have an "FAQ" (Frequently Asked Questions) page on their website. It's the place where people who are interested can find out what a company is really all about. In the same way, there are certain questions that get to the heart of who we really are and why we are here. Where do we go to find answers to these questions? And will those answers be enough?
Thankfully, we don't have to make up our own answers to these questions because Jesus himself has already answered them. During the month of October, we'll be taking a closer look at these universal questions and the unique answers he gave. What makes us who we are? It's a good time to find out.
Many companies and organizations have an "FAQ" (Frequently Asked Questions) page on their website. It's the place where people who are interested can find out what a company is really all about. In the same way, there are certain questions that get to the heart of who we really are and why we are here. Where do we go to find answers to these questions? And will those answers be enough?
Thankfully, we don't have to make up our own answers to these questions because Jesus himself has already answered them. During the month of October, we'll be taking a closer look at these universal questions and the unique answers he gave. What makes us who we are? It's a good time to find out.
Many companies and organizations have an "FAQ" (Frequently Asked Questions) page on their website. It's the place where people who are interested can find out what a company is really all about. In the same way, there are certain questions that get to the heart of who we really are and why we are here. Where do we go to find answers to these questions? And will those answers be enough? Thankfully, we don't have to make up our own answers to these questions because Jesus himself has already answered them. During the month of October, we'll be taking a closer look at these universal questions and the unique answers he gave. What makes us who we are? It's a good time to find out.
It’s one thing to watch a competition or know that some conflict exists somewhere out there. It’s another thing to be caught in the middle of it. Worse than difficult family dynamics and even bigger than world powers colliding, there is the eternal battle for your soul. There is one side, greater than the greatest good, versus the other side, which is worse than the worst evil we have seen. Yet even as the battle rages against a foe we dare not underestimate, we are on God's side. Confident in the Lord, we face an enemy who's already outmatched. Today we see that while we have a battle, we have every reason to live at peace with one another. After all, we are on the same side.
It’s one thing to watch a competition or know that some conflict exists somewhere out there. It’s another thing to be caught in the middle of it. Worse than difficult family dynamics and even bigger than world powers colliding, there is the eternal battle for your soul. There is one side, greater than the greatest good, versus the other side, which is worse than the worst evil we have seen. Yet even as the battle rages against a foe we dare not underestimate, we are on God's side. Confident in the Lord, we face an enemy who's already outmatched. This week we see the seemingly upside down battle plans of the Savior: selflessness not selfishness, giving not getting.
People tend to think either too little of themselves or too much. Even churches do that. On the one hand, some assume that nothing depends on them. On the other hand, some feel that everything depends on them. God corrects both views by showing the church that only our grounding in Christ brings grace and every blessing from him. As our church prepares to branch out it's important that we never forget our foundation. For when we are rooted in Christ, we seek greater grounding for God's kind of growing.
September 2, 2018 - Ephesians 4:17 - 32 - “New Clothes For A Real Change” by Living Savior
People tend to think either too little of themselves or too much. Even churches do that. On the one hand, some assume that nothing depends on them. On the other hand, some feel that everything depends on them. God corrects both views by showing the church that only our grounding in Christ brings grace and every blessing from him.
This weekend, as we continue our worship series on the book of Ephesians entitled, ROOTED IN CHRIST, we will see what it means to grow in Christ. Although growth is measured in a variety of ways, it is thought about in one kind of way, namely, to arrive at some thing or some place bigger and better. That might be an oversimplification. But generally, to grow means to have or get more. No so in the economy of God. His kind of growth creates unity. It leads to strength unseen but eternally significant. See what that means for you this Saturday and Sunday in either of our locations.
This week we move ahead in our six-week series on St. Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians, where the Lord’s apostle shows us what it means to be a church that is ROOTED IN CHRIST. When everything is rooted in Christ, then all that we have and all that we are is settled in him. With enlightened eyes of faith, God unveils a far greater reality than what we behold with plain sight. See what that means for you in this past Sunday’s sermon.
This week we notice how generous the Lord is when he provides for his people. After he rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, they grumbled about their food supply. The Lord responded by providing meat every evening and bread every morning for the whole community. No one was left hungry! The Lord Jesus showed the same generosity to a crowd of 5000 men (plus women and children). He gave them so much to eat, his disciples were able to gather twelve baskets full of leftovers. Such a generous Lord promises blesses us so abundantly, he enables each of us to “be generous on every occasion.” When we share what we’ve been given, others will give thanks to God.
Today we see what it means to have true peace in the face of real fears. There are a number of dangers that stir up butterflies in the stomach and cause blood pressure to rise. Yet with the Lord by our side we truly have nothing to fear. Each of us can say with St. Paul, “The Lord will rescue me.” We have a Savior who calms the storms; who heals the sick; who says to all of his disciples, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Such faith in the Lord’s firm promises gives us peace that is far greater than our fears.
This weekend we look at how God’s Word collides with the hearts of mankind. Jesus sent out the Twelve to tell their listeners they needed to repent. Amos preached a hard message to a hardened people loved by God. Paul told Titus he must refute those who oppose sound teaching. God’s Word is the ultimate authority, including those times when we may not like to hear what it says as it points out what is lacking or wrong. But those who hear and receive it in repentant faith find grace and every blessing. A message spoken with authority is not a bad thing when it tells us what we need to hear.
Today we see that God has given us power in a seemingly small place — his Word. From a seed that fits in on the tip of your finger God brings forth plants, trees, and food. God’s work through his Word is so great, often times exceeding what we see. Although the world seems to be hardly impacted, God promises to bring happiness and blessedness to all who are rooted in his Word.
This week we see what it means to belong to a strong family. Not only do we have a great connection to our mighty Savior Jesus Christ, but we have a fortress-like protection in him. He is stronger than our greatest enemy, the devil, who only wants us to suffer eternally with him. God's great protection isn't found in bricks or shield, but in the blood and sacrifice of his Son, who came to tie up the devil, set us free, and give us a place in his household.
Today we see what real rest is all about. Finding work is easy. Becoming busy is also easy. Finding rest—real rest—is hard. And yet we know rest is something that we need. That’s true in life and also with our soul. Thus, we need to fight against the need to work and earn. We can’t. Our lesson from Colossians even says that we are dead. Yet, that’s what we were. Having been made alive in Christ, we find true, eternal rest. His gracious and saving work frees us eternally and from any and every earthly, manmade obligation. As a result, the pulse of our lives isn’t based on how much we do, but in living lives of thanks to the Savior who did it all.
Logically the doctrine of the Trinity makes no sense. It defies human reason and is beyond our ability to understand. The only way we could ever believe such a thing is by the working of the Holy Spirit through the ministry of the Word. On this Festival of the Holy Trinity we recognize that we have a triune (three-in-one) God who is so great and so far above us, we cannot even comprehend his existence. Yet we will also rejoice that this one “holy, holy, holy” Lord God is merciful and gracious, making us his very own people.
It's Pentecost. 50 days after Jesus rose from the dead he kept his promise to send the Holy Spirit. This is a BIG DEAL in the Christian church, and not because Christians say so. It's a big deal because every day and in so many ways God unveils the truth of every promise. The Spirit still works through the word so that we would know of and believe in these promises. What grace! And before this happened, Jesus not only promised the Holy Spirit, he described exactly what the Holy Spirit was going to come to do. He had something to prove. See what that was and what that means for you in Sunday's Pentecost sermon. "From Proven Guilty to Approved by Grace."
This week we celebrate the culmination of Jesus’ time on earth as he then ascended into heaven. From the cross to the tomb to the right hand of the Father, it’s completed. No doubt, you didn’t receive an “Ascension Card” in the mail this week. It’s the biggest event of Jesus’ work that is most overlooked. And yet, Jesus’ ascension is a huge deal. He goes to heaven not to depart but to prepare a place for you and to intercede for you. He left earth not to get away, but so that he would always be close through his Word, just as he promised. He isn’t seen, not because he’s not in control, but precisely because he is. And all of this for you. Heaven, his promises, and eternal peace that rests in his control are all yours right now. Christ’s ascension gives you that finished life.
Today we see what that fruitful life is supposed to look like. When God makes our connection to him visible, it shows itself in love. Love is often described as an emotion towards or desire for someone or something. Sadly, this temporary and often discriminate love is all that many experience. But God’s love far surpasses what the world sees and seeks. It is sacrificial and unending. It gives and is indiscriminate. How fitting! The God who loves all and has connected us to him, this God of love calls us to love each other. A life of love is that fruitful life.
Today we see what truly makes us fortified. Whether we securing our assets, looking after loved one, or pursuing better health, everyone is after so, if not ever, sort of protection. And although everyone is after that in life, there are no guarantees. You are only as protected as what you can provide. How different is life inside the gate of our Good Shepherd! Nothing can harm his sheep, for he laid down his life for them (John 10). No one can take them from his hand. We have that fortified life now and forever.
This week we see what it means to truly have fulfillment. Normally finding fulfillment means arriving. It means reaching some goal or achieving some success. Not so in the economy of the resurrected Savior, as we see in all of our lessons today. It was God’s power that made the lame walk (Acts 18). It’s God’s forgiveness that makes us humble to confess (1 John). Only the risen Savior could bring peace and prove it by his physical presence (Luke 24). And all of this fulfilled what God had promised all along. Thus, our success is wrapped up in his success. Every promise kept and eternal peace granted so that we would have that fulfilled life.
This week we see the same old fears that every human has without the eternal truth of Easter. What we empirically experience in life is more than evidence. It’s all that we know. But that leads to a reality like that of Thomas, namely, one without peace. Yet out of pure grace and power Jesus made his resurrection credible. For Thomas and the rest of his disciples, Jesus tied this eternal truth to what they could see and touch with their senses. When we doubt our doubts, faith in the resurrection is not only plausible, it accomplishes the impossible. And that faith in the resurrected Savior provides forgiveness and peace—the basis for a truly fearless life and for grace without end.
Today is just the beginning of the comfort God has for you. Join us for the whole series which continues through the next six weeks — “THAT LIFE.” As in, “It’s that _____ life.” Maybe it’s that job life, that mom or dad life, that vacation life, that teen life, etc. Whatever fills that blank for you and brings fulfillment in life, there’s a reason for feeling like you’ve arrived. We are hardwired to yearn for joy and to seek peace that transcends the greatest we have seen. That life is found in the empty tomb of Easter. Jesus died to pay for sin and rose from the grave to make us right with God. That life brings you every good and perfect gift in eternity. It gives you that life right now. Join us for this entire Easter season about that life.
What does strength really looks like? Normally, we understand strength as something you assert, something you impose. The same is often (and unfortunately) seen in the church. Each of us has strengths that can be seen, but the danger is that they benefit only the strong. Note how clear Jesus’ strength is on this special day. He demonstrates humility not only in how he is perceived but in what he was preparing to do—to become weak and humbled to the point of death on a cross. And all this not so that he would be strong, but so those who are actually weak despite the perception of our façades would actually and eternally receive the strength of his enduring and forgiving love. And in so doing, we would rethink worldly strength and communicate this humility and perceived weakness to the world.
This week we see what true connection is like. Normally, what you know and who you know determines how you can have influence over others. In almost every way in the world, influence is everything. Therefore, your connections are everything. Not so in the kingdom of God. Jesus glorified his Father’s name not through influence of power but in sacrifice. Therefore, his connection to his Father is not about what he gains but about what he gives, as is ours. It turns the concept of worldly connection upside down.
This week we see what truly gives us status, not just in our eyes, but in God's eyes. Usually, so much depends on what people think about us. And what people think about us determines where we stand with them and many others. And yet, study after study has proven how unhealthy it is to determine our status upon what other people think. The solution? Care less about what others think. Does that work. Maybe for a little. But in God view, he sees you as his child, saved through the sacrifice of his Son. Your status couldn't be more precious or permanent regardless of what anyone might say. It's all by his grace through faith, which turns the worldly concept of status upside down.
This week we take a look at the common thread through all religions—faith. Faith is trusting/believing is something that we don’t see. And although there are a whole host of things that we struggle to believe, arguably the hardest thing to believe is that the faith of our religion isn’t about us at all. Religion is personal. Obedience matters. The truth of the matter is that we can never do enough. The bar is set too high on purpose. That is why God reaches us in love and makes our obedience more than it ever would otherwise. In this way, the worldly concept of me-centered faith is turned upside down.
This week we see how the worldly concept of life and identity must be turned upside down. We must completely lose ourselves, even in the face of suffering. That’s not a welcome thought naturally, especially not in our Western culture. We put a lot of emphasis on “Finding yourself” and “Being yourself.” Individualism is praised and pursued. Yet, the Christian knows that whatever you set aside for the sake of your relationship with God . . . whatever you face as a consequence of the gospel . . . whatever you lose for the sake of your trust in the Lord, that is really where you find life. In other words, life isn’t found in all that you are and all that you do. True life is found when you lose yourself to remain in Jesus which may bring crosses now, but will ultimately bring the crown of eternal life.
This weekend we saw how “off” the worldly concept of love is. Normally we think that the more you love someone, the more your life must revolve around them. You see that with spouses, children, and friends. But is that actually helpful for you? . . . for them? For the believer, there is more profound and beneficial love when God remains first. In fact, by properly ordering our loves, only then are we able to love others best.
This weekend, the sixth and final in our series entitled Quest, we see that God's great pursuit for us rests in the one authenticated as his Son. While everyone is after some kind of glory in life, the shining brilliance of Jesus provided in that glimpse of his divine power far supercedes what we could ever find or attain on our own. And as glorious as that was, he didn’t stay. That's what we see elsewhere in Scripture too, namely, that the glory of God is found in that God seeks and leads and takes his people all on the path to eternity. Thus, with such a Savior is this, it's always a glorious experience.
When we hear about mission work, we often think of bold evangelists trekking through the forest in South America or going village-to-village in the African wilderness. That's not the way the Bible describes mission work. First, consider the great pursuit that God has had to reach you. He has literally moved heaven and earth for you, so that you would know that death is not your demise and righteousness is yours. If he gave his Son for you... if this was the greatest quest of God for you, then it stands to reason that this should be our great endeavor in life; i.e. seeking out others. And it just so happens that the very love he showed to us is the very thing -- the only thing -- that can truly motivate us to reach the people around us.
In our worship this past weekend, we saw the importance of Christian community. We weren’t made to be alone. We weren’t made to grow in faith in isolation. Not only is it impossible to find one example in Scripture, but consider how the gospel works. God brought the good news into our hearts and lives to gather us together as a Christian community. He joined us with brothers and sisters locally, which we can see, and with all believers of all time in ways that we can’t see. He gathers us through his gospel, and he keeps us together by it too. It’s more than just our presence that encourages us, although it certainly does. It’s the gospel encouragement that we share which keeps us firm in the faith. Guest preacher, Pastor Ben Zahn, from Myrtle Beach, SC, helps us explore that very profound truth.
How do you define yourself? Is it what you do for a living? ...where you come from? ...your race, gender, family, financial security, or faith? No surprise, everyone has a lot of advice on how you answer that. But God weighs in with an answer about what truly defines a believer. Instead of some job title or new location, this change brings heaven. Better than any title this identity changes our eternal status. Who are you really? How does God bring that to bear upon your heart and life now and forever? See how in this sermon based on Romans 6.
When we think of quests, we imagine ancient kings or explorers embarking on long, arduous journeys stretching the limits of their maps, all in search of something rare, prized, and worth the sacrifice. Although today we might not embark on quests like that, we are all in search of something that's hard to find... something that transcends time, supersedes success, and outlives life. And while we are all searching in many places (right or wrong), it just so happens that the one who provides everything we are looking for is the same one who has been after us.
Do people generally look at Christmas the same as they are older? It's not just the presents. It's the whole picture. The way we look at the lights, the decorations, the joy in others, the songs... everything. Most importantly, the truths that are central to Christmas itself. When you consider the glimmer in the eyes of others, do we still marvel the way we once did? It's not just because we have gotten too busy or that we have matured. Although that might be part of it, that's not all of it. Have we lost some of our Christmas wonder? Whatever is true for you, revisiting context of Christmas can and does renew our sense of God-inspired wonder.
If you were in the driver’s seat on a major, earth-shattering issue, that affects thousands, millions, or more, would you do things differently than the way people who are in charge do them? Of course, we consider this not because you or I would be in that spot or could do it, but simply to put ourselves objectively on the outside looking in. In this way we can consider the size of the issue and also the size solution needed. Thus, when you consider God's saving plan, especially as it reaches this eternally pivotal juncture—literally—not only is God’s solution something that none of us and no one ever could have possibly imagined… but it is the only thing that could have worked. In other words, God’s solutions are wildly unimaginable, radically impossible, and yet still entirely and eternally essential.
Conventional wisdom suggests that, in order to avoid disappointment, we ought to expect less out of Christmas. If we prepare less and expect less our overall experience will be more blessed. In this way, less is more, right? God suggests just the opposite. Less is more, unless, of course, more is better. In the centuries leading up to the first Christmas, God revealed the truth about the coming Messiah and taught his people to raise their expectations for his work. Thus, if Christmas has disappointed you in the past, maybe it’s not because you’ve expected too much. Maybe it’s because you’ve expected too little and should expect more. Expect more from the one who came once and will come again. Expect more from your preparation centered in all of God’s promises. In this way, less isn’t more, because more is better.
Thanksgiving can easily look much the same for many. Yet, of all the things we are thankful for, there are some not-so-positive parts of this past year probably don't make the list. We usually don't think of being thankful for the pain and the problems, the diagnoses and disease, the loneliness and the loss. One might reasonably wonder, "How can anyone be thankful for/in moments like that?" But it is precisely such moments in which God shapes and hones us for whatever comes next and for our life forever with him. He does this because he is our loving God. He uses all of this to strengthen us so that we can look beyond the tough moments and sing praise to the Lord, thanking him for being our strength and our Savior.
It's one of the most common phrases said and heard. When we are overtired and overworked, it's either an explanation or an excuse. The phrase is, "I'm too busy." In many respects, it's okay to say. Maybe even, at times, we should. Other times. it's both unhelpful, or maybe even untrue. So, how are we supposed to view our life in between the mundanity of this world and the eternity that God has prepared? What if we stopped saying, "I'm too busy?" It would reshape our perspective, refocus our priorities, and reemphasize our eyes on the prize.
There is a real tension between what we see in our earthly experience and what is our eternal reality. The struggle is real. This life in between… in between this current life that is very rugged and rough around the edges and the eternal realization of God’s perfect and radiant glory. Yet, in order that we properly understand and work through this tension in between earthly appearances and eternal reality, the encouragement is simply to not look at the appearance. Instead, we need to focus on the faceless facts.
Can you think of a scenario where you give up absolutely everything that you have and you get more in return? That just doesn't happen in life. In order to become something and to get something you need to be something and take or get more. But what if I told you that this paradox was the premise for the Reformation that changed the world 500 years ago? What if I told you that it was the sum and substance of all Christianity? When we let God be God, we see that having nothing in and of ourselves mans that we are totally reliant on up. And then, and only then, do we get more than we ever had before: eternal life, forgiveness, salvation. Everything. To God alone be the glory both now and forevermore.
So much of life can easily pass by without much pause for hugely serious. It can seem to be a bit easier to walk through life not talking about or finding answers to questions regarding God, death, and what comes next. Although that might seem to be simpler, the time comes when we must have some kind of hope that doesn't disappoint... some kind of peace lasts. What is that for you? It needs to be something to which you point and say, "This is it!" And both in what God says and how he says it shows God's solution to that eternal dilemma. And it's more than you might anticipate. See how in this sermon.
If God’s grace is for all, then it’s for you. It’s also for the person who has done incredible wrong by our own measures. How is this so? Is God really just over things that seem to be so wrong? Or is he merely gracious and loving with no regard for what is wrong? What’s the catch? Something’s got to give. See how in this sermon.
It's the big idea above and beyond all others: how do I stand right before God? Is there something, even in the slightest, that I must do or decide or prove? This big idea has done more than just impact those who are Christians. It is at the heart of the struggle of every single person, including you. How so? See how in this sermon.
In order for you to take something at face value, you view the source as the authority... or at least authoritative enough. What is the authority for all thing spiritual, eternal, and divine? There was a time 500 years ago when it was the church and only the church. Today it seems that anyone and everyone is their own authority. Which is more true? Which is better? Neither. See how the Scriptures really, truly are God's Word and why that makes everything better, even here and now.
To forgive means to let go. And that might be easy to understand. It's just very difficult to do, especially when the pain is severe and the memory of it is very vivid. So, what are you holding onto? What did they say or do that legitimizes your bitterness? But our shoulders were never intended to bear the weight of those who have wronged us. That is why God, who has forgiven the immeasurable weight of our sin, calls us to forgive. It's liberating. It's necessary. To forgive means to let go, even when we don't feel like it.
What do you do with conflict? It seems like everyone is somewhere on the spectrum between dealing with it and avoiding it. Whatever the natural tendency might be, we all have certain struggles with conflict, especially between Christians. We all have a lot to learn. That's why God's Word provides this great example and this wonderful focal point which helps guide our lives through conflict to the gospel of Jesus Christ. See what that means for you in this message.
There are some habits and perceptions that influence our worldview, even without our knowing it. We can think about things in a way that we otherwise wouldn't or shouldn't. Such influences can be so pervasive that they leave no part of our lives untouched or unaltered. Our view of Christianity is no exception. The question is, do we even recognize it? This week we see how dangerous and overlooked comfort and pleasure are. It's based on connectivity to a life that leads to momentary validation and temporary satisfaction. That is why the cross is so necessary: both Christ's and ours. See what that means for you.
Generally, we care about what people think about us, especially those that are closest to us. God does too. He is the one who gave us care and conscientiousness. He made us in his image and calls us his dear children. He cares. Yet, the question is posed so that his disciples of all ages can be clear about our confession. In fact, it is precisely so that we would be on the same page of who Jesus is that he asks, “What about you? Who do you say that I am?” So, what do you say? What should we say? See what that means for you in Sunday’s sermon.
There is a great divide between those who think that they belong, and those who don’t feel like they fit in. And this divide doesn’t just exist in school, work, or in social groups. This exists in the church. And statistics and surveys show that it’s getting worse. So, Christians can’t do nothing. And that is why Jesus shows his disciples of all ages how to deal with those who feel like they fit in, and those who don’t. See what that means for you in Sunday’s sermon.
God comes to you tonight and says, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” What would you say? Would you ask for something big? Something imaginative? Something life-changing? World-changing?
What do you really want in life? Whatever that may be, the more profound question is why do want that? God wants us to consider why we want the things that we want, which gets to the heart of the matter — quite literally. That made a massive impact in Solomon’s life. It does for you too. See how in
What is it like to truly live without fear? It has been said that the only difference between the person with fear and without is a pulse. When one considers the people closest, the things held most dear, and the areas of greatest value, it doesn't take long to honestly identify our big fears. But the Savior who walks on top of the object of our fears reaches out through his Word to provide solace and peace. He enables us to see fear for what it is, so that in faith, we would renew our focus in a God who's got it now and forever.
www.lsavior.org
When we face difficult times in life we tend to ask very serious questions. And we don't just ask them of ourselves or of others, we ask them of God. We hear, or maybe even echo the difficult sentiment that For example, we wonder why and how there is evil when God is both good and in control. Yet, the questions we ask are neither helpful nor well-founded. In this sermon we understand the type of question we should be asking which leads us to the only answers we ever need in life and for eternity. It centers on faith in a God who has given us every good and perfect gift in his Son. See what that means for you in this sermon.
Who we are... why we do what we do... and how we stand before God, these are the issues that face every single person, whether they acknowledge it or not. One might insist that we are all generally good people. Yet, is that really true? Find out how we can stand before the mirror and before God with confidence and comfort in this week's message.
Just about everything is easier said than done. And when we encounter life's biggest struggles and most daunting questions what can be said is so easy compared to what can be done. Then God enters the picture. Only a God who gives life to the dead and profound purpose to his people can do just as easily what he has said.