Advent Isn’t a Baby Shower
Advent isn’t a baby shower. We aren’t getting ready for a baby to be born in Bethlehem. That train has already left the station.
Joy and Delight
[The angels] wish that there will be peace on earth, and that the kingdom of Christ, which is a kingdom of peace, will flourish on the earth.
The Other Side of Marriage
While those of us who stand on this other side need to be ready to suffer ridicule and mockery, let’s also be prepared to provide a clear and reasoned response to those who mock us.
Unworthy Servants
We know we shall bear the cross in this life, and as Christianity continues to fade from our nation (even as it blossoms elsewhere in the world), the soil will become harder here. But it still remains that God works through means, and He is even now working through us, and the message on our lips, to bring to Himself the full number of the elect.
Music in Service of the Gospel
There is unbelievable freedom in worship (Gal. 5:1). Yet, as St. Paul teaches, we are to use our freedom in service to our neighbor, and we therefore accept limits to our freedom (Gal. 5:13).
Where Is the Church?
Where there is Christ, there is the Church.
Back to Basics in Preaching
It’s time for us to pay attention to the greatest preacher in history, aside from Jesus, John the Baptist and St. Paul. It’s time for back-to-basics preaching.
Sticks and Stones
Our students, children and confirmation youth can begin to learn the seriousness of persecution even when they’re young. How can we help them?
Shaped by the Cross
So, you are a Christian? Congratulations! You belong to the faith where you are expected to suffer in this life.
Good for the Church
‘Persecution is always good for the Church. Always.’
Lutheran Witness: June-July 2014
Christian Persecution
Back to Basics: Law and Gospel
by Rev. Matthew C. Harrison At the heart of virtually every problem in the church, at the bottom of every strained relationship, at the center of every reason an inactive member stays home on Sunday or leaves the LCMS is the issue of the proper distinguishing between the Law and the Gospel. Without this understanding, the Scriptures make no sense, …