The Holy Apostle Saint John writes, “The Holy Ghost will reprove the world of sin” (footnote: except on Christmas and Easter). When a pastor practices closed communion on Christmas and Easter, some people become upset, to say the least. Five … Continue reading
This is not a writing about a literal bird in a cage; that would be lame, unimportant, and most likely unworthy of being published. What I write today is the story of one of the single most important teaching moments … Continue reading
A 25-year-old woman has a one in 1200 chance to give birth to a child with Down syndrome. Is one ever expecting it? Of course not. Two healthy, “normal” people do not expect to be given the news that their … Continue reading
In Part Three, we pick up on page 194 in the Lutheran Service Book where the liturgy for the Sacrament of the Altar begins. Again, we will be following Divine Service Setting 3 and the words of the liturgy will … Continue reading
In Part Two we begin on page 186 in the Lutheran Service Book which is where the Service of the Word begins. Again, we will be following Divine Service Setting 3 and the words of the liturgy will be in … Continue reading
In a religious atmosphere of ever-changing liturgies and free-for-all worship, I considered the importance of our constant liturgy. In the wisdom of the church, the liturgy was composed from various passages in Scripture. As it brings us the words of … Continue reading
When parents meet me for the first time and show some interest in visiting our congregation they ask, “What sort of programs do you have for kids?” This question used to bother me more than it does now. I have … Continue reading
Recently, I began another new member class for those desiring to learn what we believe, teach, and confess. In a small amount of research across the synod, I have found that there is not one synod-wide practice for teaching young … Continue reading
Did you know that “the doctrine of repentance- because it not only commands new works, but also promises forgiveness of sins- necessarily requires faith” (Apology V pg 123, 151)? Pointing this out is very important for all of us who … Continue reading
“What is it that the Church can decide that has not already been decided by the Scriptures? (Dr. Martin Luther, Sämmtliche Schriften, St. L. XVIII, 1678).” This was the question Luther put to the heretic Erasmus over the debate for … Continue reading
Editor’s Note: This “Call to Confess Christ” was submitted and captures the concerns I share over the pattern of statements that the LCMS has been making in the civic sphere along with other Christians and non-Christians. With this article Pastor … Continue reading