The Lord’s Purpose: Compassion and Mercy
“Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke…
Contrition is Essential, But Does Not Merit Forgiveness
One of the hallmarks of the Lutheran Church is its proper understanding and application of the Bible’s two main teachings—Law and Gospel. Dr. C.F.W. Walther’s seminal work, The Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel, is…
Worship in the Apostolic Era
Ever wonder why we Lutherans do what we do in church? In this series we examine the depth and meaning of the various elements of our worship service, beginning with the history of Christian worship…
“Ponder” the Gift
“In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus . . .” You know the rest. After a lifetime of Christmas Eve services, you may be able to recite Luke 2 from memory. It’s…
The Christian’s Wait
“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You…
When Things Go South
[‘Going south’ is an idiom that generally alludes to directional maps, on which south is down. Thus, south means lower in value, or going into a bad or worsened situation.] I is not surprising that…
The Inspiration of Scripture: “For the Bible Tells Me So”
Each article in this series offers an overview of one of the chief teachings of the Christian church. I imagine most of us were taught to sing: “Jesus loves me, this I know; for the…
Catharism
In this series we take a look back at some of the most notorious errors and heresies that have threatened the church over the centuries, as well as the subtle (and not so subtle) ways…
Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers
A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing – TLH Hymn 72, WS 703, LSB 515 “It’s late.” As children, we didn’t like to hear those words. It meant that it was time for bed and…
Seeking Wealth, Gaining Misery
STUDIES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you! Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded…