St. John Lutheran Church Sermons
Sunday, April 29, 2018
Fifth Sunday of Easter (Acts 16:11-15)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Php 1:2). Amen.
There is usually a big splash when a business like a new supermarket begins selling food in town. Perhaps there are promotions in the mail or even advertisements on the internet. It is a huge deal. There may even be a grand opening, complete with a ribbon cutting. (I wonder where they get those huge scissors from.)
What happened in Philippi might not have been newsworthy, but it is still noteworthy. There is a grand opening there, not for groceries, but by grace—an open heart and an open home. We read from …
Acts 16:11-15
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, connected to him and kept by him,
I don’t know what goes into selecting a location for a business. (And I don’t have to.) My guess is that there is some kind of investigation as well as some kind of exploration. A company wants to make sure that people will stop there and shop there. They want to turn a profit.
It was not market research, but a man’s request that ultimately brought Paul and his companions to Philippi. Luke records it this way: “During the night Paul had a vision of a man in Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’” (Acts 16:9). Paul concluded that God had commanded him to preach the gospel there—the good news about Jesus. So they took off from Asia Minor and crossed into Europe. That led to a significant event.
There is a Grand Opening in Philippi
1. An open heart (11-15)
2. An open home (15)
1. An open heart (11-15)
We often speak of the heart being the center of our thoughts and seat of our emotions—like hurt or happiness—either end of the spectrum. But it is also the place we think of where our conviction or confidence is. We typically refer to that as faith. There is a grand opening in Philippi—an open heart.
It is a pretty straightforward travelogue like if you are relating how you get from St. Paul to St Louis. “From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day on to Neapolis” (Acts 16:11). My geography is not that good (let alone my pronunciation). Samothrace is an island in the Aegean Sea. Neapolis is the harbor for Philippi, a town located about 10 miles away to the north.
Luke continues: “From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia” (Acts 16:12). That means that Philippi was a piece of Rome on foreign soil. They people were Roman citizens and some were veteran soldiers who received land grants as their retirement package. “And we stayed there several days” (Acts 16:12).
That was a pretty simple start to an important incident. It was a Saturday. According to the Old Testament, the 7th day of the week was a day of rest—physical and spiritual (Ex 20:8-10). There was to be no work. But there was to be worship. It was a chance to concentrate on and focus on the rest for the soul that the Messiah would bring—forgiveness of sins (Mt 11:28).
It doesn’t appear that there was a synagogue in Philippi. (We might call that a church. That was where there the people would sing psalms and a person would explain Scripture. It is similar to the blessing and benefit of what we do here on Sundays.) That is where Paul usually began his work in a new location.
So Paul decided on a different approach. “On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer” (Acts 16:13). There is mention of what they did and who was present. “We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there” (Acts 16:13). It wasn’t about the weather.
That is when we are introduced to one lady in particular. “One of those listening was a woman named Lydia” (Acts 16:14). She was giving Paul her careful and close attention. Luke gives us some interesting biographical info:
“a dealer in purple cloth” (Acts 16:14). The dye was a hot item in Philippi. (It was for a different reason than for some here in Minnesota.) It was because the Romans liked royal purple in their togas. It was a symbol of status. Lydia probably was a well-to-do businesswoman.
“from the city of Thyatira” (Acts 16:14). That city was known for its violet hue. So Lydia was a transplant to Philippi, probably receiving product from where she grew up.
“who was a worshiper of God” (Acts 16:14). That is code for a Gentile convert to Judaism. She was aware of the One who was to come. Now she heard from Paul that One had come. Jesus was the Promised Savior who paid for sin, enduring God’s anger on the cross and exiting the grave on the third day. He carried out God’s plan and conveys God’s peace.
And it all comes down to what Luke writes next: “The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message” (Acts 16:14). That is something that only God can and does do—bring people to faith. Through the spoken word, Lydia turned to and trusted in Jesus. She is part of the spiritual harvest that the psalmist had us sing about and pray for (Ps 67:6): “May all the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you” (Ps 67:3,5). And as a seal of faith, “she and the members of her household were baptized” (Acts 16:15). More branches connected to the Vine (Jn 15:5). There is a grand opening in Philippi—an open heart.
That was Lydia’s story. What is yours? Maybe it doesn’t seem as dramatic because it is not documented in the Bible. That is true. But it is also not true. It makes no difference if the Holy Spirit created faith in your heart as the Word of God was announced to you as God accepts you as his own or the water of baptism was applied to you as God adopts you as his own. We call Jesus “Lord” (1 Co 12:3; Jn 20:28)—Son of God and Savior of all. We “believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ” (1 Jn 3:23). We are grafted into the Vine as a branch. From Jesus we receive life—cleansed from sin (Jn 15:3).
And he keeps us alive, remaining in us as we remain in him (Jn 15:4). Even if, or when, our hearts condemn us, Jesus comforts us (1 Jn 3:20). His blood purifies us from all sin (1 Jn 1:7). We are and continue to be his children (1 Jn 3:18). There is a grand opening for you too—an open heart of faith.
2. An opened home (15)
If you examine your own heart, you know this is true: what is in the heart comes out in actions. If you are excited about exercise, you will do it. Faith in the heart exerts itself too. There is a grand opening in Philippi—an open home.
After the beautiful message and mass baptism, Lydia looked for a way to demonstrate her faith. “She invited us to her home. ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord,’ she said, ‘come and stay at my house’” (Acts 16:15). That was part of the grand opening in Philippi. An open heart extended the offer of an open home. It was her way of expressing her appreciation for Paul’s preaching. “And she persuaded us” (Acts 16:15). Paul and his friends accepted.
That was a great benefit to the traveling missionaries. Her home served as a base of operations in the city. They could devote themselves entirely to the work without having to search for lodging or employment. Paul, as a tradesman, didn’t have to make tents. Luke, as a physician, didn’t have to write prescriptions. They could preach and proclaim Jesus fulltime.
Lydia helps us understand that faith is active, not idle. Or to use Jesus’ picture, when a branch is attached to the vine, there will be results. That is why we often call them “fruits of faith.” It is natural and it is normal. Grape vines yield grapes. You and I produce good works because of our association with Jesus. “If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5). In that way, like Lydia, we follow the apostle John’s encouragement: “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 Jn 3:18). That is a grand opening for you too—not necessarily your home, but your hands in effort. Love for God motivates us to see opportunities around us, not obligations from us.
It is nice when there is a new grocery store nearby—even if you don’t attend the grand opening. But even better the grand opening in Philippi with Lydia. An open heart leads to an open home. We have the same narrative. The Lord has opened our hearts, shared in the word or shown in baptism. And we open our homes in the sense that we live our faith. All for the glory of God and the good of others as we love them (Jn 15:8; 1 Jn 3:23). We are now open, not for business to make a dollar, but for busyness to serve the Lord. Amen.
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Php 4:7). Amen.
April 29, 2018
Sunday, April 22, 2018
Fourth Sunday of Easter (Acts 20:28-32)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 1:2). Amen.
“So what do you do?” Have you been asked that question a time or two? It can be the topic of casual conversation like when meeting someone new at a get-together or when standing in line at the bank.
I can’t answer that question for you entirely. I can for myself. I am a pastor.
When I come back with that, there is usually a follow up. “So what do you do?” There is sometimes some concern about a one-hour work week. (That is just when I make it look like work.)
That is where the title gives some insight. Pastor is the Latin word for “shepherd.” A pastor leads and feeds, guides and guards.
The apostle Paul also is instructive. He speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the work and one committed to the Word. We read from …
Acts 20:28-32
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, Sheep of the Good Shepherd,
There is a significant difference between “a” good shepherd and “the” Good Shepherd. A pastor fits under the classification of “a” good shepherd. There is only One in the category of “the” Good Shepherd. And that is Jesus. Even though that profession may not be familiar to us, King David’s portrayal is a favorite of ours. We gladly say and sing: “The LORD is my shepherd” (Ps 23:1).
He is THE Good Shepherd. And he is “good,” not in the sense of average or acceptable. It is not like the reply to the inquiry: “How was supper?” “Good.” (That carries the idea of “It filled the hole.” By the way, that doesn’t win any husband of the year awards.) But Jesus is the Good Shepherd along the lines of excellent or exceptional—one of a kind. There is a dignity behind that designation.
A pastor, or shepherd, serves under the Shepherd. And that man can be good too.
Paul Speaks of a Good Shepherd
1. One committed to the work (28-31)
2. One committed to the Word (32)
1. One committed to the work (28-31)
It is one of those intangibles—a work ethic. When on the job, it is not just a matter of ability (and that is necessary), but also attitude (that is needed). One is to be determined, if not dedicated. Not half-hearted or half way. We could sum that up with “committed.” So it is for a pastor. Paul speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the work.
Paul was somewhat in a hurry heading to Jerusalem by boat after his third missionary tour. Instead of trekking inland to Ephesus when he got near, he sent ahead for the elders—modern day pastors—to meet him in Miletus, a town along the coast of Asia Minor. It is like you might go to a restaurant for lunch with a buddy rather than go to his house. It is a bit of a time saver (and you are guaranteed a meal).
Paul wasn’t concerned about eating as he was encouraging. “Keep watch over yourselves” (Acts 20:28). They were to be in a constant state of readiness. That way if there was any danger at all, there could be the appropriate action right away. We could compare it to a shepherd on late shift. Paul is not suggesting that they be selfish. But they were to start with themselves. For a while I thought that it was strange that the inflight instructions on a plane about the oxygen masks dropping from the overhead compartment was to fasten yours first and then those next to you. But finally, you have to be breathing to be of benefit to those around you. Satan goes after shepherds. They need to be alert for themselves against his relentless attacks like doubt or discouragement. He realizes the Shepherd is there for him so that he can relay it to others. That is why the advice is: “Pastor, preach to yourself first.” Satan is on the prowl for the pastor’s soul. Keep watch.
And then, “Keep watch over … all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” (Acts 20:28). They were to care for and be concerned about others. Paul likens people to a group of sheep. That is not insulting. A follower of Christ requires the safeguarding of a shepherd. The devil wants him to wander or her to waver as sheep are prone to do (Is 53:6). We can turn to our own way and stray. A good shepherd pays attention to that.
There are two reminders in place.
A shepherd doesn’t self-promote. He is Spirit-placed. The Holy Spirit gives shepherds oversight. Nowadays that is established by a call to a congregation through which the Holy Spirit selects shepherds to look after his flock at a certain place for a certain time.
And ultimately the flock belongs to THE Good Shepherd. “Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). That is their purpose—to protect and provide for those whom God has called out of the darkness of sin to the light of salvation (1 Pe 2:9). The sheep are his. At the cost of the life of the Leader. It is the opposite of a hired hand. If there is any risk, he runs (Jn 10:12). And that makes sense. He has no skin in the game. His desire is only to save his skin. That doesn’t usually bode well for the sheep. They are defenseless and often become dinner.
It is not an arrogant claim, but an appropriate one. Jesus simply stated: “I am the good shepherd” (Jn 10:11). And he explains why—3x: “I lay down my life for the sheep” (Jn 10:15,17,18). But there is more: “I lay down my life—only to take it up again” (Jn 10:17). Jesus died. But Jesus rose. He purchased us as God placed our sin on him as he poured out his holy, precious blood on the cross. And three days later he exited the grave to extend forgiveness and peace to us. We are his. John removed the picture as he makes it plain. We are sons and daughters of God. “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 Jn 3:1). Not may be or might be. We are. Children of God.
The apostle was not naïve. He knew of two dangers:
From the outside: “I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock” (Acts 20:29). A wolf has the feature of being fierce and ferocious and the characteristic of being crafty and cunning. There is a healthy fear of that sly and wily animal. That echoes what Jesus once elaborated: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Mt 7:15). They are harmful, not helpful. We need to be alert because no one introduces themselves: “Hi. I am a wolf, a false prophet. I want to devour.” But that is their desire. A good shepherd is one committed to the work of watching.
From the inside: “Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:30). There will stand up those who will peddle what is perverted like a company might sell something of poor quality. Those individuals want others to follow them, not the Good Shepherd. A good shepherd is one committed to the work of watching.
Paul took that responsibility seriously. “So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears” (Acts 20:31). No one could accuse him of being careless. His eyes were wide open like a shepherd scanning the fields for predators or robbers. The others were to do the same. Pray for that kind of careful pastor. Pray for your pastor that he stay awake to defend you against the devil. That is the good shepherd that Paul speaks of—one committed to the work of watching over your soul, bought with and by the blood of the Good Shepherd.
2. One committed to the Word (32)
You can’t know everything about an occupation the first day. The boss may have another employee who shadows you or shows you how to go about your position—a model who tells or mentor who teaches. You give them your attention when they are assigned to you. That is the use of the word “committed”—entrusted to the supervision of another. So it is for a pastor. Paul speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the Word.
Paul makes reference to that: “Now I commit you to God” (Acts 20:32). They would not carry out their efforts alone. But with their powerful God by their side.
And not only that: “Now I commit you … to the word of his grace” (Acts 20:32). It is God’s Word which is about grace—unmerited favor from him for all. And there is great ability and capability behind it—“which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32). It is the Word of grace that a good shepherd appropriates for himself and applies it to others that makes strong and makes steady. As sons and daughters, children, we have a claim to a home in heaven along with all those who have been made holy (1 Jn 3:1,2). And now we await his appearance to take us to our home there.
As sheep of the Good Shepherd, we listen to his voice as it comes from a good shepherd (Jn 10:16,28). In it and from him we have eternal life. We can be confident: “I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Ps 23:6). That is a good shepherd that Paul speaks of—one committed to the Word which gives the comfort of pardon from God now and a place with God forever.
“So what do you do?” You may have a short job description handy. By translation, a pastor is a shepherd. He operates for the advantage of sheep and with them in mind. That is what Paul speaks of when it comes to a good shepherd of the Good Shepherd. One who is committed to the work. He is to be at the work carefully to keep the sheep safe. And one who is committed to the Word. He is to be in the Word continually to keep sheep secure. That is a good shepherd. Amen.
Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love (Eph 6:24). Amen.
April 22, 2018
“So what do you do?” Have you been asked that question a time or two? It can be the topic of casual conversation like when meeting someone new at a get-together or when standing in line at the bank.
I can’t answer that question for you entirely. I can for myself. I am a pastor.
When I come back with that, there is usually a follow up. “So what do you do?” There is sometimes some concern about a one-hour work week. (That is just when I make it look like work.)
That is where the title gives some insight. Pastor is the Latin word for “shepherd.” A pastor leads and feeds, guides and guards.
The apostle Paul also is instructive. He speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the work and one committed to the Word. We read from …
Acts 20:28-32
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, Sheep of the Good Shepherd,
There is a significant difference between “a” good shepherd and “the” Good Shepherd. A pastor fits under the classification of “a” good shepherd. There is only One in the category of “the” Good Shepherd. And that is Jesus. Even though that profession may not be familiar to us, King David’s portrayal is a favorite of ours. We gladly say and sing: “The LORD is my shepherd” (Ps 23:1).
He is THE Good Shepherd. And he is “good,” not in the sense of average or acceptable. It is not like the reply to the inquiry: “How was supper?” “Good.” (That carries the idea of “It filled the hole.” By the way, that doesn’t win any husband of the year awards.) But Jesus is the Good Shepherd along the lines of excellent or exceptional—one of a kind. There is a dignity behind that designation.
A pastor, or shepherd, serves under the Shepherd. And that man can be good too.
Paul Speaks of a Good Shepherd
1. One committed to the work (28-31)
2. One committed to the Word (32)
1. One committed to the work (28-31)
It is one of those intangibles—a work ethic. When on the job, it is not just a matter of ability (and that is necessary), but also attitude (that is needed). One is to be determined, if not dedicated. Not half-hearted or half way. We could sum that up with “committed.” So it is for a pastor. Paul speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the work.
Paul was somewhat in a hurry heading to Jerusalem by boat after his third missionary tour. Instead of trekking inland to Ephesus when he got near, he sent ahead for the elders—modern day pastors—to meet him in Miletus, a town along the coast of Asia Minor. It is like you might go to a restaurant for lunch with a buddy rather than go to his house. It is a bit of a time saver (and you are guaranteed a meal).
Paul wasn’t concerned about eating as he was encouraging. “Keep watch over yourselves” (Acts 20:28). They were to be in a constant state of readiness. That way if there was any danger at all, there could be the appropriate action right away. We could compare it to a shepherd on late shift. Paul is not suggesting that they be selfish. But they were to start with themselves. For a while I thought that it was strange that the inflight instructions on a plane about the oxygen masks dropping from the overhead compartment was to fasten yours first and then those next to you. But finally, you have to be breathing to be of benefit to those around you. Satan goes after shepherds. They need to be alert for themselves against his relentless attacks like doubt or discouragement. He realizes the Shepherd is there for him so that he can relay it to others. That is why the advice is: “Pastor, preach to yourself first.” Satan is on the prowl for the pastor’s soul. Keep watch.
And then, “Keep watch over … all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” (Acts 20:28). They were to care for and be concerned about others. Paul likens people to a group of sheep. That is not insulting. A follower of Christ requires the safeguarding of a shepherd. The devil wants him to wander or her to waver as sheep are prone to do (Is 53:6). We can turn to our own way and stray. A good shepherd pays attention to that.
There are two reminders in place.
A shepherd doesn’t self-promote. He is Spirit-placed. The Holy Spirit gives shepherds oversight. Nowadays that is established by a call to a congregation through which the Holy Spirit selects shepherds to look after his flock at a certain place for a certain time.
And ultimately the flock belongs to THE Good Shepherd. “Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). That is their purpose—to protect and provide for those whom God has called out of the darkness of sin to the light of salvation (1 Pe 2:9). The sheep are his. At the cost of the life of the Leader. It is the opposite of a hired hand. If there is any risk, he runs (Jn 10:12). And that makes sense. He has no skin in the game. His desire is only to save his skin. That doesn’t usually bode well for the sheep. They are defenseless and often become dinner.
It is not an arrogant claim, but an appropriate one. Jesus simply stated: “I am the good shepherd” (Jn 10:11). And he explains why—3x: “I lay down my life for the sheep” (Jn 10:15,17,18). But there is more: “I lay down my life—only to take it up again” (Jn 10:17). Jesus died. But Jesus rose. He purchased us as God placed our sin on him as he poured out his holy, precious blood on the cross. And three days later he exited the grave to extend forgiveness and peace to us. We are his. John removed the picture as he makes it plain. We are sons and daughters of God. “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 Jn 3:1). Not may be or might be. We are. Children of God.
The apostle was not naïve. He knew of two dangers:
From the outside: “I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock” (Acts 20:29). A wolf has the feature of being fierce and ferocious and the characteristic of being crafty and cunning. There is a healthy fear of that sly and wily animal. That echoes what Jesus once elaborated: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Mt 7:15). They are harmful, not helpful. We need to be alert because no one introduces themselves: “Hi. I am a wolf, a false prophet. I want to devour.” But that is their desire. A good shepherd is one committed to the work of watching.
From the inside: “Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:30). There will stand up those who will peddle what is perverted like a company might sell something of poor quality. Those individuals want others to follow them, not the Good Shepherd. A good shepherd is one committed to the work of watching.
Paul took that responsibility seriously. “So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears” (Acts 20:31). No one could accuse him of being careless. His eyes were wide open like a shepherd scanning the fields for predators or robbers. The others were to do the same. Pray for that kind of careful pastor. Pray for your pastor that he stay awake to defend you against the devil. That is the good shepherd that Paul speaks of—one committed to the work of watching over your soul, bought with and by the blood of the Good Shepherd.
2. One committed to the Word (32)
You can’t know everything about an occupation the first day. The boss may have another employee who shadows you or shows you how to go about your position—a model who tells or mentor who teaches. You give them your attention when they are assigned to you. That is the use of the word “committed”—entrusted to the supervision of another. So it is for a pastor. Paul speaks of a good shepherd—one committed to the Word.
Paul makes reference to that: “Now I commit you to God” (Acts 20:32). They would not carry out their efforts alone. But with their powerful God by their side.
And not only that: “Now I commit you … to the word of his grace” (Acts 20:32). It is God’s Word which is about grace—unmerited favor from him for all. And there is great ability and capability behind it—“which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32). It is the Word of grace that a good shepherd appropriates for himself and applies it to others that makes strong and makes steady. As sons and daughters, children, we have a claim to a home in heaven along with all those who have been made holy (1 Jn 3:1,2). And now we await his appearance to take us to our home there.
As sheep of the Good Shepherd, we listen to his voice as it comes from a good shepherd (Jn 10:16,28). In it and from him we have eternal life. We can be confident: “I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Ps 23:6). That is a good shepherd that Paul speaks of—one committed to the Word which gives the comfort of pardon from God now and a place with God forever.
“So what do you do?” You may have a short job description handy. By translation, a pastor is a shepherd. He operates for the advantage of sheep and with them in mind. That is what Paul speaks of when it comes to a good shepherd of the Good Shepherd. One who is committed to the work. He is to be at the work carefully to keep the sheep safe. And one who is committed to the Word. He is to be in the Word continually to keep sheep secure. That is a good shepherd. Amen.
Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love (Eph 6:24). Amen.
April 22, 2018
Sunday, April 15, 2018
Third Sunday of Easter (Luke 24:36-49)
Grace and peace be yours in abundance (1 Pe 1:2). Amen.
We associate different things with Easter. What comes to your mind when you think of that holiday? Easter _____ . (Fill in the blank.) Easter baskets. Easter candy. Easter dinner. Easter eggs. Maybe that and more.
How about Easter education?
That was part of that first Easter Sunday. That is why Jesus came to his troubled disciples that day. As we continue to contemplate and commemorate Easter, we listen and we learn. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work, a message a peace in the Word, and a message of peace to the world. We read from …
Luke 24:36-49
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, our living Lord,
Open minded usually has the idea of being willing to consider something new. Perhaps along the lines of a recipe. Mom plunks something down on the table that doesn’t resemble chicken nuggets and French fries. Before there are any comments, she encourages those seated in the dining room to have an open mind about the entree.
But I am suggesting a different outlook than that. Like what goes on in a classroom. A teacher presents material to his or her students. They get it and grasp it because their minds have been opened. What was foreign to them before is familiar to them now. That is what our Savior does.
Jesus Opens Minds at Easter
1. With a message of peace from the work (36-43)
2. With a message of peace in the Word (44-46)
3. With a message of peace to the world (47-49)
1. With a message of peace from the work (36-43)
An educator once made the sarcastic comment: “School is not where young people come to watch older people work.” (By the way, it wasn’t me.) There must have been some frustration that those in the desks were less than enthused or excited and made it obvious with their lack of effort and energy. But it is different on Easter Sunday. It was all about what Jesus had done. The disciples needed that instruction. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work.
Fear was the dominant emotion that Sunday (Jn 20:19). The 10 were huddled together behind locked doors. Jesus was dead. (So they supposed.) Crucified three days earlier. What was next? Or even who was next?
Sure there were the reports from the women who had gone to the tomb in the morning to anoint Jesus’ lifeless body. (Or so they suspected.) They had seen him taken from the wooden cross and placed in a borrowed grave. But they reported spotting an angel who said that Jesus was not there (Lk 24:6). And then they saw him. Peter also (Lk 24:34; 1 Co 15:5). The two came back from Emmaus, out of breath and filled with joy (Lk 24:13-32). All with the same message: “Jesus was alive.” Could it be? They had many things to chat about.
And then: “While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them” (Lk 24:36). He didn’t knock at the door. But there he was in the middle of them.
And he greeted them. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Peace was more than what he desired for them like our casual greeting, “Good Morning.” Peace was something that he delivered to them. He created it through his blood shed on the cross and now conveyed it (Col 1:20). It was the same thing that he had shared it with them a few days before on Maundy Thursday: “My peace I give you” (Jn 14:27). And now it was theirs. Peace. Peace between them and God. But hadn’t one denied? Yes. But there was no “how could you?”, but “peace to you.” But hadn’t they deserted him? Yes. But there was not, “shame on you!”, but “peace to you.” And he didn’t give them homework. “I did my part. Now do yours.” No, it was finished (Jn 19:30). Jesus died once and for all (He 7:27). There is nothing left to do. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36).
And that peace is ours to have and to hold. All is right between us and God. Because God punished Jesus in our place on the cross, we have peace with him (Is 53:5). “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Enjoy it. “We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ro 5:1). Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work of dying and rising.
At first this was not helpful because they were horrified. “They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost” (Lk 24:37). That doesn’t imply that there is such a thing no more than when a child hears a bump in the night. What does immediately or automatically assume? It is a monster under the bed or in the closet. That doesn’t make them real. That is because they are not. As the disciples gave him their constant attention, there was absolute confusion.
Jesus addressed that quickly. “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds?” (Lk 24:38). The thoughts in their heads were whirling and twirling like fruit in a blender for a morning breakfast smoothie. While that might be delicious, this was not desirable. So instead of students doing show and tell, Jesus does. “Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have” (Lk 24:39). The fancy word is a “tactile” learner—one who acquires information by the sense of feel. You can describe a sheep as soft, but it is more meaningful if you feel some fleece. Or even go to a farm. This was no field trip though. Possibly the apostle John had this in mind when he jotted down: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life” (1 Jn 1:1). Jesus was alive. This was not a hologram or a hallucination. Their fingers did not lie.
Jesus lives, not because we wish it or want it. But because he revealed himself to his disciples. “He showed them his hands and feet” (Lk 24:40). That demonstration was definite. Those were the marks of Friday’s crucifixion—the very proof of our rescue from sin.
But it is not too surprising to hear: “They still did not believe it because of joy and amazement” (Lk 24:41). They didn’t want to be duped or deceived. So Jesus kept on convincing them: “‘Do you have anything here to eat?’ They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence” (Lk 24:41-43). Jesus wanted them to be certain that it was indeed him and not some phantom. The food did not drop through him. It digested in him.
And he wants us to be sure. When we see those wounds on Jesus’ hands and feet, we can be confident that Jesus came out of the tomb to guarantee that our guilt is gone. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Jesus opens our minds at Easter with the message of peace from the work of heading to the cross and heading out of the grave. “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24).
2. With a message of peace in the Word (44-46)
An instructor doesn’t just peddle his ideas or promote her own ideals in class. There is usually a textbook or a reference work to consult or confer. That is what Jesus does. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace in the Word.
Jesus had taken them through the course material before. This was not the first time that they were exposed to the subject matter. “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms” (Lk 24:44). That three-part designation—the law, the prophets, and the psalms—is code for the Old Testament. He turned their attention to the Scriptures. And there was that divine necessity of carrying out every last thing that was put down from Moses to Malachi—from the Crusher of Satan to the Prince of peace, the Sun of Righteousness (Ge 3:15; Is 9:6; Mal 4:2). As the psalmist had us sing: “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone” (Ps 118:22; Acts 4:11).
Many of the Jews wanted to crucify him as Peter pointed out after healing that crippled man (Acts 4:10). We want to keep him. Like Peter also preached: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). We build our faith and base our trust on him.
It is easy to content ourselves with a basic knowledge of the Bible. It could be with the attitude of “I know enough.” We have the opportunity to dig in and bring out more of an appreciation for what Jesus had to do, did do. The Old Testament is not useless, but useful. As we study and search, we find out that there is not one thing that Jesus did not complete. All for us. And like Jesus put it together for his disciples (Lk 24:45), he brings it together for us as a teacher explains how simple subtraction fits into long division. Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace from the Word. “The LORD has become my salvation” (Ps 118:14).
3. With a message of peace to the world (47-49)
Pupils often dread the end of class. That typically means the time for an assignment. It is different with Jesus. This is not a bunch of math problems, but a bunch of mighty promises. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace to the world.
Jesus reminded them of the reality: “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day” (Lk 24:46). It was the third day and there was Jesus. He was the One anointed to offer up his life for us and take it up again. And now: “Repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Lk 24:47). As those men went about their work, they would point out one’s sins and point to one’s Savior. They would turn others to him, not from him. The starting point would be where they were and as far as they would go—finally into all the world (Mk 16:15; Acts 1:8). That would be their mission: “You are witnesses of these things” (Lk 24:48). What had gone into their eyes and ears would come out of their mouths and lives. But in a bit. “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (Lk 24:49). Jesus would make good on that on Pentecost when the Holy Spirit would arrive in blessing.
We have seen and heard. And now we tell. There is forgiveness in Jesus. We kid ourselves if we think that we are without sin (1 Jn 1:8). Instead we confess them (1 Jn 1:9). And God sends them all away. He cancels them and cleanses us. “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 Jn 1:7). That is not just for us, but for all. Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace for the world. With the Messiah, we make clear: “I will not die, but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done” (Ps 118:17).
While there are fun and food at Easter, there is more. And it is not fear. Jesus lives. That kind of education opens minds. That is what Jesus did the first Easter. He opens minds with a message of peace from the work on the cross, in the Word of the Lord, and to the world of his love. Go in peace from the Savior, go to peace in the Bible, and go with peace around the globe. Christ is risen. Happy Easter. Amen.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ (1 Pe 5:14). Amen.
April 15, 2018
We associate different things with Easter. What comes to your mind when you think of that holiday? Easter _____ . (Fill in the blank.) Easter baskets. Easter candy. Easter dinner. Easter eggs. Maybe that and more.
How about Easter education?
That was part of that first Easter Sunday. That is why Jesus came to his troubled disciples that day. As we continue to contemplate and commemorate Easter, we listen and we learn. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work, a message a peace in the Word, and a message of peace to the world. We read from …
Luke 24:36-49
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, our living Lord,
Open minded usually has the idea of being willing to consider something new. Perhaps along the lines of a recipe. Mom plunks something down on the table that doesn’t resemble chicken nuggets and French fries. Before there are any comments, she encourages those seated in the dining room to have an open mind about the entree.
But I am suggesting a different outlook than that. Like what goes on in a classroom. A teacher presents material to his or her students. They get it and grasp it because their minds have been opened. What was foreign to them before is familiar to them now. That is what our Savior does.
Jesus Opens Minds at Easter
1. With a message of peace from the work (36-43)
2. With a message of peace in the Word (44-46)
3. With a message of peace to the world (47-49)
1. With a message of peace from the work (36-43)
An educator once made the sarcastic comment: “School is not where young people come to watch older people work.” (By the way, it wasn’t me.) There must have been some frustration that those in the desks were less than enthused or excited and made it obvious with their lack of effort and energy. But it is different on Easter Sunday. It was all about what Jesus had done. The disciples needed that instruction. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work.
Fear was the dominant emotion that Sunday (Jn 20:19). The 10 were huddled together behind locked doors. Jesus was dead. (So they supposed.) Crucified three days earlier. What was next? Or even who was next?
Sure there were the reports from the women who had gone to the tomb in the morning to anoint Jesus’ lifeless body. (Or so they suspected.) They had seen him taken from the wooden cross and placed in a borrowed grave. But they reported spotting an angel who said that Jesus was not there (Lk 24:6). And then they saw him. Peter also (Lk 24:34; 1 Co 15:5). The two came back from Emmaus, out of breath and filled with joy (Lk 24:13-32). All with the same message: “Jesus was alive.” Could it be? They had many things to chat about.
And then: “While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them” (Lk 24:36). He didn’t knock at the door. But there he was in the middle of them.
And he greeted them. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Peace was more than what he desired for them like our casual greeting, “Good Morning.” Peace was something that he delivered to them. He created it through his blood shed on the cross and now conveyed it (Col 1:20). It was the same thing that he had shared it with them a few days before on Maundy Thursday: “My peace I give you” (Jn 14:27). And now it was theirs. Peace. Peace between them and God. But hadn’t one denied? Yes. But there was no “how could you?”, but “peace to you.” But hadn’t they deserted him? Yes. But there was not, “shame on you!”, but “peace to you.” And he didn’t give them homework. “I did my part. Now do yours.” No, it was finished (Jn 19:30). Jesus died once and for all (He 7:27). There is nothing left to do. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36).
And that peace is ours to have and to hold. All is right between us and God. Because God punished Jesus in our place on the cross, we have peace with him (Is 53:5). “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Enjoy it. “We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ro 5:1). Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace from the work of dying and rising.
At first this was not helpful because they were horrified. “They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost” (Lk 24:37). That doesn’t imply that there is such a thing no more than when a child hears a bump in the night. What does immediately or automatically assume? It is a monster under the bed or in the closet. That doesn’t make them real. That is because they are not. As the disciples gave him their constant attention, there was absolute confusion.
Jesus addressed that quickly. “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds?” (Lk 24:38). The thoughts in their heads were whirling and twirling like fruit in a blender for a morning breakfast smoothie. While that might be delicious, this was not desirable. So instead of students doing show and tell, Jesus does. “Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have” (Lk 24:39). The fancy word is a “tactile” learner—one who acquires information by the sense of feel. You can describe a sheep as soft, but it is more meaningful if you feel some fleece. Or even go to a farm. This was no field trip though. Possibly the apostle John had this in mind when he jotted down: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life” (1 Jn 1:1). Jesus was alive. This was not a hologram or a hallucination. Their fingers did not lie.
Jesus lives, not because we wish it or want it. But because he revealed himself to his disciples. “He showed them his hands and feet” (Lk 24:40). That demonstration was definite. Those were the marks of Friday’s crucifixion—the very proof of our rescue from sin.
But it is not too surprising to hear: “They still did not believe it because of joy and amazement” (Lk 24:41). They didn’t want to be duped or deceived. So Jesus kept on convincing them: “‘Do you have anything here to eat?’ They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence” (Lk 24:41-43). Jesus wanted them to be certain that it was indeed him and not some phantom. The food did not drop through him. It digested in him.
And he wants us to be sure. When we see those wounds on Jesus’ hands and feet, we can be confident that Jesus came out of the tomb to guarantee that our guilt is gone. “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Jesus opens our minds at Easter with the message of peace from the work of heading to the cross and heading out of the grave. “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24).
2. With a message of peace in the Word (44-46)
An instructor doesn’t just peddle his ideas or promote her own ideals in class. There is usually a textbook or a reference work to consult or confer. That is what Jesus does. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace in the Word.
Jesus had taken them through the course material before. This was not the first time that they were exposed to the subject matter. “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms” (Lk 24:44). That three-part designation—the law, the prophets, and the psalms—is code for the Old Testament. He turned their attention to the Scriptures. And there was that divine necessity of carrying out every last thing that was put down from Moses to Malachi—from the Crusher of Satan to the Prince of peace, the Sun of Righteousness (Ge 3:15; Is 9:6; Mal 4:2). As the psalmist had us sing: “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone” (Ps 118:22; Acts 4:11).
Many of the Jews wanted to crucify him as Peter pointed out after healing that crippled man (Acts 4:10). We want to keep him. Like Peter also preached: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). We build our faith and base our trust on him.
It is easy to content ourselves with a basic knowledge of the Bible. It could be with the attitude of “I know enough.” We have the opportunity to dig in and bring out more of an appreciation for what Jesus had to do, did do. The Old Testament is not useless, but useful. As we study and search, we find out that there is not one thing that Jesus did not complete. All for us. And like Jesus put it together for his disciples (Lk 24:45), he brings it together for us as a teacher explains how simple subtraction fits into long division. Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace from the Word. “The LORD has become my salvation” (Ps 118:14).
3. With a message of peace to the world (47-49)
Pupils often dread the end of class. That typically means the time for an assignment. It is different with Jesus. This is not a bunch of math problems, but a bunch of mighty promises. Jesus opens minds at Easter with a message of peace to the world.
Jesus reminded them of the reality: “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day” (Lk 24:46). It was the third day and there was Jesus. He was the One anointed to offer up his life for us and take it up again. And now: “Repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Lk 24:47). As those men went about their work, they would point out one’s sins and point to one’s Savior. They would turn others to him, not from him. The starting point would be where they were and as far as they would go—finally into all the world (Mk 16:15; Acts 1:8). That would be their mission: “You are witnesses of these things” (Lk 24:48). What had gone into their eyes and ears would come out of their mouths and lives. But in a bit. “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (Lk 24:49). Jesus would make good on that on Pentecost when the Holy Spirit would arrive in blessing.
We have seen and heard. And now we tell. There is forgiveness in Jesus. We kid ourselves if we think that we are without sin (1 Jn 1:8). Instead we confess them (1 Jn 1:9). And God sends them all away. He cancels them and cleanses us. “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 Jn 1:7). That is not just for us, but for all. Jesus opens our minds at Easter with a message of peace for the world. With the Messiah, we make clear: “I will not die, but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done” (Ps 118:17).
While there are fun and food at Easter, there is more. And it is not fear. Jesus lives. That kind of education opens minds. That is what Jesus did the first Easter. He opens minds with a message of peace from the work on the cross, in the Word of the Lord, and to the world of his love. Go in peace from the Savior, go to peace in the Bible, and go with peace around the globe. Christ is risen. Happy Easter. Amen.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ (1 Pe 5:14). Amen.
April 15, 2018
Sunday, April 8, 2018
Second Sunday of Easter (1 Corinthians 15:12-22)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Co 1:3). Amen.
It is a word that only has two letters. It may be small in size, but big in significance. If. It can place before us a condition that is troubling, or even terrifying. Take this for example: “If the biopsy is not healthy, then …” If we could only get rid of the “if” because it brings uncertainty. It is so much different to declare: “The biopsy is healthy.”
How about this: “If Christ has not been raised, then …”? That leaves us confused and concerned because of what that means. It is not just dangerous; it is damning.
But that is the poison that some were peddling among the Christians in Corinth. Paul asks, “How can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” (1 Co 15:12). Paul had heralded it, affirming it and asserting it: “Christ has been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:12).
But Paul wants to address how serious it is to state the opposite and also to assure that it is the truth. “Christ has been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:12).
Paul gets rid of the “if” because of its serious implications.
“If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised” (1 Co 15:13). That would be in direct contradiction to what the angel announced on the first Easter Sunday. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him” (Mk 16:6). The women came to complete that last loving gesture—to anoint Jesus’ dead body. But they never got to use the spices that they had in their hands. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith” (1 Co 15:14). What is more, our message would be empty. There is no content. It would be strange to open a book and have blank pages. Your expectation of some expertise would be misplaced. But such is not the case. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead” (1 Co 15:15). When in a court of law, a witness swears to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Not to do so is perjury—a fancy word for lying. And the judge and jury don’t look kindly on that. Paul took it seriously too. He had seen the risen Christ on the road to Damascus with his own eyes, heard him with his own ears (Acts 9:4,5). To tell otherwise would be a falsehood. How about that for “fake news?” He would be misrepresenting the facts. The apostle Peter recalled that to the crowd that had gathered after he had healed a man crippled from birth. He reviewed the events of Holy Week—how they had killed Christ. “But God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this” (Acts 3:15). Christ has been raised from the dead.
“For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either” (1 Co 15:16). The two go hand-in-hand. Christ’s resurrection guarantees our resurrection. The night before he was nailed to the cross, Jesus wanted his disciples and us to know: “Because I live, you also will live” (Jn 14:19). He lives; we live. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Co 15:17). Jesus died on the cross, not because of his sins for he didn’t have any. But for ours because we had many. But he did not stay dead. He came back to life three days later. It was the psalmist David that cited the Messiah 1000 years before: “You will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay” (Ps 16:10). That is because God punished him in our place. Jesus paid for them all—every one. He did not head out of the tomb to hold our sins against us because he holds out forgiveness to us (Ro 4:25). We are no longer in our sins. Jesus can give us the same joy as his disciples: “Peace be with you!” (Jn 20:20,26). Everything is right between us and God. Our faith is not pointless or useless. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost” (1 Co 15:18). In other words, they perish. And the punishment would be eternal. But God loved the world so much that he gave his one of kind Son so that would not be the reality (Jn 3:16). Those connected to Christ, even though they die, live. That is what Jesus mentioned to Martha at the grave of her brother, Lazarus: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn 11:25,26). That is why the apostle John wrote his Gospel: “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (Jn 20:31). Paul can call death a sleep. We are not afraid to lay our heads the pillow at night—in fact, we often look forward to it and long for it—because we know that we will wake up in the morning. That is what Jesus will do for us on the Last Day. He will call us out to be with him forever (1 Thess 4:17)—glorified bodies reunited with our souls (Phil 3:20). The cemetery is a place where we will rest, not where we will remain. We can continue to confess: “I believe in … the resurrection of the body” (CW p. 19). Christ has been raised from the dead.
“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men” (1 Co 15:19). It is one thing to be sad for someone. It is quite another to feel sorry for them. If Christ is dead, so is our confidence. And we are wasting our time and money here. We could have slept until noon and then get up to chase after this and that or here and there. Because then this is it.
But Paul removes the “if.” And he is emphatic. In a sense, “Away with all that.” “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:20). It is a matter of fact. We can be sure and certain. And since that is real, and it is, Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Co 15:29). That goes back to the Old Testament. When the grain was ripe in the spring (That is the reverse of here.), he would cut the first stalk with a heart full of thanks: “This is for God.” But it would also be from a head filled with this thought: “There will be more from God.” Jesus first. We will follow. And there will be a good harvest because Christ has been raised from the dead.
Death still exists. That is because Adam introduced it when he believed the lie of the devil and ate of the forbidden fruit (Ge 2:17). Sin brings with it an ugly companion—death (Ro 5:12). That is what Paul reminds: “death came through a man” (1 Co 15:21). That is Adam.
But there is more: “For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man” (1 Co 15:21). That is Jesus. Christ has been raised from the dead. And then the result: “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Co 15:22). We are associated with Adam by birth. But we are now attached to Christ by faith. We live with him right now and forever. Our present is safe and our future is secure.
It was the second Sunday of Easter. They were all there this time. Not just the 10. But the 11. Thomas had joined them again. For seven days, they repeated: “We have seen the Lord!” (Jn 20:25). Over and over. But again and again Thomas denied it (as many do today). He needed proof—visible and physical: “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it” (Jn 20:25). If Christ has not been raised, there is despair and there is doubt. But Jesus in his patience showed up a week later. Not to humiliate Thomas, but to help him—almost quoting him exactly. I paraphrase: “Go ahead, Thomas, if you have to. Touch. Don’t be without faith, but full of faith.” And that is when Thomas professed: “My Lord and my God” (Jn 10:28). And so it is that his insistence of the resurrection gives us another instance of the resurrection. And now Jesus can say about us: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (Jn 20:29). Christ has been raised from the dead.
Today is the second Sunday of Easter. We are not waiting for the findings of a doctor on an “if” of the resurrection. Instead, we continue to celebrate. That is because Easter is not just a day on the spring calendar (It is spring, isn’t it?), but a season during the church year. Jesus lives. Christ has risen. Easter does away with the “if.” It is not, “if Christ has not been raised.” Easter exclaims, “Christ has been raised from the dead.” Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. Happy Easter.
We read from 1 Corinthians 15:12-22:
12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?
13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.
14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
15 More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised.
16 For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either.
17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.
18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.
19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.
20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.
22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Co 15:57). Amen.
April 8, 2018
It is a word that only has two letters. It may be small in size, but big in significance. If. It can place before us a condition that is troubling, or even terrifying. Take this for example: “If the biopsy is not healthy, then …” If we could only get rid of the “if” because it brings uncertainty. It is so much different to declare: “The biopsy is healthy.”
How about this: “If Christ has not been raised, then …”? That leaves us confused and concerned because of what that means. It is not just dangerous; it is damning.
But that is the poison that some were peddling among the Christians in Corinth. Paul asks, “How can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” (1 Co 15:12). Paul had heralded it, affirming it and asserting it: “Christ has been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:12).
But Paul wants to address how serious it is to state the opposite and also to assure that it is the truth. “Christ has been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:12).
Paul gets rid of the “if” because of its serious implications.
“If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised” (1 Co 15:13). That would be in direct contradiction to what the angel announced on the first Easter Sunday. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him” (Mk 16:6). The women came to complete that last loving gesture—to anoint Jesus’ dead body. But they never got to use the spices that they had in their hands. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith” (1 Co 15:14). What is more, our message would be empty. There is no content. It would be strange to open a book and have blank pages. Your expectation of some expertise would be misplaced. But such is not the case. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead” (1 Co 15:15). When in a court of law, a witness swears to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Not to do so is perjury—a fancy word for lying. And the judge and jury don’t look kindly on that. Paul took it seriously too. He had seen the risen Christ on the road to Damascus with his own eyes, heard him with his own ears (Acts 9:4,5). To tell otherwise would be a falsehood. How about that for “fake news?” He would be misrepresenting the facts. The apostle Peter recalled that to the crowd that had gathered after he had healed a man crippled from birth. He reviewed the events of Holy Week—how they had killed Christ. “But God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this” (Acts 3:15). Christ has been raised from the dead.
“For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either” (1 Co 15:16). The two go hand-in-hand. Christ’s resurrection guarantees our resurrection. The night before he was nailed to the cross, Jesus wanted his disciples and us to know: “Because I live, you also will live” (Jn 14:19). He lives; we live. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Co 15:17). Jesus died on the cross, not because of his sins for he didn’t have any. But for ours because we had many. But he did not stay dead. He came back to life three days later. It was the psalmist David that cited the Messiah 1000 years before: “You will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay” (Ps 16:10). That is because God punished him in our place. Jesus paid for them all—every one. He did not head out of the tomb to hold our sins against us because he holds out forgiveness to us (Ro 4:25). We are no longer in our sins. Jesus can give us the same joy as his disciples: “Peace be with you!” (Jn 20:20,26). Everything is right between us and God. Our faith is not pointless or useless. Christ has been raised from the dead.
“Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost” (1 Co 15:18). In other words, they perish. And the punishment would be eternal. But God loved the world so much that he gave his one of kind Son so that would not be the reality (Jn 3:16). Those connected to Christ, even though they die, live. That is what Jesus mentioned to Martha at the grave of her brother, Lazarus: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn 11:25,26). That is why the apostle John wrote his Gospel: “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (Jn 20:31). Paul can call death a sleep. We are not afraid to lay our heads the pillow at night—in fact, we often look forward to it and long for it—because we know that we will wake up in the morning. That is what Jesus will do for us on the Last Day. He will call us out to be with him forever (1 Thess 4:17)—glorified bodies reunited with our souls (Phil 3:20). The cemetery is a place where we will rest, not where we will remain. We can continue to confess: “I believe in … the resurrection of the body” (CW p. 19). Christ has been raised from the dead.
“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men” (1 Co 15:19). It is one thing to be sad for someone. It is quite another to feel sorry for them. If Christ is dead, so is our confidence. And we are wasting our time and money here. We could have slept until noon and then get up to chase after this and that or here and there. Because then this is it.
But Paul removes the “if.” And he is emphatic. In a sense, “Away with all that.” “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:20). It is a matter of fact. We can be sure and certain. And since that is real, and it is, Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Co 15:29). That goes back to the Old Testament. When the grain was ripe in the spring (That is the reverse of here.), he would cut the first stalk with a heart full of thanks: “This is for God.” But it would also be from a head filled with this thought: “There will be more from God.” Jesus first. We will follow. And there will be a good harvest because Christ has been raised from the dead.
Death still exists. That is because Adam introduced it when he believed the lie of the devil and ate of the forbidden fruit (Ge 2:17). Sin brings with it an ugly companion—death (Ro 5:12). That is what Paul reminds: “death came through a man” (1 Co 15:21). That is Adam.
But there is more: “For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man” (1 Co 15:21). That is Jesus. Christ has been raised from the dead. And then the result: “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Co 15:22). We are associated with Adam by birth. But we are now attached to Christ by faith. We live with him right now and forever. Our present is safe and our future is secure.
It was the second Sunday of Easter. They were all there this time. Not just the 10. But the 11. Thomas had joined them again. For seven days, they repeated: “We have seen the Lord!” (Jn 20:25). Over and over. But again and again Thomas denied it (as many do today). He needed proof—visible and physical: “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it” (Jn 20:25). If Christ has not been raised, there is despair and there is doubt. But Jesus in his patience showed up a week later. Not to humiliate Thomas, but to help him—almost quoting him exactly. I paraphrase: “Go ahead, Thomas, if you have to. Touch. Don’t be without faith, but full of faith.” And that is when Thomas professed: “My Lord and my God” (Jn 10:28). And so it is that his insistence of the resurrection gives us another instance of the resurrection. And now Jesus can say about us: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (Jn 20:29). Christ has been raised from the dead.
Today is the second Sunday of Easter. We are not waiting for the findings of a doctor on an “if” of the resurrection. Instead, we continue to celebrate. That is because Easter is not just a day on the spring calendar (It is spring, isn’t it?), but a season during the church year. Jesus lives. Christ has risen. Easter does away with the “if.” It is not, “if Christ has not been raised.” Easter exclaims, “Christ has been raised from the dead.” Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. Happy Easter.
We read from 1 Corinthians 15:12-22:
12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?
13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.
14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
15 More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised.
16 For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either.
17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.
18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.
19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.
20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.
22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Co 15:57). Amen.
April 8, 2018
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Easter (Isaiah 25:6-9)
“Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us” (Is 25:9). Amen.
There are times when you don’t want to eat.
It could be a matter of busyness. Due to the pressure of the day, you cannot take the time or find the time to sit down and fill up at the table. And so you press on until there is a break, hurrying here and scurrying there.
It could be an issue of laziness. Because of the comfort of the couch, you cannot get up or get out a microwave burrito from the freezer. And so you settle in until there is a commercial, wondering if someone else will zap it or waiting for someone else to nuke it.
And then there are occasions when you can’t wait to eat.
It is your pick for a meal and you are starving.
It is your choice of a restaurant and you are salivating.
(Either one of those options might include pizza.)
Because we have to eat regularly and like to eat frequently, God uses that image in his Word. We consider one example today. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises and a hymn of praise. We read from …
Isaiah 25:6-9
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus, the once Christ crucified, but now our living Lord,
It seems as if eating and celebrating often go together, don’t they?
It might be something special in your life. A birthday. An anniversary. That calls for cupcakes and candles.
It might be something significant on the calendar. Thanksgiving. Christmas. That comes with turkey and trimmings.
And now Easter. We have Easter breakfast. (Thank you to those who provided and prepared the morning meal. I don’t know what smell is more noticeable—the pancakes or the lilies.) Easter brunch. Easter snack (another shout out to chocolate!). Easter supper. You get the idea. Easter and eating.
God represents his blessings to us like a beautiful banquet. We receive and we rejoice.
Enjoy the Lord’s Easter Feast
1. With a heap of promises (6-8)
2. With a hymn of praise (9)
1. With a heap of promises (6-8)
We call them common table prayers because they are fairly well-known. Before we fill our plates, we fold our hands: “Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest. And let these gifts to us be blessed.” It is a reminder and a recognition that God gives and we get. That is true of everything from him. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises.
As with any invitation to an important spread, there is certain information. Such is the case.
Where: “On this mountain” (Is 25:6). That would call to mind Mt. Zion, where Jerusalem was located—where God was with his chosen nation. That became code for God’s people. We refer to it as the Holy Christian Church, the communion of saints—God’s holy ones (He 12:22).
We are part of that select group as Jesus cleansed us from our sin with his death on the cross. His blood paid the price to set us free (Eph 1:7).
Who: “the LORD Almighty” (Is 25:6). He is One who is changeless in his kindness and compassion (Ex 34:6). But also the all-powerful One—in the heavens above and on the earth below.
This is the One who requests our presence. He calls to us in his mercy and with his might.
What: “a feast of rich food … a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats and the finest of wines” (Is 25:6). This is not warmed up macaroni and cheese with leftover chicken nuggets. There may be a time and a place for that. But not here. And not now. And he does not skimp because he is not stingy. Only the best will do—topnotch meat, in cut and quantity, and top-shelf wine—in color and quality. We might say filet mignon and red merlot. (I am not sure if I am putting those together correctly or even pronouncing them exactly.)
This is the way the Lord depicts his blessings to us. It is unlike how the devil would have us nibble on the junk food of greed or lust. That poisons leaving regret. Instead we have the most excellent of fare from the Lord—his complete forgiveness of us and his constant presence with us. (Only we don’t have to concern ourselves with clogged arteries or high cholesterol.) We dine on that every time we dig into his Word. There is no better nourishment for our souls.
And this is not limited to a chosen few or a select number. This feast is “for all peoples” (Is 25:6). He mentions “all nations … all faces … all the earth” (Is 25:7,8). There is no wondering: “Does that include me?” Yes. We are his honored guests. Enjoy God’s Easter feast. Such is his grace.
But to enjoy the feast there must be the removal of things that prevent that. A couple can’t relax if they have concerns about the babysitter—will there be some trouble?, or the parking space—will there be a ticket?. And that is what the Lord Almighty does.
“On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever” (Is 25:7,8). That is a reference to the practice of wearing a veil when mourning a death or a covering when confronted by a tragedy. We might compare it to our custom of wearing black at a funeral. Death’s icy grip reaches out to all—no matter the country or the culture. Things like education and medicine or effort and exercise only delay it. That is because sin brings with it death (Ro 5:12; 1 Co 15:21).
But we are not ignorant of what God has done. He has wiped death out. It is just like when we gulp a handful of M&Ms. It no longer exists. That is why Easter is so essential. Jesus died. But Jesus rose. The angel announced it to the women early that Sunday morning: “Don’t be alarmed … You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him” (Mk 16:6). Because Jesus lives; we live (Jn 14:19). As Jesus once mentioned to Martha at her brother’s tomb: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn 11:25,26).
Death will still touch us, but it will not triumph over us. We can confidently quote the apostle Paul: “Death has been swallowed up in victory” (1 Co 15:54,55). God gives us that victory (1 Co 15:57). Yes, death comes, but it is overcome. It is not the end of life, but the entrance to life. Because God loved the world in such a way and to such extent that he gave his Son, we have eternal life (Jn 3:16).
“The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces” (Is 25:8). We have felt that hot water rush down our faces and race down our checks when our hearts are breaking or aching. Sometimes that is about all we can muster in some situations.
But like a father flicks away the waterworks that is what our Father in heaven does. On the Last Day, Jesus will return and raise us up. He will transform our lowly bodies to be like his glorious body (Php 3:21). Sin and all its effects will be eliminated. There will be no more sadness or sorrow (Re 7:17; 21:4).
“He will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth” (Is 25:8). Many might mention that we are the fools on April 1st—believing that Jesus is alive. How many people do you know come back from the dead? Jesus. He removes our doubt and we can remark with Paul: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:20).
And so will we. On Judgment Day, there will be no shame for trusting in Jesus. We will be with him forever (1 Thess 4:17).
How can we be so sure? The Lord punctuates this with an exclamation mark: “The LORD has spoken” (Is 25:8). In other words: “Because I, the LORD, the LORD Almighty, the Sovereign LORD said so.” And that is good enough. He is the One who came up with it and carries it out. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises. And when it comes from him, it is as good as done.
2. With a hymn of praise (9)
And then we follow up and finish with: “O give thanks unto the Lord. For he is good and his love endures forever” (Ps 118:1). We are grateful, thankful. So on this day and every day. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a hymn of praise.
We are not left speechless. We join with anyone and everyone: “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Is 25:9). With even more happiness than when a child hops up and down when he discovers his Easter basket and highlights it to his mom (even though she was the one who hid it), we exclaim: “Hey, look. Our God. Our Lord. We looked for him with eagerness and he did not disappoint. He rescued us. We are safe and secure because the salvation that comes from him he grants and guarantees. We echo the song of the psalmist: “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24). Today. Tomorrow. This coming Sunday. The following week. On earth. For eternity. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter Feast with a hymn of praise.
My guess is that if you haven’t stuck something in your stomach already, it will happen sometime soon. When you do, think of this section of Scripture. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises. It is like a buffet. He gets rid of the guilt of sin and the threat of death. And enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a hymn of praise. We are blest with his gifts. And we give thanks. That is not foolish, but foolproof. Happy eating and happy Easter. Amen.
“This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Is 25:9). Amen.
April 1, 2018
There are times when you don’t want to eat.
It could be a matter of busyness. Due to the pressure of the day, you cannot take the time or find the time to sit down and fill up at the table. And so you press on until there is a break, hurrying here and scurrying there.
It could be an issue of laziness. Because of the comfort of the couch, you cannot get up or get out a microwave burrito from the freezer. And so you settle in until there is a commercial, wondering if someone else will zap it or waiting for someone else to nuke it.
And then there are occasions when you can’t wait to eat.
It is your pick for a meal and you are starving.
It is your choice of a restaurant and you are salivating.
(Either one of those options might include pizza.)
Because we have to eat regularly and like to eat frequently, God uses that image in his Word. We consider one example today. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises and a hymn of praise. We read from …
Isaiah 25:6-9
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus, the once Christ crucified, but now our living Lord,
It seems as if eating and celebrating often go together, don’t they?
It might be something special in your life. A birthday. An anniversary. That calls for cupcakes and candles.
It might be something significant on the calendar. Thanksgiving. Christmas. That comes with turkey and trimmings.
And now Easter. We have Easter breakfast. (Thank you to those who provided and prepared the morning meal. I don’t know what smell is more noticeable—the pancakes or the lilies.) Easter brunch. Easter snack (another shout out to chocolate!). Easter supper. You get the idea. Easter and eating.
God represents his blessings to us like a beautiful banquet. We receive and we rejoice.
Enjoy the Lord’s Easter Feast
1. With a heap of promises (6-8)
2. With a hymn of praise (9)
1. With a heap of promises (6-8)
We call them common table prayers because they are fairly well-known. Before we fill our plates, we fold our hands: “Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest. And let these gifts to us be blessed.” It is a reminder and a recognition that God gives and we get. That is true of everything from him. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises.
As with any invitation to an important spread, there is certain information. Such is the case.
Where: “On this mountain” (Is 25:6). That would call to mind Mt. Zion, where Jerusalem was located—where God was with his chosen nation. That became code for God’s people. We refer to it as the Holy Christian Church, the communion of saints—God’s holy ones (He 12:22).
We are part of that select group as Jesus cleansed us from our sin with his death on the cross. His blood paid the price to set us free (Eph 1:7).
Who: “the LORD Almighty” (Is 25:6). He is One who is changeless in his kindness and compassion (Ex 34:6). But also the all-powerful One—in the heavens above and on the earth below.
This is the One who requests our presence. He calls to us in his mercy and with his might.
What: “a feast of rich food … a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats and the finest of wines” (Is 25:6). This is not warmed up macaroni and cheese with leftover chicken nuggets. There may be a time and a place for that. But not here. And not now. And he does not skimp because he is not stingy. Only the best will do—topnotch meat, in cut and quantity, and top-shelf wine—in color and quality. We might say filet mignon and red merlot. (I am not sure if I am putting those together correctly or even pronouncing them exactly.)
This is the way the Lord depicts his blessings to us. It is unlike how the devil would have us nibble on the junk food of greed or lust. That poisons leaving regret. Instead we have the most excellent of fare from the Lord—his complete forgiveness of us and his constant presence with us. (Only we don’t have to concern ourselves with clogged arteries or high cholesterol.) We dine on that every time we dig into his Word. There is no better nourishment for our souls.
And this is not limited to a chosen few or a select number. This feast is “for all peoples” (Is 25:6). He mentions “all nations … all faces … all the earth” (Is 25:7,8). There is no wondering: “Does that include me?” Yes. We are his honored guests. Enjoy God’s Easter feast. Such is his grace.
But to enjoy the feast there must be the removal of things that prevent that. A couple can’t relax if they have concerns about the babysitter—will there be some trouble?, or the parking space—will there be a ticket?. And that is what the Lord Almighty does.
“On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever” (Is 25:7,8). That is a reference to the practice of wearing a veil when mourning a death or a covering when confronted by a tragedy. We might compare it to our custom of wearing black at a funeral. Death’s icy grip reaches out to all—no matter the country or the culture. Things like education and medicine or effort and exercise only delay it. That is because sin brings with it death (Ro 5:12; 1 Co 15:21).
But we are not ignorant of what God has done. He has wiped death out. It is just like when we gulp a handful of M&Ms. It no longer exists. That is why Easter is so essential. Jesus died. But Jesus rose. The angel announced it to the women early that Sunday morning: “Don’t be alarmed … You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him” (Mk 16:6). Because Jesus lives; we live (Jn 14:19). As Jesus once mentioned to Martha at her brother’s tomb: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn 11:25,26).
Death will still touch us, but it will not triumph over us. We can confidently quote the apostle Paul: “Death has been swallowed up in victory” (1 Co 15:54,55). God gives us that victory (1 Co 15:57). Yes, death comes, but it is overcome. It is not the end of life, but the entrance to life. Because God loved the world in such a way and to such extent that he gave his Son, we have eternal life (Jn 3:16).
“The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces” (Is 25:8). We have felt that hot water rush down our faces and race down our checks when our hearts are breaking or aching. Sometimes that is about all we can muster in some situations.
But like a father flicks away the waterworks that is what our Father in heaven does. On the Last Day, Jesus will return and raise us up. He will transform our lowly bodies to be like his glorious body (Php 3:21). Sin and all its effects will be eliminated. There will be no more sadness or sorrow (Re 7:17; 21:4).
“He will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth” (Is 25:8). Many might mention that we are the fools on April 1st—believing that Jesus is alive. How many people do you know come back from the dead? Jesus. He removes our doubt and we can remark with Paul: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Co 15:20).
And so will we. On Judgment Day, there will be no shame for trusting in Jesus. We will be with him forever (1 Thess 4:17).
How can we be so sure? The Lord punctuates this with an exclamation mark: “The LORD has spoken” (Is 25:8). In other words: “Because I, the LORD, the LORD Almighty, the Sovereign LORD said so.” And that is good enough. He is the One who came up with it and carries it out. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises. And when it comes from him, it is as good as done.
2. With a hymn of praise (9)
And then we follow up and finish with: “O give thanks unto the Lord. For he is good and his love endures forever” (Ps 118:1). We are grateful, thankful. So on this day and every day. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a hymn of praise.
We are not left speechless. We join with anyone and everyone: “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Is 25:9). With even more happiness than when a child hops up and down when he discovers his Easter basket and highlights it to his mom (even though she was the one who hid it), we exclaim: “Hey, look. Our God. Our Lord. We looked for him with eagerness and he did not disappoint. He rescued us. We are safe and secure because the salvation that comes from him he grants and guarantees. We echo the song of the psalmist: “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24). Today. Tomorrow. This coming Sunday. The following week. On earth. For eternity. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter Feast with a hymn of praise.
My guess is that if you haven’t stuck something in your stomach already, it will happen sometime soon. When you do, think of this section of Scripture. Enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a heap of promises. It is like a buffet. He gets rid of the guilt of sin and the threat of death. And enjoy the Lord’s Easter feast with a hymn of praise. We are blest with his gifts. And we give thanks. That is not foolish, but foolproof. Happy eating and happy Easter. Amen.
“This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Is 25:9). Amen.
April 1, 2018
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)