Podcasts about small catechism

“What does this mean?” This question might sound familiar to anyone who has spent time studying Luther's Small Catechism. As the catechism covers each of the Six Chief Parts, the question is asked again and again: “What does this mean?” And then explanation follows. This same question was asked by many in the crowd on the Day of Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2. As the people hear and see these miraculous events, they are amazed and perplexed, asking one another, “What does this mean?” In the verses that follow, Peter gives explanation from the Old Testament. He proclaims that God has fulfilled His promise to “pour out His Spirit on all flesh.” The gift of the Holy Spirit has been given for all nations. As you celebrate the Day of Pentecost today, reflect on these events by asking yourself, “What does this mean—for me?”

Pr. David Petersen of Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy God With Us Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy. The post The Table of Duties in Luther's Small Catechism, Part 4 – Pr. David Petersen, 6/11/25 (1622) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains the night meeting of Nicodemas with Jesus (St. John 3:1-17), which is the Holy Gospel for Holy Trinity Sunday. Learn-by-Heart will include the hymn “My Soul, O God, Magnifies Thee” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #94), Small Catechism, Table of Duties: To Servants, Hired Men, Laborers: Eph 6:5-8, To Masters and Mistresses:  Eph 6:9 (Catechism, p.33) and St. John 3:5-6 --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Trinity-Sunday-6-11-2025.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-94-My-Soul-O-God-Magnifies-Thee.pdf https://vimeo.com/1090687581?share=copy

June 7, 2025 Today's Reading: John 14:8-21Daily Lectionary: Numbers 20:22-21:9; Luke 20:45-21:19“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.” (John 14:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The Holy Spirit is God, as much as the Father is God and the Son is God. We confess this truth every time we speak one of the Creeds. But if the Spirit is God, why don't we give as much attention to the Holy Spirit as we do to the Father and the Son?On the one hand, we probably should spend more time thinking about the Holy Spirit and praising Him for all that He does for us. Not only is He God, but we would be lost without the Holy Spirit. Luther reminds us in the Small Catechism that we “cannot by our own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ our Lord or come to Him.” It is the Holy Spirit who grants us saving faith in Jesus.  St. Paul also reminds us that it is only by the Holy Spirit that we can do good works, pleasing in God's sight. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control,” (Galatians 5:22-23). We literally could not be holy to God without the work of the Holy Spirit.But on the other hand, Jesus reminds us that in a way, this is what the Holy Spirit wants. Jesus calls the Spirit the “Helper.” The Holy Spirit acts as our helper by pointing us to Jesus. He directs our attention to Christ because it is Jesus alone who takes on our sinful flesh and suffers and dies for us. The Spirit teaches us all these things about Christ and brings them to our remembrance (John 14:26) by inspiring the prophets and apostles to write the Scriptures for us, and by working through the preaching of God's Word. That is how saving faith is created and sustained in us.Jesus, in turn, leads us to the Father (John 14:6) and shows us the Father's face (John 14:9). That is salvation. The faith of a Christian, the faith that is created by the work of the Holy Spirit, is always centered around Jesus Christ, our Lord.It is certainly good and right to praise God, the Holy Spirit, and acknowledge His work among us. And the best way to do that is to direct our eyes to Jesus and believe in Him. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty and ever-living God, You fulfilled Your promise by sending the gift of the Holy Spirit to unite disciples of all nations in the cross and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. By the preaching of the Gospel spread this gift to the ends of the earth; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Collect for Pentecost Eve)- Rev. Aric Fenske, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church and Trinity Lutheran Church in Bear Creek, WI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pr. David Petersen of Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy God With Us Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy. The post The Table of Duties in Luther's Small Catechism, Part 3 – Pr. David Petersen, 6/4/25 (1551) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains how the Holy Spirit teaches from the Word all things about Jesus" (St. John 14:23-31), which is the Holy Gospel for Pentecost. Learn-by-Heart will include hymn “Christ, Thou Art the Sure Foundation”  (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #93), Small Catechism, Table of Duties: To Parents:  Eph 6:4, To Children:  Eph 6:1-3, and Ephesians 4:10-12, and St. John 14:23 --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Pentecost-6-4-2025-Copy.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-93-Christ-Thou-Art-the-Sure-Foundation.pdf https://vimeo.com/1088603605?share=copy

What is Pentecost? When did this happen in relation to the crucifixion and resurrection? What is the significance of the tongues of fire? Dr. Croghan turns to Martin Luther's Small Catechism: "I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel." This is the Holy Spirit's work, to deliver the Gospel to you. The Holy Spirit comes to convict you of your sin. The conviction comes when you say, “Your sins are forgiven.” You have mercy. You have the Gospel. CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders. Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel. Care of Souls - Addiction GOSPEL Acts 2:1-21 1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. 5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. 6 And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. 7 Amazed and astonished, they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs -- in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power." 12 All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "What does this mean?" 13 But others sneered and said, "They are filled with new wine." 14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, "Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. 15 Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o'clock in the morning. 16 No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: 17  'In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. 18  Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. 19  And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist. 20  The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of the Lord's great and glorious day. 21  Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.' Support the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains Prayer (St. John 16:23-33), which is the Holy Gospel for the Fifth Sunday in Easter. Learn-by-Heart will include the hymn “O Jesus Lamb of God Thou Art” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #91), Small Catechism, Table of Duties: Government: Romans 13:1-4, Subjects:  Mt 22:21, 1 Peter 3:5-6, and St. John 16:33. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Rogate-5-21-2025.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-91-O-Jesus-Lamb-of-God-Thou-Art.pdf https://vimeo.com/1082377555?share=copy

Pr. David Petersen of Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy God With Us Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy. The post The Table of Duties in Luther's Small Catechism, Part 2 – Pr. David Petersen, 5/20/25 (1401) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Pr. David Petersen of Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy God With Us Gottesdienst: The Journal of Lutheran Liturgy. The post The Table of Duties in Luther's Small Catechism, Part 1 – Pr. David Petersen, 5/15/25 (1353) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains Jesus' teaching concerning a Christian's consolation under the cross (John 16:16-22), which is the Holy Gospel for Jubilate (The third Sunday after Easter). Learn-by-Heart will include the hymn “Rise Ye Children of Salvation”  (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #90), Small Catechism, Of Bishops: 1 Timothy 3:2-4, 1 Timothy 3:6, Titus 1:9, and 1 Peter 2:2, What the Hearers Owe Their Pastors from Luther's Small Catechism, 1 Corinthians 9:14, Galatians 6:6-7, 1 Timothy 5:17-18, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17, and Colossians 2:9-10. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Jubilate-5-7-2025-b.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-90-Rise-Ye-Children-of-Salvation.pdf https://vimeo.com/1078143937?share=copy

April 25, 2025Today's Reading: Mark 16:14-20Daily Lectionary: Exodus 18:5-27; Hebrews 12:1-24“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The end of Mark gives us language that is reminiscent of Matthew's ending: the admonition to proclaim the Gospel and baptize the nations. The sacrament of Baptism is laid before Mark's readers as a life-giving Gift from God. Luther even uses the end of Mark as part of his explanation in the Small Catechism on Baptism, the second part, regarding the benefits of Baptism. Your Baptism saves you.  Baptism is no small, insignificant part of our lives. It is not a once-and-done “the box is checked, life is good, let's not talk about it until confirmation when we can start preparing for the real sacrament, Holy Communion.” Baptism gives to us all the blessings and benefits that Christ has done for us. It is a Means Of Grace. It is a vessel that God uses to bring us the forgiveness of sins, life everlasting, faith, and the Holy Spirit.  Our world cannot comprehend how God works through the simplest things to do miraculous work. Water and His word together bring us these benefits and blessings. It is not our faith that makes Baptism valuable but rather faith that is given to us in Baptism. It is God's work through Baptism that His robe of righteousness is placed over us. The world sees only water. The world hears just simple words. It is these two components together that give us Baptism.  We are Baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We carry the name of the triune God upon us. His cross is placed both upon our forehead and upon our hearts to mark us as one redeemed by Christ the crucified. His name, His death, and His resurrection are our identity in Baptism. We are no longer left out in the world, lost and condemned. Sin does not prevail. Satan no longer can condemn us. We are baptized into Christ. It is our condition that we live in each day. We boldly say, “I am baptized!”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In a wat'ry grave are buried All our sins that Jesus carried; Christ, the Ark of Life, has ferried Us across death's raging flood. (LSB 597:2)-Rev. Timothy Davis, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Athens, GA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains the Institution of the Office of the Keys (St. John 20:19-31), which is the Holy Gospel for the first Sunday in Easter. Learn-by-Heart will include the hymn “Wake Spirit Who In times Now Olden”  (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #88), Small Catechism, Table of Duties:  Of Bishops: 1 Timothy 3:2-4, 1 Timothy 3:6, Titus 1:9, and 1 Peter 2:2. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Quasimodogeniti-4-23-2025.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-88-Wake-Spirit-Who-In-Times-Now-Olden.pdf https://vimeo.com/1076230505?share=copy

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ (St. Mark 16:1-8), which is the Holy Gospel for Easter Sunday. The teaching for Learn-by-Heart will include hymn “Ere Yet the Dawn Hath Filled the Skies” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #28), Small Catechism, Christian Questions with their Answers, 17-20, and Job 19:25-27. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Resurrection-4-16-2025.pdf Responsive Prayer for Catechesis:    Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2023.pdf Insert for Hymn: Holy-Saturday-with-ASBH-28.pdf https://vimeo.com/1069795055?share=copy

April 10, 2025Today's Reading: Catechism: The Lord's Prayer - The IntroductionDaily Lectionary: Exodus 4:19-31; Mark 15:16-32“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” (1 John 3:1-3) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. It is no small thing that Luther is teaching us in the Introduction to the Lord's Prayer. Read again what he writes in the explanation to the Introduction. “With these words (Our Father Who Art in Heaven) God tenderly invites us to believe that He is our true Father and that we are His true children, so that with all boldness and confidence we may ask Him as dear children ask their dear father” (Luther's Small Catechism).   Being able to call someone “father” is not insignificant. It doesn't matter if we have a biological or adopted father; it is something we all need. Whether you have an earthly father or not, we all have a heavenly one! And oh, what our Heavenly Father does and how He cares for you. Think of all the things He does for you. Remember the First Article of the Apostles Creed? He gives you clothing, shoes, food, drink… well, you know the list. That is how God, your Father, provides for you.  But there is so much more. These words of St. Paul are such a great reminder when talking about this. He writes, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32)  This is the love John is talking about in 1 John 3. This love is shown in sending His own Son so that you would have all things. And what is meant by “all things?” It is more than those wonderful and important First Article Gifts. He gives us the forgiveness, life, and salvation, which our Lord won for us. He gives us the inheritance of the Son, eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. We have a seat at the banquet table of the marriage feast of the Lamb.    Rejoice, for the Father loves you so much that He sent His Son to die to give you all that you need.  In the name + of Jesus. Amen. God loved the world so that He gave His only Son the lost to save, That all who would in Him believe Should everlasting life receive. (LSB 571:1)-Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and TheologyVisit the timeless rhythms of the Christian life with award-winning author Harold L. Senkbeil. As he addresses the concerns and pressures of the world today, you'll discover that even while the world is dying, Christ's death brings about life. True life. One that He offers to you. Order Now!

April 7, 2025Today's Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21Daily Lectionary: Exodus 2:1-22; Mark 14:32-52“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing;” (Isaiah 43:18-19a) In the name of + Jesus. Amen. Perhaps our Lord misspoke when divinely inspiring Isaiah to write the words set forth for us in today's reading. At best, it seems like the Lord God is contradicting Himself a bit with these words. Are we sure that God meant it when He said, “Remember not the former things?” Are we sure He wants us to forget what we have done? After all, this is the very God who knows all, makes all, directs all, and is all the omnis from Luther's Small Catechism.     How can THAT God tell us we should forget the past? Does He? Remember this is the same God who told Moses on Mt. Sinai, “I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me” (Exodus 20:5). Does the God who visits iniquity really forget what you have done?    So, what is God trying to tell us? First, take note of His words in Exodus 20. Remember, and do not forget, that He is the Judge of the living and the dead. Meaning He remembers iniquity. Here, though, He is clearly talking to those who are lost in their sin, who see no need for repentance, and who have followed the ways of their forefathers.  But He confidently calls us, who are called according to His purpose. We who are sanctified, redeemed, and marked to “Remember not the former things.”  Forget the past! Why? Because, as He says through the prophet Isaiah, “Behold, I am doing a new thing” (Isaiah 43:10a). You are the new thing! He is making you into His new creation. He does so once at your Baptism and daily through confession and Absolution. Our Lord forgets the past. That is what the Psalmist David tells us. Remember what David did and the forgiveness and cleansing that he needed? After that, he wrote these familiar words: “As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). Forget the past! Our Lord does! Kill the Old Man. Deny him every single day. And, by the grace of God, live in righteousness and purity forever in His presence.     In the name of + Jesus. Amen. Lord, on You I cast my burden— Sink it in the deepest sea! Let me know Your gracious pardon, Cleanse me from iniquity. Let Your Spirit leave me never; Make me only Yours forever. (LSB 608:4)-Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and TheologyVisit the timeless rhythms of the Christian life with award-winning author Harold L. Senkbeil. As he addresses the concerns and pressures of the world today, you'll discover that even while the world is dying, Christ's death brings about life. True life. One that He offers to you. Order Now!

God's gift of family came to His creation before the fall into sin. Even though our lives in the family experience the hurt of sin, these vocations from God remain good. Husbands are given to love their wives with respect and gentleness, sacrificing themselves for their wives as Christ has done for His Church. Wives are to receive this love from their husbands with submissiveness and joy, as the Church receives the gifts of her Lord. Parents are to raise their children with love that points them to God's Word, and children are to receive their parents' teaching with honor and obedience, trusting God to bless them as they do. Humility is commended to the youth, and hope is given to widows. In all relationships, Christians show love to each other and pray for each other.  Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study the Table of Duties from the Small Catechism.  Learn more about Sharathon 2025 and give now at kfuo.org/sharathon. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

The Table of Duties is the third section of the Small Catechism that helps us to know our place in life as Christians. Pastors are to live their lives so that they do not become a scandal to the Word of God that they are given to teach to their hearers, and hearers are given to support their pastors financially and gladly hear the Word that their pastor preaches. The civil government must recognize that all authority comes from God and use it to promote what is good and punish what is evil, while citizens should respect and submit to the authority God has vested in civil government, praying for their leaders. Employers and employees are to live and work in relationship toward each other recognizing that God is their ultimate Lord.  Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study the Table of Duties from the Small Catechism.  Learn more about Sharathon 2025 and give now at kfuo.org/sharathon. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

March 27, 2025Today's Reading: Catechism: The Creed - The Third ArticleDaily Lectionary: Genesis 39:1-23; Mark 10:13-31I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.This is most certainly true. - Small Catechism Creed, The Third Article“Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely” (1 Thessalonians 5:23a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. “Sanctify” and “sanctification”  are words that probably remind you of confirmation class. Do you remember the definition of the word “sanctify”? In case you don't, “sanctify” means “to make holy.”  So, “sanctified” means “made holy.” So, who drives the sanctification bus? Who is responsible for you being holy— God or you? St. Paul provides a blessing to his readers that “the God of peace sanctify you completely.” That means it's God's work. Dr. Luther, in the meaning of the 3rd Article of the Creed in the Small Catechism, confesses the same thing: “the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.” God is the Holy One who makes you holy.Yet, you struggle when you fall into sin and when you are confronted with the reality that you do unholy things. Sometimes, you make willing decisions to do unholy things. Sometimes, you want to do the opposite of what's holy. You can't make yourself holy because that's God's responsibility. But you can make yourself unholy, and you can depart from God's holiness. Sanctification is a Gift from God, but your sinful nature still fights against holiness. Still, the God of peace continually returns to you as He calls, gathers, sanctifies, and keeps you in His Church.Are you a sinner whose sinful nature fights against God's holiness that dwells in you? Obviously. Does that change the power of God to heal, save, and sanctify you? Of course not. The Lord your God blesses you with His holiness because He is holy, and He is your faithful God of peace. He keeps you blameless until the day of Jesus' return. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.We all confess the Holy Ghost, Who from both in truth proceeds, Who sustains and comforts us In all trials, fears, and needs. Blessèd, holy Trinity, Praise forever be to Thee! (LSB 953:3)-Rev. Peter Ill, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Visit the timeless rhythms of the Christian life with award-winning author Harold L. Senkbeil. As he addresses the concerns and pressures of the world today, you'll discover that even while the world is dying, Christ's death brings about life. True life. One that He offers to you. Order Now!

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:1-15), which is the Holy Gospel for Laetare (Lent 4) Sunday. The teaching for Learn-by-Heart will include hymn “The Death of Jesus Christ, Our Lord” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #26), Small Catechism, Sacrament of the Altar, 5, and John 6:33. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Laetare-3-26-2025-online.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: Maundy-Thursday-with-ASBH-26-THe-Death-of-Jesus-Christ-Our-Lord.pdf https://vimeo.com/1065304687?share=copy

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains "The Canaanite Woman" (St. Matthew 15:21-28), which is the Holy Gospel for Lent Two. The teaching for Learn-by-Heart will include hymn “Look From Thy Sphere of Endless Day” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #82), Small Catechism, Sacrament of the Altar, questions 4, and Philippians 3:9 or 1 Corinthians 2:14. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Reminiscere-3-12-2025.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: March-17-St-Patrick-.pdf https://vimeo.com/1063000541?share=copy

This Wednesday night, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart from 6:30 to 7:00 PM.  Although we normally follow Learn-by-Heart with a Catechesis service designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service (The Temptation of Christ in the Wilderness from St. Matthew 4:1-11), this Wednesday we will not.  Instead, there will be a Divine Service for Ash Wednesday.  Link to Ash Wednesday Divine Service Learn-by-Heart will include “Abide, O Dearest Jesus” (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal), Small Catechism, Sacrament of the Altar question three and their meanings, and Psalm 51:17. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Ash-Wednesday-3-5-2025.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-Abide-O-Dearest-Jesus.pdf https://vimeo.com/1060697621?share=copy

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service.  The dialog sermon explains "Jesus Healing the Blind Man" (St. Luke 18:31-43), which is the Holy Gospel for Quinquagesima Sunday. Learn-by-Heart will include “Renew Me, O Eternal Light" (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal #85), Sacrament of the Altar, the second question from the Small Catechism, and Philippians 3:9 or 1 Corinthians 2:14. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Quinquagesima-2-26-2025-online.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: April-19-Philip-Melancthon-b.pdf https://vimeo.com/1058431834?share=copy

On Wednesday nights, Trinity Lutheran Church(Herrin, IL) offers to both children and adults an opportunity for teaching with Learn-by-Heart at 6:30 PM and a catechetical service at 7:00 PM. This service is designed to prepare God's people for the theme of the upcoming Sunday Divine Service. The dialog sermon explains the parable of the sower sowing the seed and the four types of soil (Luke 8:4-15), which is the Holy Gospel for Sexagesima Sunday. Learn-by-Heart will include “Brethren Called By One Vocation" (The Augustana Service Book and Hymnal), Small Catechism, Office of the Keys 3 and meaning, and Psalm 1:2 or Luke 8:18. --Michael D. Henson, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church (Herrin, IL). Service Bulletin: Catechesis-Sexagesima-02-19-2025.pdf Responsive Prayer: Responsive-Prayer-for-Catechesis-2024-ASBH.pdf Insert for Hymn: ASBH-Brethren-Called-by-One-Vocation.pdf https://vimeo.com/1057278746?share=copy https://vimeo.com/1056214647?share=copy      

We can apply this in a similar way with our faith, it is hidden, but it is not secret. Christianity is not a religion of secrets. As we see, once Christ rose from the dead, everything is told. When people join our church, they are not being initiated into something secret. We have here a public worship service where everyone is welcome. We teach publicly the Small Catechism and the Scriptures. This is what all pastors are to teach both in public and private. There is no levels, no extra bonus paid subscriptions.

The AFLC and LCMS share several common Scriptural convictions: salvation in Christ alone, the inerrancy of Scripture, male-only pastors, the value of every human life, and conversion as being the work of the Holy Spirit. Yet, there are differences between them, which are manifested by the AFLC's confessional subscription to only the Creed, Augsburg Confession, and Small Catechism. We pray for unity in the future, but also cling to the promises of God found in Scripture and clearly confessed in the entire Book of Concord. Rev. Sam Wellumson, pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, East Grand Forks, MN, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to discuss the confessional subscription of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations (AFLC). Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

How Do You Know If You Can Trust Your Pastor?

January 16, 2025 Today's Reading: Catechism: The Fourth CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Ezekiel 38:1-23; Romans 7:1-20“Honor your father and your mother.”In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Luther's Small Catechism says, “We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them.” Parents are special and distinct neighbors who serve in a vocation backed by the divine command to “honor.” We don't just love our parents. We extend them honor differing from other neighbors we're called to love, yes. But honor goes to the parents. The Fourth Commandment prioritizes parents above others, as Luther explains in his Large Catechism: “It is a far higher thing to honor someone than to love someone, because honor includes not only love, but also modesty, humility, and submission to a majesty hidden in them” (LC 4:106).Parents are fallible, with sins requiring a Savior. Children see this and so suffer the temptation to despise their parents and rebel against their wisdom. The Old Adam drives us to think we're always smarter and stronger than others, which is another reason to repent. We should repent for relying on the flesh, trusting in ourselves, and shirking advice at every turn. No matter a parent's sins, they still inhabit a vocation established by God deserving honor based on the Word. That's a crucial point. Parents are due honor not because they're flawless. We honor them according to God's Word, calling us to see them for what they are, in Luther's words, “the most precious treasure on earth” (LC 4: 109). Luther's meaning of this commandment extends beyond the parental office to include “other authorities.” Teachers, policemen, magistrates, and principals serve in vocations requiring faithful obedience. We may not like it when the police officer gives us a speeding ticket, but he's enforcing a law to curb us from sin that could hurt others. The teacher and principal may be hard on a student when desiring the best alongside the father and mother. Such authorities work in tandem with the parental office with the hope children grow, we pray, into faithful, God-fearing adults. Such vocations, though good and beneficial, are often abused by sinners. Still, we live by the Word and God's call to recognize those authorities He has established and thank Him for faithful servants. When we fail in our vocations, whether parent or child, the Gospel reminds us we're not saved by our stations in life. We're saved only by Jesus, which is the comfort we need while laboring in those blessed vocations of God. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Gracious God, Your Ten Commands are just and good. Grant us faith always to hear your Word and keep it. Guard us from evil and harm and turn us to your mercy that we would find comfort and peace in the love you have on account of Christ crucified and risen from the dead. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.-Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.What makes a church "good?" Come join the fictional family as they test out eight different churches in their brand-new town and answer this question along the way. Will the Real Church Please Stand Up? by Matthew Richard, now available from Concordia Publishing House.

Devotion - Introducing the Serving Challenge / Small Catechism: Apostles' Creed, Article One by Community Lutheran Church

January 12, 2025  Today's Reading: Luke 3:15-22Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 34:1-24; Romans 3:19-31“His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire” (Luke 3:17)In the Name of Jesus. Amen.John testifies to Jesus, the “mightier One” Who holds the keys to life and death and the winnowing fork separating wheat from chaff. God's prophet doesn't blunt the sharp edges of the Word and exhorts people with the Good News of Jesus, Who will baptized with the “Holy Spirit and with fire” (Luke 3:16). John was faithful and bold. Even Herod wasn't exempt from his rebuke over having “his brother's wife.” It would land John in prison and ultimately beheaded, as we hear in Mark 6:14-29. But John's preaching, that holy Word testifying to the Kingdom of God in the person of Christ, transcends any decree of earthy tyrants like Herod. John would suffer a grisly death, a martyr for the faith. But it's that faith that is victorious over the world (cf.1 John 5:4) precisely because faith grabs Jesus and His saving work. John would die only to live because Christ lives and promises life for His Church obtained by blood (Acts 20:28).Luke places Jesus' Baptism in the context of persecution. This is no accident. Jesus' Baptism would mark the beginning of His public ministry (cf. Acts 1:22), “fulfill all righteousness” (Matt.3:15), and following the descent of the Holy Spirit merit the Father's eternal voice “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Jesus fulfills all righteousness at the cross, where the penalty for sin is paid by His blood. Holy Baptism today means life “in Christ,” a popular phrase in the New Testament marking the baptized believer as one covered in the righteousness of Jesus and now an heir to everlasting life.Suffering, persecution, and martyrdom still besiege God's Church on earth. Still, the devil and his tyrants cannot overcome the “mightier One” with the winnowing fork in His hand. God's enemies decree death to the saints, but the Church needn't be afraid. God in Christ decrees life, eternal life given in the waters of Holy Baptism where Christ is present to call us by Name, make us His children, and on the Last Day do what the Small Catechism also teaches: “...give eternal life to me all believers in Christ. This is most certainly true.” In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, You proclaimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized in His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. -Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.What makes a church "good?" Come join the fictional family as they test out eight different churches in their brand-new town and answer this question along the way. Will the Real Church Please Stand Up? by Matthew Richard, now available from Concordia Publishing House.

Devotion - Baptism / Baptism Q's 2&3 from Luther's Small Catechism by Community Lutheran Church

❓What evidence is there for the existence of God in our physical universe?The idea of evidence is that it can be used to convince someone of something or defend what you already believe. ⚔️☑️ Keep this (from the Small Catechism) in mind when talking to others about the faith: “ I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel.”That means that no amount of evidence ❌ is ever actually going to convince somebody of God's existence apart from the preaching of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit.If you want to look for evidence of God, don't start with creation.

❓Question: Christians often argue for God's existence by suggesting the universe needs an initial cause, but what caused God?

Chaplain Sean Daenzer joins Sarah, Erin, and Rachel for another Kitchen Table Talk conversation — this time on the theological hot topic of individual Confession and Absolution.   What is individual (or private) Confession and Absolution? What biblical basis and historical basis is there for this practice? How did Luther (in the Small Catechism) recommend it be done? How does Lutheran Confession and Absolution differ from the more culturally familiar Roman Catholic version of the rite? Why did Lutherans largely abandon this historic practice — and why is it seeing a resurgence today? Who can benefit from it? And how, exactly, does individual Confession and Absolution even work, practically speaking?  Discover more biblical teaching and preaching from Chaplain Sean Daenzer in the KFUO Radio archives.  Find the Small Catechism at catechism.cph.org. Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), and Erin (@erinaltered) on Instagram! Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at lutheranladies@kfuo.org.

Short answer: Maybe.

November 15, 2024 Today's Reading: Matthew 26:57-75 Daily Lectionary: Jeremiah 30:1-24; Revelation 15:1-8; Matthew 26:57-75 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, “You also were with Jesus the Galilean.” But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you mean.” And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” And again he denied it with an oath: “I do not know the man.”After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, “Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you.” Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know the man.” And immediately the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly. (Matthew 26:69-75)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.A great spiritual battle in the history of the world is unfolding. On the one side, Satan and the demons. Along with Satan are those who serve him as they work to bring Jesus to the cross: the Pharisees and teachers of the Law, the chief priests, Caiaphas, Herod, and, of course, Judas. On the other side is Jesus, and those who belong to Him, foremost would be His Apostles. Of the Apostles, Peter stands out. He had promised Jesus, “Though [the other Apostles] fall away because of you, I will never fall away” (Matthew 26:33).Who can Jesus depend on? As it turns out, not Peter. This preeminent Apostle folds under pressure: “Then [Peter] began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, ‘I do not know the man [Jesus].' And immediately the rooster crowed” (Matthew 26:74).  Is there any hope for Peter? If it depends on Peter, no, there is no hope. But if it depends on Jesus, there is hope. He's the One going to the cross for Peter's sin and the sin of the world. He's the One who made the promise to keep all those the Father has given to Him (John 17:6-12), and that includes Peter. For Peter, it is the Word of the cross; it is life and salvation, even over against his doubting and denial.The Word of the cross comes to you and me. Over against our doubting and denial, we hear the Lord's promise. We hear His Word forgiving our sin, and where there is the forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation. (Small Catechism, “The Benefit of the Sacrament of the Altar”)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Praise for Your great apostle So eager and so bold, Thrice falling, yet repentant, Thrice charged to feed your fold. Lord, make your pastors faithful To guard Your flock from harm, And hold them when they waver With Your almighty arm. Amen. (LSB 517:10)-Rev. Warren Graff, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, NMAudio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Spend time reading and meditating on God's Word throughout the Church Year with the Enduring Grace Journal. Includes scripture readings, prayers, prompts, and space for journaling. The Church Year Journal, Enduring Grace, now available from Concordia Publishing House.

October 17, 2024 Today's Reading: Catechism - Table of duties: To ParentsDaily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 15:19-16:22; Matthew 13:44-58Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. No doubt you recall that after your study of the Small Catechism in confirmation, you breathed a sigh of relief that you were almost finished… only examination remained… and then your pastor pulled a fast one… the Table of Duties. Just what is this table about? We've heard of the two tables of the law and the Lord's Table… yet there was one more… the table that gave us time to reflect on vocation… our stations in life. While specific matters didn't pertain to us (men cannot be wives, women cannot be husbands, etc.), the table of duties painted a gracious and wonderful picture of the relationship between Christ and his Church. So you might be wondering if you're a child: What does this article about fathers not provoking children to anger mean? Here's how you fit in. As we are God's children, He is our Father. And, as we pray in the Lord's Prayer, God has given earthly authority over us and for our good, as we confess in the 4th Commandment to honor mother and father.It might seem like St. Paul is warning fathers of the stuff that they're not to do. He certainly is doing that, but what's implied by St. Paul is this… fathers are given to care for, protect, work for, and sacrifice themselves for the well-being of their wives and children… this is good and wise. The most important part of all of this is that fathers are to lead us to the Heavenly Father and the Gracious Lord Jesus, who gives all the best Gifts. THAT is the best gift a father can give… Jesus and His forgiveness and life.  So what about not provoking children to anger? Thankfully, it's as simple as this… Fathers are to avoid unfair, cruel behavior or blatant favoritism. Fathers are to give as Christ gave: freely, abundantly, and to all given to their care. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, Heavenly Father, You have blessed us with the joy and care of children. Give us calm strength and patient wisdom so that as they grow in years, we may teach them to love whatever is just, true, and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.-Rev. Adam DeGroot, pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rio Rancho, NM.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Embracing Your Lutheran Identity, Author Gene Edward Veith Jr. will guide readers through that heritage, starting with the Early Church and moving through the Reformation to Lutheranism today. Readers will learn about key people in the history of Lutheranism, from two teenagers who were the first martyrs of the Reformation, through the Saxon immigrants who left everything behind so they could practice Lutheranism freely, to the Lutherans who have stood strong for the faith in our own day.

Color: Green Old Testament: Genesis 28:10–17 Psalm: Psalm 84; antiphon: v. 8 Epistle: Ephesians 4:22–28 Gospel: Matthew 9:1–8 Introit: Psalm 78:1–3, 4b; antiphon: Psalm 35:3b; 34:17a, 6b; 48:14a Gradual: Psalm 141:1–2 Verse: Psalm 98:1a Jesus' Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing   The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10–17). The ladder in Jacob's dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Matt. 9:1–8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man's body. “For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation” (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22–28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, “This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” (Gen. 28:17) Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship

Today we're going to talk about one of the most politically incorrect topics in existence: slavery. Our sinful world considers slavery to be the ultimate evil. God considers it to be the chief good. It is, after all, the reason that Jesus suffered, died, and was buried. As we confess in the Small Catechism:…

This issue of LW focuses on the church as a teaching and learning community. Peter encourages Christian education oriented toward apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith: “Always [be] prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Lutherans have a wonderful resource for apologetics in the Small Catechism, which is a foundation and guide for deeper knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. Peter does not encourage Christians to force their faith on others but tells them to be well-prepared to — when asked! — offer a gentle, respectful account of why Christ the Lord is the way, the truth and the life. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the August 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “A Community of Hope” on 1 Peter 3:8–17. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Elect Exiles” and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. 1 Peter 3:8–17 Suffering for Righteousness' Sake 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For “Whoever desires to love life     and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil     and his lips from speaking deceit; 11 let him turn away from evil and do good;     let him seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,     and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” 13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil. Read full chapter English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org The Coffee Hour is underwritten by Concordia University Wisconsin. Live Uncommon. Learn more at cuw.edu. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact Andy Bates at andrew.bates@kfuo.org or call 314-996-1519.

This issue of LW focuses on the church as a teaching and learning community. Peter encourages Christian education oriented toward apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith: “Always [be] prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Lutherans have a wonderful resource for apologetics in the Small Catechism, which is a foundation and guide for deeper knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. Peter does not encourage Christians to force their faith on others but tells them to be well-prepared to — when asked! — offer a gentle, respectful account of why Christ the Lord is the way, the truth and the life. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the August 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “A Community of Hope” on 1 Peter 3:8–17. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Elect Exiles” and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. 1 Peter 3:8–17 Suffering for Righteousness' Sake 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For “Whoever desires to love life     and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil     and his lips from speaking deceit; 11 let him turn away from evil and do good;     let him seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,     and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” 13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil. Read full chapter English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org

What should we do when there aren't enough kids to have Sunday School? Do we need Sunday School? Is Sunday School biblical? Where did it come from? When did it become the norm? Who is Robert Raikes and what does John Dewey have to do with Sunday School? How does it relate to the Small Catechism and what on earth is the Prom Phenomenon? We answer all these questions and a few more in this episode This program originally aired November 26, 2022. Host Rev. Tyrel Bramwell, pastor of St. Mark Lutheran Church in Ferndale, California, and author of the book Come in, We are Closed, talks about curious topics to excite the imagination, equip the mind, and comfort the soul with God's ordering of the world in the Law and Gospel.

links:YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@scripturealonepodcast6447?sub_confirmation=1 Telegram https://t.me/solascripturakalubicha?sub_confirmation=1 Google podcast https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5yZWRjaXJjbGUuY29tL2IzZjNiZjc4LTYxZDctNGUwMi1hMjgxLTRlN2I2ZDc3MjBmNg?ep=14?sub_confirmation=1 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4yMPgfglhDyuNe5xe8WSwh?sub_confirmation=1 Apple podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scripture-alone-podcast/id1536167258?sub_confirmation=1

Caleb and Dr. Paulson continue their read through Luther's Small Catechism. This time, Dr. Paulson teaches about the institution of the Lord's Supper. In the Supper, Christ joins his Word to physical elements to give us the gift of life and forgiveness. The show focuses on the power of the sacraments and how this gift is not a mere ritual.  Show Notes: Support 1517 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Available Now: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin 30 Minutes in the NT on Youtube Remembering Rod Rosenbladt Available Now: Be Thou My Song by Kerri Tom More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Pauslon  

We are called to confess the Truth of God's Word (2 Timothy 4:2). As KFUO Radio has confessed this Truth for 100 years, we keep everything simple for the sake of salvation for those who hear (1 Timothy 4:16). After Luther's visitations throughout Germany, it was evident that the basics needed to be taught again (10 commandments, Creed, and Lord's Prayer) and it is still needed today which is why we still confess/ teach/pray the Small Catechism. Rev. Phil Hoppe, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study Luther's Preface to the Small Catechism. Learn more about Sharathon 2024 and give now at kfuo.org/sharathon. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations.

Dr. Paulson and Caleb Keith continue teaching from the Small Catechism. This week, they discuss the sacrament of Baptism. This opens an ongoing proclamation regarding God joining his promises to means to deliver salvation to us. Baptism is not an abstract ritual but an applied promise.  Show Notes: Support 1517 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 30 Minutes in the NT on Youtube Remembering Rod Rosenbladt Preorder: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin Available Now: Be Thou My Song by Kerri Tom Last Chance: NWA Conference May 3rd-4th More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Pauslon  

Death! Disaster! Panic in the streets! In this episode Dad and I try to understand how fear and fear-mongering have come to grip our wealthy and (historically speaking) unprecedentedly free societies. Toward that end, we also explore the metastasis of the psychiatric diagnosis of debilitating phobias to a biopolitical strategy for accusing and shutting down anyone who doesn't agree with or approve of certain things. But above all, it's a call to the courage of conscience for anyone tired of having the bullies run the show. Fear not! The Lord is with you. Notes: 1. Related episodes: Transfiguration, Perpetua and Felicitas, Private Public and Propagandistic 2. Read, mark, and inwardly digest Luther's commentary on the First Commandment in the Small Catechism to "fear, love, and trust in God above all things"! 3. Horn, People Love Dead Jews 4. The Scriptural Reasoning inter-faith dialogue project  

Dr. Paulson and Caleb Keith continue their series on the Small Catechism. In this episode, they examine the inclusion of the Lord's Prayer in the catechism. They discuss why prayer is essential to the Christian life but is not some third category between law and gospel.  Show Notes: Support 1517 1517 Podcasts The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 on Youtube Catechesis Topics Index 1517 What's New from 1517: Bible in One Year with Chad Bird Freedom Lessons Album Your God is too Glorious, 2nd Edition by Chad Bird Schweitzer's Psychoanalysis of Jesus Christ: & Other Essays in Christian Psychotherapy by John Warwick Montgomery NWA Conference May 3rd-4th More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Pauslon  

Dr. Paulson concludes the Apostles Creed and its explanation from Luther's Small Catechism. He and Caleb Keith discuss what it means for the Holy Spirit to work through the Church and how God delivers his forgiveness as an external Word to sinners. Show Notes: Support 1517 1517 Podcasts The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 on Youtube Creedo Book What's New from 1517: Bible in One Year with Chad Bird Freedom Lessons Album Your God is too Glorious, 2nd Edition by Chad Bird Schweitzer's Psychoanalysis of Jesus Christ: & Other Essays in Christian Psychotherapy by John Warwick Montgomery NWA Conference May 3rd-4th More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Pauslon