#St Matthews Lutheran Church

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 10.12 (after 1970)

1970 – Vietnam War: Vietnamization continues as President Richard Nixon announces that the United States will withdraw 40,000 more troops before Christmas. 1971 – The 2,500 year celebration of the Persian Empire begins. 1973 – President Nixon nominates House Minority Leader Gerald R. Ford as the successor to Vice President Spiro T. Agnew. 1976 – Indian Airlines Flight 171 crashes at Santacruz Airport in Bombay, India, killing 95. 1977 – Hua Guofeng succeeds Mao Zedong as paramount leader of China. 1979 – Typhoon Tip becomes the largest and most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded. 1983 – Japan's former Prime Minister Tanaka Kakuei is found guilty of taking a $2 million bribe from the Lockheed Corporation, and is sentenced to four years in jail. 1984 – The Provisional Irish Republican Army fail to assassinate Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her cabinet. The bomb kills five people and wounds at least 31 others. 1988 – Two officers of the Victoria Police are gunned down execution-style in the Walsh Street police shootings, Australia. 1992 – A 5.8 earthquake occurred in Cairo, Egypt. At least 510 died. 1994 – The Magellan spacecraft burns up in the atmosphere of Venus. 1994 – Iran Aseman Airlines Flight 746 crashes near Natanz, Iran, killing all 66 people on board. 1996 – New Zealand holds its first general election under the new mixed-member proportional representation system, which led to Jim Bolger's National Party forming a coalition government with Winston Peters's New Zealand First. 1997 – The Sidi Daoud massacre in Algeria kills 43 people at a fake roadblock. 1998 – Matthew Shepard, a gay student at University of Wyoming, dies five days after he was beaten outside of Laramie. 1999 – Pervez Musharraf takes power in Pakistan from Nawaz Sharif through a bloodless coup. 1999 – The former Autonomous Soviet Republic of Abkhazia declares its independence from Georgia. 2000 – The USS Cole, a US Navy destroyer, is badly damaged by two al-Qaeda suicide bombers, killing 17 crew members and wounding at least 39. 2002 – Terrorists detonate bombs in two nightclubs in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia, killing 202 and wounding over 200. 2005 – The second Chinese human spaceflight, Shenzhou 6, is launched, carrying two cosmonauts in orbit for five days. 2010 – The Finnish Yle TV2 channel's Ajankohtainen kakkonen current affairs program airs controversial Homoilta episode (literally "gay night"), which leads to the resignation of almost 50,000 Finns from the Evangelical Lutheran Church. 2012 – The European Union wins the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize. 2013 – Fifty-one people are killed after a truck veers off a cliff in Peru. 2013 – An apartment building collapse in Medellín, Colombia results in the deaths of twelve people. 2017 – The United States announces its decision to withdraw from UNESCO. Israel immediately follows. 2018 – Princess Eugenie marries Jack Brooksbank at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. 2019 – Typhoon Hagibis makes landfall in Japan, killing 10 and forcing the evacuation of one million people. 2019 – Eliud Kipchoge from Kenya becomes the first person to run a marathon in less than two hours with a time of 1:59:40 in Vienna. 2019 – The Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans, which is under construction, collapses, killing three workers and injuring 30 others.

[pastorjwilson]

The Influence of God: With Us All Along

A sermon for September 29, 2024 – the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church – Buffalo, NY. Sermon Video⏵ 8:30am worship⏵ 10:30am worship Sermon Text⏵ Galatians 6:14-18⏵ Psalm 121⏵ Matthew 11:25-30 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen! St. Francis of Assisi is probably most well-known for his love and care for animals and the…

[pastortomsteers]

Today We Remember                                                                             Lutheran Church Composer & Music Director   Johann Sebastian Bach –

J.S. Bach changed the course of music history.

More importantly he glorified God, and stood for the Biblically-based truths that sprang from the Reformation.

There has never been a composing and performing talent such as this Lutheran Church music director who devoted nearly all his professional life to God’s service.

Bach has been called the fifth evangelist.

The Reformation and Martin Luther had a profound impact on the composer that carries forward through his music to this day.

Born in 1685 in Eisenach, Germany, Bach experienced firsthand the fruits of Luther’s emphasis on the importance of a sound Christian education and solid theological foundation. 

Bach owned a copy of Luther’s translation of the Bible and a seven-volume set of Luther’s writings he paid most of a year’s salary to buy.

The books contain many hand-written notes by the musical genius.

Orphaned at the age of 10, Bach was largely self-taught in music.

Bach’s musical output for Lutheran churches during a 27-year period was massive, and his music still preaches.

The composer’s texts were usually from the Bible, Holy Scripture set to music.

Bach wrote, “The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.”

Bach’s published compositions number over 1,100.

Among Bach's greatest works are his Mass in B Minor, the St. Matthew Passion, the Magnificat in D Major, the St. John Passion, and of course Cantata No. 80, based on Luther's own words and known around the world as, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God."

Luther and Bach shared a deep devotion to Jesus Christ as their Lord & Saviour, giving all glory to God for His many blessings.

The mission of Bach’s music was the proclamation of the Gospel.

Bach famously signed his manuscripts with this very sentiment—S.D.G. (Soli Deo Gloria) – “To God alone be the glory.”

“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

Words by Martin Luther (1483-1546)

Music, J.S. Bach, Cantata 80.

“God is our refuge and strength,     a very presenthelp in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

1 A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing; our helper he, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing. For still our ancient foe does seek to work us woe; his craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.

2 Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing, were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing. You ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he; Lord Sabaoth his name, from age to age the same; and he must win the battle.

3 And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, we will not fear, for God has willed his truth to triumph through us. The prince of darkness grim, we tremble not for him; his rage we can endure, for lo! his doom is sure; one little word shall fell him.

4 That Word above all earthly powers no thanks to them abideth; the Spirit and the gifts are ours through him who with us sideth. Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; the body they may kill: God's truth abideth still; his kingdom is forever! 

Pastor Tom Steers,

Christ the Saviour Lutheran Church, Toronto

[petnews2day]

Canine Couture show raises funds

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/TK9ZQ

Canine Couture show raises funds

Cruella and Pierre de Vil emceed the Community Paw-Ty Olympic Peninsula Canine Couture Runway Show at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Port Angeles. PORT ANGELES — Pierre and Cruella de Vil recently emceed the Community Paw-Ty Olympic Peninsula Canine Couture Runway Show. The show, conducted […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/TK9ZQ #DogNews

[jhogarty]

Autumnal beauty in Kingston, NY ; a supertall church spire in Charleston, SC ( St. Matthew’s Lutheran )

[eddystshirts]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: St Matthew's Lutheran Church Centennial T Shirt 1987 Vintage 80s Womens USA Red.

[stpauls-milaca]

Scripture: "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33 This email is Pastor Carlson's daily devotion (resumes in September), emailed to subscribers of the St. Paul's Lutheran Church website. Unsubscribe options are below. In the sermon, this passage serves as the focal point. It teaches us how we are to obtain the eternal and divine gift of God, and what we need for this earthly life....

[denminn]

Sermon: All That Sparkles

Photo by Alexander Grey on Pexels.com Preached at First Christian Church of St. Paul on July 2, 2023. The text is Matthew 10:40-42. Earlier this week, there was another one of those controversies on Twitter is just like a car accident in that you just can’t look away.  The controversy that went viral is actually local, involving a pastor at Edina Community Lutheran Church here in town.  The…

[apilgrimpassingby]

Reblogging to comment on the theology bits:

I wouldn't recommend GotQuestions to learn about Protestantism because, like you said, Protestantism is a big tent, whereas GotQuestions represents a very specific flavour of Protestantism - Dispensationalist Calvinistic Baptist theology. For stuff outside of that, I'd recommend Reasonable Faith for a broad Evangelical viewpoint, Redeemed Zoomer on YouTube for Presbyterianism/Reformed theology (here's his ten-minute summary of Reformed theology), and Lutheran Satire, also on YouTube, for Lutheranism (here's his video responding to a popular objection to baptismal regeneration). Also just watch Lutheran Satire in general, it's hilarious.

Since I'm an Orthodox Christian, I'm going to agree with your recommendations and specify some Ancient Faith content I like.

The Whole Counsel of God podcast by Fr. Stephen DeYoung, the audio upload of his parish's verse-by-verse Bible study. He's done the New Testament (although Matthew and Mark aren't available due to poor audio quality) and Genesis and is currently working through Exodus.

The Whole Counsel of God blog by Fr. Stephen DeYoung again, consisting of a series of essays that collectively hope to set out a systematic Orthodox biblical theology.

Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy podcast by Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick, an overview of various Christian denominations and Orthodox disagreements with them. While I think he falls into the common Orthodox bad habit of using Roman Catholic arguments against Protestants and Protestant arguments against Roman Catholics, I'd still recommend it for an overview of what Orthodox think about other denominations.

In terms of the writings of the Church Fathers, I'd recommend St. Athanasius of Alexandria's On the Incarnation of the Word as an introduction to the Fathers' theology and The Life of Moses by St. Gregory of Nyssa as an introduction to their moral teachings.

Hi! I'm an (adult!!) woman who has always identified as a lesbian but has recently realised it isn't right for me. However I really have no experience with... well, anything!! Do you happen to know what kinds of places I would be able to find support on my journey? Secular or traditional are welcome!

Hello! Thank you for opening up and sharing such a significant step in your journey. It’s clear that you’re seeking a life aligned with truth, love, and purpose, and that is such a beautiful thing. You are not alone in this, and there are so many resources and people who can walk alongside you. I’ll do my best to encourage you and point you to some helpful tools and communities for traditional living, faith, and relationships! (I will include Christian and secular resources 🤍)

Types of Christianity: Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox

Each Christian tradition has unique practices and teachings, but all center on Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Here’s a quick overview and resources for exploring these branches of faith:

Protestant: This includes many denominations like Baptists, Methodists, and non-denominational churches. They emphasize a personal relationship with Jesus and studying the Bible directly.

• Resource: The book Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis is a wonderful starting point.

• Website: GotQuestions.org provides clear answers to many theological questions.

Catholic: The Catholic Church places a strong emphasis on tradition, sacraments, and the leadership of the Pope.

• Resource: Scott Hahn’s Rome Sweet Home is a beautiful introduction to Catholicism.

• Website: Catholic Answers is a rich resource for understanding the Catholic faith.

Orthodox: Orthodox Christianity emphasizes liturgy, the Church Fathers, and deep spirituality.

• Resource: The Orthodox Way by Kallistos Ware is an excellent introduction.

• Website: Ancient Faith Ministries offers podcasts, articles, and books.

I encourage you to visit different churches and see where God is leading you! ❤️

Romantic Relationships (Christian Based)

Godly relationships reflect His love: they are selfless, patient, kind, and rooted in mutual respect. They encourage growth in faith and prioritize purity and honesty. Ephesians 5:25-33 beautifully describes how love in marriage mirrors Christ’s love for the Church.

From my personal experience, I also once identified as a lesbian and felt confused about love and relationships. It wasn’t until I fully surrendered my heart to God that He gently reshaped my understanding of love. Through prayer and seeking Him, He led me to my now husband. Our marriage is filled with joy and purpose because it’s centered on Christ. God is so faithful, and He will guide you too!

Traditional Living and Homemaking (Christian based)

Living a traditional lifestyle and embracing homemaking can be deeply fulfilling and aligned with God’s design. Here are some resources to guide you:

Books:

• The Life-Giving Home by Sally and Sarah Clarkson: A lovely guide to creating a Christ-centered home.

• The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace: A biblical perspective on being a godly wife.

Content Creators:

• This Lovely Little Farmhouse on Instagram: Practical tips for homemaking and traditional living.

• YouTube channels like Farmlife Outfitters and The Transformed Wife provide inspiration and encouragement.

Websites:

• Homemaking Ministries: Resources for Christian homemakers.

• Proverbs 31 Ministries: Encouragement for living a Christ-centered life.

Traditional Living and Homemaking (Secular)

Books:

• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking: Focuses on creating a cozy, intentional home life.

• Atomic Habits by James Clear: Helps establish routines and habits that support a balanced lifestyle.

• The Modern Guide to Homemaking by Louise Perkins: A practical guide to homemaking for modern women.

YouTube Channels:

• Darling Desi: A focus on slow living, homemaking, and romanticizing daily routines.

• The Feminine Fancy: Offers content on elegance, femininity, and traditional values in modern contexts.

• Inspired by Nikki: Encourages traditional homemaking and creating a peaceful home

Podcasts:

• Simple Life Project: Discusses homemaking, sustainability, and creating a fulfilling life.

• A Farmish Kind of Life: Explores rural living, homemaking, and self-reliance.

Healthy Traditional Relationships

Books:

• Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus by John Gray: A classic on understanding and improving relationships.

• Boundaries in Dating by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend: A Christian book with principles that are widely applicable.

• The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman: Learn how to give and receive love effectively.

Articles and Blogs:

• The Gottman Institute (gottman.com): Science-based relationship advice and tools for building healthy partnerships.

• ModernMrsDarcy.com: A blog about relationships, homemaking, and personal growth.

YouTube Channels and Influencers:

• Feminine Not Feminist: Discusses relationships, femininity, and

Encouragement and Support

Know that this journey is not about perfection but about drawing closer to God daily. He sees your heart and loves you deeply. Surround yourself with others who will support your faith and values.

• Local Churches: Many offer women’s groups or Bible studies where you can find community and mentorship.

• Podcasts: Journeywomen and Set Apart Girl are wonderful for encouragement.

God has such a beautiful plan for your life, and He will walk with you every step of the way. If you’d like prayer or more guidance, I’m here for you! Wishing you the best in your traditional journey, regardless of your faith 🙏❤️

With love,

Thatgentlewife

[almostasenior]

Let Your Ribbon Be The Prayer

Prayer Changes Things

Charleston South Carolina St. Matthews Lutheran Church, 405 King Street, Charleston Landmark hanks for stopping by and I hope you are enjoying the sites of Coastal Georgia and South Carolina. Alice Six Word Saturday

[ststevanofdecani]

WHERE IS THE CHURCH ESTABLISHED BY JESUS CHRIST?

Our Lord Jesus Christ said: “...I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). If Christ said that the gates of hell shall not prevail against His Church; is it possible that His Church doesn’t exist anymore? Did it vanish or does it still exist? Since the Roman-Catholic church was established in the year 1054 and protestant churches after the 1517 reformation - where is the Church that was established by Christ 2000 years ago?

THE ORIGINAL CHURCH:

Presently there is a great number of sects that believe that they are the True Church of Christ regardless of the fact that they were all established recently by people and don’t have any connection with the original Church that was established by Christ 2000 years ego. The true Church was established by Our Lord Jesus Christ - all other sects are man-made institutions. Just to give a few examples: Lutheran, religion was founded by Martin Luther, an ex-monk of the Catholic church, in the year 1517. The church of England was founded by King Henry VIII in the year 1534 because the Pope would not grant him a divorce with the right to re-marry. Presbyterian religion was founded by John Knox in Scotland in the year 1560. Congregationalist, religion was originated by Robert Brown in Holland in 1582. Protestant Episcopalian religion was an offshoot of the church of England, founded by Samuel Senbury in the American colonies in the 17th century. Baptist, religion was established by John Smyth, who launched it in Amsterdam in 1606. Dutch Reformed church, was established by Michelis Jones in New York in 1628. Methodist religion was founded by John and Charles Wesley in England in 1774. Mormon (Latter Day Saints), was established by Joseph Smith who started this religion in Palmyra, New York, in 1829. Salvation Army sect began with William Booth in London in 1865. Christian Scientist started in the year 1879 and Mary Baker Eddy was its founder. Religious organizations known as "church of the Nazarene, Pentecostal Gospel," "Holiness church," or "Jehovah's Witnesses," is one of the thousands of new sects founded by men within the past hundred years.

Rome was part of the Orthodox Church for the first thousand years of its history, however, in 1054, the Pope of Rome broke away from the other four Apostolic Patriarchates (Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem), by tampering with the Original Creed of the Church, and considering himself to be infallible. That’s how Roman-Catholicism was originated by the pope.

Orthodox Church was founded in the year 33 by our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The faith has not changed since that time. Orthodox Church is now almost 2,000 years old. The Holy Orthodox Church, Church of the Apostles and the Fathers is the true: "One, Holy, Universal and Apostolic Church."

If by the Grace of the Holy Spirit you have been in search for the original Church established by Jesus Christ – we invite you to study History of the Christianity, Holy Scriptures and Holy Fathers from earliest ages till now.

WHAT IS THE ORTHODOX CHURCH?

On the one hand, it is the oldest Church in Christendom. On the other hand, it’s new to most people in North America. In the twentieth century alone, an estimated 40 million Orthodox Christians gave their lives for their faith. So high is the commitment of Orthodox Christians to Christ and His Church, she has often been called “the Church of the Martyrs.” She is the Church of some of history’s greatest theologians, scholars, scientist and writers like: St. John Chrysostom, St. Justin Martyr, Blessed Augustine, Dostoyevsky, Nikola Tesla, Alexander Solzehenitsyn etc. But what exactly is this Orthodox Church? What are her roots? What are her beliefs? And why are there so many who have never heard of her?

A BRIEF HISTORY:

The Orthodox Church is the original Christian Church, the Church founded by the Lord Jesus Christ and described in the pages of the New Testament. Her history can be traced in unbroken continuity all the way back to Christ and His Twelve Apostles. Incredible as it seems, for over twenty centuries she has continued in her undiminished and unaltered faith and practice. Today her apostolic doctrine, worship, and structure remain intact. The Orthodox Church maintains that the Church is the living Body of Jesus Christ. Many of us are surprised to learn that for the first 1000 years of Christian history there was just one Church. It was in the eleventh century that a disastrous falling away of Latin West occurred. Although it had been brewing for years, the so-called “Great Schism” of 1054 represented a formal falling away of Rome from Orthodoxy. At the core of the controversy were two vitally important areas of disagreement: the role of the papacy, and the manner in which doctrine is to be interpreted. But what is the real difference? One writer has compared Orthodoxy to the faith of Rome and Protestantism in this basic fashion: Orthodoxy has maintained the New Testament tradition, whereas Rome has often added to it and Protestantism subtracted from it. For example, Rome added to the ancient Creed of the Church, while numerous Protestant churches rarely study or recite it. Rome has layers of ecclesiastical authority; much of Protestantism is anti-hierarchical or even “independent” in polity. Rome introduced indulgences and purgatory; in reaction, Protestantism shies away from good works and discipline. In these and other matters, the Orthodox Church has steadfastly maintained the Apostolic Faith. She has avoided both the excesses of papal rule and of congregational independence. She understands the clergy as servants of Christ and His people and not as a special privileged class. She preserved the Apostles’ doctrine of the return of Christ at the end of the age, of the last judgment and eternal life, and continues to encourage her people to grow in Christ through union with Him. In a word, Orthodox Christianity has maintained the Faith “once for all delivered to the saints.”

The Orthodox Church in North America:

People devoted to Christ, but distressed and frustrated by the directions being taken in both Roman Catholic and Protestant circles, and desiring a more full worship and spiritual life, are turning to the changeless, the original Church of Christ - The Holy Orthodox Church. It only makes sense that the Church from which the Bible came would be the Church where the faith described in the Bible could be lived out and preserved. The Church which brought Orthodoxy to North America is now bringing North America to Orthodoxy. Constantly, people are being introduced to the faith and worship of the Orthodox Church. New Churches are beginning in cities and towns from coast to coast. Not surprisingly, there is a great interest in Orthodoxy being expressed today by the non-orthodox population in America. People are discovering Orthodoxy as a place where the search for spiritual reality finds fulfillment.

May the Grace of the Holy Spirit guide you to our Lord Jesus Christ and His: One, Holy, Universal and Apostolic Church.

“Come and see” (John 1:46).

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 10.12 (after 1950)

1959 – At the national congress of the American Popular Revolutionary Alliance in Peru, a group of leftist radicals are expelled from the party who later form APRA Rebelde. 1960 – Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev pounds his shoe on a desk at the United Nations to protest a Philippine assertion. 1962 – The Columbus Day Storm strikes the U.S. Pacific Northwest with record wind velocities. There was at least U.S. $230 million in damages and 46 people died. 1963 – After nearly 23 years of imprisonment, Reverend Walter Ciszek, a Jesuit missionary, was released from the Soviet Union. 1964 – The Soviet Union launches the Voskhod 1 into Earth orbit as the first spacecraft with a multi-person crew, and the first flight without pressure suits. 1967 – A bomb explodes on board Cyprus Airways Flight 284 while flying over the Mediterranean Sea, killing 66. 1968 – Equatorial Guinea becomes independent from Spain. 1970 – Vietnam War: Vietnamization continues as President Richard Nixon announces that the United States will withdraw 40,000 more troops before Christmas. 1971 – The 2,500 year celebration of the Persian Empire begins. 1973 – President Nixon nominates House Majority Leader Gerald R. Ford as the successor to Vice President Spiro T. Agnew. 1976 – Indian Airlines Flight 171 crashes at Santacruz Airport in Bombay, India, killing 95. 1977 – Hua Guofeng succeeds Mao Zedong as paramount leader of China. 1979 – Typhoon Tip becomes the largest and most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded. 1983 – Japan's former Prime Minister Tanaka Kakuei is found guilty of taking a $2 million bribe from the Lockheed Corporation, and is sentenced to four years in jail. 1984 – The Provisional Irish Republican Army fail to assassinate Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her cabinet. The bomb kills five people and wounds 31. 1988 – Two officers of the Victoria Police are gunned down execution-style in the Walsh Street police shootings, Australia. 1992 – A 5.8 earthquake occurred in Cairo, Egypt. At least 510 died. 1994 – The Magellan spacecraft burns up in the atmosphere of Venus. 1994 – Iran Aseman Airlines Flight 746 crashes near Nantaz, Iran, killing all 66 people on board. 1996 – New Zealand holds its first general election under the new mixed-member proportional representation system, which led to Jim Bolger's National Party forming a coalition government with Winston Peters's New Zealand First. 1997 – The Sidi Daoud massacre in Algeria kills 43 people at a fake roadblock. 1998 – Matthew Shepard, a gay student at University of Wyoming, dies five days after he was beaten outside of Laramie. 1999 – Pervez Musharraf takes power in Pakistan from Nawaz Sharif through a bloodless coup. 1999 – The former Autonomous Soviet Republic of Abkhazia declares its independence from Georgia. 2000 – The USS Cole, a US Navy destroyer, is badly damaged by two al-Qaeda suicide bombers, killing 17 crew members and wounding at least 39. 2002 – Terrorists detonate bombs in two nightclubs in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia, killing 202 and wounding over 300. 2005 – The second Chinese human spaceflight, Shenzhou 6, is launched, carrying two cosmonauts in orbit for five days. 2010 – The Finnish Yle TV2 channel's Ajankohtainen kakkonen current affairs program airs controversial Homoilta episode (literally "gay night"), which leads to the resignation of almost 50,000 Finns from the Evangelical Lutheran Church. 2012 – The European Union wins the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize. 2013 – Fifty-one people are killed after a truck veers off a cliff in Peru. 2017 – The United States announces its decision to withdraw from UNESCO. Israel immediately follows. 2018 – Princess Eugenie marries Jack Brooksbank at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. 2019 – Typhoon Hagibis makes landfall in Japan, killing 10 and forcing the evacuation of one million people. 2019 – Eliud Kipchoge from Kenya becomes the first person to run a marathon in less than two hours with a time of 1:59:40 in Vienna. 2019 – The Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans, which is under construction, collapses, killing two and injuring 20.

[stpaullutheranchurch]

january 22 2023

2023 Epiphany 3, January 22nd

Old Testament: Isaiah 9:1-4

Psalm: Psalm 27:1-14

Epistle: 1st Corinthians 1:10-18

Gospel: Matthew 4:12-25

Sermon Text: 1st Corinthians 1:10-18

Sermon Title: “The Word of the Cross”

Grace to you and peace, from God the Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

“The Word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God”. (1st Corinthians 1:18) This is the theme for todays and next Sunday’s sermons. In fact, one could argue that it is the theme verse of the entire first letter to the Corinthians. For everything Paul was addressing and everything we are to do and say in the church comes back to the message of the cross.

For the rest of the Epiphany season, the Epistle readings will be from the first 3 chapters of St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian churches. As with all the churches he wrote to, the Corinthians had their share of issues that needed to be dealt with, as do all churches, for all churches are made up entirely of sinners, including the pastor. In these opening chapters, he deals primarily with divisions in the church and the people’s idolatry of trusting in their own wisdom and power, rather than in the cross of Christ.

As we heard last Sunday, Paul began by reminding them of the “grace of God that was given to them in Christ Jesus … that they are not lacking in any spiritual gift … (and that) He will sustain (them) you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ … (for) God is faithful”. (1st Corinthians 1:4-9a)

Because these things have already been given to them through baptism and faith in Jesus Christ, Paul writes; “I appeal to you brothers (and sisters) by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment”. (1st Corinthians 1:10) Evidently, there was so much division that they could not even keep their outward confession of faith in Christ alone straight.

Before we go on, let me be clear, Paul is not talking about false unity, such as trying to find common ground at any cost; in order to keep the peace. He is saying that true Christian unity depends on faithfulness to the Lord Jesus Christ and the message of His cross, not on each person following their own agendas or ideas of what is right. So, our Lutheran Confessions are called the Book of Concord, and were designed to promote a unity of doctrine in the Lutheran churches. Therefore, they clearly articulated what was the true doctrine of the church and pointed out false teachings that, by definition, always disrupted unity of doctrine.

(The preface to the Book of Concord declared) “Some frightful errors arose … the Holy Apostles were compelled (by God) to denounce all of these … knowing that these titanic errors would involve serious offense for both unbelievers and weak believers … these disagreements will ultimately lead to the ruin of pure doctrine”. (Book of Concord, Preface, par. 7-8)

Therefore, it was part of Paul’s responsibility as a pastor, to point out and correct errors in doctrine and life and his letters/epistles reflect that. He told the Galatian churches, “if anyone preaches a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8) and, “watch out for those who cause divisions … contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; Avoid them”. (Romans 16:17b) So, it is also the job of all pastors to do the same today; to use the Word of God to “reprove, rebuke and exhort” (2nd Timothy 4:2b) the body of Christ. It is not showing love to someone to let them remain in sin and error without (at least) attempting to correct them.

This is what Paul does in the next verses, “It has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you”. (1st Corinthians 1:11) Evidently these various factions were out in the open and they were causing no end of trouble in the congregations in Corinth. He describes it this way, “One of you says, I follow Paul, or I follow Apollos, or I follow Cephas (Peter), or I follow Christ”. (1st Corinthians 1:12)

Each of these pastors and leaders in the church was called by God Himself, and each had their strengths and weaknesses, as Paul wrote elsewhere, “individually … (we) have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” (Romans 12:6) and, “There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit”. (1st Corinthians 12:4) But instead of appreciating each of these pastors for the gifts God has given them, some people used their differences to bring about division.

This is foolish, as Paul would say later in this letter; “What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each … God gave the growth”. (1st Corinthians 3:5-6) Therefore, to cause such division in the church is the sin of idolatry. Putting your trust in other men or in your own wisdom, is breaking the 1st Commandment; “You shall have no other gods”. (Exodus 20:3) So, “trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding”. (Proverbs 3:5)

As Luther famously said, “that to which your heart clings and trusts is really your god”. (1st Commandment, Large Catechism, par. 3b) He goes on to list many of the idols mentioned in Scripture, but then says, “the greatest idolatry that has been practiced up to now is … the conscience that seeks help, comfort, and salvation in its own works … setting up ourselves as God”. (L. C., 1st Commandment, par. 22) (We invite you to come, as we will be studying this commandment in depth in Bible class today.)

Paul is not happy about the example the Corinthians are setting, their dividing into various factions; but he continues to teach and correct them on this issue by asking a series of rhetorical questions; all of which should be answered with a loud and obvious NO. “Is Christ divided? (NO) Was Paul crucified for you? (NO) Were you baptized in the name of Paul? (NO)”. (1st Corinthians 1:13) Again, all ministers of the Gospel are simply “servants through whom you believed”. (1st Corinthians 3:5a) It is the Holy Spirit who produces faith “when and where He wills” through the faithful preaching of the Word of God.

Paul continues, “I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that none of you may say that you were baptized in my name. I did baptize also the house of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else”. (1st Corinthians 1:14-16) What Paul says here and in the next verse, is not to diminish the importance of baptism in the least, but to make clear that it is not important who baptized you, but rather that you were baptized into the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of sins. It is God working in the Sacrament; not the pastor.

(Interestingly, according to the Gospel of John, “Jesus Himself did not baptize, but only His disciples”. (John 4:2) “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the Gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power”. (1st Corinthians 1:17) We will hear more from Paul on this godly wisdom in the readings the next two weeks, but for now it is enough to keep in mind the distinction between human and godly wisdom.

The cross is godly wisdom, even when it leads to our being rejected or suffering persecution for our faith in Jesus. This is contrary to the world’s wisdom and so we are tempted to and frequently trust in, even worship, the so-called wisdom and philosophies of this world, even when it contradicts the perfect Word of God and the message of the cross. So, the Scriptures warn us, “Be not wise in your own eyes” (Proverbs 3:7a) and “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. (Proverbs 9:10)

“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing (eternally), but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God”. (1st Corinthians 1:18) Worldly wisdom sees the cross, an emblem of suffering and pain, as weak and foolish at best, but Holy Scripture declares its power; power to save from sin, death, devil, and eternal destruction in hell. Therefore, “keep yourselves from idols”. (1st John 5:21)

Jesus “endured the cross, despising its shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2b) and is coming again in glory to take us home; to be with Him forever. So, the “knowledge” this world has to offer us is not a glorious treasure as many believe it to be. In fact, following worldly wisdom to its end, and foolishly dismissing the cross of Christ, would lead us straight to hell.

But that is not God’s desire for any of us. For on the cross, Jesus atoned for the sins of all people; who ever have lived or ever will live. “In Christ, God was reconciling the world to Himself”. (2nd Corinthians 5:19a) He has reconciled us to God, “making peace by the blood of His cross”. (Colossians 1:20b) “He died for all, that  those who live, might no longer live for themselves, but for Him, who for their sake died and was raised”. (2nd Corinthians 5:15)

Funny, isn’t it? How powerful the worlds influence seems to be and yet the so-called foolishness of the message of the cross (the true Gospel) is the only thing that will bring unity to the church. The Gospel, the message of the cross, the forgiveness of our sins for Jesus’ sake, is the one and only thing that will resolve any issue in the church. So, let the world go on thinking that the Gospel is dangerous or foolish, for we know better; “to us who are being saved, it is the power of God”. (1st Corinthians 1:18b) Amen.

The peace of God ….

[pastortomsteers]

The Bible Study –

Our readings for Monday, May 20 are Numbers 22:1-10 & Luke 22:1-23.

In our New Testament passage we have the institution of the Lord’s Supper.

There are false churches today that teach the Lord’s Supper is simply an occasional ‘ceremony’ to be held.

These heretical churches say the bread and wine of communion are not the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

People who make this claim are simply calling our Saviour a liar.

“And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.’” (Lk 22:19-20)

The Apostle Paul wrote: “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the body of Christ?” (1st Corinthians 10:16)

If you’re currently attending a church that teaches contrary to the Word of God, the Biblical counsel I’ll give is to leave and join a Confessional Lutheran Church.

The Apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and St. Paul all tell us the bread and wine of the Lord’s Supper are the body and blood of Christ.

Paul warns of the consequences of not honouring the Lord’s Supper:

“27 Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord.

29 For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died.” (1st Corinthians, Chapter 11)

The benefit of the Sacrament of the Altar is the forgiveness of sins which Christ’s body and blood won for us on the cross.

Our Lord promised this in His Word. (Matthew 26:28)

Where there is forgiveness of sins there is also life and salvation.

In Christ’s true Church we honour the Lord’s Supper.

Pastor Tom Steers

Christ the Saviour Lutheran Church, Toronto

[pamwmsn]

charleston_daily

The spirit of the season is exploding in positive love. 

St Matthews Lutheran Church

[blickcalleviewfromthestreet]

The Stranger by Blick Calle Via Flickr: Reading Eagle article: tinyurl.com/y6lfcyq7 Main Street Kutztown, Pennsylvania